وَسَخَّرَ لَكُم مَّا فِى ٱلسَّمَـٰوَٰتِ وَمَا فِى ٱلْأَرْضِ جَمِيعًا مِّنْهُ ۚ إِنَّ فِى ذَٰلِكَ لَـَٔايَـٰتٍ لِّقَوْمٍ يَتَفَكَّرُونَ 13
Translations
And He has subjected to you whatever is in the heavens and whatever is on the earth - all from Him. Indeed in that are signs for a people who give thought.
Transliteration
Wa sakhkhara lakum maa fee as-samaawaati wa maa fee al-ardi jameeʿan minhu. Inna fee dhalika laayaatin liqawmin yatafakkarun.
Tafsir (Explanation)
Allah has subjugated and placed at mankind's disposal all that exists in the heavens and on earth as a means of provision and benefit, emanating entirely from His divine will and power. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir emphasize that this comprehensive subjugation demonstrates Allah's infinite mercy and the responsibility placed upon humans to use these blessings wisely and gratefully. The ayah concludes by directing attention to those who reflect and ponder upon these signs, for therein lies proof of Allah's oneness and wisdom.
Revelation Context
Surah Al-Jathiyah was revealed in Mecca during the early Islamic period when the pagan Arabs denied Allah's signs and rejected the message of the Prophet (peace be upon him). This ayah appears within a section addressing human responsibility and the clear evidence of divine power through creation, encouraging the disbelievers to contemplate the subjugated creation as proof of Allah's existence and lordship.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: 'The best charity is water,' (Jami' at-Tirmidhi) relating to the subjugated resources of creation. Additionally, the hadith 'Whoever plants a tree, for him is a reward' (Sahih Muslim) reflects the proper stewardship of Allah's subjugated creation.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah reminds modern Muslims that the natural world surrounding us is not a random accident but a carefully ordered system placed under human care by Allah. We are accountable for how we use these resources and must cultivate a habit of reflection and gratitude, recognizing each blessing as a divine sign pointing us toward greater faith and responsibility.