that brings it about, and so devote himself to seeking deliverance and safety while neglecting to seek mercy and Paradise. Alongside his evil deeds, he may perform good deeds that balance and offset them, thereby escaping the Fire without meriting Paradise. Rather, he will be among the people of the Heights. Although their ultimate destination is Paradise, they are not among those for whom Paradise has been brought near—that is, drawn close—since they did not attain fear of Allah and turn to Him. He thereafter sought what was good.

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As for His statement in the account of Pharaoh:

“Perhaps he may take heed or fear,”

and His saying:

“But what would make you know? Perhaps he might purify himself,

or take heed, and the reminder would benefit him,”

these do not contradict this verse. For He did not say in this verse, “Whoever takes heed will fear.” Rather, He stated that everyone who fears takes heed: either he takes heed and consequently fears—even though someone else may take heed without fearing—or his fear prompts him to take heed. Thus, fear necessarily entails taking heed, and everyone who fears takes heed.

As the Most High says:

“Only those of His servants who have knowledge fear Allah.”

Thus, none fears Him except