O’ Man! Know that the life of this world is only amusement, adornment, boasting and competition

For many, life is only about merry making, adornment, amusement and competition to overtake others to be on the top. Most of our youth is spent in a carefree high pitched environment. Such life style robs man from his sense of direction,  away from remembering our Creator, by following the Satanic pied piper. But the reality is that though the life looks full and attractive at first, but no one at the height of ecstasy, in a state of elated bliss and noise of laughter realizes that life is constantly fading. In fact every passing day in amusement is taking us close to an end when scales will be set to judge our worldly life and those who spent their lives only in merrymaking will know on that day how they badly harmed them.

Al Qur'an warns such merry makers of the day of reckoning and advises them to follow a path of blessings and rewards in a life of the Hereafter rather than being thrown into the blazing fire of hell. One such verses is the 20th verse of Surah Al-Ḥadīd, the 57th Surah / Chapter of Al Qur'an, being shared today. This verse talks of the transience of worldly life and verse emphasizes that worldly life is temporary and fleeting, similar to crops that grow and then dry up.

Surah Al-Ḥadīd (57:20)

“Know that the life of this world is only play, amusement, adornment, boasting among yourselves, and competition in wealth and children. Like the example of rain whose growth pleases the farmers; then it dries and you see it turn yellow; then it becomes debris. And in the Hereafter is severe punishment and forgiveness from Allah and His pleasure. And the life of this world is nothing but a deceiving enjoyment.”

Context of the Verse in the Surah

Surah Al-Ḥadīd generally addresses faith vs. hypocrisy, detachment from dunya (worldliness) and encouragement to spend in the path of Allah (57:10–18)

Then right after motivating believers to give charity, sacrifice for higher causes, the 20th verse comes as a reality check to warn the believers not to get attached to the world you’re being asked to give from. It reframes dunya so believers can act with clarity and detach emotionally while engaging responsibly

Breakdown of the Verse (Layer by Layer)

In this verse, Allah describes worldly life in five stages—this is deeply psychological:

• Play (لَعِبٌ – laʿib)
• Play is associated with childhood - a state when life feels like games, fun, no responsibility
• This is exactly like the life of endless entertainment, gaming, scrolling, distraction culture.
• Amusement (لَهْوٌ – lahw)
• This is the teenage/young adult phase in which youth pursue for pleasure and excitement.
• Today we find men obsessed with trends, engrossed in social media attractions and dopamine-driven habits.
• Adornment (زِينَةٌ – zīnah)
• This is more applicable to women whose sole focus is on their appearance, beauty and exposing lifestyle.
• Today we see an exhibitionist environment projecting image culture, Fashion, luxury, and curated online personas
• Boasting (تَفَاخُرٌ – tafākhur) Comparing status with others has become a fashion of the day. Most of us compare our possessions and status with others and get into a race so as to boast of our superior edge over the others. It is a boastful culture that creeps to show “Look at my success” culture to socially validate our status and prestige.
• Competition (تَكَاثُرٌ – takāthur)
• The more one gets into a projectionist life style, the more one is prone to accumulate wealth and assets to add to their self and family pride.
• Today we witness an increase in the race for elevated career, net worth obsession and setting material benchmarks of success.

The Parable of Rain (Powerful Imagery)

The second part of the verse relates life by giving a striking metaphor: "Like the example of rain whose growth pleases the farmers; then it dries and you see it turn yellow; then it becomes debris."

This metaphor aligns it with the Dunya (worldly life) which at first looks attractive, promising and full of life - But it also shows that every galore is temporary and it inevitably declines and disappears. This metaphor does not exhibit pessimism - but plain realism and true reality of the worldly life.

