Ibn Jawzi’s Advice to His Son

My dear son, pay attention to what is in your advantage, regret your previous shortcomings, and work hard to reach the level of those who have achieved completion, while you still have the chance.

My dear son, I pray that Allah guides you towards all that is right.

My dear son, observe the way you handle the limits set by Allah and see whether or not you remain within their limits. Indeed, he who takes care to stay within them will be looked after by Allah, and he who does not will be left to himself.

My dear son, do not let your past carelessness make you lose hope of achieving good. There are many who have awakened after sleeping for a long time.

My dear son, strive to protect your dignity from being compromised by chasing this world and having to stoop to its people. Be happy and you will live with dignity.

I strongly encourage you to work hard and not disappoint my expectations of you or for you. I entrust you to Allah – the Most Exalted, who is perfect in every way – and pray to Him alone to grant you guidance and success both in knowledge and in its application.

[Imam Ibn al-Jawzi in his letter of advice to his son, as contained in his work: "Laftat al-Kabid fee Naseehat al-Walad"]