Put the obligation first
Begin with what Allah made obligatory on you in belief, worship and rights, and do not let preoccupation with recommended acts crowd out the obligations.
The knowledge that protects action
Obligations, prohibitions and the Muslim's manners
The Muslim progresses in knowing what Allah made obligatory on him and what He forbade, gives precedence to the obligations, safeguards people's rights, and purifies his conduct with knowledge and action.
Leave the clear prohibition
Keep away from shirk, injustice, riba, zina, lying and consuming rights, and ask the people of knowledge about doubtful matters and particular events.
Do not separate religion from dealings
Religion is worship of Allah and justice with His creation; it is not right that a person performs some rites and then wrongs people or betrays a trust.
The suggested order
From the most important to what follows
- Tawhid and faithWhat makes the foundation of religion and intention valid.
- Prayer and purificationThe daily worship that recurs in the Muslim's life.
- Obligations connected to one's situationFasting, zakat, Hajj and rights according to the person's situation.
- Clear prohibitionsWhat must be left immediately with repentance and seeking Allah's help.
- Character and dealingsTruthfulness, trustworthiness, mercy, justice and safeguarding rights.