لَقَدْ خَلَقْنَا ٱلْإِنسَـٰنَ فِىٓ أَحْسَنِ تَقْوِيمٍ 4
Translations
We have certainly created man in the best of stature;
Transliteration
Laqad khalaqna al-insana fi ahsan taqwim
Tafsir (Explanation)
Allah has created mankind in the most excellent form and perfect constitution, both physically and intellectually. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir and Al-Qurtubi emphasize that this refers to humanity's upright stature, faculties of reason, and moral capacity, distinguishing humans from other creation. This ayah highlights the dignity and honor bestowed upon humanity, while implicitly warning that this noble creation can be diminished through transgression and disobedience to Allah.
Revelation Context
This ayah appears in Surah At-Tin, which opens by swearing an oath by the fig, olive, Mount Sinai, and the city of Mecca. The surah was revealed in Mecca and emphasizes Allah's creation of humanity in the best form, contrasting this with those who deny the Day of Judgment and thus become the lowest of the low (asfala safilin). The context suggests a response to those who reject faith despite their noble creation.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: 'Allah created Adam in His image' (Sahih Bukhari 6227), which relates to the concept of creation in the best form. Additionally, the Quranic principle in 32:7 'He who has made everything He has created good' (Sahih Muslim) complements this theme of perfect creation.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah reminds believers that they possess inherent dignity and noble faculties as a divine gift, which carries the responsibility to use them righteously and in obedience to Allah. Modern readers should reflect on preserving this dignity through ethical conduct, intellectual development, and spiritual consciousness rather than squandering these God-given gifts through vice and heedlessness.