them to understand the false meaning conveyed by his words. This is the approach of those who advocate imaginative representation, who say, “They wanted people to imagine what would benefit them, even if it was not true.” By contrast, the approach of those who advocate figurative interpretation is to deny that this meaning was intended, while professing ignorance of what was intended. These two positions contradict one another. This man and others like him contradict themselves, sometimes adopting one position and sometimes the other, both of which are false.

Allah Most High has declared His Messenger, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, free of intending false meanings or falling short in explaining what he intended. The former amounts to lying, leading people astray, deception, and presenting falsehood—even if it is said that he did not intend to lie. Rather, just as the Messenger is the most knowledgeable of all creation concerning the truth, he is also the most sincere in seeking their good and the most eager to inform, teach, and guide them. His explanations are the clearest, and his proofs the most complete. Allah Most High says:

“And indeed, you guide to a straight path (52)—the path of Allah, to whom belongs whatever is in the heavens and whatever is on the earth. Indeed, to