the early generations used to call them people of desires. For whoever does not follow knowledge follows his own desires, and knowledge of religion comes only through the guidance of Allah with which He sent His Messenger, peace and blessings be upon him.

For this reason, Allah Most High says in one passage:

“Indeed, many lead others astray through their desires without knowledge.” [Sūrat al-An‘ām, 119]

And He says in another passage:

“And who is more astray than one who follows his own desires without guidance from Allah?” [Sūrat al-Qasas, 50]

The servant must therefore examine both his love and hatred themselves and their intensity: do they accord with the command of Allah and His Messenger—the guidance of Allah which He sent down to His Messenger, peace and blessings be upon him? His love and hatred must be as he is commanded, rather than his taking the lead in these matters ahead of Allah and His Messenger. For He Most High has said:

“Do not put yourselves before Allah and His Messenger.” [Sūrat al-Hujurāt, 1]