from sensory experience and spiritual disclosure that benefit those who experience them. Human reasoning and spiritual disclosures are subordinate to what the messengers brought from Allah Most High. Whatever is true in them agrees with what the messengers brought from Allah Most High and does not contradict it. Yet even when true, it does not settle disagreements among people, nor must those who have not experienced it affirm it as they must affirm what is known to be protected from error: the words of the prophets, may Allah’s blessings and peace be upon them. Nevertheless, whoever gains insight, rational understanding, or demonstrative proof concerning such matters has light upon light.

One of the early generations said:

“The believer’s insight speaks wisdom, even if he has heard no transmitted report concerning it. When the transmitted report comes, it is light upon light.”

“And whoever Allah does not grant light has no light.”

Allah Most High said:

“Mankind was one community; then Allah sent the prophets as bearers of good tidings and warnings, and sent down with them the Scripture in truth to judge between people concerning their differences. None differed over it except those who had been given it, after clear proofs had come to them, out of mutual rivalry. Then Allah, by His permission, guided those who believed to the truth concerning which they had differed. And Allah guides whom He wills to a straight path.”