In order to account for extraordinary phenomena, they were compelled to force them into conformity with that false rule. For this reason, we demonstrated the unsoundness of the principle upon which they have erected their doctrine—namely, the notion that the universe is generated by a self-necessitating cause whose very essence entails its effect. Once that principle is overturned, their contention that events can occur only through those particular causes collapses as well, and it becomes entirely plausible that Allah Himself—exalted is He—brings such events into being by His will and power. Admittedly, whatever He wills and creates may take place through causes He Himself fashions and for a wisdom He intends—glorified be He.

A further proof of their ignorance in restricting matters and in claiming that the causes of miracles, saintly wonders, and magic are merely psychic forces is that they are mistaken about the very agent behind magic; by extension, their error concerning the agent behind miracles and karāmāt is all the more evident and far graver. Magic, by the unanimous testimony of those versed in the subject, is not simply a function of the soul’s powers. Rather, magicians enlist spirits that accompany them, and the inherited manuals of the Chaldeans, Indians, Greeks, Copts, and other nations are replete with references to this fact.