ٱلَّتِى لَمْ يُخْلَقْ مِثْلُهَا فِى ٱلْبِلَـٰدِ 8
Translations
The likes of whom had never been created in the land?
Transliteration
Al-latee lam yukhlaق mithluha fee al-bilad
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah refers to the historic city of Iram (Ubar), which Allah describes as having unparalleled architectural grandeur and splendor that was never matched by any other city of its time. Classical scholars like Al-Tabari and Ibn Kathir explain that this reference underscores the magnificence of Iram's construction and the hubris of its people, who relied on their material wealth and architectural prowess while neglecting their obligation to Allah. The ayah serves as a prelude to the destruction that befell this once-thriving civilization as divine punishment for their arrogance and disbelief.
Revelation Context
Surah Al-Fajr is a Meccan surah that discusses themes of divine punishment for those who reject Allah's signs. This ayah is part of a broader passage (89:6-14) that recounts the destruction of past civilizations—'Ad, Iram, Pharaoh, and Thamud—as historical lessons for the Quraysh and all humanity. The context emphasizes that no worldly power or achievement can protect one from Allah's justice.
Related Hadiths
While no hadith directly addresses this specific ayah, the hadith in Sahih Muslim regarding the Prophet's statement about the Day of Judgment and the destruction of nations reflects the theme of temporal power's transience. Additionally, hadiths about the people of 'Ad in Sunan Ibn Majah illustrate the consequences of rejecting messengers.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah teaches us that material wealth, architectural achievements, and worldly magnificence offer no protection against divine justice if accompanied by arrogance and rejection of truth. We must recognize that all temporal accomplishments are fleeting and subordinate ourselves to Allah's will rather than placing our trust in worldly constructs.