behind whom a false claimant may conceal himself, or someone ignorant of his own state, even if he does not intend to lie.
Chapter One Hundred and Eighty-Four: Knowing the Station of Charismatic Gifts
Some men consider the occurrence of charismatic gifts
a true proof of attaining the stations,
and deem them the very glad tidings brought to you
by the messengers of the Guardian from above the heavens.
For us the matter has distinctions which, if known
to the company, would leave them no joy in signs.
How can there be joy when gradual enticement accompanies them
for people beset by ignorance and ailments,
who do not truly know that they are ignorant?
This, then, is among the strongest forms of ignorance.
A charismatic gift is nothing but a protection found
in the state of speech, deeds, and intentions.
That is the charismatic gift: seek no substitute for it,
and beware the ruse folded within charismatic gifts.
