over another. Such preference can only be established through textual evidence, which is conjectural, as we have explained—especially the evidence used to prefer one less likely meaning over another. This yields only weak conjecture, and relying on such evidence in matters requiring certainty is impossible.”

He said: “In light of this analysis, we have concluded that once rational proof has established that taking the wording in its apparent sense is impossible, it is impermissible to venture into determining a particular interpretation.” He said: “This is as far as we have gone on this subject.”

I say: The reason for this bewilderment and suspension of judgment is that both positions he attributed to the speculative theologians, as well as the one he attributed to the early generations