in knowing how it corresponds to external reality. The same applies to speech: this is knowledge of ta’wīl, which is more specific than explanation. Many jurists know an interpretation of a verse or hadith other than the intended one, even though they cannot explain what the wording signifies and do not know the precise referent intended. Similar cases occur in medicine and other disciplines.

Once this is clear, the Quran—and all speech—is either declarative or performative, as in a request. The ta’wīl of what is reported is the very reality being reported. Allah Most High has spoken about Himself through the names and attributes He has mentioned. The ta’wīl of this is the Lord Himself—exalted and holy is He—with His attributes. None but He knows what He is.

For this reason, the early generations, including Rabīʿah, Mālik, Ibn al-Mājishūn, Ahmad ibn Hanbal, and others, would state that it is diverted