Hidden Safety
It is reported that Sufyān Al-Thawrī – Allāh have mercy on him – said:
Safety lies in not wanting to be known.
Al-Dhahabī, Siyar Aʿlām Al-Nubalāʾ 7:258.
Also read
Related sayings.
People are often more interested in leadership in this world than other material gain.
The Salaf used to be careful not to speak in front of elders unless absolutely needed.