—let him lie down.”

This narration proves that a person should not over-complicate or become extreme in his worship, imposing upon himself what he cannot bear. He should pray as long as he feels energetic; once fatigue sets in, he ought to lie down and sleep. For if he prays while exhausted, his thoughts grow muddled; he becomes weary and bored, and may even begin to dislike worship. He might intend to supplicate for himself yet end up supplicating against himself. Should he prostrate while drowsy, wishing to say, “Lord, forgive me,” he could actually say, “Lord, do not forgive me,” simply because he is half asleep. Hence the Prophet ﷺ ordered that the rope be removed and instructed us to pray when we are alert, and, when tired, to lie down.

Although the report concerns prayer, its lesson applies to every act of worship: do not burden yourself with what you cannot endure. Treat your soul gently and kindly, and do not rush matters. Affairs may be delayed for a wisdom Allah intends, so do not say, “I insist on exhausting myself…"