In another aspect, he says: "The likeness of the Crescent Moon—in its increase and decrease—is as the likeness of the Commander of the Faithful [Ali]—Exalted be His Might."

He continues: Similar to this is what was narrated by the trustworthy Sheikh, Abu al-Husayn Muhammad ibn Ali al-Jali (Peace be upon him), from his Sheikh, Abu ‘Abdillah [al-Khasibi] (Peace be upon him), who was asked about the Moon: "Why does it rise small, then grow large, then become small again?"

He [al-Khasibi] replied: "Verily, the appearance of the moon as small at its first rising is in the sense of the Meaning's manifestation among creation in the form of a young child; then He manifested growth, perfection, and appearance in youth and strength; then He manifested decrease, smallness, and appearance as a venerable elder. Thus, its [the moon's] occultation is as His occultation, and its appearance is as His appearance."

He narrates on the authority of Hisham ibn al-Hakam, who said: al-Sadiq [the Imam]—Exalted be His Might—said:

"Whoever claims to know Allah without vision has indeed strayed and perished. For what is known is preserved, and what is unknown is cast aside. If a man doubts that which is seen, then regarding that which is not seen, he is in even greater doubt and suspicion."