Tag Archives: know the power of our creator

Plots, huge like mountains can’t stand

Plots, huge like mountains can’t stand before ALMIGHTY s plots

https://notebooklm.google.com/notebook/6fcdf108-14a7-457f-98b5-d13aca341890/audio

Below, I provide the translation and tafsir (exegesis) of Quran 14:46 (Surah Ibrahim) specifically from Tafheem-ul-Quran by Maulana Maududi, followed by translations and tafsirs from other scholars for comparison, as requested. I’ve included a range of perspectives, including Sunni and Shia scholars, to offer a comprehensive view. The response is concise yet detailed, drawing from reliable sources.


Arabic Text of Quran 14:46

وَقَدْ مَكَرُوا مَكْرَهُمْ وَعِندَ اللَّهِ مَكْرُهُمْ وَإِن كَانَ مَكْرُهُمْ لِتَزُولَ مِنْهُ الْجِبَالُ


Translation and Tafsir from Tafheem-ul-Quran (Maulana Abul Ala Maududi)

Translation (Tafheem-ul-Quran):

  • “They hatched their plots, but their plots are (known) to Allah, even though their plots were such as to make mountains move.”

Tafsir (Tafheem-ul-Quran):

  • Context: Maududi explains that this verse refers to the disbelievers, particularly the Quraysh, who devised elaborate schemes to oppose Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and suppress Islam. These plots included attempts to discredit the Prophet, obstruct his mission, and harm him and his followers.
  • Interpretation: The phrase “their plots are (known) to Allah” underscores Allah’s complete knowledge and control over their schemes. Maududi interprets “to make mountains move” as a hyperbolic expression, emphasizing the magnitude and intensity of their plots. Despite their apparent strength, these efforts are futile against Allah’s divine plan. He highlights that the verse reassures believers of Allah’s protection and warns disbelievers of the consequences of their actions.
  • Key Point: Maududi emphasizes the contrast between human arrogance in plotting against Allah’s message and the divine omniscience that renders such plots ineffective. The verse serves as a reminder of Allah’s ultimate authority and justice.

Translations from Other Sources

  1. Yusuf Ali:
  • “Mighty indeed were the plots which they made, but their plots were (well) within the sight of Allah, even though they were such as to shake the hills!”
  1. Sahih International:
  • “And they had planned their plan, but with Allah is [recorded] their plan, even if their plan had been [sufficient] to do away with the mountains.”
  1. Pickthall:
  • “And they have plotted their plot, and their plot is with Allah, though their plot were one whereby the mountains should be moved.”
  1. Shakir:
  • “And they have indeed planned their plan, but their plan is with Allah, though their plan was such that the mountains should be moved thereby.”
  1. Muhammad Asad:
  • “And indeed they devised their plan, but their plan is known to God, even though their plan was such that it could shake mountains.”

Tafsir from Other Scholars

1. Tafsir Ibn Kathir (Sunni Scholar)

  • Context: Ibn Kathir connects this verse to the Quraysh’s opposition to the Prophet, including their plots to kill or exile him.
  • Interpretation: The phrase “their plot is with Allah” means Allah is fully aware of and controls their schemes. The “mountains moving” is a metaphor for the enormity of their plans, yet they are powerless before Allah. Ibn Kathir stresses that no human plot can succeed against divine will.
  • Key Point: The verse warns disbelievers of Allah’s knowledge and reassures believers of divine protection.

2. Tafsir Al-Tabari (Sunni Scholar)

  • Context: Al-Tabari views the verse as addressing the disbelievers’ efforts to thwart the Prophet’s mission.
  • Interpretation: “Their plot is with Allah” indicates Allah’s encompassing knowledge and authority. The reference to mountains signifies the strength of their schemes, but Al-Tabari emphasizes their futility. He cites early scholars to highlight divine retribution.
  • Key Point: Human schemes, however grand, are insignificant before Allah’s power.

5. Tafsir Jalalayn (Sunni, by Jalaluddin al-Mahalli and Jalaluddin as-Suyuti)

  • Context: A concise exegesis focusing on the Quraysh’s opposition.
  • Interpretation: “Their plot is with Allah” means Allah knows and controls their schemes. The “mountains moving” is an exaggeration of their plots’ strength, yet they fail against Allah’s will.
  • Key Point: The verse highlights Allah’s absolute authority.

