أَفَلَا يَنظُرُونَ إِلَى ٱلْإِبِلِ كَيْفَ خُلِقَتْ 17
Translations
Then do they not look at the camels - how they are created?
Transliteration
Afalā yanzurūn ilā al-ibil kayfa khuliqat
Tafsir (Explanation)
Allah commands the disbelievers to observe and reflect upon the creation of camels as a sign of divine power and wisdom. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir and Al-Qurtubi explain that the camel's remarkable physical structure—its strength, endurance, ability to survive in harsh desert conditions, and its suitability for human use—demonstrates Allah's perfect design and should lead thoughtful observers to recognize the Creator's majesty and believe in the message of the Prophet.
Revelation Context
This ayah is part of Surah Al-Ghashiyah, a Meccan surah that emphasizes the signs of Allah in creation as evidence for His existence and power. The surah addresses those who deny the Day of Judgment and the message of Islam, urging them to contemplate the observable wonders around them as proofs of Allah's dominion and the truth of the message.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet (ﷺ) said: 'In every animal's body there is a bone, and in every bone there is marrow.' (Jami' at-Tirmidhi) This emphasizes the intricate and purposeful design of creatures. Additionally, the Qur'an frequently pairs reflection on creation with belief: 'Indeed, in the creation of the heavens and the earth and the alternation of the night and the day are signs for those of understanding.' (Qur'an 3:190)
Themes
Key Lesson
Believers are encouraged to use their intellect and observe the natural world as a path to deeper faith and recognition of the Creator's power. For modern readers, this teaches that scientific observation and spiritual reflection are complementary—studying the intricate design of living creatures can strengthen our conviction in Allah's existence and perfection.