Shaykh As-Saduq has said that belligerent debates, illogical arguments and pedantic talks about God were strictly prohibited in our religion, because such erroneous discussions could lead to detrimental positions, where things which were incompatible with the Glory of God could be said.

Imam Ja’far As-Sadiq (‘a) said, while explaining the revealed text:

وَأَنَّ إِلَىٰ رَبِّكَ الْمُنْتَهَىٰ

“And that thy Lord, He is the goal” (53:42).

“When a discussion is initiated about God, the best line of action is to keep quiet.”

Imam further elaborated, “O son of Adam, your heart (metaphoric definition of brain) is so tiny that if a wild bird wanted to eat it, it would not satisfy its hunger. Your eye is so tiny that if an object the size of a pinhole were placed in it, its vision would be disturbed. Do you want to portray the knowledge of the Universe on the strength of these two faculties? If you are true in your claim, then cast a naked eye towards the Sun, a radiant creation of God, and if you succeeded in doing so, then your claims would then be justified.”

Imam Ali (‘a) said, “Anyone who likes to spread his religious doctrine by force will end up being an atheist or a heretic.”

Imam Ja’far As-Sadiq (‘a) had said that those who simply entered into futile discussions about God were on their wrong foot towards their end. And, those who bowed their heads were delivered, as these people were pious and distinguished.

However, to refer to the Qur’an and reason from the statements of the Prophet and the Imams, is allowed for those who are fully conversant with these sources. It is unlawful for those who do not possess this capability, to enter into such a discussion.

Imam Ja’far As-Sadiq (‘a) used to say to his companions that they should argue with atheists on the basis of his teachings, and if they were defeated in the discussion then he [Imam Ja’far As-Sadiq (‘a)] would be the loser instead of them. He further said that a gentler attitude with the opponents on permissible topics was a better tool for discussions.

It was reported that once Abu Hazeel Allaf offered to debate with Hisham that if he was defeated, he would accept Hisham’s religion. Otherwise Hisham had to accept his religion. Hisham replied to Abu Hazeel and said, “You are not fair in setting the terms of the debate, because I am prepared to debate with you on the condition that if I dominate the discussion then you would accept my religion. If, on the other hand, you win, then I would refer the questions raised in the debate to my Imam for guidance.”