Benefit 16: Do not focus solely on the outward Islamic appearance and neglect the inward Islamic cores

Sheikh Muḥammad Amān Al-Jāmi raḥimahullāh said: “It is upon our youth to occupy their spare time with the study of these books that treat the sicknesses of the heart and cause the person to strive to adhere to the way of the Salaf Aṣ-Ṣāliḥ in uprightness, and not merely in appearance. An outward appearance alone is like a costume, which is of no benefit. The short garment [above the ankles] and the full beard are things that Allāh has legislated and prescribed, but if the Islamic cores are absent, then outward appearance alone is of no benefit. Rather, the exterior appearance should be a sign from the signs of his true uprightness and devotion. If his heart is upright, if he purifies it and if these Islamic cores dictate the outward appearance, then what an excellent devotion and what an excellent appearance. As for a person solely focusing on their exterior appearance and not treating the sicknesses of their heart, then this will not benefit, nor avail.” [Explanation Of The Section In Zādul Ma’ād, 2/22-27]