The Seventh Matter
In order to mislead people, certain literalists persistently cite verses like the following: (And the earth, moreover, hath) He extended [to a wide expanse]; (And at the earth, how it is) spread out; (And We) have spread out (the spacious earth); He found (sun) set in a spring of murky water. There is no need for us to defend [the verses’ interpretation], for the great commentators have divulged the secrets in the pronouns (T. zamâir; Ar. ḍamā’ir) the verses contain.
They wept before me and so agitated me, I wept; Is there no one compassionate to pity my weeping?
It is futile to state the obvious, especially if it is observed, as everyone knows. This means there must be some singular point to save it from meaninglessness.
If it is said: “Look! The earth has been spread out although it is spherical, and is a cradle for you, and has been saved from being overrun by the seas;” or “The sun is both stationary and travels to regulate your livelihood;” or “Although the sun is thousands of [light] years away, it sets in a muddy spring” – the verses’ meanings cease being allusive (kinâye) and become unambiguous. These singular points are fine points of eloquence.