The Real Contrast

After describing dunya, Allah shifts perspective: “In the Hereafter is severe punishment and forgiveness from Allah and His pleasure…”

This means life is not meaningless—it is a bridge (between this world and the life of the Hereafter) and a test with consequences. This points towards Accountability (punishment) and Mercy and success (forgiveness and pleasure)

Scholarly Explanation

• One of the most enlightened scholars of the Muslim World Sayyid Abul Ala Maududi is of the opinion that to understand this theme fully one should keep the following verses of the Qur'an in mind: Imran; 14- 15, Yunus: 24-25, Ibrahim: 18, AI-Kahf: 45-46, An-Nur: 39. In all those verses the truth that has been impressed on the mind is: The life of this world is a temporary life: its spring as well as its autumn is temporary, Them is much here to allure man. but this, in fact, consists of base and insignificant things which man because of his shallowness of mind regards as great and splendid and is deluded into thinking that in attaining them lies supreme success, The truth however is that the highest benefits and means of pleasure and enjoyment that one can possibly attain in the world, arc indeed bast and insignificant and confined to a few years of temporary life, and can be destroyed by just one turn of fate. Contrary to this, the lift hereafter is a splendid and eternal life: its benefits are great and permanent and its losses too are great and permanent. The one who attains Allah's forgiveness and His goodwill there, will indeed have attained the everlasting bliss beside which the whole wealth of the world and its kingdom become pale and insignificant. And the one who is seized in God's torment there, will come to know that he had made a bad bargain even if he had attained all that he regarded as great and splendid in the world. 
• The 14th century exegete Ibn Kathir describes the life of this world:
• As a temporary, deceptive distraction (amusement, adorning, boasting) that vanishes quickly, comparing it to rain-fed vegetation that flourishes and then withers into dry chaff. The verse emphasizes that true reality is in the hereafter, offering either severe punishment or forgiveness.
• Key Takeaways from Ibn Kathir on 57:20:
• Synonyms of Worldly Life: Ibn Kathir defines the worldly life through five stages of pursuit: amusement, diversion, decoration, boasting among yourselves, and competition in wealth and children.
• The Parable of Rain: The verse uses the analogy of rain causing crops to grow. The green vegetation pleases the farmers, but quickly turns yellow, dries, and scatters as dust (or chaff).
• Significance of the Parable: Ibn Kathir explains that this illustrates the transience of life: youth and strength are followed by old age and decay, ultimately ending in death.
• The Two Destinies: The verse concludes by stating that in the Hereafter, there is either a "severe punishment" or "forgiveness from Allah and His pleasure," reinforcing that this life is merely a "deluding enjoyment".
• Purpose of the Parable: The purpose is to remind believers not to be deceived by the superficial beauty and temporary pleasures of the world, encouraging focus on the afterlife.

Applicability Today (Very Powerful)

This verse almost reads like a description of modern life:

• Social Media Culture  where:
• Play is entertainment
• Adornment is curated lifestyles
• Boasting is posting achievements
• Competition is followers, wealth, status
• Consumerism  We have endless desire for more wealth, better lifestyle and elevated status. This exhibits the stark naked reality of never-ending dissatisfaction. This race keeps us running after the mirage all along our lives, not leaving even an iota of satisfaction and contentment.
• Identity Crisis Almost  everyone defines himself with top career positions, wealth and an image of him better than everyone else. It is for them that is verse says: "That is not your true worth."
• Mental Health Insight For those chasing the mirage of this Dunya, Anxiety, Comparison, and Emptiness is the end product. Because we are always chasing something designed to fade.

What the Verse is NOT Saying

It is NOT saying  to leave the world completely, reject success, family, or wealth - Rather it encourages a believer to Use dunya - but don’t be used by it, Stay engaged - but not attached

Practical Takeaways

• Enjoy life—but don’t be deceived by it
• Work hard—but don’t define yourself by results
• Compete—but in good deeds (khayr)

Remember: Everything you see will fade - What you send forward (ākhirah) remains. Thus this verse gives a lens to see reality clearly to know that life is like a beautiful season that will pass and Don’t mistake the season for the destination. It doesn’t tell you to abandon life—it teaches you How to live in the world without losing your soul to it.

An effort has been made to expand this verse with meaningful insertions and explanation. More can be added to it by deeper reflection of this verse to steer life to the guided path as described in Al Qur'an and disassociate ourselves from the galore and glitter of our present life - for a restraint today will turn into an eternal blessing for us in the life of the Hereafter.

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.

