11. My father said: Ahmad in Idris said, on the authority of Muhammad ibn Ahmad that Abu `Abd Allah al-Razi said, on the authority of al-Hasan ibn al-Husayn al-Lu’lu’I, on the authority of Ibn Sinan, on the authority of Mahzam that Abu `Abd Allah al-Sadiq asked,

“Tell me what our followers disagree upon with those you oppose?” I replied, “In determinism and relinquishment.” He said: “then ask me.” I enquired, “Has Allah compelled His Servants to sin?” He answered, “Allah is more Subduer than that for them” I asked, “Did He then give them complete free will?” He replied, “Allah is more Powerful over them than that.” I questioned, “May Allah be in peace with you! Where does the truth lie?” He turned his hand over twice or thrice then responded, “If I answered that question, you would surely disbelieve.”