It has been related to me, concerning an intelligent man—who had studied under a scholar who was the leading authority in his town and among the foremost men of his age in speculative theology and philosophy, namely Ibn Wāsil al-Hamawī—that he said:

“I lie down on my bed, place the cover over my face, and weigh the arguments of one side against those of the other until dawn breaks, without finding either more convincing.”

He therefore eventually devoted much of his attention to astronomy, since it yielded knowledge that had not become clear to him in the metaphysical sciences.

Likewise, you find many of these men, when they fail to find clear guidance in their chosen method, turn back and occupy themselves with indulging sinful desires for food and sex, or for power, wealth, and the like. This is because they lack the knowledge and certainty that would reassure their hearts and put them at ease.

In a hadith transmitted from the Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, he said:

“What I fear most for you is sinful desires involving your bellies and private parts, and trials that lead you astray.”

And these people who turn away from