Comparative Insights

  • Tafheem-ul-Quran vs. Others: Maududi’s interpretation aligns closely with Ibn Kathir and Al-Tabari in emphasizing Allah’s omniscience and the futility of disbelievers’ plots. His focus on the Quraysh’s historical context mirrors Sunni tafsirs, while his reassurance to believers echoes Shia themes in Al-Mizan and Noor al-Thaqalayn.
  • Common Themes: All tafsirs agree that Allah’s knowledge and power nullify human plots. The “mountains moving” is universally seen as a metaphor for the intensity of disbelievers’ schemes, which are ultimately ineffective.
  • Differences: Sunni tafsirs (e.g., Ibn Kathir, Jalalayn) focus on historical context (Quraysh), while Shia tafsirs (e.g., Al-Mizan) extend the meaning to broader themes of divine justice and the Ahl al-Bayt’s struggles.

Notes

  • Sources: The Tafheem-ul-Quran translation and tafsir are sourced from authentic publications (e.g., Islamic Publications). Other tafsirs are drawn from quran.com, al-islam.org, and scholarly references on myislam.org, with some insights from X posts discussing these scholars.
  • Limitations: Some tafsirs (e.g., Al-Alusi’s Ruh al-Ma’ani) were not included due to overlap with Maududi’s perspective and limited English accessibility. If you want a specific scholar’s tafsir or a deeper analysis, please specify.
  • Visual Option: If you’d like a chart comparing translations or key tafsir points, let me know, and I can generate one on a canvas panel.

If you need further details, a focus on a specific scholar, or additional resources, please let me know!

Allah’s Message about shrinking the influence of disbelievers

The verse, translations and explanations by different scholars. Summarized by AI generated discussions.

“Have they not seen that We set upon the land, reducing it from its borders? And Allah decides; there is no adjuster of His decision. And He is swift in account.”

https://notebooklm.google.com/notebook/62330d64-fd4e-450a-9eca-ee60cfbcaa89/audio

Below, I provide translations and tafsir (exegesis) of **Quran 13:41** (Surah Ar-Ra’d, Ayah 41) from various scholars and sources, based on available information. The verse in Arabic is:

**أَوَلَمْ يَرَوْا أَنَّا نَأْتِي الْأَرْضَ نَنقُصُهَا مِنْ أَطْرَافِهَا ۚ وَاللَّهُ يَحْكُمُ لَا مُعَقِّبَ لِحُكْمِهِ ۚ وَهُوَ سَرِيعُ الْحِسَابِ**

### Translations of Quran 13:41

Here are translations of the verse by different scholars:

1. **Abdullah Yusuf Ali**:

   – “See they not that We gradually reduce the land (in their control) from its outlying borders? Where Allah commands, there is none to put back His Command: and He is swift in calling to account.”[](https://quranyusufali.com/)

2. **Saheeh International**:

   – “Have they not seen that We set upon the land, reducing it from its borders? And Allah decides; there is no adjuster of His decision. And He is swift in account.”[](https://surahquran.com/tafsir-english-aya-41-sora-13.html)%5B%5D(https://recitequran.com/tafsir/en.ibn-kathir/13:41)

3. **Dr. Mustafa Khattab (The Clear Quran)**:

   – “Do they not see that We are reducing the land from its borders? Allah decides—none can reverse His decision. And He is swift in reckoning.”

4. **Pickthall**:

   – “See they not how We aim to the land, reducing it of its outlying parts? When Allah doometh there is none that can postpone His doom, and He is swift at reckoning.”

### Tafsir (Exegesis) by Different Scholars

Below are interpretations of the verse from notable tafsir works, focusing on the meaning and context of the verse:

1. **Tafsir Ibn Kathir**:

   – Ibn Kathir explains that the verse refers to Allah’s power and control over the earth, specifically the reduction of land controlled by disbelievers. The phrase “reducing it from its borders” is interpreted as the conquest of territories by Muslims, diminishing the control of opposing forces. For example, during the Prophet’s time, the expansion of Muslim influence in Arabia reduced the territories held by polytheists. Ibn Kathir emphasizes that Allah’s decree is final (“there is no adjuster of His decision”), and His reckoning is swift, meaning accountability for actions is inevitable and rapid.[](https://surahquran.com/tafsir-english-aya-41-sora-13.html)%5B%5D(https://x.com/IbnHusayn02/status/1934714836476416339)

   – He also connects this to historical events, such as the Muslim conquests, where lands were gradually brought under Islamic rule, reducing the dominion of disbelievers.

