dispute and contention other than the Book of Allah, it follows that no opposing argument can take precedence over it. Otherwise, that argument would become the judge over it and the guide in its place whenever the two conflict. This contradicts what, as we have explained, is established by universal agreement. Once it is ruled out that an opposing argument can take precedence over it, all such reinterpretations are shown to be invalid. For they necessarily rest on the claim that these texts are opposed by an argument that must be given precedence over them, as this founder and others like him maintain—those who deviate concerning Allah’s names and signs and distort words from their proper places.

This argument has many ramifications and supporting foundations whose explanation would be lengthy here. It is a decisive proof against them, as Allah Most High said to His Prophet:

“And they do not come to you with an argument except that We bring you the truth and the best explanation.” (33) [al-Furqān 33]

These people have indeed put forward arguments: their rational analogies, with which they oppose the Book of Allah. Yet Allah has guaranteed that He will bring the truth and the best explanation. This is contained in what He reveals to the Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, and makes a criterion for the people of knowledge and faith until the Day of Resurrection.

The early generations and the imams have continually drawn attention to this fundamental point: people adopt conflicting positions on disputed matters, while each group claims that its position is based on reason.