Surah ash-Shu`ara' (The Poets ) 26 : 6

Overview (Verses 6 - 9)

Their rejection of God’s mercy merits the incurrence of God’s punishment: “They have indeed denied [the truth of revelation]; and they will in time come to understand what it was they were wont to deride.” (Verse 6) The threat is expressed in general, unspecified terms, with a touch of sarcasm that suits their derision of God’s warnings. A more literal translation of this verse is: they will in time receive the news of what it was they were wont to deride.’ Needless to say, they will not receive any piece of news; rather, they will endure the punishment they have derided, and they, themselves will provide the news as people relate what happens to them. They demand a miracle while ignoring the numerous miraculous signs God has placed all around them. These are sufficient for anyone with an open heart and mind. Indeed, in every aspect of this marvellous universe there is a great sign providing people with all the reassurance they need: “Do they not see the earth, how much of every noble kind We have caused to grow on it? Indeed, there is in this a sure sign; yet most of them will not believe.” (Verses 7-8) The growth of plants as they ease their way out of the earth is there to be watched at every moment. Moreover, plants are made as male and female, with the two growing separately in some plant species or mostly growing together in the same shoot. Yet it only needs that people should look in order for them to appreciate.

The Qur’ān establishes a direct relation between the human heart and universal scenes so as to awaken people’s minds and perceptions. It demonstrates the great aspects of God’s creation all around us so that we look at the living universe with an alert mind and a beating heart. This enables us to recognize God through His marvellous creation, and makes us appeal to Him whenever we see this His creation.

Thus we feel His presence at every moment of the day and night. We also realize that we are only one type of God’s creatures, subject to the same natural laws that shape existence. We also recognize that we have a special role in the universe that must be fulfilled on earth, the planet which we have been placed in charge of. “Do they not see the earth, how much of every noble kind We have caused to grow on it?” (Verse 7) This nobility is imparted through life that is given by God, who is most noble and most generous. The phraseology of this verse suggests that we should look at God’s creation with honour and respect, and not ignore or belittle it: “Indeed, there is in this a sure sign.” (Verse 8) The unbelievers had been demanding a sign while in all this there is a great sign, but few are those who take heed of it: “Yet most of them will not believe.” (Verse 8)

The sūrah’s introduction ends with a comment that is repeated every time a point is concluded: “And indeed it is your Lord who is the Mighty One, the Merciful.” (Verse 9) He is able to provide all signs and to inflict punishment on those who deny the truth. He is also ‘the Merciful’ who shows His signs to those who are willing to believe.