in this, for they forbid associating them with Allah in worship. Indeed, it has a benefit: they are rewarded and recompensed for benefiting all creation at that time, since they are still in the abode of deeds and religious obligations. Their intercession in the Hereafter manifests the honor Allah bestows upon them on the Day of Resurrection.

As a general rule, asking other people to meet worldly needs that they are under no obligation to fulfill is neither obligatory nor recommended for the person asking. Rather, what is commanded is to ask Allah Most High, turn one’s hopes to Him, and rely upon Him.

Asking other people is, in principle, forbidden, but it has been permitted out of necessity. Refraining from it in reliance upon Allah is better. Allah Most High says:

“So when you have finished your duties, devote yourself to worship.”

“And to your Lord direct your longing.”

That is, turn your hopes to Allah, not to anyone else. Allah Most High also says:

“If only they had been satisfied with what Allah and His Messenger gave them and had said, ‘Allah is sufficient for us. Allah will give us of His bounty, and so will His Messenger. Indeed, to Allah we turn our hopes.’”

Thus, He ascribed giving to Allah and His Messenger, in keeping with His words:

“Whatever the Messenger gives you, take it; and whatever he forbids you, refrain from it.”

He therefore commanded them to please Allah and His Messenger.

As for sufficiency, however, He commanded them to say, “Allah is sufficient for us,” not, “Allah and His Messenger are sufficient for us.” He also commanded them to say:

“Indeed, to Allah we turn our hopes.”

He did not command them to say, “To Allah and His Messenger we turn our hopes.” Thus, one’s hopes are to be directed to Allah alone, as He says in another verse:

“And whoever obeys Allah and His Messenger, fears Allah, and remains mindful of Him—it is they who will triumph.”

Thus, He made obedience due to Allah and His Messenger, while fear and piety are directed to Allah alone.

The Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, said to Ibn ‘Abbās:

“Young boy, I shall teach you a few words: Be mindful of Allah, and He will protect you. Be mindful of Allah, and you will find Him before you. Draw near to Allah in times of ease, and He will care for you in times of hardship. When you ask, ask Allah; and when you seek help, seek help from Allah. The pen has dried concerning what