and have therefore drained its watering-holes and springs, so that whoever travels it is a stranger among mankind, singular amidst every living creature and gathering—far, though the place itself is near; alone, though neighbors abound. He feels alienated by what gives them comfort, and finds comfort in what makes them uneasy; he stays when they depart and departs when they stay (1). Solitary upon his path of search, his heart will not rest until he lays hold of his aim. He is with them in body, yet apart from them in purpose. Their eyes have fallen asleep in the quest for guidance, but the night of his mount never sleeps (2). They have abandoned the Prophetic migration, while he has girded himself and stands ready to pursue it. They censure him for opposing their opinions and heap scorn on him in defense of their ignorance and whims: they pelt him with suspicions, set watchful eyes upon him (3), and lie in wait for the misfortunes of fate to befall him. “So wait; indeed, We too are waiting (52)” (4). “He said: ‘My Lord, judge in truth; and our Lord, the All-Merciful, is the One whose help is sought against what you allege’ (112)” (5).

We and you alike shall die, and (6)… successful at the Reckoning is the one who felt remorse.

The point, then, is that this Prophetic migration is a matter of tremendous gravity, and its road, for anyone devoid of yearning, is a caravan far beyond reach.