and this point becomes clear from what I shall say. For nothing can be apprehended here except this perceptible reality or nonexistence, and it is self-evident that an existing being can only be related to existence. I mean that one says, “It exists within existence,” since one cannot say, “It exists within nonexistence.” Thus, if there is a being that is the noblest of all beings, it must be related to the noblest part of perceptible existence, namely the heavens. Because of the nobility of this part, Allah Most High says:

“The creation of the heavens and the earth is greater than the creation of mankind.”
[Ghāfir: 57]

He said: “All this becomes fully apparent to scholars firmly grounded in knowledge. It has thus become clear to you that affirming direction is required by revelation and reason, and that this is what revelation teaches and rests upon. To invalidate this principle is to invalidate the revealed laws. The reason they find it difficult to deny this notion while also denying corporeality is