وَٱلْأَرْضَ فَرَشْنَـٰهَا فَنِعْمَ ٱلْمَـٰهِدُونَ 48
Translations
And the earth We have spread out, and excellent is the preparer.
Transliteration
Wal-arda farashnahā fanacma al-māhidūn
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah describes how Allah has spread out and flattened the earth as a comfortable dwelling place for mankind, emphasizing the divine preparation of the earth for human habitation. The phrase 'fa-ni'ma al-māhidūn' (how excellent are those who spread it out) attributes this magnificent preparation to Allah's perfect craftmanship. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir explain this as evidence of Allah's mercy and careful design in making the earth habitable, contrasting the flat, stable surface with the vastness of the sky mentioned in the preceding verses.
Revelation Context
This ayah is part of Surah Adh-Dhariyat, a Meccan surah that emphasizes the signs (ayat) of Allah's power and creation. The surah systematically presents proofs of divine existence and power through natural phenomena, and this ayah fits within that broader theme of highlighting Allah's creative excellence in preparing the earth as a suitable foundation for life.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: 'The whole earth is a mosque (masjid)' (Tirmidhi, Sunan Ibn Majah), which relates to the earth's role as a divinely prepared place. Additionally, Hadith Qudsi: 'I have made the earth a mosque and a means of purification for My servants' (Sahih Bukhari), directly connects to Allah's preparation of the earth.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah invites believers to reflect upon the precise divine design of our earth and to recognize Allah's meticulous care in providing us a stable, habitable world. It should inspire gratitude for this blessing and encourage responsible stewardship of the earth entrusted to us.