aggregate possessing measurable extent has limits and endpoints in the various directions. Yet they then held that it divides into infinitely many parts. How can a bounded aggregate divide into parts that are endless and cannot be encompassed?

I say: This matter may be addressed in two ways. First, we know as an indisputable truth of Islam that the Messenger, the Companions, the Successors, and the imams of the Muslims did not base anything in religion on either the existence or the nonexistence of the indivisible atom. The point is not that they did not use this expression, for technical expressions arose after their time to convey meanings broadly indicated by their words. This is comparable to differences between languages and the combining of individual words.

Rather, the point is that none of the early generations of the Muslim community or its imams based a single religious issue on the meaning intended by those who affirm or deny the indivisible atom. Nor did they make any theoretical ruling depend upon it, nor any theoretical ruling.

Thus, claiming that the very foundation of faith in Allah and the Last Day depends upon this is tantamount to claiming that what they explained concerning faith in Allah and the Last Day is not as they explained it. Rather, either they did not know the truth, or lying in this matter is permissible for the benefit of the masses, as is maintained in similar terms by some of