Takyif and Tamthil

Q 5: What is the difference between takyif and tamthil regarding the Names and Attributes of Allah (Exalted be He)?

A: The meaning of Takyif (descriptive designation of Allah's Attributes) regarding Allah's Attributes is close to that of Tamthil (likening Allah's Attributes to those of His Creation), (Part No. 2; Page No. 379) except that Tamthil is to believe that Allah's Attributes are the same as those of His Creation. Takyif means believing that Allah's Attributes are in such and such way even if they are not like one of the creatures' attributes. If someone says that the Attribute of the Hand of Allah (Exalted be He), for example, is like their hand or is like the hand of so and so, in this way they have likened Allah's Attributes to those of His Creation (Tamthil). If they say that the Hand is in the shape and form of such and such thing but does not liken it to any creature, in this way they have questioned the way and mode of Allah's Attributes (Takyif). The outcome is that all these forms are invalid and distortion of the words from their real meanings.May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.