The same applies to the claim that he possessed esoteric knowledge that distinguished him from Abū Bakr, ‘Umar, and others. This is among the assertions of the heretical Bātiniyya (esotericists) and others like them, whose unbelief is greater than theirs. Indeed, they hold forms of unbelief not found among Jews and Christians—for example, those who believe in his divinity and prophethood, that he was more learned than the Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, and that he secretly taught the Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace. Such assertions are made only by those who go to extremes in unbelief and heresy. And Allah, glorified and exalted be He, knows best.