Such people should be avoided except when they are...

Such people should be avoided except when they are approached and invited to the path of righteousness and godliness. In that case you shall be following in the honourable foot­steps of the prophets.[^10] The second category includes people who have tongue but no heart. They are people of great learning and knowledge and possess eloquent tongue with which they exhort people to live a life of piety and righteousness. But, they themselves lead a life of sensuality and rebellion.

Their speech is charming but their hearts are black. To the third category belong people who have a heart but no tongue. They are the faithful and true believers. They are aware of their own shortcomings and blemishes and are constantly engaged in purifying themselves of all dross. To them silence and soli­tude are far safer for spiritual health…