Actions are but lifeless forms whose soul is the secret of sincerity in them
Interpretation
The essence of actions lies in the sincerity behind them.
This quote emphasizes that actions alone do not hold meaning; rather, it is the sincerity and intent behind those actions that imbue them with significance. Without genuine intent, actions become mere superficial gestures devoid of true value.
In practice
During a motivational speech about the importance of genuine effort.
Whosoever is determined to seek guidance and follow a path of right conduct must search for a shaykh from amongst those who have realization, one who follows a path methodically, who has abandoned his passions, and who has firmly established his feet in the service of his Lord.
Extinction is the beginning of the path: it is traveling to God Most High. Guidance comes afterwards. What I mean by guidance is the guidance of God, as described by the Friend of God, Abraham: "Lo! I am going unto my Lord Who will guide me."
God Most High has said, "Is the reward of virtue aught save virtue?" . . . Know, O man, that the covenant of servanthood is incumbent upon you, and that the covenant of Lordship is incumbent upon His magnanimity, as He Most High has said, ". . . and fulfill your covenant, I shall fulfill My covenant."
. . . persist in that invocation until the unity of the world is subsumed for you in a single sphere, so that with the eye of your heart you will see naught in the two worlds save the One.
The most excellent of those who perform good deeds are those who most often remember God in all situations.
If you do not think well of Him because His qualities are beautiful then think well of Him because of the way He treats you.
There are no dangerous thoughts; thinking itself is dangerous.
A man is not old as long as he is seeking something.
Freedom is choosing your responsibility. It's not having no responsibilitie s; it's choosing the ones you want.
I learned the lesson that great men cultivate love, and that only little men cherish a spirit of hatred. I resolved then that I would permit no man, no matter what his color, to narrow and degrade my soul by making me hate him.
In idleness there is a perpetual despair.
It's better to be kind than to be right.
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