Some of the Best and Worst People in Society

It is reported that Imām ‘Abdullāh b. Al-Mubārak – Allāh have mercy on him – was asked: “Who are the [best] people?” He replied, “The scholars.” He was asked, “Who are the [real] kings?” He replied, “the ascetics.” He was asked, “And who are the dregs [of society]?” He replied, “Those who use their religion as a means of devouring [wealth].” He was asked, “Who are the rabble?” He replied, “Khuzaymah b. Khāzim and his companions.” And he was asked, “And who is the low person?” He replied, “The one who talks about the rise in prices to his guest.”

Abū Bakr Al-Daynūrī, Al-Mujālasah wa Jawāhir Al-‘Ilm 2:181.