so Allah sent the prophets as bearers of good tidings and warners, and sent down with them the Scripture in truth to judge between people concerning their differences.” [al-Baqarah 213]

Allah Most High says:

“If you disagree over anything, refer it to Allah and the Messenger, if you believe in Allah and the Last Day.” [al-Nisā’ 59]

This applies to all matters, especially Allah’s names and attributes. Adhering firmly to the Book and the Sunnah in this regard is among the greatest foundations of faith. Allah has condemned those who deviate concerning His names and signs and dispute about Him without knowledge, as well as those who dispute without a Book revealed by Allah. He has forbidden making comparisons with Him, saying:

“And to Allah belong the most beautiful names, so call upon Him by them, and leave those who deviate concerning His names. They will be recompensed for what they used to do.” (180) [al-A‘rāf 180]

He also says:

“And He sends thunderbolts and strikes with them whom He wills, while they dispute about Allah; and He is mighty in power.” (13) [al-Ra‘d 13]

It has been reported that this verse was revealed concerning someone who argued about which category of created beings Allah belonged to. He also says:

“Those who dispute concerning the signs of Allah without any authority