rather, whoever follows a religion other than Islam will never have it accepted from him, and in the Hereafter he will be among the losers. But Allah’s Book judges between the people of the earth concerning their disagreements and explains the basis for its judgment.

In this verse, He explains the grounds for superiority through His words, “submits himself to Allah,” and His words, “and does good.” The first clarifies his intention, his purpose, the One he worships and takes as his God; and His words, “and does good.” Thus, the text rules out the negation of anything better than it, while reason rules out anything equal to it. It is therefore established that it is the best of religions.

The third point: The dispute between the two communities concerned which of their religions was better. They were not told that the two religions were equal, nor were they forbidden to regard one as superior. Rather, the grounds for the boasting, arrogance and self-delusion arising from considering one religion superior were cut off. For when a person becomes conscious of his own superiority or that of his religion, this may lead him to pride, arrogance and boasting.

All were therefore told:

“Whoever does evil will be recompensed for it.”

This applies whether his religion is superior or inferior. Evil deeds remain forbidden, and recompense for them is inevitable. Allah Most High says, “By the winds that scatter,” through to His words, “will surely come to pass.”

So, when the believers realized that they would be recompensed for their evil deeds and that the superiority of their religion would not spare them, and the Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, explained to them that recompense may come