spoils exceeds what he sets right.” Likewise, in a report from Mu‘ādh ibn Jabal, may Allah be pleased with him: “Knowledge leads action, and action follows it.”

This is clear: when intention and action are not based on knowledge, they amount to ignorance, misguidance, and following one’s desires, as explained above. This is what distinguishes the people of pre-Islamic ignorance from the people of Islam. One must therefore know what is right and what is wrong and distinguish between them. One must also know the circumstances of the person being commanded or forbidden. Acting righteously also requires enjoining and forbidding in accordance with the straight path—the most direct way to achieve the intended aim.

Gentleness is essential in this, as the Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, said: “Gentleness never enters anything without adorning it, and harshness never enters anything without disfiguring it.” He also said, may Allah bless him and grant him peace: “Indeed, Allah is gentle and loves gentleness