combined two things: evil intent and ignorance. They do not understand its meaning, yet seek to set parts of Allah’s Book against one another, thereby sowing confusion and doubt.

It is authentically reported from ‘Ā’ishah that the Prophet—may Allah bless him and grant him peace—said:

“When you see those who pursue its ambiguous passages, they are the ones Allah has named, so beware of them.”

This is what those who set scriptural texts against one another do to stir up discord—that is, doubt and uncertainty in people’s hearts. Thus, it is reported that:

“He came out to some people who were disputing about divine decree. Some were saying, ‘Did Allah not say such-and-such?’ while others were saying, ‘Did Allah not say such-and-such?’ His face looked as though pomegranate seeds had been burst upon it. Then he said, ‘Is this what you were commanded to do—to set parts of Allah’s Book against one another? Look to what you have been commanded, and do it.’”

Everyone who pursues the ambiguous passages in this manner is blameworthy. Such is the case of someone who seeks to make people doubt what they know because neither he nor they have understood what they imagine contradicts it. This is the root of discord: abandoning what is known for what is unknown, like the sophistry that generates doubts used to undermine established, certain knowledge. Such is the condition of those who corrupt people’s hearts and minds by undermining the knowledge and practice within them—the foundation of guidance. Once they make people doubt what they know, they are left bewildered.

The Messenger—may Allah bless him and grant him peace—brought clear signs attesting to