The hypocrites’ disparagement of those learned in what the Messenger brought goes back to the hypocrites who lived in the Prophet’s time, may Allah bless him and grant him peace.

The people of knowledge, however, used to say that they are the “abdāl” (substitutes), because they take the place of the prophets and truly stand in their stead. They are not among those lacking substance, whose reality is unknown. Each of them stands in the prophets’ place within the sphere in which he represents them: one in knowledge and exposition, another in worship and spiritual state, and another in both.

They also used to say that they are the victorious group who will prevail, upholding the truth, until the Hour comes. For with them are the guidance and the religion of truth with which Allah sent His messengers. It is this religion that Allah has promised to make prevail over all other religions, and Allah is sufficient as a witness.