of prophethood, and that we regard him like those whom the Scriptures describe as a “son” only by way of election and love—Israel and others besides him. Indeed, God, Mighty and Exalted, even singled Israel out, declaring, “You are My firstborn son.” This is merely an idiom of the ancient language in which the Books were revealed; it in no way confers divinity, since others share the same title. Why, then, do you not understand it as he himself did?
Among the statements that reinforce this meaning and sweep away the misinterpretations of those who ascribe to him what he never claimed nor approved is his saying about the knowledge of the Hour: “That is a matter known to no created being, neither the angels who are near, nor the son—meaning himself—none but the Father alone.”
Again, when the man came to him and said, “Good teacher, which deed is best for me so that I may have life until the Day of Judgment?” he answered, “Why do you call me good? No one is good except God alone.” Thus he affirmed that God is One without partner, while denying that status for himself or for any other creature.
Likewise, when the woman came to him and said, “Are you the Prophet whose coming we have been awaiting?”