—and that the reward of the Hereafter is far superior to any recompense or dominion in this world. A servant should therefore address his own soul, urging it to yearn for Allah’s reward, and not allow it to grieve when it observes worldly pleasures and high positions that lie beyond its reach. Rather, he should soothe it with the promise of the Hereafter so that the absence of worldly gain becomes easy to bear, for Joseph said, “But the reward of the Hereafter is better for those who believe and keep their duty” (12:57).
• Another lesson: levying revenues is unobjectionable—indeed, commendable—when the aim is to ease people’s lives without causing them harm. Joseph ordered the collection of grain and provisions during the years of abundance so that they could be used in the years of famine, and great benefit ensued.
• Another lesson: Joseph’s masterful administration once he assumed control of Egypt’s storehouses across the entire land. He invigorated agriculture until the harvests grew exceedingly plentiful, and people from surrounding regions came to Egypt seeking supplies when their own stores failed, knowing of Egypt’s abundance. Out of his justice, prudence, and fear that traders might exploit the situation, he would measure out for each person only what met his personal need—or even less—never allowing any newcomer more than a single camel-load. From all appearances, the residents of Egypt received considerably less than that, since they were constantly present before him.
• Another lesson: the legitimacy of hospitality—and that it is one of the customs of the messengers—and the obligation to honor the guest, as Joseph said, “Do you not see that I give full measure, and I am the best of hosts?” (12:59).
• Another lesson: harboring suspicion is not prohibited when objective indications point to it. Jacob said to his sons, “Shall I entrust him to you except as I entrusted his brother to you before?” (12:64), and he said, “Rather, your own souls have contrived this matter for you” (12:83). Although on the latter occasion they had not been negligent, what had happened earlier justified their father’s words, for which he is not to be blamed.