with some words of remembrance, there is no harm in that, just as an imam may occasionally let those behind him hear a verse during a prayer normally recited quietly. It is authentically reported from Abū Qatāda that the Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace,

“would sometimes let them hear a verse during the noon and afternoon prayers.”

It is also authentically reported that some Companions praying behind the Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, recited a supplication aloud at the opening of the prayer or upon rising from bowing, and he did not disapprove of this.

Anyone who persists in practising religious innovations and commending them should receive a discretionary punishment that deters him and others like him from such conduct. Anyone who mistakenly attributes something false to the Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, must be informed of his error; if he does not desist, he is to be punished. No one may speak about religion without knowledge, nor assist anyone who speaks about religion without knowledge or introduces into it something that does not belong to it.

As for the statement, “Everyone may do whatever he wishes in his religion,” this is a grave statement. Whoever says it must be called upon to repent of it; otherwise, he is to be punished. Indeed, persisting in such a statement warrants execution. No one may practise in religion anything except what Allah and His Messenger have prescribed, rather than whatever he wishes or desires. Allah Most High says:

“And who is more astray than one who follows his own desires without guidance from Allah?”

And He Most High says:

“Indeed, many lead others astray through their desires, without knowledge.”

“Do not follow your desires, lest they lead you astray from the way of Allah.”

And He says:

“Do not follow the desires of a people who went astray before, led many others astray, and strayed from the right way.”

And He Most High says:

“Have you seen the one who has taken as his god