The following was extracted from my translation of Abu ʿAbd al-Raḥmān al-Sulamī’s Detailed Counsel. Each of these counsels is explained in the translation, which—in sha Allah—will be published during 2013.
- Be mindful of God
- Prefer obedience and avoid disobedience
- Do not be distracted away from God
- Remember, recite, and ponder the Qur’ān
- Follow the Sunna
- Imitate the righteous forebears
- Accompany the best and avoid the wicked
- Do not visit rulers
- Be wary of visiting children of this world
- Have no concern for affairs of this world
- Demand the best from your nafs
- Leave what is of no concern to you
- Be sincere
- Realize truth in your sincerity
- Continually seek forgiveness
- Beware of loving this world
- Accompany those who abstain from this world
- Take from this world only what you must
- Obey and be devoted to your parents
- Keep family ties
- Perfect your character
- Honor your neighbors
- Assist all who seek aid
- Accept excuses
- Do not reveal a Muslim’s shame
- Counter wickedness with excellence
- Avoid envy
- Respect elders; be clement with the young
- Adhere to modesty
- Be humble with and kind to the poor
- Show arrogance towards the wealthy
- Show compassion towards the pious wealthy
- Seek advice from those who fear their Lord
- Rely upon God when you become resolved
- Seek favor with your brothers
- Tell the truth
- Protect your nafs and your hearing
- Treat people without prejudice
- Devote oneself to repentance
- Avoid unwholesome food
- Be vigilant of God at all times
- Persist in remembrance of God
- Minimize laughter
- Consider death near
- Give sincere advice
- Rely on God for your guidance