And a third group:
They recognize the negligence of the one group and the transgression and innovation of the other, and therefore censure them. They also censure the intelligent student whose soul yearns to understand the evidence and move beyond uncritical imitation if he follows their path. They say that this path is harmful, that the early generations did not follow it, and other such things that imply its condemnation. This is correct, but it establishes only a general point whose bearing on the matter at issue is unclear. Indeed, someone may accept the approach of the speculative theologians while declaring it an innovation, yet fail to open up the avenues of proof that Allah has set forth in the Quran. These proofs demonstrate that what the Messenger brought is true; by understanding them, an intelligent person moves beyond uncritical imitation, misguidance, innovation, and ignorance.
These people, in their various factions, are further astray because they have not reflected upon the Quran and have turned away from Allah’s signs, which He has explained in His Book, just as others turn away from His signs in creation. Allah Most High said:
“And how many a sign within the heavens and earth do they pass over while turning away from it.”
And He, Most High, said:
“But neither signs nor warnings benefit a people who do not believe.”
And He, Most High, said:
“Indeed, those who do not expect to meet Us, are content with the life of this world and feel secure in it, and those who are heedless of Our signs—”
“Their refuge will be the Fire because of what they used to earn.”
And He, Most High, said:
“This is a blessed Book which We have sent down to you, that they may reflect upon its verses and that people of understanding may take heed.”
And He, Most High, said:
“And We have certainly presented for people in this Quran every kind of example.”
And He, Most High, said:
“And We sent before you only men to whom We revealed—so ask the people of knowledge if you do not know—”
“With clear proofs and scriptures.”
The verse. And He said