such as his own self or his drinking, and the like. The point is that everyone who turns away from the religion of Abraham is foolish.

Abū al-ʿĀliyah said: “The Jews and Christians turned away from the religion of Abraham and introduced Judaism and Christianity, which are not from Allah, abandoning Abraham’s religion.”

Likewise, Qatādah said: “They altered the religion of the prophets and followed what had been abrogated.” As for Moses, the Messiah, and their followers, they adhere to the religion of Abraham, following him as their leader. This is the meaning of His words:

“Indeed, the people closest to Abraham are those who followed him, this Prophet, and those who believe.”

This encompasses those who followed him both before and after Muhammad was sent as a messenger.

It has also been said that it is general in scope. Al-Hasan al-Basrī said: “Every believer is an ally of Abraham, whether among those who have gone before or those who remain.”

Al-Rabīʿ ibn Anas said: “They are the believers who affirmed Allah’s prophet and followed him. Muhammad and the believers with him were the people closest to Abraham.” This and other evidence make clear that the Jews and Christians do not worship Allah and do not follow the religion of Abraham.

If it is said: A polytheist worships Allah and others besides Him, as evidenced by the words of Allah’s intimate friend:

“Have you considered what you have been worshipping—you and your forefathers? They are enemies to me, except the Lord of all worlds.”

He thus excepted Him from what they worshipped, indicating that they did worship Allah. Likewise, his words:

“Indeed, I am free of what you worship, except the One who created me,”

and he made an exception for Him