the scriptural texts], in the form of rational arguments advanced against them.

(When clear rational propositions are carefully examined, they demonstrate the invalidity of what has been advanced against the authentic scriptural texts, over which many have become confused and through which deception has arisen. I shall recount what Abū Abd Allāh al-Rāzī has presented concerning) the doctrines of those who negate and deny the divine attributes, and explain what caused them to stray from the path, so that the debate may be conducted with justice and fairness, even if the opponent is ignorant and misguided.

Allah Most High said:

“Invite to the way of your Lord with wisdom and good instruction, and argue with them in the best manner.”

[al-Nahl: 125]

And He Most High said:

“Do not argue with the People of the Book except in the best manner, save those among them who do wrong.”

[al-Ankabūt: 46]

Most seekers of knowledge and religion desire nothing but the manifest truth. Yet specious arguments and conflicting doctrines have multiplied in this matter, and various forms of misguidance have taken hold of hearts. Consequently, many distinguished men of learning have failed to recognize the true nature of a view that those endowed with knowledge and faith have no doubt contradicts the Quran and rational proof—indeed, they have no doubt that it constitutes disbelief in what the Messenger brought from the Lord of the worlds. [They have therefore supposed] that it is