and their attacks. Indeed, even if the extraordinary feat consists only in directing someone to his stolen or lost property, healing the sick, or warding off an enemy—whether a ruler or armed attackers—if someone does these things for people without making his work an act of religious devotion through which he draws nearer to Allah, he is merely like a steward who safeguards people’s property, a physician or pharmacist who treats their illnesses, or a ruler’s auxiliaries who fight on his behalf. His work is exactly the same kind as theirs.

It is well known that someone who follows this path without religious guidance will show favoritism to certain people and fail to deal justly among them. He may even assist oppressors through it, as Balaam did, along with groups from this community and others. This earns him people’s enmity, which is among the most common causes of worldly harm. A person may not expose himself to this unless Allah and His Messenger command it, for whatever Allah and His Messenger command, even if it entails harm, brings benefit that outweighs its harm. The ultimate outcome favors righteousness.

Sixth: Religion comprises knowledge and practice which, when sound, necessarily give rise to extraordinary occurrences if its adherent needs them.

Allah Most High says:

“Whoever fears Allah, He will make a way out for him and provide for him from where he does not expect.”

He Most High also says:

“If you fear Allah, He will grant you a criterion for distinguishing right from wrong.”

He Most High also says:

“Had they done what they were instructed to do, it would have been better for them and made them more steadfast. Then We would have granted them a great reward from Us and guided them to a straight path.”

He Most High also says:

“Indeed, Allah’s allies will have no fear, nor will they grieve—those who have believed