وَٱلسَّقْفِ ٱلْمَرْفُوعِ 5
Translations
And [by] the ceiling [i.e., heaven] raised high
Transliteration
Wa-al-saqfi al-marfoo'i
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah refers to the sky or celestial dome that Allah has raised high above the earth, serving as one of the signs (ayat) of Allah's power and majesty. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir and Al-Tabari interpret this as a reference to the vastness and structural perfection of the heavens, which testify to the Creator's wisdom and ability. The 'raised roof' emphasizes how the sky appears to be elevated and supported without visible pillars, demonstrating divine engineering and inviting reflection on the Creator's grandeur.
Revelation Context
Surah At-Tur is a Meccan surah revealed during the early period of Islam, when the Quran focused on establishing belief in Allah's oneness (tawhid) and His signs in creation. This ayah is part of the opening oaths (52:1-8) through which Allah swears by various cosmic phenomena to emphasize the certainty of the Day of Judgment and resurrection that follows in the surah.
Related Hadiths
The Quran mentions: 'And We made the sky a protective ceiling' (Quran 21:32). Related hadith: The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, 'The best charity is water' (Tirmidhi), as water falls from the raised sky, demonstrating divine provision through these signs.
Themes
Key Lesson
Contemplating the magnificent and orderly structure of the heavens should remind us of Allah's infinite power and inspire awe and gratitude in our hearts. This reflection naturally leads to greater certainty in Allah's ability to resurrect us and judge our deeds on the Day of Judgment.