a practitioner of speculative theology, and show us that he is distinguished by his knowledge of the conventions of disputation. Yet this is no source of pride among scholars who adhere to the Sunnah and follow its guidance, for they regard those who occupy themselves with it as people of innovation. Criticism of speculative theologians and condemnation of speculative theology have been transmitted from numerous scholars of Islam. Even if al-Shāfi‘ī alone had condemned them, that would suffice: he condemned them emphatically, clearly exposed their condition, and left no need for further explanation. You profess adherence to his school; why, then, do you not follow his example in this regard?’”

Ibn ‘Asākir then narrated through his chain of transmission from al-Firyābī, who said: “Bishr ibn al-Walīd told me: I heard Abū Yūsuf say, ‘Whoever seeks religion through speculative theology becomes a heretic; whoever seeks out uncommon hadith reports falls into lying; and whoever seeks wealth through alchemy goes bankrupt.’”

Al-Bayhaqī said: “This was also reported from Mālik ibn Anas.”

He also said: Al-Bayhaqī said, “By speculative theology, he only means—and Allah knows best—