of the messengers—Abraham and Muhammad, peace be upon them both—each of whom Allah took as a close friend. Through them Allah clarified this foundation, strengthened them in upholding it, and spread it. Abraham is the leader of whom Allah said:

“Indeed, I will make you a leader for mankind.”

Prophethood, Scripture and messengers were placed among his descendants. Those endowed with this prophethood and messengership belong to his family, whom Allah blessed. He, glorified is He, said:

“And when Abraham said to his father and his people, ‘Indeed, I disavow whatever you worship, except the One who created me, for He will surely guide me.’ And he made this an enduring declaration among his descendants, so that they might return.”

This declaration is the declaration of sincere devotion to Allah alone: disavowing every object of worship except the Creator who brought us into being. As the man mentioned in Surah Yā Sīn said:

“Why should I not worship the One who created me, and to whom you will be returned? Should I take other gods besides Him? If the Most Merciful intends harm for me, their intercession will not benefit me at all, nor can they save me. Indeed, I would then be clearly astray.”

In His account of Abraham, Allah Most High, after explaining the error of taking a heavenly body as a lord to worship besides Allah, said:

“When it set, he said, ‘O my people, I disavow whatever you associate with Allah. Indeed, I have turned my face towards the One who created the heavens and the earth, inclining to Him alone, and I am not one of those who associate partners with Him.’”

Up to His words:

“Yet you do not fear that you have associated with Allah that for which He has sent down to you no authority.”

Abraham, the close friend of Allah, peace be upon him, said:

“Have you considered what you have been worshipping—you and your forefathers? They are enemies to me, except the Lord of all worlds, who created me and guides me; who feeds me and gives me drink; and when I am ill, He heals me; and who will cause me to die and then bring me to life.”

And Allah Most High said:

“You have indeed had an excellent example in Abraham and those with him, when they said