of the One who brought them into existence, and knowledge of His most beautiful names, His sublime attributes, His justice and His wisdom—the grounds of the proofs concerning all these matters had become clear to them, until their hearts were reassured and they no longer needed to seek fresh proofs. They conveyed everything they had learned and agreed upon concerning these matters to those who came after them. Thus, they were left with no excuse concerning what they had been called to believe, because of the proofs to which the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, had drawn their attention and the signs they had witnessed that demonstrated his truthfulness. Likewise, all those who came after him were left with no excuse because these matters had been transmitted to them. What the people of each age transmit constitutes binding proof against those who come after them.

There is no need for you—may Allah guide you—to seek, in order to know all that we have been called upon to believe, fresh proofs other than those to which the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, drew attention and which he called his entire community to contemplate, since it is impossible for anyone to offer, concerning these matters, better guidance