وَزَيْتُونًا وَنَخْلًا 29
Translations
And olive and palm trees
Transliteration
Wa zaytūnan wa nakhlan
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah is part of Allah's enumeration of His blessings upon humanity, specifically mentioning olives and palm trees as signs of His mercy and provision. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir note that these plants were among the most valuable and versatile provisions in Arabian life, providing sustenance, oil for lighting and consumption, and materials for construction, thus exemplifying Allah's wisdom in creation.
Revelation Context
This ayah appears in the context of Surah 'Abasa, a Meccan surah that emphasizes Allah's signs (ayat) in creation and the ingratitude of humankind. The passage (80:24-32) comprehensively lists various crops and sustenance as evidence of divine provision and power, aimed at awakening the Meccan disbelievers to reflect upon the obvious signs of their Creator.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet (ﷺ) said: 'The best of your oils is olive oil' (Sunan Ibn Majah). Additionally, the Prophet encouraged planting and cultivation, saying 'Whoever plants a tree, Allah will record for him the reward' (Sahih Muslim), relating to the broader theme of appreciating Allah's botanical blessings.
Themes
Key Lesson
Reflecting on the abundant blessings Allah has provided—both common and extraordinary—should inspire believers to cultivate gratitude, recognize divine wisdom in creation, and use these provisions responsibly as a trust (amanah) from the Almighty.