the prophets, the steadfast affirmers of truth, the martyrs, and the righteous. Such is the religion of Allah with which He had already sent the messengers before him, as the Exalted has said:

“He has ordained for you, in matters of faith, what He enjoined upon Noah—and what We have revealed to you—and what We enjoined upon Abraham, Moses, and Jesus: ‘Uphold the religion and do not fall into divisions concerning it.’” (al-Shura 13)

He, Exalted is He, also said:

“O messengers, eat of what is wholesome and act righteously; I am indeed All-Knowing of what you do. And truly, this community of yours is one single community, and I am your Lord, so be mindful of Me.” (al-Mu’minun 51–52)

In another verse He says:

“I am your Lord, so be mindful of Me. Yet they split their affair among themselves into fragments, each faction rejoicing in what it possessed.” (al-Mu’minun 52–53)