and compassion for them. For him, this was a worthwhile act, recommended and enjoined, even though for them it was futile amusement that no one else was instructed to engage in. Likewise, his giving to those whose hearts were to be won over was enjoined upon him, whether as an obligation or a recommendation, even though it was not enjoined upon anyone else. Similarly, his joking with Bedouins, women, and children to put them at ease and bring them joy was recommended for him, and he was rewarded for it, although they were neither commanded nor forbidden to joke with him.

The Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, would thus give people wealth and other benefits to win their hearts over to the truth they were commanded to follow. What he gave would be something the recipient enjoyed and loved, for it served as a means to another end. He, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, did not do this with those who had no need of it, such as the Emigrants and the Helpers. Rather, he bestowed upon them other kinds of kindness and benefits in their religious and worldly affairs.

Umar, may Allah be pleased with him, did not like this futile amusement, nor did he like listening to it