And any one of them remains in his religion only because he follows his desires and safeguards what he considers his worldly interests, or because he supposes that it is permissible to adhere to any religion whatsoever and that religions resemble the schools within Islam. Most philosophers, astrologers, and others like them hold this view, treating religions like sound political orders, even though some are better than others.
The divinely revealed scriptures transmitted from the prophets, may blessings and peace be upon them, through mass transmission, however, expressly declare that Allah accepts no religion from anyone other than the upright faith. This is Islam in its general sense: worshipping Allah alone, without any partner, and believing in His Books, His messengers, and the Last Day. As the Most High says:
“Indeed, those who believe, the Jews, the Christians, and the Sabians—whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day and does righteous deeds—will have their reward with their Lord. They will have nothing to fear, nor will they grieve.”
He has told us the same concerning the earlier prophets and their communities. Noah said:
“But if you turn away, I have asked you for no reward. My reward rests only with Allah, and I have been commanded to be among the Muslims.”
He said concerning Abraham:
“Who would turn away from the religion of Abraham except one who makes a fool of himself? We certainly chose him in this world, and in the Hereafter he will surely be among the righteous.”
“When his Lord said to him, ‘Submit,’ he said, ‘I have submitted to the Lord of all worlds.’”
“Abraham enjoined this upon his sons, as did Jacob: ‘My sons, Allah has chosen this religion for you, so do not die except as Muslims.’”
Moses said:
“My people, if you have believed in Allah, then put your trust in Him, if you are Muslims.”
And He said:
“Indeed, We sent down the Torah, containing guidance and light, by which the prophets who submitted to Allah judged for the Jews.”
Bilqīs said:
“My Lord, I have indeed wronged myself, and I submit with Solomon to Allah, the Lord of all worlds.”
And He said concerning