—exalted is He:

“and made darkness and light.”

Hence night is called darkness and day light, for both are accidents, although it has also been said that they are two substances. This is not the place to discuss that at length. It is thus clear that the term “light” encompasses both categories. The objector first gave the definition of an “accident,” then the definition of a “body,” thereby contradicting himself. It seems that he took this from my words but failed to understand how the two usages are reconciled. Likewise, the term “truth” applies to the essence of Allah, exalted is He, and to His holy attributes, as in the Prophet’s words, may Allah bless him and grant him peace:

“You are the Truth, Your word is the truth, Paradise is real, Hell is real, the prophets are true, and Muhammad is true.”

As for the objector’s statement, “Light is the opposite of darkness, and the Truth is far too exalted to have an opposite,” he is told:

You have not understood the meaning of the opposite that is denied of Allah. An “opposite” can mean something that precludes the existence of the other, as is said of mutually opposed accidents such as blackness and whiteness. People say, “Two opposites cannot coexist,” and, “The coexistence of two opposites is impossible.” According to many, this opposition occurs only among “accidents”; there is no such opposition among “concrete entities.” On this understanding, it is inadmissible to say either “Allah has an opposite” or “He has no opposite.” Others hold that opposition can be conceived among concrete entities. Allah, exalted is He, undoubtedly has no opposite that could prevent His being and existence. Rather, He is the All-Subduing, the Victor who cannot be overcome.

An “opposite” may also mean one who opposes His command and judgment, even though that opponent does not prevent His essence from existing. Thus the Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, said:

“Whoever’s intercession prevents the enforcement of one of the prescribed punishments of