Now, because a servant of God is bound to suffer some harm from the ignorant—whether by word or by deed—Allah has commanded that we turn away from them and not meet ignorance with ignorance. Therefore, if someone wounds you by speech or action, do not wound him; if someone deprives you, do not deprive him; if someone severs ties with you, maintain ties with him; and if someone wrongs you, treat him with justice. By acting thus you will earn reward from Allah, your heart will find comfort and tranquillity, you will be kept safe from the ignorant, an enemy may be transformed into a friend, and you will ascend to the highest ranks of noble character, gaining the greatest and most abundant share. The Exalted says:

“Repel [evil] with that which is better; then suddenly the one between you and whom there was enmity will become as though he were a devoted friend. Yet none are granted it (1) except those who are patient, and none are granted it except one endowed with a tremendous share.” (41:34–35)

We shall content ourselves on this topic with these verses, for within them lie guidance, healing, and every form of good.