are the scholars who know Him; for the more complete and perfect one’s knowledge of the Magnificent, the Omnipotent, the All-Knowing—who possesses the attributes of perfection and the Most Beautiful Names—the greater and more profound one’s fear of Him will be.”1 End quote.

One of the early Muslims summed up this meaning in a concise statement: “Whoever knows Allah better fears Him more.”2

There is no doubt that knowledge of Allah and of His names and attributes as revealed in the Quran and sunnah produces in the servant many forms of worship and obedience, as well as the pursuit of means of drawing near to Allah. It strengthens his fear and watchfulness, deepens his hope, and increases his faith, certainty, and trust in his Lord, Glorified is He.

Fifth: Knowledge of Allah Most High is the foundation of all things. Indeed, one who truly knows Him can infer from what he knows of His attributes and actions what He does and what rulings He prescribes. This is because He, Glorified is He, does only what His names and attributes entail. His actions invariably proceed from justice, grace, and wisdom. Likewise, He prescribes no ruling except in accordance with what His perfect praiseworthiness, wisdom, grace, and justice require. All His reports are true and truthful, and all His commands and prohibitions are just and wise.

Thus, when the servant reflects upon the Book of Allah; upon the names, attributes, and actions by which He, Glorified is He, has made Himself known to His servants through His messengers; upon everything from which He has declared Himself exalted because it is unfitting and unworthy of Him, Glorified is He; and upon His momentous days and His dealings with His allies and enemies, which He has related to His servants and caused them to witness, so that they may infer from them that He is their true God