He will reply, “I killed a soul for whom I had received no authorization to kill”—the Egyptian whom he struck down when an Israelite sought his help. An Israelite from the Children of Israel had been quarreling with a Copt, and Moses—one of the most resolute and powerful of people, by Allah’s wisdom, for only such strength benefits the Children of Israel—had been sent to them. When he saw that the Israelite had appealed to him against the Copt, Moses dealt the Egyptian a single blow with his hand and ended his life.

Thus he will excuse himself, saying, “I killed a person I was not commanded to kill. Go to Jesus.”

So they will go to Jesus son of Mary, peace be upon him—the last messenger before Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him; between the two there is no other prophet or messenger. Jesus too will excuse himself, without citing any specific deed, and will direct them to someone more perfect than he: Muhammad—may Allah’s blessings and peace be upon him. I ask Allah the Most High to admit me and you into his intercession.

They will then come to Muhammad, and he will say, “I am for it.” With Allah’s permission he will proceed and prostrate beneath the Throne. Leave will be granted for him to intercede, and he will intercede. Then the Lord—majestic is He—will descend to judge between His servants; He will deliver His judgment, and they will find relief from that standing.

My brothers, does not the Messenger deserve praise for this station? Indeed, without doubt. All the noble prophets and messengers, the ones of great resolve, will excuse themselves until the matter reaches the Messenger ﷺ. Observe how this chain unfolds; had Allah, Blessed and Exalted, willed