"It is easy to fall prey to the deception of Shayṭān that we are performing much more worship than those around us. What we need to understand is that quantity is not everything.

Consider the example of a toddler who spends hours scribbling on a piece of paper. Even though the child has spent much time and effort, his writing is of no real value.

On the other hand, in five minutes of inspiration, a professional author is able to craft an article that goes on to become a masterpiece. The toddler however will not be able to understand the difference between his work and the work of the professional.

When it comes to practising Dīn we are also like toddlers in comparison to the pious servants of Allāh ta'ala whose short devotions are far greater than our lengthy devotions. This is why we think that we are performing so much. Shayṭān plays on this misconception and thus we do not reflect.

This is the reason why we need to spend time in the company of the pious. Through their company, we will begin to master the art of worship and ultimately, inshā'allāh, turn our scribbles into priceless gems."

Courtesy of In Shaykh's Company: a blog maintained by the students of Shaykh Muhammad Saleem Dhorat hafizahullah www.shaykh.org