Ibrahim (Abraham), peace be upon him, and the history of monotheism

And [remember] when Abraham said to his father, Āzar, “Do you take idols as gods? I see that you and your people are clearly misguided.”

Thus We showed Abraham the dominion of the heavens and earth, so that he would be of those who have certain faith.

When the night grew dark upon him, he saw a star and said, “This is my Lord.” But when it set, he said, “I do not like those that set.”

Then when he saw the moon rising, he said, “This is my Lord.” But when it set, he said, “Unless my Lord guides me, I will surely be among the misguided people.”

Then when he saw the sun rising, he said, “This is my Lord; this is greater.” But when it set, he said, “O my people, I disown all what you associate with Allah.

I turn my face towards the One Who originated the heavens and earth, inclining to true faith, and I am not one of those who associate partners with Allah.”

His people argued with him. He said, “Do you argue with me concerning Allah, when He has guided me? I do not fear what you associate with Him, [none can harm me] except what my Lord wills. My Lord encompasses everything in His knowledge. Will you not then take heed?

Why should I fear what you associate with Him, when you do not fear that you associate with Allah for which He has not sent down any authority? So which of the two parties has more right to feel secure, if you really know?

Those who believe and do not mix their faith with falsehood are the ones who will be secure, and it is they who are rightly guided.

That was Our argument which We gave Abraham against his people. We elevate in ranks whom We will. Your Lord is All-Wise, All-Knowing.

We granted him Isaac and Jacob – each of them We guided as We previously guided Noah, and among his descendants: David, Solomon, Job, Joseph, Moses, and Aaron. Thus do We reward those who do good.

And Zachariah, John, Jesus, and Elias – each was among the righteous.

Also Ishmael, Elisha, Jonah, and Lot – each of them We preferred over all other people [of their times].

And some of their fathers, their descendants, and their brothers – We chose them and guided them to a straight path.

This is Allah’s guidance with which He guides whom He wills of His slaves. If they were to associate others with Him, all their deeds would have been nullified.

They are those whom We gave the Scripture, wisdom and prophethood. But if these [pagans] disbelieve in it, then We have entrusted it to a people who will not disbelieve in it.

They are those whom Allah has guided, so follow their guidance. Say, “I do not ask any reward for it. It is but a reminder for the worlds.”