with them both—those in the third category became more numerous, desires and doubts came to coexist with faith and religious commitment among them. This affected some rulers and some of their subjects, and later became more widespread. Thus arose the strife whose cause was mentioned above: neither side kept its piety and obedience pure, but mixed them with a measure of desire and partisanship. Each side believed, on the basis of its own interpretation, that it was enjoining right and forbidding wrong, and that truth and justice were on its side. Yet this interpretation was mixed with desire, and thus contained an element of conjecture and what their souls desired, even though one of the two groups was closer to the truth than the other.

The believer must therefore seek Allah’s help and rely upon Him to set his heart aright, not let it deviate, and make him steadfast upon guidance and piety, so that he does not follow his desires.

As Allah Most High says:

“So to this invite, and remain steadfast as you have been commanded. Do not follow their desires, but say, ‘I believe in whatever Scripture Allah has sent down, and I have been commanded to establish justice among you.