and others like him from declaring Muslims unbelievers. In such matters, one should simply say that their view is correct or mistaken. Those who agree with them say that their view is correct; those who dispute it say that it is mistaken and that their opponents’ view is correct.

The words of the man in question indicate that he does not agree with them on this matter, but does reject declaring them unbelievers. Anyone who wrongs such a person by accusing him of disparaging the Messenger, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, or the scholars must be punished, for he explicitly states the opposite of both accusations.

Qādī ‘Iyād discussed this issue, although he was among the most emphatic proponents of prophetic protection from sin and error. He divided the discussion of this subject into categories, eventually saying:

“The seventh category is to mention something that may occur on the part of the Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, but concerning which there is disagreement as to whether he may be allowed to persist in it, as well as the human experiences that may befall him and may be attributed to him. Or one may mention the trials he endured patiently for Allah’s sake despite their severity: his struggles with his enemies and the harm they inflicted upon him. This also includes recounting his early circumstances and life, the hardships he encountered in his time, and the difficulties he endured in earning his livelihood. All this is done by way of transmitting reports, scholarly discussion, and understanding the established scope of the prophets’ protection from sin and error and what may befall them.”

He said:

“This category falls outside the preceding six. It contains no disparagement, belittlement, denigration or disrespect, either in the apparent wording or in the speaker’s intention. However, such discussion must take place with scholars and students of religion who understand its purposes and properly grasp its benefits. It should be kept from anyone who might not understand it, or for whom it is feared that it might cause confusion in matters of faith.”