Abu Bakr ash-Shibli (d. 946)

A man stood before Shibli (God's compassion upon him) and said to him: 'Which act of patience is hardest for one who is patient?'

Shibli said: 'Patience in God.'

'No,' the man said.

Shibli said: 'Patience for God.'

The man said: 'No.'

Shibli said: 'The patience with God.'

'No,' he said.

Shibli grew angry and said: 'Damn you, what then?'

The man said: 'Patience without God Most High.'

Shibli let out a scream that nearly tore apart his spirit.