What would you say to a Muslim who rejects difference of opinion exists in Islam?

Difference of opinion, or ijtihad, is an important principle in Islam that allows Muslims to interpret and apply the principles of Islam in different ways based on their own understanding and circumstances. The Qur'an encourages Muslims to think critically and creatively about their faith: "And whoever directs himself to the right guidance, he does so for the benefit of his own soul, and whoever goes astray, he does so to his own detriment" (Qur'an 39:41). Difference of opinion is not a sign of division or disagreement within Islam, but rather it is a natural and healthy part of the Islamic tradition. It allows Muslims to explore different perspectives and approaches to their faith, and to find the path that is most meaningful and fulfilling for them. The Qur'an itself acknowledges that Muslims may have different opinions and approaches: "For every one of you, We have appointed a law and a way. If Allah had willed, He would have made you a single people, but [His plan is] to test you in what He has given you. So compete in good deeds. To Allah is your return all together, and He will [then] inform you concerning that over which you used to differ" (Qur'an 5:48). The Prophet (saw) himself encouraged Muslims to think critically and seek knowledge, and he respected the opinions and perspectives of others. In one narration when acting as a judge in Medinah he said: "I am only a human being, and you bring your disputes to me. It may be that some of you are more eloquent in presenting their argument, so I give judgment in their favor according to what I hear. If I give judgment in favor of someone and it is not right, then the mistake is mine, and it is for Allah to make it right on the Day of Resurrection" (Sahih al-Bukhari). It is important to recognize that difference of opinion is a natural and healthy part of the Islamic tradition, and that it should not be seen as a source of division or disagreement. Muslims should respect the opinions and perspectives of others, and seek to understand and learn from one another. It is also important to remember that ultimately, the Qur'an and the sunnah are the ultimate sources of guidance for Muslims, and that all opinions and interpretations should be based on these sources. References Al-Qaradawi, Y. (2001). The lawful and the prohibited in Islam. American Trust Publications. Esposito, J. L., & DeLong-Bas, N. (Eds.). (2014). The Oxford dictionary of Islam. Oxford University Press. Kamali, M. H. (2008). Principles of Islamic jurisprudence. Islamic Texts Society. Khan, M. M. (2003). An introduction to Islamic law. Oxford University Press.