Every Meaning Has a Pyramid Form
There is no doubt that every meaning has a tangible structure, or in other words, meanings have a pyramid shape with a base and a peak. The more refined the meaning, the more refined the tangible structure, or one might say, the more refined the base of the hierarchy becomes. Similarly, for every inner state (sarirah), there is an outward expression (sirah), and as the inner state becomes purer, the outward behavior becomes more upright. Sin begins first in the inner state - one might say in thought - and then manifests in the outward behavior, or the tangible actions among people.
The Qur'an’s Unique Method of Education
The Qur'an employs a unique, reverse method to cleanse people of sin. It starts from the outside and works inward: “We will show them Our signs in the horizons and within themselves until it becomes clear to them that it is the truth.” (41: 53)
This method is of the utmost precision and wisdom and leads those who master it to the correct, direct method, which begins from the inside and works outward. This subtle shift is hinted at in the previous verse: “But is it not sufficient concerning your Lord that He is, over all things, a Witness?” (41: 53)
As the inner state becomes purer, the outward behavior becomes more upright, the circle of prohibitions narrows, and the scope of permissible actions broadens, as emphasized in the verse: “What would Allah do with your punishment if you are grateful and believe? And ever is Allah Appreciative and Knowing.” (4: 147)
If the journey continues until the ultimate goal of complete purity of the inner state and total uprightness of behavior, then all tangible things return to their original state of permissibility. This is illustrated in the verse: “There is no blame upon those who have believed and done righteous deeds for what they have consumed when they feared Allah and believed and did righteous deeds, then feared Allah and believed, and then feared Allah and did good. And Allah loves the doers of good.” (5: 93)
This level of perfection is what Muhammad’s second message leads to, a level unattainable by his first message.