2. **Tafsir Al-Tabari**:

   – Al-Tabari interprets “reducing it from its borders” as Allah causing the land of the disbelievers to diminish through the victories of Muslims or natural calamities. He cites various early scholars who suggest this could refer to the conquests of Muslim armies or the loss of fertile land due to divine intervention. Al-Tabari stresses that Allah’s judgment is absolute, with no one able to challenge or alter it. The phrase “swift in account” underscores Allah’s ability to quickly bring about consequences for actions.[](https://x.com/IbnHusayn02/status/1934714836476416339)

3. **Tafsir Mahmud Al-Alusi (Ruh al-Ma’ani)**:

   – Al-Alusi provides a broader interpretation, suggesting that the reduction of land could be understood both literally (e.g., loss of territory through conquest or natural disasters) and metaphorically (e.g., the diminishing influence of disbelief as Islam spreads). He notes that the verse serves as a warning to disbelievers about the inevitability of Allah’s plan and the transient nature of worldly power. The phrase “no adjuster of His decision” highlights Allah’s ultimate authority, and “swift in account” indicates the immediacy of divine justice.[](https://x.com/IbnHusayn02/status/1934714836476416339)

4. **Tafsir Al-Jalalayn**:

   – The tafsir by Jalaluddin Al-Mahalli and Jalaluddin As-Suyuti interprets the verse as referring to the gradual reduction of land under the control of disbelievers through Muslim conquests or divine intervention. It emphasizes that Allah’s judgment is final and unchallenged, and His reckoning is swift, serving as a reminder to humanity of divine accountability.

5. **Tafsir Ishraq al-Ma’ani (Syed Iqbal Zaheer)**:

   – This modern tafsir explains that the verse could refer to the historical context of Muslim victories reducing the territories of disbelievers, as well as natural phenomena like erosion or loss of fertile land. It also highlights the theological point that Allah’s decisions are irrevocable, and His accounting is prompt, urging believers to remain steadfast and warning disbelievers of the consequences of their rejection.[](https://islamicstudies.info/quran/ishraq.php?sura=13&verse=38&to=43)

### Key Themes and Context

– **Historical Context**: The verse is generally understood to address the disbelievers of Mecca during the Prophet Muhammad’s time, who were witnessing the growing influence of Islam and the decline of their own power. The “reduction of land” is often linked to the early Muslim conquests or the spread of Islam.

– **Theological Message**: The verse underscores Allah’s sovereignty, the inevitability of His decree, and the swiftness of His accountability. It serves as both a warning to disbelievers and encouragement to believers.

– **Interpretative Variations**: While most scholars agree on the conquest interpretation, some, like Al-Alusi, offer metaphorical readings, such as the decline of disbelief or moral decay. Others, like Ibn Kathir, focus on historical events.

### Additional Notes

– The phrase “reducing it from its borders” has been interpreted in various ways, including:

  – Military conquests by Muslims.

  – Natural phenomena like erosion or loss of arable land.

  – Metaphorical reduction of influence, authority, or disbelief.

– The verse is part of Surah Ar-Ra’d, which emphasizes Allah’s signs in creation, His power, and the consequences of accepting or rejecting His message.

If you need further details, specific translations, or tafsir from other scholars, let me know, and I can search for additional sources or clarify specific points!

Below is the translation and tafsir (exegesis) of **Quran 13:41** (Surah Ar-Ra’d, Ayah 41) from **Tafheem-ul-Qur’an** by **Sayyid Abul Ala Maududi**.

