The Difference Between “The Work of Our Hands” and “Created with My Two Hands”

Question:
Regarding the saying of Allah the Exalted: , the intended meaning of “the work of our hands” is not that it refers to our power, and there is a difference between this verse and the verse concerning the creation of Adam.

Answer:
“The work of our hands” is not the same as “created with my two hands.” “The work of our hands” is the plural of “hand,” whereas the verse says “created with my two hands,” which contains a dual form. There is a difference between the two. “Created with my two hands” admits of only one meaning, while “the work of our hands” admits of several meanings. So there is a difference between “the work of our hands” in the plural and “created with my two hands” in the dual. The latter does not admit of metaphorical interpretation and admits of only one meaning. Yes, whereas “the work of our hands” admits of [metaphorical interpretation]. Yes. For example, the saying of Allah the Exalted: , the intended meaning of “hands” here is not the physical hands; the intended meaning of “hands” is power. Therefore, there is no despair. They said that “aydi” (hands) and “ayd” (strength) mean power. “We supported him with our spirit” means we strengthened him. The intended meaning of “two hands” here is not the attribute [of hands], but the intended meaning of “ayd” here is power. We built it with power, from “ayd,” which is power. Yes. Isti'an.