—that is, the religion of Allah—turning away those who believe in Him and seeking to make it crooked,” that is, seeking deviation in it. It was also said that they sought to introduce crookedness into the religion and to turn away from the straight path. They would sit along the road and say to anyone wishing to believe in Shuayb, “Shuayb is a liar, so do not let him lead you away from your religion.” They would threaten the believers with death and intimidate them. Al-Suddi said: They were collectors of customs duties.

“And remember when you were few, and He multiplied you,” so that their numbers became great. “And observe how the end of the corrupters was,” that is, the final outcome of the people of Lot.

“If a group among you has believed in that with which I have been sent, while another group has not believed, then be patient until Allah judges between us. And He is the best of judges.” (87)