### Translation from Tafheem-ul-Qur’an

**”Do they not see that We are coming to the land, diminishing it from its borders? Allah decides; none can reverse His decision, and He is swift in reckoning.”**

### Tafsir from Tafheem-ul-Qur’an

Maududi’s exegesis of this verse, as found in Tafheem-ul-Qur’an, provides a detailed explanation of its meaning and context:

– **Context and Meaning**:

  – The verse addresses the disbelievers, particularly the Quraysh of Mecca, who were opposing the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). It serves as a warning that Allah’s power is manifest in the gradual reduction of their control over the land. The phrase “diminishing it from its borders” refers to the shrinking of the disbelievers’ dominion, influence, or territory.

  – Maududi interprets this “reduction” primarily as the historical process during the Prophet’s time, where the spread of Islam and the victories of Muslims were diminishing the authority of the disbelievers. For instance, the early Muslim community’s growing strength in Medina and their successes in battles (e.g., Badr) reduced the Quraysh’s dominance in Arabia.

  – He also notes that this reduction could have a broader application, including natural phenomena (e.g., loss of fertile land due to erosion or calamities) or the decline of a community’s power due to moral and spiritual decay.

– **Theological Implications**:

  – The statement “Allah decides; none can reverse His decision” emphasizes Allah’s absolute sovereignty and authority. No human or force can alter His decree, highlighting the futility of opposing His will.

  – The phrase “He is swift in reckoning” underscores the immediacy of divine accountability. Maududi explains that Allah’s judgment and consequences for actions can manifest quickly, both in this world (e.g., through the decline of disbelieving nations) and in the Hereafter.

– **Purpose of the Verse**:

  – Maududi stresses that the verse is both a warning to the disbelievers and a reassurance to the believers. For the disbelievers, it signals the inevitable decline of their power if they persist in rejecting the truth. For the believers, it reinforces their confidence in Allah’s plan, encouraging patience and steadfastness in the face of opposition.

  – The verse also serves as a reminder of Allah’s signs in the world, urging people to reflect on the consequences of their actions and the transient nature of worldly power.

– **Historical Application**:

  – Maududi connects the verse to the early Islamic period, noting that the Quraysh’s influence was waning as Islam gained ground. He cites examples like the gradual loss of trade routes and alliances by the Quraysh, which weakened their position.

  – Beyond the immediate context, Maududi suggests that the verse has universal relevance, applying to any nation or group that opposes divine guidance and faces decline as a result.

### Key Points from Maududi’s Tafsir

– **Reduction of Land**: Primarily refers to the loss of disbelievers’ control through Muslim conquests, but also includes natural or moral decline.

– **Allah’s Sovereignty**: His decisions are final, and no one can challenge or reverse them.

– **Swift Reckoning**: Divine justice is prompt, serving as a warning to reflect and repent.

– **Encouragement for Believers**: The verse reassures Muslims of Allah’s support and the ultimate triumph of truth.

### Source

This information is drawn from Tafheem-ul-Qur’an by Sayyid Abul Ala Maududi, specifically the English translation and commentary for Surah Ar-Ra’d, verse 41, as available in standard publications and online resources like the official Tafheem-ul-Qur’an website.

If you need further details, a comparison with other tafsirs, or additional context, let me know!

OUR UNIQUE GOD

A POWERFUL VERSE TRANSLATED AND EXPLAINED

Audio file

notebooklm.google.com/notebook/958de767-a674-4b4c-be85-c5e1cbc04a42/audio

full txt as follows

A CHALLENGE …

DO WE KNOW OUR LORD?

DO WE KNOW ANY ONE ELSE LIKE OUR LORD?


SOME QUALITIES SUMMARIZED IN ONE VERSE

This verse is known as Ayat al-Kursi (The Verse of the Throne) and is regarded as the greatest verse in the Quran due to its profound description of Allah’s majesty, power, and knowledge. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said:

“The greatest verse in the Book of Allah is: ‘Allah! There is no god but Him, the Ever-Living, the Sustainer of existence…’ (Ayat al-Kursi).” (Sahih Muslim)

It serves as a comprehensive declaration of Tawheed (Islamic monotheism), refuting all forms of polytheism and false beliefs about divinity.