You may also refer to our exclusive reference pages: 

• Selected verses from selected Surahs of Al-Qurʾān for compiled verses from other surahs.
• Selected Verses from Al Qur'an about a Specific Subject (Reference Page) to know more about what Qur'an says about specific subjects
• Selected Verses from the Qur'an. 

You may also refer to our Reference Pages  and Understanding Al Qur'an for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.

Photo | Reference: | 1 | 2 | 3 |

An effort has been made to gather explanation / exegesis of the surahs and selected verses of Al-Qurʾān from authentic sources and then present a least possible condensed explanation of the surah. In that the exegesis of the chapters of the Quran is mainly based on the "Tafhim al-Qur'an - The Meaning of the Qur'an" by one of the most enlightened scholars of the Muslim World Sayyid Abul Ala Maududi.  

In addition, other sources which have been explored and views of other scholars have been incorporated while explaining meaning of a verse. Those desirous of detailed explanations and tafsir (exegesis), may refer to these sites. For expansion of meaning and themes / contextual background help from ChatGPT is also taken.

Disclaimer: The material for this post has been collected from the references given above. If anyone differs with the material contained in this post, one may consult the references and their authors.  If someone has more material about the subject, he/she is most welcome to share in the comments box to make the post all encompassing.

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook. You may also refer to our Facebook  Group Islam: The Ultimate Truth for more on Islam and Da'wah.

Follow @IslamUltimate

Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, WhatsApp or any means on social media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Qur'ān - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

Read More

How wealth can corrupt quietly, without a person even realizing it - A subtle parable from Al Qur'an

There is no harm in earning more if one wants to lead a comfortable life, so long it is warned the Halal (permissible) way. But amassing wealth from Haram (not permissible) means through unfair means like corruption and usurping rights of others is never prescribed in any society. Wealth itself isn’t evil—in the Qur’an it’s a ni‘mah (blessing). But it has a unique power to quietly corrupt the heart if it’s not controlled - that is why Allah in Al Qur'an calls wealth a fitnah (test). 

This is the theme of a parable mentioned in Surah Al-Qalam (68:17–33) — often called “the story of the أصحاب الجنة (People of the Garden).” It is one of the Qur’an’s most subtle and powerful lessons on how wealth can corrupt quietly, without a person even realizing it. Let us read the parable and see how money corrupts a man, him not even realizing it:

The Story (Simple Summary)

Allah says He tested the people of Makkah just like He tested a group of men who owned a lush garden (orchard). The story began from a noble man who harvested a garden and was always blessed with the best produce since he used to give out a portion of it to the poor. For this noble act, Allah blessed him with more with each yield. But after his death, his sons who inherited the garden were not not as generous as their fathers to dole out a part of the produce in charity. So, they made a secret plan: “We will harvest it early in the morning… and we will not allow any poor person to enter.” (68:23–24)

And obviously,  their greed for  more made them exclude the needy intentionally. And quite naturally Allah did not like their sinister plan and destroyed their garden overnight. And when the owners arrived in the morning, they were shocked to see a devastated garden. Initially they thought they have lost their way and come to a different place. But then they realized: “No, we have been deprived.” (68:27)

And then the though dawned on them and admitted their greed which corrupted their hearts and took away the gratitude of thanking Allah for the blessing them: “Glory be to our Lord! Indeed, we were wrongdoers.” (68:29)

Why this is called “Wealth corrupts silently”

The story is not about sudden evil — it is about gradual moral decline which slowly polluted their heart and mind from doing good. They never knew that it is not greed but remembrance and gratitude that brings blessing and pleasure of Allah. Let us see how ordinary men are lured into evil:

