وَظِلٍّ مَّمْدُودٍ 30
Translations
And shade extended.
Transliteration
wa-dhillin mammudud
Tafsir (Explanation)
This phrase describes 'extended shade' or 'continuous shade' as one of the blessings promised to the righteous in Paradise. Classical scholars like Al-Tabari and Ibn Kathir interpret this as shade that is perpetually spread out without end, contrasting with the limited shade of worldly trees that move with the sun. The shade symbolizes comfort, protection, and relief from the heat of accountability and punishment, representing divine mercy and ease in the afterlife.
Revelation Context
This ayah appears within Surah Al-Waqi'ah, which describes the Day of Judgment and the conditions of three groups of people. Verse 30 specifically addresses the rewards of the 'Companions of the Right Hand' (those destined for Paradise), painting a vivid picture of their eternal comfort as part of the broader Meccan theme of accountability and divine justice.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet (ﷺ) said: 'Seven will be shaded by Allah on the Day when there is no shade but His shade...' (Sahih Bukhari 629), which thematically relates to divine protection and shade. Additionally, descriptions of Paradise's shade appear in various hadith collections emphasizing the relief and comfort of the afterlife.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah reminds believers that the pleasures of Paradise far exceed worldly comforts, offering perpetual ease and relief without the limitations or transience of earthly blessings. It encourages righteous conduct as the means to attain such eternal comfort and divine favor.