Wisdom is the second pillar of patriotism, for mere inclination is not enough without an active, discerning force that clarifies the means of action and the justifications applicable to that inclination, and responds to those sincere desires. Otherwise, the right inclination will be lost through submission to change or rashness from ignorance, leading to error where benefit is hoped for, and mistakes where correctness is desired. It is in this vein that they say a wise enemy is better than an ignorant friend.

Wisdom is that which prevents it, for it is the executive force that guarantees the success of its endeavors. Rather, it is wisdom that charts the course and the path in the complexities of action, implementing what patriotism feels and what the call of wisdom demands. If one's ambition is stifled from striving forward, it will be pushed back by the turns of days.

As for responsibility: it is the essence of the three powers, and its characteristics are alertness and warning, and safeguarding the holder of a position from faltering in speech and slipping in action, protecting them from neglecting their duties and realizing their importance. Whoever is not held accountable for what they do is driven by one of two things: either idleness when laziness tempts them, or arrogance mixed with hatred. The result of these two premises is in addition and inferiority.

But the opinion of the pillars of patriotism leads to the false claim, whether it is a call to action or merely relative attention without fulfilling one's duty. Or dealing with someone close who has not yet arrived, or breaking down closed doors without the interference of the West, or forgetting the duties that patriotism entails on the principle of religion and honor. No, what we have mentioned is not patriotism in any way. Words are not believed until they are confirmed by action. If you had not said or done anything, it would be better than saying and not doing, and better than that is doing.

The most eloquent thing Safi al-Din al-Hilli said in such a case was when he included the nightingale and the falcon in his poetry, with the nightingale addressing the falcon: He said, "O hawk, the indolent have sat and are working above them, And you are silent and slip away from some of what they say. And I am with them, and my value to them is great, He replied, 'You are right, but that is known. However, you must distinguish: For I acted and did not speak, and you speak and do not act.'"

As for mere affiliation without fulfilling duties and calling for something that has not yet been done, it is not patriotism. It requires you to consider the action or the one who acts, or the one who is sacrificed for your land and your being. It is turning a deaf ear without listening to the voice.