and encompasses all that they contain, and the finest human being is the finest of all created beings without exception, and Muhammad is the pupil of this eye, the pivot of this mill, and the constituent parts of this whole, then this would seem to be the ultimate end among created things. What objection, then, can there be to saying that they were all created for his sake, and that, were it not for him, they would not have been created? If these and similar words are interpreted in accordance with what the Quran and Sunnah indicate, they are acceptable. But if they involve excess like that of the Christians, by allowing created beings a share in any aspect of lordship, then they are rejected and unacceptable. It is authentically reported that he (may Allah Most High bless him and grant him peace) said:

“Do not praise me excessively as the Christians praised Jesus son of Mary. I am only a servant, so say: ‘The servant of Allah and His Messenger.’”

Allah Most High has said:

“O People of the Scripture, do not go to extremes in your religion, and say nothing about Allah except the truth. The Messiah, Jesus son of Mary, was only the Messenger of Allah, His word which He conveyed to Mary, and a spirit from Him. So believe in Allah and His messengers, and do not say, ‘Three.’ Desist—it is better for you. Allah is only one God.”

Allah has reserved for Himself a right in which no created being shares. Worship is due to Him alone; supplication is to be addressed to Him alone; reliance is to be placed upon Him alone; longing is to be directed to Him alone; and fear is to be of Him alone. There is no refuge or escape from Him except with Him. None but He brings good, and none but He removes evil. There is neither power nor strength except through Him.

“Intercession is of no avail with Him except for those to whom He grants permission.”

“Who is it that