is that of an evil tree, uprooted from the surface of the earth, having no stability.” [Surah Ibrāhīm 26]
Allah Most High says:
“And who is more unjust than one who invents a lie about Allah or denies the truth when it is brought to him?” [Surah al-ʿAnkabūt 68]
He says:
“Thus do We recompense those who invent falsehoods.” [Surah al-Aʿrāf 152]
He says:
“And do not backbite one another.” [Surah al-Hujurāt 12]
Allah Most High says:
“And do not call one another by offensive nicknames.” [Surah al-Hujurāt 11]
He says:
“When you converse privately, do not converse about sin, aggression, and disobedience to the Messenger.” [Surah al-Mujādilah 9]
Allah Most High says:
“They say, ‘We obey,’ but when they leave your presence, a group of them plots by night something other than what you say. Allah records what they plot by night. So turn away from them and put your trust in Allah. Sufficient is Allah as a Trustee.” [Surah al-Nisāʾ 81]
He has cited His words, “and follow the best of it” [Surah al-Zumar 18], in support of an unrestricted meaning, and they are evidence confirming that, as explained above.
His words, “and follow the best of it,” are like His words in this same surah:
“And follow the best of what has been sent down to you from your Lord.” [Surah al-Zumar 55]
The two expressions have exactly the same meaning. This is one meaning of the Quran’s passages resembling one another, as Allah Most High says:
“Allah has sent down the best