وَٱللَّهُ جَعَلَ لَكُمُ ٱلْأَرْضَ بِسَاطًا 19
Translations
And Allāh has made for you the earth an expanse
Transliteration
Wallahu jaAAala lakumu alarda bisaatan
Tafsir (Explanation)
Allah has made the earth a vast, spread-out carpet for mankind to inhabit and utilize. This ayah emphasizes Allah's generosity and provision, presenting the earth as a comfortable resting place prepared for human habitation. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir and Al-Tabari interpret 'bisaat' (carpet/spread) as a metaphor for the earth's flatness and accessibility, highlighting how Allah has facilitated human life by providing a stable, habitable foundation.
Revelation Context
This ayah appears in Surah Nuh, which is part of Prophet Noah's discourse to his people, reminding them of Allah's blessings and signs. The context involves Noah's enumeration of Allah's favors upon humanity to encourage his people toward gratitude and monotheism. This particular ayah is part of a broader series of reminders about Allah's creation and provision.
Related Hadiths
The hadith of Jabir ibn Abdullah in Sahih Muslim states that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said, 'The whole earth is a mosque and is pure,' reflecting the sanctity and blessing of the earth. Additionally, Sunan Ibn Majah records that the Prophet described the earth as a place of mercy and provision from Allah.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah invites us to reflect on Allah's boundless generosity in providing us with a habitable, stable earth and to cultivate gratitude for this fundamental blessing. It should inspire us to treat the earth with respect and to remember that our survival and comfort are dependent upon Allah's will and kindness.