For this reason, he disapproved of discussing (body) and (spatial location), and of discussing the utterance of the Quran in terms of affirmation or denial, because both affirmation and denial involve falsehood. His discussion of these matters is set out at length elsewhere, as is well known from his writings and statements.

What is condemned by the religion is what Allah and His Messenger have condemned, such as arguing with falsehood, arguing without knowledge, and disputing the truth after it has become clear.

As for debate sanctioned by the religion—such as that which Allah Most High recounts concerning the prophets, peace be upon them, and commands—examples include His words:

“They said, ‘O Noah, you have argued with us and argued at length.’” [Hūd: 32]

And His words:

“That was Our argument which We gave Abraham against his people.” [al-An‘ām: 83]

And His words:

“Have you not considered the one who argued with Abraham about his Lord?” [al-Baqarah: 258]

And His words:

“And argue with them in the best manner.” [al-Nahl: 125]

Such debate, and other instances like it, may be obligatory or recommended. Whatever is of this kind is not condemned by the religion.

If the statements of the early generations that Abū Hāmid al-Ghazālī cites in condemnation of the practitioners of speculative theology were known to have come from them in reliable books, he would not have mentioned them here.