what he found in the philosophers’ books affirming something of this kind, where they said: “He is both lover and beloved.”

I have discussed this momentous issue at length in al-Qawāʿid al-kibār (The Major Principles), in a manner that cannot be set out here.

Allah Most High says:
“He loves them and they love Him.”
(Surah al-Māʾidah, 54)

And He says:
“But those who believe are stronger in their love for Allah.”
(Surah al-Baqarah, 165)

And He says:
“More beloved to you than Allah and His Messenger.”
(Surah al-Tawbah, 24)

In the two Sahīh collections, the Prophet (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) is reported to have said:

“Whoever possesses three qualities will taste the sweetness of faith: that Allah and His Messenger are dearer to him than anything else; that he loves a person only for Allah’s sake; and that he hates to return to disbelief after Allah has saved him from it, just as he hates to be cast into the Fire.”