In his book entitled The Diversity of Opinions about LoveAbū Saʿīd Ahmad b. [Muḥammadb.] Ziyād al-Aʿrābī related people's views without mentioning them by name. “People differ on the question of love,” he said, “and they can be divided according to their views into seven groups: those who hold that love is obedience; those who hold that love is fascination; those who hold that love is beholding; those who hold that love is knowledge; [those who hold that love is a natural disposition]; those who hold that love is will; and those who hold that love is a commingling.”

Section One. Beginning of the Commentary on the Preceding Sentence Those who hold that love is obedience are divided among themselves and form six groups.

First, there are those who say that love is obedience, toil, and exertion, basing their view on the Koranic text, “If you love God, follow me” (3:31). This group has its arguments and proofs.

Second, there are those who hold that love is remembering God's favor, giving thanks to him for what he has done, and the soul's being pleased with all [100] the good and evil one may encounter.

Third, there are those who claim that love is to be grateful for and pleased with all that God causes to befall one or that he does with one.

Fourth, there are those who hold that true love can be directed only to one person in the world, namely, the Disposer appointed by God, who is his Proof among his creatures. He is always present on earth, and love in their view is to obey him. If he perishes, another like him takes his place.

Fifth, there are those who claim that love means only to love the Prophet, God's “friends,” and the “custodians.” They deem God to be far too glorious for them to love him, since, as they say, love only occurs between those who are alike or similar.

Sixth, there are those who hold that love is trust, contentment, and consolationuntil the moment of arrival.