with the people—benefiting them, rectifying them, guiding them, teaching them, amplifying their voices through intercession to those beyond the reach of their faint cries, giving freely of his surplus wealth, enjoining what is right, and forbidding what is wrong. Such a person is the strong believer, beloved to Allah.

As for the one whose presence brings no benefit beyond discharging the obligatory duties and mutual rights shared among people, he should withdraw so that his religion and his honor remain unharmed, mixing with them only to the extent of his need. His body is with them, yet his heart and spirit are with his seclusion, alone in the worship of his Lord and in remembering Him.

This is the weak believer—and there is good in him as well—for faith in Allah and obedience to Him, each according to one’s capacity, is light. Allah alone grants success.