those who fought him did so wrongfully and aggressively; then Alī ibn Abī Tālib, may Allah be pleased with him. These are the imams after the Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace. We affirm our loyalty to all the other Companions of the Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, and refrain from discussing the disputes that arose among them. We hold as our religious belief before Allah Most High that the four imams were rightly guided, directed to the truth, and virtuous, and that none equals them in virtue.

We affirm all the reports authenticated by the scholars of transmission concerning the descent to the lowest heaven, and that the Lord, Mighty and Majestic, says, “Is there anyone asking? Is there anyone seeking forgiveness?” We likewise affirm everything else they have authenticated and transmitted, contrary to what is said by those who deviate and lead others astray.

In matters over which we differ, we rely upon the Book of Allah Most High, the Sunnah of His Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, the consensus of the Muslims, and whatever is of like import. We introduce no innovation into the religion of Allah Most High for which He has given no permission, nor do we say about Allah that of which we have no knowledge. We say that Allah, Mighty and Majestic, will come on the Day