when its transmitter is someone like Abū Ma‘shar, reporting about ancient peoples? This is a report with an utterly disconnected chain, transmitted by someone whose narrations are unacceptable. Is it fitting for anyone possessed of reason or religion to establish anything concerning the foundations of religion on this basis?

It is truly astonishing that this man, who opposes Allah and His Messenger, should turn to the widely transmitted reports from the Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace—which he inherited from the leading scholars of the religion and the heirs of the prophets and messengers, and whose authenticity all knowledgeable scholars unanimously affirmed—and attack them in a manner resembling the attacks of hypocritical heretics. Yet he then adduces, as evidence concerning the foundations of religion, a report from Abū Ma‘shar, one of those believers in idols and false gods who are leaders of polytheism and misguidance. We seek refuge in Allah from their evils and their statements. It is Allah whose help is sought against what they allege. And Allah, Glorified and Exalted, knows best.