is dependent upon a first principle among them; without this, no order would exist. Their arguments on this subject are recorded in their writings. Whoever wishes to know the truth should therefore consult them firsthand.

The observable fact that all the celestial spheres undergo the daily motion, even as they undergo their own particular motions, also helped establish for them that the one commanding this motion is the First Principle—Allah, glorified and exalted be He. He commanded the other principles to command the other spheres to perform their other motions, and through this command the heavens and the earth are sustained. Likewise, through the command of the city’s supreme ruler, all the commands issued to its various classes of inhabitants by those whom he has placed in charge of its affairs take effect. As He, glorified be He, said:

“And He revealed to each heaven its command.”

This charging with duties and obedience are the foundation of the duties and obedience incumbent upon man as a rational animal.”

He said:

“As for Ibn Sīnā’s account of the emanation of some of these principles