The Shaykh’s remarks on figurative interpretation of the attributes and clarification of the intended meaning of the Salaf’s creed in this regard.

The questioner : Pardon me, I mean, do we understand it in its apparent sense, without any restriction, and without any figurative interpretation being intended? Is that the correct understanding?

The Shaykh : I mean, what is called figurative interpretation, as is known regarding the statement: “The hand of Allah is above their hands” , in terms of figurative interpretation, it means His power and authority, but that does not negate this attribute; rather, they are two concomitant matters.

The questioner : So we affirm the apparent meaning of the hadith along with the meaning, without asking how?

The Shaykh: Yes.

The questioner : The meaning is affirming the attribute without asking how, and this applies to all the attributes, is that not necessary, Abu Abd al-Rahman?

The Shaykh : All the attributes, except for what is transmitted from the Salaf that can be called figurative interpretation.

The questioner : Do you have anything else in mind right now?

The Shaykh: No.

The questioner : May Allah reward you with good.

The Shaykh : And beware of that.