You continued...

You continued, would that there were such a book that I hope would be the means through which Allah, through his support and grace, would show favour on our brethren and people of our faith, and save them from destruction, taking them closer to their salvation.

My brother, may Allah guide you, indeed it is not possible for anyone to differentiate (Tamyeez) in the least on the basis of his own speculation between the narrations of the scholars regarding which there is a disparity in transmission (Riwaayah).

This can only be done by following what the Sagacious, on him be peace, has said: “Examine it by the Quran, whatever corresponds to the book of Allah, take it: (however) whatever opposes the book of Allah, reject it.” He, on him be peace, also said: Leave aside that which the people agree with, for indeed Guidance lies in opposing them”. He (further) said: Accept that on which there is consensus (mujma’ ‘alayh).

For indeed there is no uncertainty (Laa Raib) in that which there is a consensus (of masomeen a.s.) . We do not know from all of this (knowledge) except the most inconsiderable amount. Nor do we find anything more comprehensive and all encompassing than referring everything to the Sagacious (Infallible Imam), on him be peace, and in accepting matters which he has expanded upon . This is based on his saying: Whatever you take by way of compliance, will broaden you (in faith).

Allah, to him belongs all praise, has certainly facilitated the composition of what you requested. I hope that it (this book) will be in accordance with the wishes you had in mind. Despite whatever shortcomings there may be in it, there are indeed no shortcomings in our intentions for it to be as a gift of good counsel(Naseeha), since it is incumbent upon us to advise our brethren and people of our community.

We also wished to be counted from amongst those who take from it (guidance) and act upon it in this age of ours(Minor occultation) and in ages past, and until the end of this world. For our Lord, Sublime and Exalted, is one, the sacred law (shariah) is one, the lawful of Muhammad is lawful , and what he forbids is forbidden(haraam) until the Day of Judgement. We have slightly expanded the (chapter)‘Book of Proof’, even though we were not able to complete it as it merits to be done.

Indeed we sought to avoid anything that would diminish its value. I hope that Allah ,Exalted and Mighty, will smooth the path for the accomplishment of the intentions we have already presented.