Thus, “reiterated” encompasses both senses. The Opening of the Book is “the seven oft-repeated verses” because it comprises both. A fuller discussion of this belongs elsewhere.

The point here is that His statement, “And those they invoke besides Him possess no power of intercession,” forms a complete statement in itself. None of those worshipped besides Allah possesses any power of intercession whatsoever. Then He makes an exception: “except those who bear witness to the truth knowingly.” This is a disconnected exception. Such an exception concerns a meaning shared by those mentioned. Thus, when He denied that they possess intercession, intercession remained without anyone possessing it.

It is as though the question had been asked: “If they do not possess it, do they intercede for anyone?” The answer is: “Yes: ‘those who bear witness to the truth knowingly.’” This includes both the intercessor and the one for whom intercession is made. None intercedes except those who bear witness to the truth knowingly. Although the angels, prophets and righteous do not possess intercession, they intercede when the Lord permits them. They are permitted to intercede only for the believers who testify that there is no deity worthy of worship except Allah, thus bearing witness to the truth knowingly. They do not intercede for those who uttered these words merely in imitation of their forefathers and religious teachers.

As stated in the authentic hadith:

“A man is asked in his grave, ‘What do you say about this man?’ The believer says, ‘He is Allah’s servant and Messenger. He brought us clear proofs and guidance.’ But the one in doubt says, ‘Ah, ah! I do not know. I heard