My purpose in discussing saintship and affirming its reality is to show you that the name of saint (_walí_) is properly applied to those in whom the above-mentioned qualities are actually present (_ḥál_) and not merely reputed (_qál_). Certain Shaykhs formerly composed books on this subject, but they became rare and soon disappeared. Now I will commend to you the explanation given by that venerable spiritual director who is the author of the doctrine—for my own belief in it is greater—in order that much instruction may be gained, not only by yourself, but also by every seeker of Ṣúfiism who may have the good fortune to read this book. SECTION. You must know that the word _walí_ is current among the vulgar, and is to be found in the Koran and the Apostolic Traditions: e.g., God hath said, ”_Verily, on the friends_ (awliyá) _of God no fear shall come, and they shall not grieve_“ (Kor. x, 63); and again, ”_God is the friend_ (walí) _of those who believe_” (Kor. ii, 258). And the Apostle said: “Among the servants of God there are some whom the prophets and martyrs deem happy.” He was asked: “Who are they? Describe them to us that perchance we may love them.” He replied: “Those who love one another, through God’s mercy, without wealth and without seeking a livelihood: their faces are luminous, and they sit on thrones of light; they are not afraid when men are afraid, nor do they grieve when men grieve.” Then he recited: “_Verily, on the friends of God no fear shall come, and they shall not grieve_” (Kor. x, 63). Furthermore, the Apostle said that God said: “He who hurts a saint (_walí_) has allowed himself to make war on Me.”