perceptible to the senses. Since light is the noblest of things perceptible to the senses, it is fitting that it should serve as an analogy for the noblest of all that exists. There is also another reason why He should be called light: when scholars firmly grounded in knowledge contemplate His existence through reason, their minds are like eyes looking at the sun—or, rather, like the eyes of bats. This description is therefore fitting for both classes of people.

Moreover, since Allah, blessed and exalted be He, is the cause of existing things and of our apprehension of them, and since light stands in this same relation to colours—meaning that it causes colours to exist in actuality and enables us to see—it is indeed fitting that Allah, blessed and exalted be He, has called Himself light.

If it is said, “He is light,” no doubt arises concerning the reported vision of Him in the Hereafter. This discussion has thus made clear to you the original belief in this revealed Law concerning this attribute, and the innovation that subsequently arose regarding it. The only reason revelation remained silent about this