—one that the Arabs grasp from the idioms of their own language; another whose ignorance no one is excused; a third that the scholars know; and a fourth that is known only to Allah—whoever lays claim to it is a liar.

This is just like His saying, “No soul knows what delights of the eye have been concealed for them as a reward for what they used to do” (32:17), and like the Prophet’s words: “Allah says, ‘I have prepared for My righteous servants that which no eye has seen, no ear has heard, and has never occurred to the human heart.’”

The knowledge of the Hour and similar matters likewise belong to that taʾwīl which none but Allah knows. Yet we do understand the meanings addressed to us, and we comprehend from the discourse what He intended us to grasp, as He said: “Do they not then reflect upon the Quran, or are there locks upon their hearts?” (47:24) and, “Have they not pondered the Word?” (23:68). Thus He commanded reflection