A Wise Saying

FREEDOM OF THOUGHT by name—such as the Kharijites, Shi’a, Mu‘tazilites, Murji’ah, Mashiyah, Jahmiyyah, Dirariyyah, Kullabiyyah, and others. Then there are sub-groups under each of these sects. In this way, the total was brought to seventy-two or seventy-three. Although most of these sects now exist only in books and no longer in practice, their importance lies not in precise enumeration but in symbolism. That is, they symbolically show how deviation may enter the community and by what route. A study of these sects reveals that all of them arose from unnecessary speculation in matters of belief. This was the root cause of their deviation. Thought and reflection are encouraged in Islam. In fact, the Quran describes the very purpose of its revelation as reflection. There is no doubt that correct reflection leads to an increase in one’s understanding of the truth. In contrast, misguided reflection leads to confusion and, ultimately, into the depths of error. Beliefs are not based on direct observation; they pertain to matters of the unseen. Since human beings cannot obtain direct knowledge of the unseen, the correct approach is to remain content with what has been clearly conveyed. As a companion said, “Leave ambiguous what God has left ambiguous.” (Al-Asl by Muhammad ibn al-Hasan al-Shaybani, Vol. 10, p. 182) One should not indulge in speculation about what lies within the realm of the unknown. This was exactly the approach adopted by the companions of the Prophet in such matters. The one who applies reflection within the limits of what is known is included in “the way that I and my companions