something that has a beginning, or it may be eternal, for example.’ Thus, a person believes that it has a beginning without considering the other possibility.
The person who possesses knowledge surveys the paths of reasoning, explains their evidential grounds, and pursues rational inquiry to its furthest conclusion.”
He said:
“If it is asked, ‘How can they be believers without possessing knowledge?’ we reply: Because Allah Most High has required this much of them, but has not required them to possess knowledge.
This is known by rational necessity and supported by revelation. The Messenger, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, was content with the Bedouins’ assent, although we know that their understanding fell short of grasping rational inquiry and its proofs. Rather, they are required to rid themselves of doubt. If they have freed themselves of doubt and confusion, and their beliefs are firmly established, then they are believers.
We do not say that knowledge is obligatory. Rather, if their doubt were dispelled by an apparently mass-transmitted report, the words of certain shaykhs, or a terrifying dream concerning their opponents, and their hearts then became settled in their belief, that would be valid.
If, however, their doubt cannot be dispelled except through knowledge, then knowledge becomes indispensable.”
He said:
“The Quran contains argumentation, even if it does not secure victory and decisive success; nevertheless, it suffices for the ordinary person. For example, Allah Most High says:
‘Were We wearied by the first creation?’
Yet those who deny the Resurrection do not deny it on account of weariness.
Likewise, Allah Most High says:
‘They assign to Allah what they themselves dislike,’
and:
‘Are you to have males and He females?’
Yet this does not conclusively establish that He has no offspring. Thus, the beginnings of rational inquiry suffice for them.
If it is asked, ‘If this rational inquiry is not obligatory upon everyone, is it obligatory upon particular individuals?’ we reply: Yes. In every age, there must be individuals who uphold it. It is a communal obligation, like jihad and learning the Quran