[Commentary]

The aḥādīth that the author—may Allah have mercy on him—cites in Riyāḍ al-Ṣāliḥīn under the chapter entitled “Stressing the Obligation of Zakāh and Clarifying Its Merit” include some that have already been addressed, as well as the narration of ʿAbd Allāh b. ʿUmar—may Allah be pleased with them both—in which the Messenger of Allah ﷺ said: “I have been commanded to fight people until they testify that there is no god but Allah and that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah, establish the prayer, and pay the zakāh.”

His words “I have been commanded” make it clear that the One who commanded him is Allah. This proves that the Prophet ﷺ is a servant who receives commands and prohibitions just as the rest of humankind do, for he is one of Allah’s servants. He is not a lord, nor does he possess any of the prerogatives of lordship; rather, he is a slave who is ordered and forbidden—and at times even reproached—by his Lord. Allah Most High says to him: “May Allah pardon you! Why did you give them leave until it became clear to you who was truthful and you came to know the liars?” (Q 9:43). And He says: “O Prophet, why do you forbid what Allah has made lawful for you, seeking the approval of your wives? Allah is All-Forgiving, Most Merciful” (Q 66:1). His Lord also rebukes him with the words: “Fear Allah, while you conceal within yourself what Allah will reveal, and you fear the people, although Allah has a greater right that you fear Him” (Q 33:37).

Anyone who claims that Muhammad ﷺ has a share in lordship—who alleges that he can bring benefit or harm, answer prayers, or remove affliction—has committed shirk with Allah and disbelieved in Muhammad ﷺ.

He ﷺ says: “I have been commanded to fight people until they testify that there is no…"