The Book of the Correction of the Negligence Found in the Books of the Head of the Academy, al-Fayyūmī: Introduction

Praise be to God, who is one and eternal, [knowing] and wise, who is in no need of seeking information or trying to understand, about whom one cannot say that he “estimates” or “imagines,” who has granted us reason and knowledge, in order that our souls recognize what is useful for them. We praise Him for this in such a way as befits those who are thankful and do not cease in their praise, and ask Him that He grant us His help so that we may obey Him, and that He reveal to us the mysteries of His Law, as His friend has said: Open thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of thy law (Psalms 119:18).

Investigation and study into religious matters can be compared to the testing of coins and the touchstone by which good coins are distinguished from bad ones. Just as we are in danger of getting false coins when we neglect to test and try by the touchstone silver coins paid over to us, so if we neglect to investigate and research matters of our religion and are inclined to accept authority instead, we run the danger that some of what is accepted on authority may be false. The Sage (peace upon him!) has compared the search for wisdom with the search for silver: If thou seek her as silver, and search for her as for hid treasures; then shalt thou understand the fear of the Lord, and find the knowledge of God (Proverbs 2:4–5).¹ He meant to say that we should not accept matters connected with it indiscriminately, but should examine them just as we examine silver coins, and search for their mysteries as one searches for treasures; if we do so, we shall understand the obedience due to God. This passage proves that search and investigation are obligatory.

Source: CUL T-S K6.120.