You have seen above from the statements of the Commander of the Faithful (a.

You have seen above from the statements of the Commander of the Faithful (a.s.) that by giving preference to the branches of religion over its principles is proof of decline. Now, reflect upon the decline that has set in on the Shiites, both in their worldly matters as well as their religious matters, and ponder over what their causes might be.

I would like to point out two things from this verse. There is only one handle to hold on to for all the people. Each person cannot hold on to his own handle. Secondly, it is necessary to disbelieve in Shaitan before believing in Allah (s.w.t.). Believing and disbelieving is with understanding, as that which is done in ignorance is void. That which a person does not even know, can he accept or reject it.

I am only touching upon the understanding of belief at the moment as this is away from the topic of this book. God willing I shall deal with this matter at its appropriate time and place. Let me first deal with disavowing Shaitan. In order to disavow Shaitan we have to first understand him and his methods. Allah (s.w.t.) has told us in many places in the Quran to save ourselves from Shaitan, and so if we do not even know who he is how shall we save ourselves from him.

We do not even know how he misleads us and what kind of web of deceit that he spins in order for us not to fall into his trap. Let me now explain to you how he misleads people so that we can save ourselves from him. THE WEB OF SATAN There is a long sermon from the Commander of the Faithful (a.s.) which in titled ‘The will to Kumayl Ibn Ziyad’. In this he (a.s.) has made Qumayl aware of all things big and small about this world and the hereafter.

In this he (a.s.) has shed light on the workings of Shaitan. He (a.s.) says: ‘O Kumayl! Iblees has not made any promises for himself. The promise he made to his Lord was to lead the people towards sin so that they may be destroyed. O Kumayl!