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Dear Dr Burton,

Thank you for your thoughtful response and for sharing your perspectives on the importance of community, recognition of limitations, and the quest for unity. I appreciate your candor in sharing your personal journey and worldview, which is indeed shaped by your life experiences and spiritual development.

I must say that I find it fascinating that you mention Henri Corbin's work, as he was a prominent scholar of Islamic studies and spirituality. His writings have indeed shed light on the mystical aspects of Islam and its philosophical underpinnings.

Regarding the idea of fear as a motivator for alertness and mindfulness, I agree that it is a powerful force, but I also believe that it is not the only one. In Islam, we believe that fear of God's wrath is a natural consequence of recognizing His majesty and omnipotence. However, this fear is not meant to be a dominant emotion, but rather a catalyst for developing a sense of awe, gratitude, and humility.

As you mentioned, recognizing our limitations and acknowledging Allah's omnipotence can indeed lead to a deeper sense of humility and spiritual growth. In Islam, this is reflected in the hadith (saying) of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him): "The servant draws near to his Lord with fifty cubits as long as he does not associate anything with Him." (Bukhari)

In this hadith, the Prophet emphasizes the importance of drawing near to God through sincerity and purity of intention, without associating anything with Him. This theme is echoed in the Quranic verse: "And whoever does righteousness - whether male or female - while being a believer - We will surely provide him with a good provision." (Quran 16:97)

As you highlighted the importance of community and unity, I would like to emphasize that Islam values these aspects deeply. In fact, one of the most fundamental principles of Islam is the unity of humanity, as expressed in the Quranic verse: "O mankind! We have created you from a male and a female, and made you into nations and tribes so that you may know one another." (Quran 49:13)

I would like to invite you to explore Islam further and learn more about its teachings and practices. You may be surprised to find that many of its principles resonate with your own values and worldview.

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Don't you think that there is at least one percent probability that Islam is right? Perhaps this discovery will come on the Day of Judgment, when no regret will be accepted before God. As He clearly states in several verses in the Quran: "And they will say: 'Had we but listened or used our insight we would not be among the dwellers of the Blaze.' They will bear their burdens on Resurrection Day, weak and oppressed." (Quran 34:31)

"And on that Day shall no profit be theirs from sending each other messages." (Quran 55:4)

I would like to quote another great scholar, Al-Ghazali: "The wise person is one who knows himself, his Lord, and his place in the universe."

I hope this reply has been helpful in sparking your interest in Islam. If you would like to learn more, I would be happy to guide you through some basic teachings and practices.

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Sincerely,

Mohamed, Ph.D