Then there remains the question of applying or denying that expression, which is a matter of jurisprudence. The meaning may be sound, yet the expression may not be used because of the harm it entails. Conversely, the expression may be sanctioned by revelation, while the meaning intended by the speaker is false. Thus, when one of the renegade Khārijites said, “Judgment belongs to Allah alone,” ʿAlī, may Allah be pleased with him, replied:

“A true statement intended to serve falsehood.”

A distinction may also be drawn between the names by which the Lord is invoked—for He is invoked only by His Most Beautiful Names—and the expressions used to speak about Him in order to affirm a truth or negate a falsehood.

If, when speaking of the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, we must distinguish between addressing him and speaking about him, then when addressing him we must observe the etiquette prescribed by Allah Most High, who said:

“Do not address the Messenger among yourselves as you address one another.” [al-Nūr: 63]

Thus, we do not say, “O Muhammad” or “O Ahmad,” as we call one another. Rather, we say, “O Messenger of Allah” or “O Prophet of Allah.”

Allah, glorified and exalted be He, addressed the prophets, peace and blessings be upon them, by their names, saying:

“O Adam, dwell, you and your wife, in Paradise.” [al-Baqarah: 35]

“O Noah, disembark in peace from Us, and with blessings upon you and upon nations descended from those with you.” [Hūd: 48]

“O Moses! * Indeed, I am your Lord.” [Tā Hā: 11–12]

“O Jesus, I will take you and raise you to Myself.” [Āl ʿImrān: 55]

But when He addressed him, peace and blessings be upon him, He said:

“O Prophet!” [al-Tahrīm: 1]

“O Messenger, do not let those who hasten into disbelief grieve you.”