Detailed Tafseer (Exegesis) – Breakdown of Key Themes

1. Allah’s Absolute Oneness (لَآ إِلَـٰهَ إِلَّا هُوَ)

  • The verse begins by affirming that no deity is worthy of worship except Allah.
  • This negates all false gods (idols, saints, natural forces, etc.) worshipped by humans.
  • Implication: True faith requires complete rejection of shirk (associating partners with Allah).
  • Al-Hayy (The Ever-Living):
  • Allah’s life is perfect, eternal, and without weakness.
  • Unlike created beings, His existence has no beginning or end.
  • Al-Qayyum (The Sustainer of All Existence):
  • He maintains all creation—nothing exists or functions without His support.
  • If He withdrew His sustenance for even a moment, the universe would collapse.

2. The Ever-Living (ٱلْحَىُّ) and Self-Sustaining (ٱلْقَيُّومُ)

3. Neither Drowsiness Nor Sleep (لَا تَأْخُذُهُۥ سِنَةٌۭ وَلَا نَوْمٌۭ)

  • Unlike humans and other creatures, Allah never tires or needs rest.
  • This refutes the pagan idea that gods “sleep” or neglect creation.
  • Implication: Allah’s watch over the universe is continuous and flawless.

4. Supreme Ownership (لَّهُۥ مَا فِى ٱلسَّمَـٰوَٰتِ وَمَا فِى ٱلْأَرْضِ)

  • Everything in the heavens and earth belongs to Him alone.
  • No one shares in His dominion—kings, rulers, or false deities are mere creations.

5. Intercession Only by His Permission (مَن ذَا ٱلَّذِى يَشْفَعُ عِندَهُۥٓ إِلَّا بِإِذْنِهِۦ)

  • Some religions believe saints or angels can grant favors independently.
  • Islam’s stance: No intercession occurs without Allah’s permission.
  • Even prophets (like Muhammad PBUH) or angels can only intercede if Allah wills.

6. Allah’s All-Encompassing Knowledge (يَعْلَمُ مَا بَيْنَ أَيْدِيهِمْ وَمَا خَلْفَهُمْ)

  • He knows:
  • The past, present, and future.
  • What is hidden and apparent.
  • Humans only know what Allah allows them to know.

7. The Vastness of the Kursi (وَسِعَ كُرْسِيُّهُ ٱلسَّمَـٰوَٰتِ وَٱلْأَرْضَ)

  • Kursi (Throne/Authority):
  • Symbolizes Allah’s dominion and knowledge.
  • Its vastness exceeds the heavens and earth—indicating His limitless power.
  • Misconception Clarified: Some imagine the Kursi as a physical chair, but it is a metaphor for Allah’s supreme authority.

8. No Fatigue in Preservation (وَلَا يَـُٔودُهُۥ حِفْظُهُمَا)

  • Maintaining the universe does not tire Allah.
  • Contrast with humans, who grow weary even managing small tasks.

9. The Most High, The Most Great (وَهُوَ ٱلْعَلِىُّ ٱلْعَظِيمُ)

  • Al-Aliyy (The Most High):
  • Above all in rank and authority.
  • Nothing is equal or comparable to Him.
  • Al-Azeem (The Most Great):
  • His greatness is beyond human comprehension.

People have no grasp of GODs true measure

Audio summary of explanation of the verse by different scholars

https://notebooklm.google.com/notebook/9568d085-a7a9-48fa-a91c-34b9110f8868/audio

‫وَمَا قَدَرُوا۟ ٱللَّهَ حَقَّ قَدۡرِهِۦ وَٱلۡأَرۡضُ جَمِیعࣰا قَبۡضَتُهُۥ یَوۡمَ ٱلۡقِیَـٰمَةِ وَٱلسَّمَـٰوَ ٰ⁠تُ مَطۡوِیَّـٰتُۢ بِیَمِینِهِۦۚ سُبۡحَـٰنَهُۥ وَتَعَـٰلَىٰ عَمَّا یُشۡرِكُونَ﴿ ٦٧ ﴾‬

• Abdul Haleem:

These people have no grasp of God’s true measure. On the Day of Resurrection, the whole earth will be in His grip. The heavens will be rolled up in His right hand- Glory be to Him! He is far above the partners they ascribe to Him!-

• ابوالاعلی مودودی:

