وَٱلْأَرْضَ بَعْدَ ذَٰلِكَ دَحَىٰهَآ 30
Translations
And after that He spread the earth.
Transliteration
Wal-arda ba'da dhalika dahaha
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah describes how Allah spread out and flattened the earth after creating the heavens, making it habitable and suitable for life. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir and Al-Tabari interpret 'dahaha' (دحاها) to mean He made the earth spacious, expanded, and level—referring to Allah's perfect design of the earth's geography to accommodate human and animal life. This follows the creation of the heavens mentioned in the previous verses, establishing the sequential order of creation.
Revelation Context
This ayah is part of Surah An-Nazi'at, a Meccan chapter that describes the Day of Judgment and the signs of Allah's creation and power. It appears within a passage (79:27-32) that outlines the creation narrative, affirming monotheism against the polytheists of Mecca who denied Allah's creative power and resurrection.
Related Hadiths
Sahih Muslim reports that the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) mentioned the creation of the heavens and earth in six days, with the earth being created on the first two days. Additionally, various hadiths in Sahih Bukhari describe Allah's perfect creation and design of the earth as signs of His wisdom and power.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah reminds believers that the earth's perfect design and habitability are direct signs of Allah's infinite power and wisdom, inviting reflection on creation as evidence of the Creator. For modern readers, it encourages environmental stewardship and gratitude for the balanced ecosystem Allah has provided for human survival.