he rendered all creation dependent upon him—every single one of them, in this world and in the Hereafter:

As for their need of him in this world, it is more pressing than their need for food, drink, or even the breath that keeps their bodies alive.

As for their need of him in the Hereafter, they will seek the messengers’ intercession with Allah until He relieves them of the anguish of their standing. Yet each messenger will hold back, so he will intercede for them, and it is he who will be granted leave to open for them the gate of Paradise (1).

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Among the signs of felicity and success are that whenever a servant’s knowledge increases, his humility and mercy deepen; whenever his deeds multiply, his fear and vigilance grow; whenever his lifespan lengthens, his craving diminishes; whenever his wealth expands, his generosity and willingness to give increase; and whenever his rank and esteem rise, he draws nearer to people, fulfils their needs, and shows them greater humility.

Conversely, the marks of wretchedness are that whenever his knowledge grows, his arrogance and self-importance swell; whenever his deeds increase, so do his boastfulness, his contempt for others, and his self-admiration; whenever his life is prolonged, his greed intensifies; whenever his wealth augments, his stinginess and hoarding worsen; and whenever his status and prestige are elevated, his pride and haughtiness escalate.

These matters are a trial and a test from Allah: through them some people attain happiness, while others fall into misery.