and the entire Quran calls people to reflection and consideration, drawing attention to the methods of rational inquiry. Certainly, we do not deny that quelling desires may be a condition for sound inquiry. But quelling desires does not itself produce knowledge, even if it is a condition for attaining it, just as health is a condition for knowledge without itself producing it.

“It is in this respect that the Lawgiver called people to this path and encouraged it among the other things he encouraged—I mean putting it into practice—not because it is sufficient in itself, as these people supposed. Rather, if it benefits theoretical inquiry, it does so in the manner we have explained.

“This is clear to anyone who is fair-minded and considers the matter for himself.”

I say:

Action rooted in love of Allah Most High is enjoined by the revealed Law because it is an end in itself. It also helps one attain beneficial knowledge, just as it helps one perform other righteous deeds. Likewise, the revealed Law enjoins knowledge of Allah Most High because it is an end in itself, while also helping one perform righteous deeds and attain further beneficial knowledge.