and the other things affirmed by the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him). Rather, we answer both you and them by demonstrating that, in opposing the scriptural texts, you have neither sound reason nor authentic transmitted evidence. All you have are specious falsehoods embellished with ambiguous, deceptive expressions, passed from one to another in blind imitation of your predecessors. Once their meaning is explained and their intent laid bare, their falsity becomes evident through sound reason, just as it is known through authentic transmitted evidence. It also becomes clear that the Messenger’s proof is binding upon everyone whom his message has reached. No one may oppose any of his words with personal opinion or desire. Rather, everyone must submit to him as Allah Most High says:

“But no, by your Lord, they will not truly believe until they make you judge in their disputes, then find within themselves no discomfort at your judgment and submit wholeheartedly.”
[al-Nisā’: 65]

We do not concede the unsound premises that you yourselves have conceded to those who opposed the Book—the Qarāmitah, the philosophers, the Muʿtazilah, and others. Rather, we block the path by which they have made inroads into Islam and reject the premises underlying the speculative theology with which they have opposed the Book, the Sunnah, and the consensus of the best of mankind.