مَرَجَ ٱلْبَحْرَيْنِ يَلْتَقِيَانِ 19
Translations
He released the two seas, meeting [one another];
Transliteration
Maraja al-bahrayni yaltaqiyani
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah refers to the meeting of two seas (fresh and salt water) while maintaining their distinct properties and not mixing. Classical scholars like Al-Qurtubi and Ibn Kathir explain this as a reference to the natural phenomenon where rivers meet oceans, or where different bodies of water come together, yet a barrier (barzakh) prevents their immediate mixing. This demonstrates Allah's precision in creation and the intricate balance He maintains in nature, serving as a sign (ayah) of His divine wisdom and power.
Revelation Context
This ayah is part of Surah Ar-Rahman, a Medinan surah that emphasizes the signs (ayat) of Allah's creation and His blessings upon humanity. The surah systematically presents examples from the natural world to evoke contemplation and gratitude toward the Creator. This particular ayah fits within a broader section describing the marvels of the oceanic world.
Related Hadiths
While no specific hadith directly comments on this ayah, Hadith Qudsi emphasizes Allah's creation: 'Everything is easy for Allah' (Sahih Muslim). Additionally, hadiths encourage reflection on creation as a means to strengthen faith, consistent with the surah's purpose of spiritual enrichment through natural observations.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah invites believers to observe the natural world with reverence and scientific curiosity, recognizing that the intricate balance in creation—such as the separation of waters—reflects Allah's perfect design and wisdom. It encourages us to move beyond mere existence and contemplate how every detail of creation demonstrates purposeful divine engineering.