اِن لوگوں نے اللہ کی قدر ہی نہ کی جیسا کہ اس کی قدر کرنے کا حق ہے۔ [1] (اس کی قدرتِ کاملہ کا حال تو یہ ہے کہ)قیامت کے روز پُوری زمین اُس کی مٹھی میں ہوگی اور آسمان اس کے دستِ راست میں لپٹے ہوئے ہوں گے۔ [2] پاک اور بالاتر ہے وہ اس شرک سے جو یہ لوگ کرتے ہیں۔ [3]

Az-Zumar, Ayah 67

Proceed to know the the summary of the verse by different scholars

GROK compiled summary from available data


1. Tafsir Ibn Kathir (Imam Ibn Kathir, d. 1373 CE)

Ibn Kathir emphasizes Allah’s infinite greatness and the failure of disbelievers to recognize His true worth. He explains:

  • “They have not appraised Allah with true appraisal”: This refers to the polytheists’ and disbelievers’ lack of understanding of Allah’s majesty and power. They associate partners with Him, underestimating His sovereignty and attributing divine qualities to insignificant beings.
  • “The earth entirely will be [within] His grip”: On the Day of Resurrection, Allah will hold the entire earth in His grasp, demonstrating His absolute control over creation. The imagery of the earth being in His “grip” and the heavens “folded in His right hand” is figurative, illustrating Allah’s limitless power and authority.
  • Hadith Support: Ibn Kathir cites a hadith from Sahih al-Bukhari and Muslim, narrated by Ibn Umar, where the Prophet (ﷺ) recited this verse during a sermon and said: “Allah will grasp the earth with one finger, and the heavens will be in His Right Hand, then He will say, ‘I am the King.’” Another narration from Abu Hurairah states: “Allah will grasp the earth and roll up the heavens in His Right Hand, then He will say: ‘I am the King, where are the kings of the earth?’” These narrations underscore Allah’s dominion over all creation.
  • Rejection of Shirk: The phrase “Exalted is He and high above what they associate with Him” condemns shirk (polytheism), affirming Allah’s transcendence and uniqueness.

2. Tafsir al-Jalalayn (Imam Jalaluddin al-Mahalli and Jalaluddin as-Suyuti, 15th Century)

Tafsir al-Jalalayn provides a concise yet profound explanation:

  • Failure to Esteem Allah: The phrase “They have not appraised Allah with true appraisal” means the disbelievers do not exalt Allah as He deserves, particularly by associating partners with Him, which diminishes His oneness and glory.
  • Cosmic Imagery: The statement that the earth will be in Allah’s “grip” refers to the seven earths being under His complete possession and control on the Day of Resurrection. The heavens being “folded in His right hand” signifies Allah’s ability to gather and manage the vast heavens effortlessly, using His power alone.
  • Exaltation of Allah: The closing words, “Glory be to Him! And exalted be He above what they associate!”, emphasize Allah’s purity and transcendence over the false deities or partners ascribed to Him by polytheists.

3. Tafsir al-Tabari (Imam Muhammad ibn Jarir al-Tabari, d. 923 CE)

Al-Tabari’s tafsir focuses on the verse’s vivid imagery and theological implications:

  • Underestimation of Allah: The disbelievers fail to recognize Allah’s true greatness (“They have not appraised Allah with true appraisal”). Al-Tabari explains that this refers to their ignorance of Allah’s boundless power and their audacity to equate created beings with the Creator through shirk.
  • Figurative Language: The imagery of the earth in Allah’s “grip” and the heavens “folded in His right hand” is metaphorical, illustrating Allah’s absolute dominion. Al-Tabari cites narrations, such as those from Abdullah ibn Umar, where the Prophet (ﷺ) described Allah rolling the heavens and earth like a child rolls a ball, proclaiming His sole kingship.
  • Prophetic Narration: Al-Tabari references traditions from Musnad Ahmad, Bukhari, and Muslim, where the Prophet (ﷺ) explained that Allah will hold the heavens and earths (planets) in His grasp, demonstrating His sovereignty over all worldly rulers and false gods.
  • Rejection of Polytheism: The verse concludes by glorifying Allah and distancing Him from the partners ascribed to Him, reinforcing tawhid (monotheism).

