and obeying him by carrying out his commands, avoiding his prohibitions, following his way, adopting his character, treading his path, and taking him as the perfect model in worship and conduct.

Part of true faith in him is to believe that his message is comprehensive and universal, that he is Allah’s Messenger to all humans and jinn, and that no adherent of any religion or creed is permitted anything but to follow him. His law abrogates all previous laws and is the final dispensation; after him there is no prophet and no messenger, for he is the Seal of the Messengers.

One must also hold that his sunnah is one of the two revelations, the companion of the Quran. It is therefore obligatory to act upon whatever it commands and avoid whatever it forbids, and to accept as true whatever it reports and relates.

4 – Sincere counsel to the leaders of the Muslims: this is to pledge them hearing and obedience, never to break that pledge, to remain loyal to them, to carry out their instructions, and to abstain from what they forbid, so long as they do not command a sin or forbid an act of obedience—for there is no obedience to a created being when it involves disobedience to the Creator.

Advising them also includes praying for their success and right guidance in their duties, offering them counsel, and exhorting them with gentleness, kindness, and leniency.

It further entails remaining faithful to them, refraining from disobedience or rebellion, even if their citizens see shortcomings in their conduct or in the fulfilment of rights; for the corruption and disorder that result from rising up against them are greater and more calamitous than the deficiencies they exhibit—unless the matter reaches open, manifest disbelief.

Another aspect of advising them is to stand with them against anyone who revolts, tears apart the community’s unity, rebels against them, or breaks their covenant.

5 – Sincere counsel to the general body of Muslims: this is to love good for them, wanting for them what one wants for oneself of righteousness and success in the affairs of this world and the next; to wish them well and that evil be kept away from them; to cherish their coming together on what benefits their religious and worldly affairs; and to dislike for them division, dissension, and fragmentation.