in faith. This is one of the expressions used to negate something, while what is intended is the negation of its completeness—just as it is said: ‘There is no knowledge except that which benefits; no wealth except that which is acquired; and no life except the life of the Hereafter.’”

Al-Hafiz then supported this in a lengthy and enjoyable discussion; refer to it. Strangely, Shaykh al-Qari, despite being a fanatical Hanafi, explained the hadith in the same manner cited above from Ibn Battal and al-Nawawi. Thus, in al-Mirqat (1/105), he said: “Our colleagues interpreted it to mean the complete believer…” Then he said: “On the basis that faith is affirmation, and deeds lie outside it!” This contradicts that interpretation. So reflect.