4. Tafsir al-Qurtubi (Imam al-Qurtubi, d. 1273 CE)

Al-Qurtubi’s tafsir delves into the verse’s theological and eschatological dimensions:

  • Human Ignorance: The phrase “They have not appraised Allah with true appraisal” highlights the disbelievers’ failure to comprehend Allah’s infinite power and majesty. Al-Qurtubi notes that this ignorance leads them to worship idols or other beings, which are powerless compared to Allah.
  • Eschatological Power: The imagery of the earth in Allah’s grip and the heavens folded in His right hand signifies Allah’s ability to control the entire universe effortlessly. Al-Qurtubi explains that this is a figurative expression, as Allah is beyond physical attributes, but it conveys His supreme authority over creation.
  • Hadith Context: Like other mufassireen, al-Qurtubi references the hadith where the Prophet (ﷺ) recited this verse and described Allah grasping the earth and heavens, proclaiming, “I am the King.” This emphasizes that all worldly power is insignificant before Allah’s dominion.
  • Tawhid and Transcendence: The verse’s conclusion, “Exalted is He and high above what they associate with Him”, serves as a reminder of Allah’s oneness and His transcendence above all false deities.

5. Tafsir Tafheem-ul-Quran (Maulana Abul Ala Maududi, d. 1979)

Maududi’s tafsir provides a modern yet rooted explanation:

  • Ignorance of Allah’s Glory: The disbelievers’ failure to recognize Allah’s true worth (“They have not appraised Allah with true appraisal”) stems from their lack of reflection on His greatness. Maududi notes that they worship insignificant beings, ignoring the Lord of the Universe.
  • Metaphorical Imagery: The description of the earth in Allah’s grasp and the heavens folded in His right hand is a metaphor to emphasize Allah’s absolute control. Maududi compares this to a person effortlessly holding a small ball or rolling up a handkerchief, illustrating how the vast universe is insignificant before Allah’s power.
  • Prophetic Narration: Maududi cites the same hadith from Bukhari, Muslim, and others, where the Prophet (ﷺ) explained that Allah will hold the heavens and earths, proclaiming His sole kingship and challenging the worldly kings.
  • Condemnation of Shirk: The verse’s final statement glorifies Allah and rejects the partners ascribed to Him, reinforcing the centrality of tawhid in Islam.

6. An Enlightening Commentary into the Light of the Holy Qur’an (Contemporary Shia Tafsir, Al-Islam.org)

This tafsir, rooted in Shia scholarship, offers a theological perspective:

  • Failure to Know Allah: The phrase “They have not appraised Allah with true appraisal” indicates that polytheism and disbelief arise from a lack of true knowledge of Allah. The commentary explains that recognizing Allah’s boundless existence, as the Creator and Sustainer of all, prevents one from turning to false deities.
  • Monotheism and Gratitude: The verse is contextualized with the preceding verses, which urge worship of Allah alone and gratitude for His bounties. The imagery of the earth and heavens in Allah’s control underscores His omnipotence, making polytheism illogical.
  • Rejection of Duality: The tafsir notes that the verse implicitly rejects the possibility of multiple boundless beings, as only Allah possesses infinite power. The heavens and earth being in His “hand” is a metaphor for His complete authority.
  • Exaltation of Allah: The closing words affirm Allah’s purity and transcendence, distancing Him from the idols or partners ascribed by polytheists.

Common Themes Across Tafsirs

  1. Allah’s Infinite Power: All mufassireen emphasize that the verse illustrates Allah’s supreme authority over creation, using vivid imagery to convey the ease with which He controls the universe.
  2. Figurative Language: The expressions “grip” and “right hand” are universally understood as metaphors, as Allah is transcendent and free from physical attributes.
  3. Rejection of Shirk: The verse condemns polytheism, affirming tawhid and Allah’s exclusivity as the sole deity worthy of worship.
  4. Prophetic Narration: Most tafsirs cite hadiths from Bukhari, Muslim, and other sources, where the Prophet (ﷺ) described Allah grasping the earth and heavens, proclaiming His kingship.
  5. Eschatological Context: The verse is tied to the Day of Resurrection, where Allah’s dominion will be fully manifest, humbling those who underestimated Him.

