There passed by us a time when we did not think that anyone learned the Qur’an except intending Allah, Mighty and Majestic.  Now lately, I fear that men learn it for the sake of people and what they have.  Therefore, intend Allah with your recitation and your deeds, for we used to recognize you because the Messenger of Allah (S) was amongst us, and revelation used to descend and Allah used to inform us of your news.  As for today, the Messenger of Allah (S) has passed and revelation has been discontinued, so I only recognize you by the following: whoever does good outwardly, we love him for it and think good of him; whoever does evil outwardly, we hate him for it and think evil of him; your secrets are between you and Allah, Mighty and Majestic.

—’Umar b. al-Khattab

(Read on pg 38, Imam Abu Baker Muhammad b. al-Husayn al-Ajurri, The Character of the Bearers and People of the Qur’an. Al-Quran Society. London:2002.)