Outward surrender, on the other hand, is the rectification of one’s visible conduct—what a person says with his tongue and does with his limbs. People differ greatly and visibly in the quality of their Islam, just as they differ in their physical shapes and appearances: some are tall, others short; some are heavy-set, others slight; some are unattractive, others handsome. Their outward features vary, and so too does their submission to Allah, Mighty and Majestic. Concerning this Allah says:

“Those of you who spent and fought before the conquest are not equal; they are higher in rank than those who spent and fought afterwards. Yet to each, Allah has promised the best.” (al-Hadid 57:10)

Since people vary in their Islam, one of the most effective ways to beautify a person’s Islam is for him to abandon whatever does not concern him, whether in religious or worldly matters. If a Muslim wishes to perfect his Islam, let him leave alone what does not benefit him; whatever holds no real importance for him, he should simply forsake.

For instance, when a task presents itself and you hesitate—Should I do it or not?—ask yourself: Does it truly matter for my religion or my worldly life? If the answer is yes, then proceed; if not, leave it, for safety lies in abstention.

Likewise, do not insert yourself into other people’s affairs if they are of no concern to you. This is the opposite of what some people do today: they are eager to pry into the honour and circumstances of others. Should they see two people talking, they inch closer hoping to overhear. Should someone arrive from somewhere, they begin to probe—perhaps even accosting him with questions such as, “Where have you come from? What did so-and-so say to you? And what did you say to him?”—matters that neither concern nor benefit them in the least.

Therefore, leave whatever does not concern you; this is part of the excellence of your Islam, and it is also