to God and by His gracious favour upon His servants—rendering every other proof unnecessary. They are sufficient, healing, and speedily lead to the desired goal, all the while containing answers to the objections that arise for many people.

Were I granted divine enabling, I would write a sizable volume on this theme, for I have found in the proofs to which the Qur’an points a cure, a guidance, a swift conveyance (1), an eloquent clarity, and a pinpointing of the loci of doubt together with replies that soothe the breast and make certainty (2) shine forth. Other proofs are the exact opposite, yet this is not the place for further detail (3).

The point is that the origin of all things—both in creation and in command (4)—rests upon the Lord’s knowledge and wisdom.

Accordingly, this story is distinguished by the mention [5] of these two Names because the narrative requires them (6). Human beings marvel at the birth of a child to parents who, under normal circumstances, would not conceive; the reason for such a birth is hidden, and wisdom dictated that it occur outside the familiar order [7]. Hence, in the verse He mentioned