And it has already been explained that the protective jealousy Allah attributes to Himself is either specific—concerning a believer’s committing what He has forbidden him—or general, concerning indecent acts, whether openly committed or concealed.

As for protective jealousy in the terminology of some of the people of the spiritual path, Abū al-Qāsim al-Qushayrī said: “Protective jealousy is aversion to sharing with others. When the True One is described as having protective jealousy, this means that He does not accept others sharing with Him in what is His exclusive right, exalted is He: His servant’s obedience to Him.”

In saying, “Protective jealousy is aversion to sharing with others,” he used the word ghayr (another) to indicate the derivation of ghayra (protective jealousy). This is the more plausible derivation, for ghayra derives either from the change (taghayyur) in the person who feels it, or from another’s (ghayr) competing with him.

However, his statement, “aversion to sharing with others,” represents a particular terminological usage that does not correspond to the Lawgiver’s usage. Rather, it is broader in one respect and narrower in another.

It is broader because it includes permissible forms of sharing with others, such as sharing in wealth, worship, and acts of obedience. Protective jealousy concerning these things is not commanded; indeed, some of it is forbidden and constitutes envy. It also includes sharing in sexual intimacy, and protective jealousy concerning that is sanctioned by the Law.