for a universal genus is something whose conception does not preclude its being shared, even if it is not shared in actual existence. Thus, when min serves to indicate the genus, (* the implied wording is: “Allah has promised those among you who believe and act”—that is, those of this genus—even if the entire genus consists of believers *) (1) and reformers (2).

Likewise, when He says:

“Allah has promised those who believe and perform righteous deeds”—from this genus and class—“forgiveness and a great reward,”

this does not preclude every member of this genus from being a righteous believer (3).

Similarly, when He said to the wives of the Prophet—may Allah bless him and grant him peace:

“And whoever among you devoutly obeys Allah and His Messenger and acts righteously, We shall give her her reward twice over, and We have prepared for her a noble provision”

[Sūrat al-Ahzāb: 31] (4),

this did not preclude every one of them from devoutly obeying Allah and His Messenger and acting righteously.

And when the Exalted said:

“When those who believe in Our signs come to you, say, ‘Peace be upon you. Your Lord has decreed mercy upon Himself: whoever among you commits an evil deed out of ignorance, then repents afterward and makes amends—He is indeed All-Forgiving, Most Merciful.’”

[Sūrat al-Anām: 54],

this (5) did not preclude every one of them from possessing this attribute. One might also say that, if they were to commit an evil deed out of ignorance, then repent afterward and make amends, only some of them would be forgiven.