Both groups are mistaken. Purifying the soul, acting upon knowledge, and fearing Allah have a profound effect on the attainment of knowledge. Yet action alone cannot bring this about without examining, reflecting upon, and understanding what Allah sent the Messenger with. Even if a person worshipped to the utmost extent possible, he would not know what Allah specifically bestowed upon Muhammad—peace and blessings be upon him—unless he learned it from him.

Likewise, however extensively a person might examine matters and reason from evidence, he would not attain what is sought except by learning it from the Messenger. Nor can one attain learning that accords with the truth (1) and is beneficial unless one acts upon it. Otherwise, Allah Most High has said:

“So when they deviated, Allah caused their hearts to deviate.”

[Surah al-Saff: 5]

And He said:

“And what could make you realize that, when it comes, they will not believe? We turn their hearts and eyes away, just as they did not believe in it the first time.”

[Surah al-Anām: 109–110]

Allah Most High also said:

“And their saying, ‘Our hearts are wrapped.’ Rather, Allah has sealed them because of their disbelief.”

[Surah al-Nisā: 155]

Allah Most High also said:

“No indeed! Rather, what they used to earn has rusted upon their hearts.”

[Surah al-Mutaffifīn: 14]

And He said:

“Is it not clear to those who inherit the land after its former inhabitants that, if We willed, We could afflict them for their sins? And We seal their hearts, so they do not hear.”

[Surah al-Arāf: 100]

And He said:

“Had they done what they were admonished to do, it would have been better for them and more strengthening. Then We would certainly have granted them a tremendous reward from Our presence and guided them to a straight path.”

[Surah al-Nisā: 66–68]