brought detailed negation and general affirmation. Affirmation consists in performing good deeds commanded as either obligatory or recommended, while negation consists in refraining from evil deeds or omitting commanded good deeds. Thus, their misguidance is rooted in abandoning what is obligatory and failing to affirm the truth.

In short, there are two categories: statements and non-declarative utterances. Statements divide into affirmation and negation—that is, positive and negative assertions—as in the classification of propositions as affirmative or negative. Non-declarative utterances include commands and prohibitions.

The foundation of guidance and the religion of truth is affirming what truly exists and carrying out the good that is intended; refraining from what is forbidden and rejecting falsehood follow from this.

The foundation of misguidance and the religion of falsehood is denying what truly exists and neglecting the good that is intended; committing what is forbidden and affirming falsehood then follow from that. Reflect on this, for it is a matter of great importance through which doors of guidance will open to you.

The ninth argument:

The comprehensive expressions in the Quran encompass compliance with what has been commanded and warnings of punishment for disobedience through neglecting it. An example is the saying of Allah Most High to His Prophet:

“So remain steadfast as you have been commanded, you and those who have repented