The second is precedence by nature: the precedence of a condition over what depends upon it, such as the precedence of one over two. This and the preceding kind share the principle that the posterior can exist only if the prior exists. The difference is that a cause entails the existence of its effect, whereas a condition does not entail the existence of what depends upon it.

The third is precedence in nobility and rank, such as the precedence of the knowledgeable and capable over the ignorant and incapable. The fourth is precedence in place, such as the precedence of the imam over those praying behind him. The fifth is precedence in time, such as the precedence of an old man over a young man.

Having claimed that precedence is confined to these forms, they said: “We affirm that the Creator takes precedence over the world in the first three senses. Precedence in place is not relevant to the matter under discussion. As for precedence in time, it is impossible; even if it were possible, it would invalidate our opponent’s position. As for its being