Section: On those who demand a second and third sign, and on the wisdom behind the succession of signs that attest to prophethood.

One must realise that when Allah sends a prophet and grants him a single sign proving his truthfulness, the proof has been established and the clear path made manifest. Whoever then asks for a second sign is not entitled to have his request granted—indeed, it may even be improper to comply—for once a second sign is produced they will demand a third, and after a third a fourth, and the demands of the obstinate know no limit.

It is well known that in any disputed matter of knowledge or of people’s rights, once conclusive evidence has been presented against a person, and he still says, “I will not accept until a second and a third proof are brought,” he is acting unjustly and transgressing. His demand is not to be met, and judges do not allow litigants to pursue that course; rather, once admissible evidence is produced for the claimant, judgment is issued in his favour. If the defendant were to insist, “I want a second, a third, and a fourth piece of evidence,” his request would not be entertained.

Allah’s own right—which He has made binding upon His servants—namely His tawḥīd (monotheism), faith in Him, and faith in His messengers, is worthier still: once He has produced evidence that obligates His creatures to believe in His messengers, He is under no obligation to answer the obstinate seeker who demands a second or third sign.

That said, there may be wisdom in the succession of signs; thus the Exalted may send sign after sign, just as He dispatched Muhammad ﷺ with numerous signs because his call was universal and all-encompassing. Indeed, the more proofs multiply and converge upon a single conclusion