• They were not originally evil
• Their father was righteous and obviously inherited goodness and knew what was charity.
• But their hearts and minds started to corrupt after wealth started to land into their hands.
• The corruption was internal first
• They didn’t initially act — they first changed intention and planned secretly, agreed on not paying charity and justified their decision.
• This shows that Moral سقوط (decline) begins first in the mind and intention, not in action.
• They used strategy to avoid responsibility
• They said: “Let’s go early - So no poor person sees us”
• This is very subtle: They didn’t deny charity openly - but engineered a way around it.
• This is silent corruption: Not rejecting الخير (good), but avoiding it cleverly.
• They forgot to say “In Shā’Allāh”
• The Qur’an points this out: “They did not make any exception (i.e., say ‘if Allah wills’).” (68:18)
• That is they thet though that they had become self-reliant and were in full control and ignored dependence on Allah
• This is spiritual corruption behind material greed.
• The punishment was immediate and symbolic
• The wrath of Allah does not fall immediately inn many cases. But sometimes an immediate Divine reaction is needed to teach timely lesson to someone.
• In this case, their garden — source of pride — was destroyed overnight. 
• This was to teach a lesson that the same wealth that gives security can vanish instantly if one is not grateful to Allah for His blessings.
• Realization came only after loss
• It is human nature that realization comes only when after one loses.
• In this case, only when everything was gone did they say: “Indeed, we were wrongdoers.”
• This reflects a deep human pattern " People often recognize فساد (corruption) after consequences appear."

Deep Psychological Message

• This parable shows that wealth corrupts not always through: (1) Arrogance, (2) Oppression - open ظلم.
• But through subtle shifts like Greed, neglect of the poor and loss of gratitude
• This is far more dangerous because: The person still thinks they are “good.”

Modern Relevance

This story applies directly today:

• Corporate greed: Profit over people and avoiding responsibility through systems
• Personal wealth: “I earned it, I deserve it” - Ignoring zakāh/charity spirit
• Global inequality: Hoarding resources, Structuring systems that exclude the needy
• Psychological state: Comfort leading to forgetfulness of Allah leads to Subtle hardening of the heart

The Central Lesson

The Qur’an is teaching that though Wealth is not the problem — What wealth does to the heart is the problem.

The Final Warning (68:33) After the story, Allah says: “Such is the punishment — but the punishment of the Hereafter is greater, if only they knew.”

This means that this worldly loss was a warning - the real danger is moral failure leading to the Hereafter

One-line summary: The parable of the garden in Surah Al-Qalam shows that wealth can corrupt silently by changing intentions, creating entitlement, and distancing the heart from Allah and the needy — until a person loses both moral clarity and divine blessing.

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.

You may refer to more Selected Verses from Surah 68 Al Qalam (The Pen)  already published. You may also refer to our exclusive reference page: Selected verses from selected Surahs of Al-Qurʾān for compiled verses from other surahs.

For verses on Selected Subjects, please refer to our reference page: Selected Verses from Al Qur'an about a Specific Subject (Reference Page) to know more about what Qur'an says about specific subjects and our reference page: Selected Verses from the Qur'an. 

You may also refer to our Reference Pages  and Understanding Al Qur'an for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.

Photo | Reference: | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 |

An effort has been made to gather explanation / exegesis of the surahs and selected verses of Al-Qurʾān from authentic sources and then present a least possible condensed explanation of the surah. In that the exegesis of the chapters of the Quran is mainly based on the "Tafhim al-Qur'an - The Meaning of the Qur'an" by one of the most enlightened scholars of the Muslim World Sayyid Abul Ala Maududi.  

In addition, other sources which have been explored and views of other scholars have been incorporated while explaining meaning of a verse. Those desirous of detailed explanations and tafsir (exegesis), may refer to these sites. For expansion of meaning and themes / contextual background help from ChatGPT is also taken.

Disclaimer: The material for this post has been collected from the references given above. If anyone differs with the material contained in this post, one may consult the references and their authors.  If someone has more material about the subject, he/she is most welcome to share in the comments box to make the post all encompassing.

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook. You may also refer to our Facebook  Group Islam: The Ultimate Truth for more on Islam and Da'wah.

Follow @IslamUltimate

Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, WhatsApp or any means on social media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Qur'ān - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

Read More

Most profound Metaphors and Parables in Al Qur'an (Reference Page)

People are naturally drawn to parables and metaphors in literature because these communicate deep truths in a way that is clear, memorable, emotionally powerful, and intellectually engaging. This is why they appear not only in religious texts like the Qur’an but also in classical literature, philosophy, and storytelling across cultures. These are ways to describe something that is not easily describable with the language at the times.

