and no statement or action is of benefit without intention, and no statement or action is of benefit unless it accords with the sunnah.”

61 – Yahyā ibn Abī Kathīr said, “Learn how to form a sound intention, for intention is more far-reaching than action.”

62 – Zubayd al-Yāmī (1) said, “I would like to have an intention in everything I do, even in eating and drinking.”

63 – He also said, “Form a good intention in everything you do—even when going out to the refuse heap.”

64 – Dāwūd al-Tā’ī said, “I have found that all good is encompassed by a sound intention. That alone is sufficient good for you, even if you toil.”

65 – Sufyān al-Thawrī said, “I have never struggled with anything more difficult for me than my intention, for it keeps getting the better of me.”

66 – Yūsuf ibn Asbāt said, “Purifying one’s intention from corruption is harder for those who act than prolonged striving.”

67 – Nāfi ibn Jubayr was asked, “Will you not attend the funeral?” He replied, “Wait until I form my intention.” He reflected for a short while, then said, “Proceed.”

68 – Mutarrif ibn Abd Allah said, “The soundness of the heart depends on the soundness of one’s actions, and the soundness of one’s actions depends on the soundness of one’s intention.”

69 – One of the early Muslims said, “Whoever wishes his deed to be made complete should make his intention sound, for Allah, Mighty and Majestic, rewards His servant when his intention is sound—even for a morsel of food.”

70 – Ibn al-Mubārak said, “Many a small deed is made great by intention, and many a great deed is made small by intention.”