observe and command the Children of Israel to observe. He was on the verge of delaying, so Jesus—peace be upon him—said to him: “Allah has commanded you to observe five commandments and to command the Children of Israel to observe them. Either you command them, or I shall.” John replied: “I fear that if you do so before me, the earth may swallow me up or I may be punished.” He therefore gathered the people in Jerusalem. The mosque became full, and they sat upon the balconies. He said: “Allah has commanded me to observe five commandments and to command you to observe them…” The hadith then mentions that he commanded them to affirm Allah’s oneness, pray, fast, and give charity. He then mentioned the fifth commandment, saying: “I command you to remember Allah. The likeness of this is that of a man whose enemies set off swiftly in pursuit of him until he reached a strongly fortified citadel and secured himself against them. Likewise, a servant can protect himself from Satan only through the remembrance of Allah…”1.

In Sahīh Muslim, Jābir—may Allah be pleased with him—reported that the Prophet—may Allah bless him and grant him peace—said: “When night falls—or when dusk comes—keep your children indoors, for the devils spread out at that time. Once part of the night has passed, let them go. Close your door and mention Allah’s name; extinguish your lamp and mention Allah’s name; tie the mouth of your waterskin and mention Allah’s name; and cover your vessel and mention Allah’s name, even if you merely lay something across it.” 2.

Thus, when a Muslim remembers his Lord at all times, he remains safe from Satan’s harm and presence. Satan cannot reach him, whether by whispering to him or by being present in the place where he is. This was previously mentioned in the words of Allah Most High: “And say: My Lord, I seek refuge in You from the promptings of the devils,