and their followers call the doctrine of those who negate the divine attributes “monotheism.” The author of al-Murshidah called his followers the monotheists, since, in their view, the doctrine of negation is “monotheism.” If that were so, it would necessarily follow that the Messenger, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, must explain it. Yet it is known beyond doubt that the Messenger, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, and his Companions did not teach the doctrine of negation. Thus, it is known that this doctrine is neither obligatory nor recommended; indeed, it is known that it is not part of the “monotheism” that Allah Most High prescribed for His servants. If, on the other hand, He loves for us to follow the doctrine of affirmation—which is what we have been commanded to do—then this too must be explained to us.

It is well known that the Quran and Sunnah affirm “Allah’s being above His creation and His attributes” far more extensively than they establish ablution, dry ablution, fasting, the prohibition of marriage to women within the forbidden degrees, the prohibition of unclean foods, and other such “religious ordinances.” Thus, according to those who affirm the divine attributes, the religion is complete; the Messenger, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, conveyed and explained it; and monotheism is well known and widely transmitted from the early generations. The Quran and Sunnah corroborate one another; the early generations are the best of this community, and their path is the best of paths. The Quran is entirely true: it contains nothing misleading, nor does it point to unbelief or anything impossible. Rather, it is healing, guidance, and light. All these are implications they accept and conclusions they endorse. Their position is therefore consistent, not contradictory, and acceptable, not to be rejected.