PROPHETS AS LORDS: THE SUBTLEST FORM OF CORRUPTING RELIGION
PROPHETS AS LORDS: THE SUBTLEST FORM OF CORRUPTING RELIGION ✨ 1. Introduction: Who Has the Authority to Rule? The essence of Islam is to recognize only Allah as “Rabb” (Lord). The word “Rabb” does not merely mean Creator; it also means One who nurtures, teaches, governs, and legislates. For this reason, the Qur’an prohibits taking not only religious scholars but even prophets as lords. “It is not for a prophet to say to people: ‘Be my worshippers instead of Allah’s.’ Rather, he would say: ‘Be people of the Lord (Rabbaniyyun), because you have been teaching the Book and studying it.’” ( Āl‑i ‘Imrān, 3:79 ) ⛔️ Thus, even a prophet cannot legislate in religion; his role is only to teach the revelation. 📜 2. What Does It Mean to “Take as Lord”? 🔍 To “take as lord” is not limited to prostration or supplication. The core meaning is: ➡️ To view a person as a religious authority, a lawgiver, and a determiner of what is permissible and forbidden. 📚 The Qur’an gives this example:...