Thus, the name is sometimes treated as that which is invoked, and sometimes as that by which invocation is made, as in His words:

“To Allah belong the most beautiful names, so call upon Him by them.”

The name is that by which invocation is made because the One invoked is the One named, who is invoked by His name. The name is treated as that which is invoked because what is intended by it is the One named, even though, in the wording, it is the name that is invoked and called out, as He says:

“Say: Call upon Allah or call upon the Most Merciful.”

That is, invoke this name or that name; when you invoke it, what you intend is the One named. Whichever of the two names you invoke, you intend the One named:

“To Him belong the most beautiful names.”

Whoever reflects upon these subtle meanings will come to understand something of the Quran’s wisdom and secrets. Blessed, then, is He who sent down the Criterion to His servant. It is indeed a blessed Book, a revelation from One who is All-Wise, Praiseworthy. Its wonders never cease, and scholars never have their fill of it. Whoever seeks guidance elsewhere, Allah will lead him astray; any tyrant who abandons it, Allah will crush him. It is Allah’s firm rope, the wise Reminder, and the straight path. It is a wondrous Quran that guides to right conduct. Allah sent it down as guidance, mercy, healing, clarification, insight, and a reminder.

All praise, then, belongs to Allah, Lord of all worlds—abundant, pure, blessed praise, as our Lord loves and is pleased with, and as befits His noble Face—exalted is His majesty.

Here it ends. To Allah belong all praise and favour. May Allah bless Muhammad, his family, and his Companions, and grant them peace.