So if an objector argues by saying that a small drawing of a human depicts his features and form exactly, whereas the visible image which [one] says is the Sublimed Essence only represents the image of the human, not the Essence—because the Essence is abstract luminosity, un-encompassed and unperceived—we say to him: The Holy Essence is not the image itself, but rather It appeared to mankind from the perspective of what It is, so they saw It from their own perspective. It resembled them in image, yet differed from them in capability, just as the drawing resembles the person from the perspective of features and form, yet differs from him from the perspective of size, perception, and vitality.

[40] And it was reported on the authority of our master the Commander of the Faithful—His might was mighty—his saying: “Praise be to Allah, who manifested Himself to His creation through His creation.”

Meaning, He appeared to the people in their own image. He only manifested to them through that so that His allies (awliya'uhu) might find comfort in Him and find tranquility in Him, and so that the proof might be established against the deniers.