composite—that is, they involve few premises, so their conclusions follow closely from the initial premises.”

Ibn Rushd said:

“As for the Sufis, their methods of inquiry are not based on rational argument—that is, they are not composed of premises and syllogisms. Rather, they claim that knowledge of Allah and of other existing things is something imparted to the soul when it frees itself from the influences of desire and directs its thought towards what it seeks.

“They adduce many scriptural passages whose apparent meanings support this claim. We say: even if we concede that this method exists, it is not universally accessible to human beings as such. Were this the method intended for humanity, the method of rational inquiry would be invalid, and its presence in human beings would serve no purpose.

“Examples include His words, exalted is He:

‘Fear Allah. And Allah teaches you.’
Al-Baqarah: 282.

“And His words, exalted is He:

‘As for those who strive for Us, We will surely guide them to Our ways.’
Al-ʿAnkabūt: 69.

“And His words:

‘O you who believe, if you fear Allah, He will grant you a criterion.’
Al-Anfāl: 29.

“And many other passages thought to support this view.