The Second Notification:
Al-Albani denied in Mukhtasar al-‘Uluww (p. 40) and al-Silsilah al-Da‘ifah (11/506) that “settling” (al-istiqrar) is among the correct meanings of al-istiwa’!
He did not mention anyone who preceded him in this view, despite the explicit affirmation of this meaning by the People of the Sunnah (Ahl al-Sunnah) as previously mentioned. Furthermore, he denied that Ibn Taymiyyah (may Allah have mercy on him) had ever stated it!
He argued for this position based on:
Rational opinion (al-ra’y); specifically, he understood the interpretation of al-istiwa’ as al-istiqrar to be a meaning additional to the affirmation of Highness (al-‘uluww)!
He claimed that this meaning has not been transmitted in the Sharia.
He stated: “Where have you seen Ibn Taymiyyah affirming al-istiqrar (settling) upon the Throne?! Keeping in mind that it is a matter additional to highness, and it is something that has not been mentioned in the Sharia.” [End of quote].
I say: Within those I have cited who affirmed this meaning lies the most profound evidence for the invalidity of his claim, as they are the people of linguistic expertise and understanding of the Book and the Sunnah.
As for his denial that Ibn Taymiyyah spoke of it—these are his books; he frequently transmits this opinion, utilizes it as evidence, and attributes it to most of the Imams of the People of the Sunnah.
(5) – Among the meanings of al-istiwa’:
Sitting (al-julus) and seating (al-qu‘ud), as will be addressed in the following section.
