resorted to only when the apparent wording yields a false meaning that it is impermissible to intend. What they have cited here, however, is not of that kind. In fact, the divine scriptures—both among the People of the Book and among the Muslims—contain many such expressions, and no one understands from them the existence of three lords or three gods except someone who follows his own whim without guidance from Allah and utters an inconsistent claim; only those who are turned away from the truth are thus led astray.

The same type of wording is found in everyday speech. One might say: “This is the governor of such-and-such a town, and the governor of such-and-such a town, and the governor of such-and-such a town,” while referring to a single governor.

Likewise, it is said: “He is Allah’s messenger to the unlettered, a messenger to the People of the Book, and a messenger to the jinn and humankind,” yet he is one and the same messenger.