from the disbelievers in their direction of prayer, so that this would cut off, once and for all, the false hopes they cherished. It is well known that this principle holds true in every instance of either opposition or conformity: whenever a disbeliever is followed in any matter, he gains thereby an argument no less persuasive—indeed, closely resembling—the one the Jews once advanced concerning the qiblah.

The Exalted One says:

“And do not be like those who split up and differed after clear proofs had come to them.”
(Āl ʿImrān 3:105)

(1) They are the Jews and the Christians, who fragmented into more than seventy sects. Because of this, the Prophet—may Allah bless him and grant him peace—prohibited us

(2) from following them into that very division and discord, even though he himself—peace and blessings be upon him—foretold

(3) that his own community would divide into seventy-three sects.

(4) His words, “Do not be like so-and-so,” may encompass resemblance either in wording or in meaning; whether or not it covers every detail, it still indicates that, in principle, differing from them and avoiding their likeness is prescribed. It further indicates

(5) that the more a person distances himself from imitating them in matters for which we have no revealed sanction, the farther he will be from falling into the very resemblance that is forbidden—and this is a weighty benefit.

He, glorified be He, said to Moses and Aaron:

“So remain steadfast, both of you, and do not follow the path of those who lack knowledge.”
(Yūnus 10:89)

(6) And He, exalted be He, also said:

(7) “And Moses said to his brother Aaron, ‘Succeed me among my people, set things right, and do not follow the way of the corrupters.’”
(al-Aʿrāf 7:142)

(8) And the Most High said: