The debate on the origin of language has been a pivotal issue for Muslim theologians since the early centuries of Islam, due to its profound theological implications. Three primary theories emerge: the "naturalist" theory, which suggests an inherent link between words and their meanings; the conventionalist theory (iṣṭilāḥ), which sees language as a product of human consensus; and the theory of tawqīf, attributing language to divine origin. Proponents of tawqīf, like Abū ʿAlī al-Ǧubbāʾī and al-Ašʿarī, argue that this view underscores divine centrality in creation. In contrast, advocates of iṣṭilāḥ, including the Muʿtazilites, interpret language as a manifestation of human autonomy, reflecting their emphasis on free will and individual responsibility. This debate extends beyond linguistics into broader theological concerns, particularly revelation, divine justice, and the sacred nature of language. The discourse intersects with debates on divine names: tawqīf theorists limit God's names to those explicitly revealed, while iṣṭilāḥ supporters, notably among Muʿtazilites, permit the creation of new names in line with evolving language. Additionally, the issue of the grave sinner (ṣāḥib al-kabīra) highlights tensions between faith (īmān) and obedience (ṭāʿa), with Muʿtazilites redefining terms to reflect Islamic conventions and Ashʿarites favoring classical Arabic usage. Modern scholars, from Weiss to Gimaret, via Loucel, have revisited these debates, examining their implications for Islamic theology, linguistics, and semiotics. The debate culminates with al-Ġazālī and al-Bāqillānī, who take a non-committal stance, stressing the lack of definitive evidence while revealing the enduring importance of the question. Language, whether seen as divine or human in origin, embodies key theological conceptions about God, humanity, and the cosmos