that the one so designated is living and self-subsisting, unlike the terms “reality,” “quiddity,” and “essence.” Thus, “self” has a more specific meaning. It is the term used in the Quran and Sunnah; neither mentions “reality” or similar terms among Allah’s names, nor does the term “essence” occur in authentic hadiths.

Abū Bakr ibn Khuzaymah likewise said: “Chapter explaining the affirmation of a Self for Allah, Mighty and Majestic, in reports from the Prophet (may Allah bless him and grant him peace), in conformity with revelation.” He cited the words, “If he remembers Me within himself, I remember him within Myself”; the words, “Glory be to Allah, to His own satisfaction”; and the words, “He wrote in His book