We bear witness that the ten Companions to whom the Messenger of Allah—may Allah bless him and grant him peace—gave glad tidings are assured Paradise (1). We declare our loyalty to all the other Companions of the Prophet—may Allah bless him and grant him peace—while refraining from delving into whatever disagreements arose among them. We hold, as a matter of creed, that the four caliphs are rightly guided (2), divinely directed and distinguished, and that no one equals them in virtue (3).

We affirm every report authenticated (4) by the transmitters concerning Allah’s descent to the lowest heaven (5), as well as His saying, “Is there anyone who asks? Is there anyone seeking forgiveness?” (6), and every other narration they have conveyed and established, in opposition to the claims of the people of deviation and misguidance.

In any matter over which we differ, we refer to the Book of Allah, the sunnah of the Messenger of Allah—may Allah bless him and grant him peace—(7), the consensus of the Muslims, and whatever accords with those sources. We do not introduce into the religion of Allah any innovation for which He has given no permission, nor do we speak about Allah without knowledge.

We state that Allah will come on the Day of Resurrection, as He has said: “And your Lord will come with the angels, rank upon rank” (Qur’an 89:22) (8). We also affirm that Allah draws near to His servants in whatever manner He wills, as He has said: “And We are nearer…"