Mukhtasar Muslim

‘Mother of the Believers, Aisha Siddiqa (may Allah be pleased with her) says that’ the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) recited this verse: “It is Allah who has sent down to you the Book; in it are verses that are clear and precise (muhkam), they are the foundation of the Book, and others are ambiguous (mutashabih, i.e., allegorical or with hidden meanings). Then those in whose hearts is deviation follow that which is ambiguous, seeking discord and seeking its interpretation, but no one knows its interpretation except Allah. And those firm in knowledge say: ‘We believe in it; all of it is from our Lord.’ And none take heed except those of understanding.” Mother of the Believers says that (after reciting) the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) said: When you see those who pursue ambiguous verses, then avoid them, for they are the ones whom Allah has named (in the Qur’an). (That is, there is deviation in their hearts, so the believers should avoid such people.)