He is manifest and hidden, although both concepts convey manifestation and concealment, as well as a further meaning, such as elevation in the case of manifestness; for He, glorified be He, is not described as being low.

We have explained this at length in our discussion of encompassing. However, He is manifest only from the direction above us: He is manifest through the hearts’ knowledge of Him and their turning towards Him, and through direct vision when He is seen on the Day of Resurrection. He is manifest and exalted, with nothing above Him.

From another direction, He is hidden: He is neither sought nor beheld from that direction, even though nothing is nearer than He. For He encompasses them from behind, and nothing is nearer than He, glorified be He.