I asked a great man about the manners of the brethren of purity. He said: The least is that one puts the desires of friends above personal interests. The wise have said: A brother who is bound by his own affairs is neither a brother nor a kin.

If a companion rushes, they are not truly your companion

Do not bind your heart to one whose heart is not bound to you

When one lacks their own faith and piety

Severing ties is better than false affection

I recall that an opponent had objected to my saying on this couplet, saying: 'The Almighty in the Holy Book has prohibited cutting ties and has ordered affection for the relatives.' I replied: 'You are mistaken; it is in agreement with the Quran:'

And if they strive to make you associate with Me what you have no knowledge of, do not obey them.

A thousand kinsmen who are estranged from God

Are worth less than one stranger who is a true acquaintance