This profound book by Raja Ahmed Ali meticulously delves into the concept of 'kumūn' (latency or potentiality) within the expansive realm of Islamic thought. It offers a comprehensive examination of the diverse perspectives and intricate arguments advanced by prominent Islamic theologians (mutakallimūn) and philosophers (falāsifa) concerning this fundamental idea. The work elucidates how notions of hidden potential, inherent capacities, and dormant states were understood, debated, and developed across various schools of thought, underscoring the rich intellectual dynamism of classical Islamic scholarship. Readers will gain a deep understanding of the historical and philosophical nuances surrounding latency in Islamic intellectual heritage.