the third possibility remains: that He, glorified and exalted, created creation outside Himself and then did not enter it. This is the truth upheld by Ahl al-Sunnah wa-l-Jamāʿah and by all creatures endowed with a sound natural disposition.

Imam Ahmad then said:

An explanation of Allah’s words in the Quran, “He is with you.” This has several meanings. Allah Most High said to Moses:

“Indeed, I am with you both; I hear and I see.” [Tā Hā 46]

That is, in defending you both. And He Most High said:

“The second of two, when they were in the cave, when he said to his companion, ‘Do not grieve; indeed, Allah is with us.’” [al-Tawbah 40]

Meaning, in defending us. And He said:

“Allah is with the patient.” {249} [al-Baqarah 49]

Meaning, in granting them victory over their enemy. And His words:

“You have the upper hand, and Allah is with you.” [Muhammad 35]

That is, in granting you victory over your enemy. And He, glorified, said:

“He is with them when they plot by night words that displease Him.” [al-Nisāʾ 108]

That is, through His knowledge of them. And His words:

“No! Indeed, my Lord is with me; He will guide me.” {62} [al-Shuʿarāʾ 62]

That is, in