proof of ignorance is being deluded about Allah.” A man addressed al-Sha‘bī, saying, “O scholar!” He replied, “The scholar is only one who fears Allah.” Likewise, His saying,

“The one who fears will take heed,”

implies that everyone who fears Him must be among those who take heed. He has also mentioned that the most wretched avoids the reminder, making the one who fears the opposite of the most wretched. Thus it is said, “Everyone who takes heed fears.” More precisely, taking heed is a cause of fear; when it is complete, it necessarily produces fear. Likewise, knowledge is a cause of fear; when it is complete, it necessarily produces fear.

Accordingly, in His saying concerning Pharaoh,

“Perhaps he may take heed or fear,”

He distinguishes between the two, for the benefits this entails. One such benefit is that, if Pharaoh remembers that he is a created being, that Allah is his Creator, and that he himself is neither a god nor a lord—as he has been reminded—and remembers Allah’s kindness to him, this remembrance calls him to acknowledge Allah’s lordship, His oneness, and His favors toward him. It therefore calls for faith and gratitude, even if he supposes that Allah will not punish him. For the mere fact that something is true and beneficial calls for seeking it, even if one fears no harm