Likewise, for the sake of a stronger overriding benefit, leaving the more meritorious option can itself at times be the more meritorious course. This principle applies to most kinds of deeds: an act that is generally superior within its own category may, in certain circumstances, be surpassed by another act. Thus, as categories, ritual prayer is superior to Quranic recitation, Quranic recitation is superior to remembrance (dhikr), and remembrance is superior to supplication (duʿa). Yet performing the ritual prayer after Fajr and after ʿAsr is prohibited, while recitation and supplication