and those who ask, and for freeing slaves; establish prayer and give zakah; fulfil their pledges when they make them; and are patient in hardship, suffering, and battle. Those are the ones who are true, and those are the pious.”

This is a momentous verse of immense significance, among the greatest verses of the Quran and the most comprehensive in addressing the matters of religion. It has been reported that the Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, was asked about the qualities of faith, whereupon this verse was revealed. In al-Tirmidhī, Fātimah bint Qays reports that he, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, said, “There is a due upon wealth besides zakah,” and recited this verse.

It indicates several things:

First, Allah declares that those who do these things are the pious, and most of these things consist of commanded actions.

Second, He declares that these things constitute righteousness, and that those who practise them are truthful—that is, in saying, “We believe.” Most of them involve actively performing commanded deeds. Thus, carrying out what is commanded is more integral to righteousness, piety, and faith than merely not doing what is forbidden.

It is by virtue of these three descriptions that Paradise is merited, as Allah Most High says:

“Indeed, the righteous will be in bliss, and indeed, the wicked will be in Hellfire.”

And He says:

“Or should We treat the pious like the wicked?”

“Indeed, the pious will be amid gardens and rivers.”

And He says:

“Is one who is a believer like one who is defiantly disobedient? They are not equal.”

The verse also indicates that these qualities mentioned in it are obligatory, for He