BİRİNCİ FEN · ÜÇÜNCÜ BÂB · BİRİNCİ FASIL · İkinci Madde
Second Article
Concerning the nature and capacities of the fiery sphere, its distance and magnitude.
O Noble One! Know that astronomers have said: The essential nature of the element of fire is heat and dryness; and due to its absolute sublimity, it is contrary to the other elements. Being receptive to separation and combination, it is open to origination and dissolution (creation and destruction), and therefore capable of assuming diverse forms. Indeed, as explained above, it is quite clear how portions detached from fire’s original mass descend and transform into their earthly counterparts.
Observers and those skilled in geometry are agreed that the distance of the fiery sphere's convex surface from the earth’s surface has been measured to be approximately forty-one thousand nine hundred twenty-six (41,926) *farsakh*. The distance of its concave surface from the earth’s surface is calculated to be fifteen thousand two hundred twenty-six (15,026) *farsakh*.
As for the thickness and depth of the fiery sphere; these have been measured and calculated to be approximately twenty-six thousand nine hundred (26,900) *farsakh*. And various proofs confirm that these distances are as stated.