What is meant by the word "human" in the noble verse: (And it was not for any human that Allah should speak to him except by revelation or from behind a veil), and is it a general word intended to mean specific individuals, such as prophets and messengers?

The verse: "And it is not for any human being that Allah should speak to him except by revelation or from behind a veil or by sending a messenger to reveal by His permission what He wills. Indeed, He is Most High, Most Wise" encompasses all human beings. The verse clarifies that Allah's speech to humans has three forms:

1. General Revelation: Through inspiration or a dream; this occurs for prophets, saints, and common people, and even for non-humans like bees. It includes the imparting of hidden knowledge.

2. Speech from behind a veil: Where one hears Allah's speech but does not see Him, like Allah's conversation with Moses and with Prophet Muhammad on the night of the Isra'.

3. Angelic Messenger: By sending an angel, such as Jibreel, to reveal to the prophets, and this is specific to prophets.

The meaning of "revelation" in the verse is broad, encompassing the revelation to prophets and others who are inspired and divinely guided.