We have already published a detailed post on Why Metaphors and Parables are used in Al Qur'an.  Now herein under we share some of the most profound metaphors and parables used in Al Qur'an, already published by us, for better understanding of Al Qur'an and reflecting on the Divine Wisdom behind these metaphors and parables:

• A powerful metaphor in Al Qur’an describes the false hopes and delusions of disbelievers
• Why there are so many verses in Al Qur’an that refer to rain as parable for life and death
• A deeply reflective verse of Al Qur’an that teaches man the entire cycle of human life 
• The parable of the beautiful yet fragile cobweb and those who make fragile foundation of their faith based on shirk
• A parable in the Qur’an which teaches absurdity of idolatry and worshiping beings other than Allah
• How wealth can corrupt quietly, without a person even realizing it - A subtle parable from Al Qur'an

In time we add more metaphors and parables from Al Qur'an for the interest of our readers, which may assist them in better understanding of some of the important verses of Al Qur'an.

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.

Photo | references: | 1 | 2 | 

Please refer to our reference page: Understanding Al Qur'an to know about Al Qur'an. For more Q&A about Understanding Islam, please refer to our reference page: Understanding Islam - Frequently asked Q&A. 

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook. You may also refer to our Facebook  Group Islam: The Ultimate Truth for more on Islam and Da'wah.

Follow @IslamUltimate

Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, WhatsApp or any means on Social Media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Holy Qur'an - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

Read More

Why Metaphors and Parables are used in Al Qur'an

In any work of literature, metaphors and parables are used to awaken thought, deepen understanding, and strengthen faith. People naturally like metaphors and parables because these help the human mind understand complex truths through familiar images and stories. This is why they are widely used in literature, philosophy, and especially in sacred texts like the Qur'an. 

Through this post, we would apprise our readers of the use of metaphors and parables that assist them in better and easy understanding of Al Qur'an and the Divine Revelations.

Let us first understand what is a metaphor before we explain the usage of metaphors and parables used in Al Qur'an:

What is a Metaphor? A metaphor is a figure of speech in which one thing is described in terms of another to convey a deeper meaning, similarity, or lesson. Instead of explaining an idea directly, it uses imagery or comparison to make the meaning clearer and more powerful. For example, saying “the heart is hard like stone” does not mean the heart is literally stone. It means the person has become spiritually insensitive or unresponsive.

On the contrary, a parable is essentially a metaphor that has been extended to form a story. While a metaphor makes a direct, often irrational comparison to create new meaning, a parable uses a realistic scenario (often everyday human life) to illustrate a deeper truth. A parable is a succinct, didactic story, in prose or verse, that illustrates one or more instructive lessons or principles.

In Arabic rhetoric, metaphors and parables are called amthāl (أمثال), and they are widely used in classical Arabic speech and literature.

Why the Qur'an Uses Metaphors and Parables

The Qur’an contains many profound metaphors (amthāl) that convey spiritual, moral, and psychological truths through vivid imagery. These metaphors are powerful because they connect abstract ideas—like faith, hypocrisy, and the fleeting nature of life—to everyday experiences people can easily imagine. 

Allah Himself explains this purpose in the Qur'an:

“And We present these parables (amthāl) to people so that they may reflect.” — Qur'an 59:21, and

“Indeed, Allah does not hesitate to present a parable of a mosquito or what is smaller than it…” — Qur'an 2:26

These verses show that metaphors are a deliberate teaching method of the Qur'an.

Main Purposes of Metaphors and Parables in the Qur'an

Metaphors and Parables in the Qur'an are a divine teaching method that transforms deep spiritual realities into powerful images, helping people reflect, understand, and remember the message of guidance.  Let us reflect more on it:

