the Cave:

“Now that you have withdrawn from them and from what they worship other than Allah, take refuge in the cave.”

Those men were not in a place where Friday or congregational prayers were held, nor was there anyone who enjoined adherence to a prophet’s revealed law. That is why they took refuge in the cave. Moses also said:

“If you do not believe in me, then leave me alone.”

As for withdrawing from people when it comes to superfluous permissible pursuits and things of no benefit, by renouncing such things, this is recommended. Tāwūs said: “What an excellent hermitage a man’s home is, where he restrains his gaze and hearing!”

If someone wishes to attain proficiency in knowledge or practice and therefore seeks solitude somewhere while continuing to attend Friday and congregational prayers, this is right. Thus, it is related in the two Sahīh collections that the Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, was asked, “Who is the best of people?” He replied:

“A man who holds the reins of his horse in Allah’s cause: whenever he hears a cry of alarm, he rushes towards it, seeking death wherever it is likely to be found; and a man who lives apart in a mountain valley, establishes prayer, gives zakat, and leaves people alone except to do good.”

His words, “establishes prayer and gives zakat,” indicate that this man possesses wealth on which he pays zakat, and that he lives among people, giving the call to prayer among them, with prayer established in their midst. For the Prophet, may Allah’s blessings be upon him, said:

“There are no three people in a village or in the desert among whom prayer is not established in congregation but that Satan has gained mastery over them.”

He also said:

“Keep to the congregation, for the wolf devours only the sheep that strays away.”