• Another lesson: Just as the worshipper must perfect his work and strive to carry it out in the most complete way possible, he must at the same time remain between fear and hope—pleading with his Lord to accept the deed, make good its shortcomings, and pardon whatever flaws or deficiencies it contains—just as Abraham and Ishmael raised the foundations of the House while exemplifying this balanced state.

• Another lesson: Joining together in one supplication the concerns of this world and of religion, and laboring to secure both, is the way of Allah’s prophets. Religion is the root and the ultimate aim for which humankind was created, while worldly life is merely a means and an aid toward it. This is shown in the Friend’s prayer on behalf of the people of the Sacred House for both matters, and in his explaining that worldly provision is only a means to gratitude when he said, “and provide them with fruits so that they may give thanks.” ⦗Ibrahim 37⦘.

• Another lesson: The story of Abraham contains the legislation of hospitality and its etiquettes:
– Allah tells us that his guests were honored, meaning honored by Allah.
– Abraham in turn honored them in word and deed; honoring the guest is therefore part of faith.
– He served them personally.
– He hastened to host them before attending to anything else.
– He brought the best he owned—a roasted, plump calf—placed it before them, and did not require them to move elsewhere.
– He invited them to eat with gentle phrasing, saying, “Will you not eat?” ⦗Adh-Dhariyat 27⦘.

• Another lesson: The greeting of salām is prescribed; the one who enters or the one who is walking initiates it, returning it is obligatory, and it is recommended to inquire after the name of anyone who contacts you—whether a companion, business associate, or guest—for he said: