in its general sense is the overarching category divided in His words:

“It is not for any human being that Allah should speak to him except by revelation or from behind a veil”—to the end of the verse.

Thus, speaking, when mentioned without qualification, is a category alongside revelation in its specific sense, not a subdivision of it. Likewise, revelation can have a general sense that includes speaking in its specific sense, as in His words:

“So listen to what is revealed.”

It can also be a category alongside speaking, as in Surah al-Shūrā. This invalidates the claim that it is a single meaning subsisting in the Essence, for on that view there is no distinction between the general case and what was granted to Moses. In al-Shūrā, He, glorified be He, distinguishes between imparting revelation, speaking from behind a veil, and sending a messenger who reveals, by His permission, whatever He wills.