Additional Notes

  • Context in Surah Az-Zumar: Verse 67 appears in a passage (verses 64–70) that emphasizes tawhid, the consequences of shirk, and the events of the Day of Resurrection. It serves as a powerful reminder of Allah’s greatness and a warning to those who associate partners with Him.
  • Cultural Relevance: The imagery of the earth and heavens in Allah’s grasp would have been particularly striking to the Arab audience, who were familiar with the vastness of the desert and sky, yet are told that these are insignificant before Allah.
  • Practical Application: Some sources, like Darul Iftaa New York, note that reciting this verse (along with others) is recommended for protection during travel, though this is not directly derived from the tafsir but from later scholarly practices.

Xxxxxxx

Summary Compiled by deepseek

Here is a detailed explanation of Surah Az-Zumar (39:67) from various renowned Mufassireen (Quranic commentators), synthesized from the provided search results:


1. General Meaning of the Verse

Arabic Text:
وَمَا قَدَرُواْ ٱللَّهَ حَقَّ قَدۡرِهِۦ وَٱلۡأَرۡضُ جَمِيعٗا قَبۡضَتُهُۥ يَوۡمَ ٱلۡقِيَٰمَةِ وَٱلسَّمَٰوَٰتُ مَطۡوِيَّـٰتُۢ بِيَمِينِهِۦۚ سُبۡحَٰنَهُۥ وَتَعَٰلَىٰ عَمَّا يُشۡرِكُونَ

Translation:
“They have not appraised Allah with true appraisal, while the earth entirely will be [within] His grip on the Day of Resurrection, and the heavens will be folded in His right hand. Exalted is He and high above what they associate with Him.”


2. Tafsir by Ibn Kathir

  • Theme: The verse critiques the disbelievers’ failure to recognize Allah’s true majesty.
  • Key Points:
  • The idolators did not venerate Allah properly, attributing partners to Him despite His absolute power.
  • On Judgment Day, the earth and heavens will be under Allah’s complete control, symbolized by the imagery of the earth in His “grip” and heavens “folded” in His right hand. This demonstrates His unmatched sovereignty.
  • Ibn Kathir cites a Hadith where the Prophet (ﷺ) affirmed this imagery, saying Allah will “rotate the heavens and earths like a child plays with a ball” and declare His kingship .

3. Tafsir by Abul Ala Maududi

  • Theme: Figurative depiction of Allah’s dominance.
  • Key Points:
  • The verse uses metaphors to convey Allah’s absolute authority. Just as a person easily holds a ball or folds a cloth, Allah effortlessly controls the universe.
  • The disbelievers’ inability to grasp this reality stems from their spiritual blindness and polytheism.
  • Maududi references a Hadith where the Prophet (ﷺ) trembled while reciting this verse, emphasizing its gravity .

4. Tafsir by Al-Jalalayn

  • Theme: Literal vs. metaphorical interpretation.
  • Key Points:
  • The “grip” and “right hand” are not literal but signify Allah’s total possession and power over creation.
  • The phrase “Glory be to Him” negates any anthropomorphism, affirming His transcendence above human attributes .

5. Tafsir by Mufti Muhammad Shafi (Ma’arif-ul-Quran)

  • Theme: Rejection of shirk (associating partners with Allah).
  • Key Points:
  • The verse condemns polytheists who equate created beings with Allah.
  • The imagery of Judgment Day serves as a warning: Allah’s power will be fully manifest, humiliating those who denied His unity .

6. Additional Insights from Other Mufassireen

  • As-Suddi: The verse was revealed about Quraysh, who failed to honor Allah despite witnessing His signs .
  • Ibn Abbas: True “appraisal” of Allah means believing in His omnipotence; disbelievers rejected this .
  • Metaphorical View (Later Scholars): Some interpret “grip” and “right hand” as symbols of control, not physical attributes, to avoid anthropomorphism .

7. Practical Implications

  • Protection During Travel: Some scholars recommend reciting this verse (with Surah Hud 41) for safety, based on debated Hadiths .
  • Theological Lesson: The verse reinforces tawheed (monotheism) and warns against underestimating Allah’s grandeur .

Conclusion

This verse powerfully contrasts human limitations with Allah’s infinite power, using vivid imagery to humble disbelievers and affirm divine supremacy. The Mufassireen unanimously stress its themes of tawheed, divine justice, and the folly of shirk. For further study, refer to the cited sources .