nor was he then charged with winning hearts over as the Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, was, such that he would have had to endure listening to it. Thus, Umar’s turning away from futile amusement was a mark of perfection in his case, while the Prophet’s conduct, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, was more perfect still.

People’s love of futile amusement is a deficiency. Yet not everyone is commanded to attain perfection, nor is this possible for everyone. If they do what will admit them to Paradise, they are not forbidden what does not prevent them from entering it.

It is authentically reported in the Sahīh that the Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, said:

“Many men have attained perfection, but only four women have attained it.”