• Metaphors Make Abstract Ideas Concrete / Easy to understand
• Many Qur'anic teachings involve spiritual realities (faith, hypocrisy, guidance, the Hereafter). These can be difficult to grasp. Metaphors turn abstract concepts into visible images.
• Metaphors connect abstract ideas / concepts to things we can see and imagine.
• For example, the Qur'an compares worldly life to rain and vegetation that grows and then dries out (10:24). This helps people visualize how temporary life is.
• Instead of a philosophical lecture, a simple image makes the meaning clear and memorable.
• Metaphors Engage the Imagination
• Human beings think naturally in images and stories. When we hear a metaphor, our mind immediately forms a picture.
• For example, in Surah Al-Hashr (59:21) the Qur'an says a mountain would split from the weight of revelation.
• This vivid image makes the message emotionally powerful. A person can almost see the mountain breaking, which leaves a deeper impression than plain explanation.
• Parables Make Lessons Easier to Remember
• Stories and parables stay in memory much longer than abstract statements.
• This is why teachers, prophets, and philosophers use them. The teachings of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ often used simple comparisons from everyday life.
• For example, he compared the guidance he brought to rain that falls on different types of soil—some soil benefits from it and some does not. This parable clearly explains how people respond differently to guidance.
• Metaphors / Parables Encourage Reflection
• Metaphors do not always explain everything directly. Instead, they invite people to think deeply. This stimulates the intellect and makes the reader participate in discovering the meaning.
• The Qur'an frequently says after giving a parable: “Perhaps they will reflect.”
• This means the purpose is not just information but contemplation.
• Metaphors Reach Both the Mind and the Heart
• Logical arguments mainly appeal to the mind, but metaphors also touch the heart and emotions.
• For example: Describing faith as light, and disbelief as darkness
• These images resonate emotionally with people because light and darkness are experiences everyone understands.
• Metaphors Communicate Universal Truths
• Metaphors are powerful because they work across cultures and time.
• A simple image like: A seed growing, a tree with roots, rain reviving dead land
• These can be understood by people in different societies and eras.
• This is one reason the Qur'an uses natural imagery so often.
• Metaphors and Parables Reveal Truth Gradually
• Some truths are too profound to grasp immediately. Metaphors allow people to approach deep meanings step by step.
• A person might read a parable many times and discover deeper insights each time.
• This layered meaning is one reason sacred texts remain meaningful across centuries.

In summary, People love metaphors and parables because these (1) make complex ideas easy to understand, (2) create vivid mental images, (3) stay longer in memory, stimulate reflection and (4) connect with both intellect and emotion. That is why the Qur'an frequently uses powerful parables to guide humanity—not just to inform, but to transform the heart and mind.

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.

Photo | references: | 1 | 2 | 

For more Q&A about Understanding Islam, please refer to our reference page: Understanding Islam - Frequently asked Q&A. You may also refer to our refference page: Scholars' Viewpoint on important issue related to Islam to know more about Islam.

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook. You may also refer to our Facebook  Group Islam: The Ultimate Truth for more on Islam and Da'wah.

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Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, WhatsApp or any means on Social Media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Holy Qur'an - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

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Why there are so many verses in Al Qur’an that refer to rain as parable for life and death

Life and death is the unavoidable combination of life for every living thing or being which is born is bound to decay or die in a stipulated timeframe as Divinely scheduled. Since this an undeniable truth, man is cautioned time and again to ponder over one's life and its ultimate end so that one keeps himself aligned to the Divine commandment of accountability and stern Divine justice on the Day of Judgement after their resurrection.

Since man is more attracted to imageries to understand any concept or idea, there are many a parable mentioned in Qur'an to attract exclusive human attention for these parables induce more interest in man to pay attention to rather than cold and dry facts of life.

Imagery is the use of descriptive language to create vivid mental pictures or sensory experiences (sight, sound, smell, taste, touch) in a reader's mind, making writing more immersive and engaging by appealing to the senses to evoke feelings and deeper understanding. It's a literary device that goes beyond just seeing, helping readers feel, hear, smell, or taste what's happening in a story or poem, drawing them into the atmosphere.

It is for this reason that there a re a number of parables wherein life and death is equated to the falling rain so that man understand his entire life cycle and remains cognizant of his actions, good or bad, that will be part of his dossier on the Day of Judgement as deciders for his eternal life.

In one of our recent posts "A deeply reflective verse of Al Qur’an that teaches man the entire cycle of human life  (39:21)" we mentioned rain which has been used as a parable for life and death of every living thing and being. But as we pondered more over this verse, we came across many more verses in Al Qur'an where the same parable has been used to warn man of his short span of life that will one day ultimately end up in his death. This post, thus, mentions all such verses and the lesson each carry.

