Likewise, the expression “the kabid (centre) of the sky” is not like “the kabid (middle) of a bow,” and neither is like “the kabid (liver) of a human being.”
Similarly, the word “sword” in the Prophet’s statement, peace and blessings be upon him:
“Indeed, Khālid is a sword that Allah has drawn against the polytheists,”
is not like the word “sword” in his statement:
“If anyone comes to you while you are united under one man, seeking to divide your community, strike his neck with the sword, whoever he may be.”
In each instance, the word “sword” is accompanied by something that clarifies its meaning.
Admittedly, one might say: “The meanings of ‘messenger’ in its two uses resemble each other more closely than do those of ‘kabid’ or ‘sword’ in their respective uses.”
The reply is that this distinguishing element is indicated by the particular wording, as in His words:
“Indeed, the frailest of houses is the spider’s house,”
and His words:
“And purify My House for those who circle it,”
and His words:
“Do not enter the Prophet’s houses,”
and the Prophet’s statement, peace and blessings be upon him:
“Whoever builds a mosque for Allah, Allah will build for him a house in Paradise.”
It is well known that the spider’s house is not identical in its actual nature to His House, the Prophet’s house, peace and blessings be upon him, or a house in Paradise. Yet the word “house” is indisputably used literally in every instance, since it is the possessive construction that specifies the meaning. In “the spider’s house” and “the Prophet’s house,” it indicates that the house’s occupant lives there. “Allah’s House,” however, does not indicate that Allah dwells there. Rather, each attribution is understood according to what is being attributed. His House is the one He has designated for remembering Him, worshipping Him, and calling upon Him. This is like knowing Him in the heart and mentioning Him with the tongue.
Every existing thing has an existence in external reality, in knowledge, in speech, and in writing. The name “Allah” is used to refer to each of these four in the speech of the Messenger, peace and blessings be upon him, and in Allah’s speech.