Allah in the sea in retribution. The most a wealthy person can attain is to be like Korah, whom Allah caused the earth to swallow for harming Allah’s prophet Moses, so that he will continue sinking into it until the Day of Resurrection. These counsels of the Messiah and the messengers before and after him all enjoin worshipping Allah, devoting oneself to the Hereafter, and turning away from the fleeting splendour of worldly life.

Since worldly affairs are so paltry, I considered that the greatest gift one could offer a leader of his people would be to open a discussion of knowledge and religion, exchanging thoughts on what brings one nearer to Allah. Discussion of subsidiary matters rests upon fundamental principles.

You know that Allah’s religion is not determined by personal desires or by the customs of one’s forefathers and community. Rather, a discerning person examines what the messengers brought, what people agree upon, and where they differ. In his private relationship with Allah Most High, he approaches Him, exalted is He, with sound belief and righteous deeds. Even if a person cannot disclose everything within himself to everyone, he still benefits to that extent.

If I see in the king a desire for knowledge and goodness, I will correspond with him and answer the questions he asks. It had occurred to me to come to Cyprus to further religious and worldly interests. But if I see conduct from the king that pleases Allah and His Messenger, I will deal with him as his actions warrant. For the king and his people know that Allah has displayed, among the miracles of