No! I swear by the positions of the stars
We will take this verse and its connected verses to explain how scholars say these oaths appear:
Oaths in Arabic Rhetoric (Balāghah)
Before we relate the topic as enumerated by the scholars, we need to understand the Arabic language of the times with its rich literature, specially poetry. Also taking oaths was a common custom to emphasise one's viewpoint or show one's truthfulness. Since Al Qur'an was revealed to the Arabs of the time, its language and phrasing was deliberately tailored to attract the literary love of the audience. Thus structuring AL Qur'an added rhythm, gravity, and intellectual engagement.
With this understanding, let us now see how scholars of time explain the why of oaths in Al Qur'an.
To Emphasize the Importance of What Follows
In classical Arabic rhetoric, an oath is a powerful way to: Capture attention, Signal seriousness and Underscore truth
When Allah swears by something, it highlights that what comes next is extremely important — often about revelation, resurrection, or divine power. In Surah 56, the oath about the stars is followed by affirmation that the Qur’an is noble and protected.
To Draw Attention to Signs in Creation
Unlike oaths taken by the Arabs of the time who took oaths on idols and their forefathers, Allah swears by created things, not because He needs them to strengthen His word (He doesn’t), but to: (1) Direct our attention to them, (2) Encourage reflection, and (3) Show their significance as signs (āyāt)
For example: (1) By the sun and moon, (2) By time (Al-‘Asr), (3) By the dawn, (4) By the stars
These are reminders of order, precision, and power in creation.
To Show the Greatness of What Is Sworn By
When Allah swears by something, scholars say it indicates that the thing itself is profound and meaningful.
In 56:75, “the positions of the stars” can refer to: (1) Their precise orbits, (2) Their setting and rising, or (3) Metaphorically, stages of revelation. In any case, it emphasizes cosmic order and divine control.
Allah Does Not Need to Swear — But We Need Emphasis
Humans swear to convince others of truth. Allah does not need to prove anything. Classical scholars explain that divine oaths are:
- For the benefit of the listener
- A teaching method
- A way to awaken reflection
It’s a rhetorical and pedagogical device.
A Deeper Layer in 56:75–76
Allah says: “And indeed, it is a great oath — if you only knew.” This suggests: (1) The object of the oath is immense in reality, (2) Humans may not fully grasp its significance
Some scholars even connect the “positions of the stars” with the gradual revelation of the Qur’an, linking the cosmos and revelation. That is why we should not merely correlate a Divine oath to its visible meaning but also what is invisible and what is being said to those who have wisdom and ability to reflect.
Let us mention Ibn Kathir, one of the eminent scholars and exegetes of Al Qur'an who mentions two major interpretations reported from earlier scholars:
- What Does “Positions of the Stars” Mean?
- The Literal Astronomical Meaning This view says mawāqiʿ al-nujūm refers to: (1) The places where stars rise and set, (2) Their precise orbits and positions, (3) Their ordered movement in the sky
- According to this interpretation: (1) Allah is swearing by the immense precision and grandeur of the universe and (2) The complexity and vastness of the cosmos point to divine power.
- The oath emphasizes the greatness of what follows (the Qur’an’s truth and nobility in 56:77).
- Ibn Kathir notes that this view highlights how extraordinary and vast the star systems are—something humans barely comprehend.
- The Gradual Revelation of the Qur’an
- Another interpretation, also mentioned by Ibn Kathir and earlier authorities like Ibn ‘Abbās, connects “positions of the stars” to the stages of revelation of the Qur’an - The way it was sent down gradually over 23 years.
- In Arabic, najm (star) can also mean something that appears in portions. So the “positions” may refer to: The specific occasions and timings when verses were revealed, The divine wisdom in spacing out revelation.
- Under this interpretation: Allah is swearing by the precise, divinely measured way the Qur’an was revealed.
- The oath directly reinforces the next verse: “Indeed, it is a noble Qur’an.”
Ibn Kathir presents both interpretations without strictly limiting it to one, which is common in classical tafsir when multiple authentic reports exist.
We have only introduced the subject with some explanation. Readers interested to expand its scope may carryout research by referring to the exegesis of Al Qur'an by eminent scholars.
May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى) help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door.
وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ
(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”
That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.
May Allah forgive me if my posts ever imply a piety far greater than I possess. I am most in need of guidance.
Reading the Qur'ān should be a daily obligation of a Muslim - Reading it with translation will make it meaningful. But reading its Exegesis / Tafsir will make you understand it fully. It will also help the Muslims to have grasp over social issues and their answers discussed in the Qur'an and other matter related to inter faith so that they are able to discuss issues with non-Muslims with authority based on refences from Qur'an.
Note: When we mention God in our posts, we mean One True God, we call Allah in Islam, with no associates. Allah is the Sole Creator of all things, and that Allah is all-powerful and all-knowing. Allah has no offspring, no race, no gender, no body, and is unaffected by the characteristics of human life.
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