The number of ahillâ is unknown. They may increase or decrease. True friendship (muḥālelet) is valid only between Allah and the servant; this is the maqām (spiritual station) of ittihād (union). The term muḥālelet is not exclusive to believers; it is used for both believers and disbelievers. The friendship mentioned here refers to mutual association, acquaintance, and socialization. In a report that has reached us, it is stated: Whoever a person takes as a sincere friend, that person becomes of his religion. Regarding the maqām of hullet (friendship), it is said:
"You have permeated the depths of my spirit with your character (akhlāq)."
Thus was the Friend (Khalīl) as well.
We say that true friendship can only exist between Allah and His servant. Because