As for recommended acts, this diversity is even greater. Every kind of variation found in obligations also occurs in recommended acts, with an additional consideration: for each individual, the recommended acts of drawing near to Allah Most High are only those that he can perform, does perform, and benefits from. It is concerning these acts that Allah says:

“My servant continues to draw near to Me through voluntary acts until I love him.”

The best deeds for a person are those most beneficial to him, and this varies enormously. For most people, what is recommended is not what is best in absolute terms. Most cannot undertake what is best, or cannot persevere in it even if they are capable of it. They may derive no benefit from it; indeed, pursuing it may harm them. For example, someone unable to understand intricate matters of knowledge may damage his intellect and religion by pursuing them. Likewise, someone may be unable to endure the bitterness of poverty and unable to exercise restraint amid the sweetness of wealth, or unable to protect himself from the temptations of authority and persevere in fulfilling its duties.

For this reason, the Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, said, relating from his Lord, Almighty and Majestic:

“Among My servants are those whom nothing but poverty keeps upright; were I to make them wealthy, that would corrupt them. And among My servants are those whom nothing but wealth keeps upright; were I to make them poor, that would corrupt them.”

When Abū Dharr asked him for a position of authority, the Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, said:

“O Abū Dharr, I consider you weak, and I love for you what I love for myself. Do not take authority over even two people, nor take charge of an orphan’s property.”

It is also reported that he said to his uncle al-ʿAbbās:

“Saving your own soul is better than holding an office whose responsibilities you cannot fulfil.”

Thus, when we say, “This deed is better,” this is an unqualified statement.