المعنى الاصطلاحي

Terms that could indicate both correct and incorrect meanings in such a way that its meaning cannot be perceived except after scrutinizing and inquiry.

الشرح المختصر

"Kalimaat mujmalah" (vague terms) are terms that bear both valid and invalid meanings. These terms are not reported in the Qur’an or the Sunnah, but they were used by the people of "kalaam" (scholastic theology). Their purpose behind using them is to negate the attributes of Allah, claiming to exalt Allah above any deficiency. Ahl-us-Sunnah refrain from judging such "kalimaat", because the revealed texts neither affirm nor deny them, and so, they neither affirm nor deny them. As for the meaning behind these terms, Ahl-us-Sunnah study it deeply. If it indicates an invalid meaning that should not be attributed to Allah Almighty, then they reject it, and if it indicates a valid meaning that could be attributed to Allah, then they accept it; and (when not, then they) use instead a term that is approved by the Shariah and suitable for the context. Examples of "kalimaat mujmalah" in the names and attributes of Allah include the term "jihah" (place/position/direction). Those who deny Allah's attributes use this to deny Allah's elevation above his creation. The correct approach on this issue is to say that attributing the term "jihah" to Allah Almighty is an innovated matter, since it is not reported in the Qur’an, the Sunnah, or from any of the early Muslim generations. Hence, it is invalid to attribute the term "jihah" to Allah, either by denying or confirming it. Rather, the concept should be dealt with in elaboration, since the term bears both valid and invalid connotations. If "jihah" is used to denote that Allah is in a low place, that He is in all places and directions, or that He has no place at all, then all these are void meanings that are not attributed to Allah Almighty and not applicable to His essence. However, if "jihah" denotes that He is in a place or position that suits His glory and greatness without Him being enclosed within this place, then this is an established fact about Allah Almighty and a valid meaning that is supported by texts, reason, and sound disposition. By this elaboration, truth and falsehood are set apart within this general term. As for the term itself, it should be neither affirmed nor negated, but it should be totally left out, and the Shariah-approved one should be used instead; and that is "‘uluww" (elevation) or "fawqiyyah" (being above all creation).