by scriptural proof or by sensory experience and observable reality. Yet even when you are convinced that something comes about through a given cause, you must realize that the cause has no intrinsic power of its own; it works only by Allah’s permission, for He alone has made it operative. For that reason He says here, “by the permission of their Lord.”

As for His word “al-Ḥamīd” (the Praiseworthy), which follows the faʿīl pattern, does it function in the active sense, the passive sense, or both? The answer is both. He—glorified be He—is praised for His actions and attributes, and He Himself praises His servants who are worthy of praise and commendation.

His words, “Allah, to whom belongs whatever is in the heavens and whatever is on the earth,” place the divine name “Allah” as an apposition to “al-ʿAzīz” (the Mighty).

The Exalted also says: “Likewise, We have revealed to you a Spirit from Our command. You did not know what the Book was, nor faith, but We made it a light by which We guide whom We will of Our servants. And indeed you guide to a straight path—the path of Allah, to whom belongs whatever is in the heavens and whatever is on the earth. Surely, to Allah all matters return” (al-Shūrā 52-53).

Explanation

He, Exalted be He, says: “Likewise, We have revealed to you a Spirit from Our command.” The word “Spirit” here refers to the Quran; Allah has called it a spirit because through it people attain spiritual life—or, if you prefer, real life—for whoever is guided by it enjoys complete life in both this world and the Hereafter.

His words “a Spirit from Our command” mean: from that which We command and reveal, and by this