What are the most beloved deeds to Allah and those with the greatest reward, especially when choosing between supererogatory prayer, reciting the Qur’an, increasing one’s knowledge, and helping the needy? And what is the principle that can be followed to distinguish deeds with the greatest reward?

Ibn al-Qayyim mentioned that people, regarding the best acts of worship, fall into four categories: The first category believes that the best acts of worship are those most difficult for the self. The second believes that the best acts of worship are detachment and asceticism in this world. The third believes that the best acts of worship are those that have a widespread benefit. As for the fourth category, they believe that the best acts of worship are to work towards pleasing the Lord at all times, according to what is required and the function of that particular time.