Section

The cause that led these people to disbelieve in part of what Allah revealed is, in many cases, of the same kind as that which led earlier peoples to disbelieve in all that Allah revealed. For anyone who reflects will find that, in many cases, the specious arguments used by the Jews, Christians, and those Sabians who followed them to reject what Allah revealed to Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, are of the same kind as those used by the polytheists, Magians, and the Sabians associated with them to reject scripture as such and what Allah revealed to His messengers.

They raise objections against his signs, the Scripture sent down with him, the law with which he was sent, and his conduct, much like the objections raised against the other messengers, such as Moses and Jesus. As Allah Most High said concerning them all:

“None dispute concerning the signs of Allah except those who disbelieve, so do not be deceived by their movement throughout the land.”

“Before them, the people of Noah denied, as did the factions after them. Every nation plotted against its messenger to seize him, and they argued with falsehood to overthrow the truth thereby.”

Up to His words:

“Thus Allah leaves astray whoever is a transgressor, full of doubt.”

“Those who dispute concerning the signs of Allah without any authority having come to them—it is greatly abhorrent to Allah and to those who believe.”

And in the other verse:

“There is nothing in their hearts but a desire for greatness they will never attain. So seek refuge in Allah.”

Up to His words:

“Have you not seen those who dispute concerning the signs of Allah? How are they turned away?”

“Those who deny the Scripture and that with which We sent Our messengers—they will soon know.”