from one another in their bodies and senses, that this is a contrivance, and that man has no end beyond his sensible existence alone.

Once this is established for you, our statement becomes clear: the revealed Law contains apparent meanings that may not be interpreted figuratively. If such interpretation concerns the fundamental principles, it is unbelief; if it concerns matters beyond those principles, it is an innovation. There are also apparent meanings that those versed in demonstration must interpret figuratively; their taking these at face value is unbelief. For those not versed in demonstration, however, interpreting them figuratively and departing from their apparent sense constitutes unbelief or innovation. This category includes the verse concerning His rising over the Throne and the hadith concerning His descent. Thus, when the black woman told him that Allah Most High is in heaven, the Prophet, peace be upon him, said: ‘Set her free, for she is a believer.’