The communications received by these hypocrites, those who are mistaken, and those who imitate the believers come from the devils that descend upon their like—every sinful liar—and from their own inner thoughts. This is why they engage so much in poetry and soothsaying, whose practitioners are often attended by devils.

They told Ibn ‘Umar and Ibn ‘Abbās that al-Mukhtār claimed that something was being sent down to him. One of them replied, “He speaks the truth: ‘Shall I inform you upon whom the devils descend?’ {221} [al-Shu‘arā’ 221]”

They told the other that he claimed to receive revelation. He replied, “He speaks the truth: ‘Indeed, the devils inspire their allies to dispute with you.’ [al-An‘ām 121]”

Thus they do receive inspiration and messages sent down to them—but from devils, just as devils descend upon their counterparts among sorcerers and soothsayers. They share common ground in many matters.