—a creational, cosmic decree. Such an existential decree extends to both good and evil, as He, exalted be He, says: “We made them leaders calling to the Fire” (al-Qasas 28:41).

On this interpretation, then, there is no praise for monasticism simply because it was placed in their hearts; thus, on either reading, it is established that the Quran contains no commendation of monasticism.

He then says: “except seeking Allah’s pleasure” (al-Hadid 57:27)—meaning that nothing was enjoined upon them other than the pursuit of Allah’s good pleasure, and one seeks Allah’s pleasure by doing what He has commanded, not by inventing innovations. This is what exegetes call a “disconnected exception.”