Discussion of the means of approaching Allah and its definition.

The Shaykh : We say, and we say with the help of Allah, and we rely upon Allah and place our trust in Him. The term *wasilah* (means of approaching Allah) is derived from reaching a thing. It is a *wasilah* and a *wasilah* with a sad and a sin, where the two letters interchange in meaning, such that one can replace the other. This is like the *Sirat* (bridge); you can say this is a *Sirat* with a sad, and you can say this is a *Sirat* with a sin, and both are correct in classical Arabic. Therefore, *wasilah* means that which connects to the intended goal. It must have an effect in reaching the intended goal; otherwise, it would be futile or a type of shirk (associating partners with Allah). I hope you pay attention, everyone. So, *wasilah* is a *fa'ilah* (active participle) meaning *fa'ilah* (agent), i.e., that which connects to what? To the intended thing. It must have an effect that influences you to reach the intended goal. Seeking nearness to Allah through a means that does not connect to the intended goal is either futile or a type of shirk.