and other such images with which they try to illustrate “union.” In reality, what these texts speak of is the indwelling of faith in Him, knowledge of Him, love for Him, remembrance of Him, worship of Him, and the diffusion of His light and guidance.

Sometimes this is phrased as “the indwelling of the intelligible exemplar,” as in the Almighty’s words:

“He is the One who is God in the heaven and God on earth” (Q 43:84),

and:

“He is Allah in the heavens and on the earth” (Q 6:3),

and:

“To Him belongs the highest attribute in the heavens and on the earth” (Q 30:27).

Thus, exalted be He, the Highest Exemplar belongs to Him in the hearts of the dwellers of the heavens as well as the people of the earth.

Along the same lines is the report the Prophet—peace and blessings be upon him—relates from his Lord: “Allah says, ‘I am with My servant so long as he remembers Me and his lips move with Me.’” He thereby informs us that the servant’s lips move with Him, that is, with His Name.

The same meaning appears in the sound hadith: “My servant, I fell ill and you did not visit Me.” The servant will say, “My Lord, how could I visit You when You are the Lord of all worlds?” He will reply, “Did you not know that My servant So-and-so was ill? Had you visited him you would have found Me with him.”