In the source’s narrative involving al-Hajjaj, “الْأَدْهَمُ وَالْأَشْهَبُ” appears in a threat. An anticipated meaning involving mounts is redirected to restraints or fetters, making the warning more severe.
A familiar expression is carried into another contextually intelligible meaning to force attention toward a more significant concern. The relationship between expression and interpretation is essential.
The aim is not a mere riddle. It is a corrective redirecting of expectations.