Disturber of the Hearts

The discerning scholar is adept at diagnosing the various spiritual illnesses resulting from sins, and treating the malaise in the heart. If he finds a person failing into despair, he tries to ignite the spark of hope in the heart. If, on the other hand, he sees that one in a reckless and fearless state, he works to instill the fear of Allah in his heart. Thus, the scholar treats sickness by using its opposite as a cure.

The third masterpiece in the series addresses the disturbing phenomena of unrealistic hope, lack of fear of Allah and wishful thinking. These are in essence diseases of the heart, which are widely prevalent today. Curing these diseases can only be achieved using the potent medicine of intimidation and deterrence. When the heart is complacent and neglectful, treating it with soothing remedies is akin to prescribing a sedative for the drowsy patient that exacerbates the drowsiness.

Ibn al-Jawzi, has collected herein ominous narration, warnings against wrongdoing, and stories of forbidding and punishment that shake the hearts from their slumber. The self-assured one becomes anxious; the heart-hearted becomes soft; the dried tear ducts start to flow; slothful becomes motivated.