The object of trimming would be to secure a brighter light. It would involve the trimming of the wick and replenishing the oil if needed. When the cry does arise there will be a wonderful lamp-trimming. Give us of your oil, for our lamps are gone out. Their apparent piety, though it satisfied them before, was not sufficient now.
Shams disappear in the presence of death or judgment.
Lest there be not enough for us and you. The wise virgins had sufficient for themselves, but none to spare, hence could be of no help. No one has a fund of surplus piety that he can turn over to someone else. The advice is the best possible. Every one had to procure for himself the needful grace and piety.