QUESTION:
The following 4 attributes of Prophets are mentioned specifically by the Imams of Aqidah: sidq, amaanah, tabliegh and fitaana. Why these 4 per se? So what is the speciallity regarding these attributes that they are mentioned specifically?
Are there Quranic verses that prove ‘fitaana’?
ANSWER:
In the works of Aqaid the Imams of Ahl al-Sunnah wal Jama’ah when discussing Prophethood mention that which is necessary (wajib), mustahil/muhal (impossible) and ja’iz (permissible) in the right of the Prophets (عليهم السلام).
The attributes of Sidq (Truthfulness), Amanah (Trustworthiness), Tabligh (Conveyance) and Fatanah (Intelligence) are specifically mentioned as they are necessary attributes in the right of the Prophets (عليهم السلام) such that their opposites are impossible for them.
Al-Imam al Bayjuri (رحمة الله عليه) mentions:
“The proof of the necessity of Fatanah (Intelligence) in the right of the Prophets (عليهم السلام), are verses of the Qur’an such as the statement of Allah the most Transcendent:
“And that is Our proof that We gave to Ibrahim against his people.”
[Surah al-An’am Verse 83]
The indication in this verse returns to that which Sayyiduna Ibrahim (عليه السلام) used as proof against his people as mentioned in the statement of Allah:
“When the darkness of night came upon him” until His statement: “And they are guided”
[Surah al-An’am Verses 76-82]
Also like the statement of Allah the most Transcendent concerning that which the nation of Sayyiduna Nuh (عليه السلام) said:
“They said, ‘O Nuh, you have argued with us, and argued much”
[Surah Hud Verse 32]
That is: You have argued with us and lengthened your argumentation with us or you have presented all of its types. Also like the statement of Allah the most Transcendent:
“And argue with them with that which is best”
[Surah al-Nahl Verse 125]
[Hashiyat al-Imam al-Bayjuri ala Jawharatit Tawhid pg 203]
Allah knows best.
Answered by Ustadh Ibrar Shafi