disclose His unseen to anyone (26), except a messenger whom He approves; then He appoints guards before him and behind him. (27)” [Al-Jinn 26–27]

He said: Discussion of these attributes falls into three categories. One category comprises those affirmed as real, without figurative interpretation, such as knowledge, power, and the like. Another comprises those interpreted figuratively rather than taken literally. An example is the report in which the Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, relates that Allah Most High says:

“Whoever draws near to Me a handspan, I draw near to him an arm’s length. Whoever draws near to Me an arm’s length, I draw near to him a fathom. Whoever comes to Me walking, I come to him at a run.”

I know of no scholar who has taken this or similar reports literally, drawn inferences from their literal sense, or cited that sense as evidence. Rather, they have all interpreted them as referring to Allah Most High accepting His servant, graciously turning towards him, being pleased with his deeds, and multiplying his reward for what he has done.

Another example is the report that the Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, said:

“When Allah created kinship, it took hold of the waist of the Most Merciful and said, ‘This is the station of one seeking Your protection from being severed.’ He, Glorified is He, said, ‘By My might, I shall sever whoever severs you, and maintain ties with whoever maintains ties with you.’”