وَفِى ٱلْأَرْضِ ءَايَـٰتٌ لِّلْمُوقِنِينَ 20
Translations
And on the earth are signs for the certain [in faith]
Transliteration
Wa fee al-ardi ayatun lil-muqineen
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah affirms that the earth itself contains clear signs and proofs of Allah's existence, power, and wisdom for those who possess certainty of faith (al-muqineen). Ibn Kathir explains that the varied landscapes, geological formations, waters, vegetation, and creatures on earth all testify to the Creator's magnificence. Al-Qurtubi emphasizes that these signs are particularly evident to those whose hearts are fortified with conviction, as they possess the spiritual insight to recognize and reflect upon these divine proofs.
Revelation Context
This ayah appears in Surah Adh-Dhariyat, a Meccan chapter that emphasizes divine signs and creation. It comes as part of a broader passage (51:20-23) addressing the polytheists of Mecca, compelling them to observe the natural world as evidence of monotheism. The context reflects the Quranic strategy of directing the disbelievers' attention to observable phenomena as proof of Allah's oneness.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: 'Contemplate the creation of Allah, but do not contemplate the essence of Allah' (Ad-Darimi). Additionally, the Prophet emphasized reflection on creation, stating: 'The best form of worship is pondering over the creation of Allah' (attributed in Islamic literature).
Themes
Key Lesson
Believers should develop the spiritual sensitivity to recognize divine signs in the natural world around them, whether in mountains, seas, ecosystems, or celestial bodies, using observation of creation as a means to strengthen faith and closeness to Allah. This ayah invites modern Muslims to balance scientific study of nature with spiritual reflection, seeing natural phenomena not merely as physical processes but as manifestations of divine wisdom.