Why the Qur’an Repeats This Parable in Different Places

Before we share other verses that have similar theme of rain as parable for life and death, let us understands why the same parable is repeated, though in different words, throughout Al Qur'an as understood by classical scholars like Ibn Kathīr, Rāzī, and Qurṭubī. These scholars are of the opinion that the repetitions are made for the reason that:

• Humans forget easily and they are to be reminded time and again to keep their sights set on the right path.
• Worldly success is misleading and often blinds insight which is delusional and satanic.
• Visual metaphors penetrate hearts more than abstract ideas -as mentioned in the end of 39:21: “Indeed, in that are signs for people who reflect.” (39:21)

Let us now turn to the similarity of verses that present to same parable of rain with life cycle of mankind.

The Core Parable: Surah az-Zumar 39:21

First, let us recall 39:21, then compare it with its closest parallels:

“Do you not see that Allah sends down water from the sky and channels it into springs in the earth? Then He brings forth crops of varying colors; then they dry up and you see them turning yellow; then He makes them debris. Indeed in that is a reminder for people of understanding.”

Although we have explained in detail the parable mentioned in the 21st verse of Surah Az Zumar, here is just in point form the key themes of the verse: (1) Divine control, that is Life → growth → beauty → decay, (2) Worldly success is temporary, and (3) Reflection (تذكير) for people of intellect.

Now let us see several Qur’anic verses that are directly comparable to the parable in 39:21, both in imagery and message. Together they form a coherent Qur’anic pattern about the temporary nature of worldly life and Divine control over growth and decay.

Closest Comparable Verses in the Qur’an

• Surah al-Kahf (18:45) — The Most Direct Parallel
• The verse: “And present to them the example of the life of this world: it is like rain which We send down from the sky, and the vegetation of the earth mingles with it, but then it becomes dry stalks, scattered by the winds.”
• Why it matches 39:21:(1) Same rain, its affect on vegetation and on going destruction sequence, as related to man throughout his life span, (2) Explicitly called a parable (مثل), and (3) Same conclusion: worldly life is fleeting
• The difference between 39:21 and 18:45 is that: (1) 18:45 emphasizes illusion and sudden loss, while (2) 39:21 emphasizes reflection and Divine wisdom
• In nutshell, 18:45 means Worldly life looks attractive but does not last, Material success is fleeting, like plants after rain, Attachment to dunya leads to loss and True permanence belongs to Allah alone.
• Surah Yūnus (10:24) — Worldly Deception
• The Verse: “The example of worldly life is like rain We send down from the sky, and the plants of the earth absorb it… until the earth has taken on its adornment and is beautified… then Our command comes to it by night or day, and We make it as if it had not flourished yesterday.”
• Link to 39:21: (1) Same natural cycle, (2) Highlights human arrogance at the peak of success, (3) Sudden reversal by Divine command
• The Focus is on Human self-delusion and False sense of permanence.
• Surah al-Ḥadīd (57:20) — The Most Comprehensive Summary
• The Verse: “Know that the life of this world is play, amusement, adornment, boasting, and competition in wealth and children — like rain whose growth pleases the farmers, then it dries and turns yellow, then becomes debris.” - Same yellowing - the debris imagery as 39:21
• Why this is powerful: (1) Combines psychology and nature, (2) Explains why people are deceived
• This verse also adds (1) Moral diagnosis of human behavior, and (2) Clear contrast with the Hereafter
• Surah al-A‘lā (87:16–17) — Conclusion of the Parable
• This verse gives the verdict that 39:21 invites the reader to reach through reflection.
• “But you prefer the worldly life, while the Hereafter is better and more lasting.”

How These Verses Work Together

The above explanation and correlation with 39:21 correlates other verses and give out  lessons for us as given below:

• 39:21 Reflection & Divine wisdom
• 18:45 Sudden loss
• 10:24 Human arrogance
• 57:20 Psychological trap
• 87:16–17 Final judgment

Together, they form a complete worldview.

Relevance Today

These parables speak powerfully to warn an of his short life span and the little time at his disposal to adopt a life which will be beneficial to him in the life of the hereafter. The lure and glare of amusement, sin and merry making will be left here, but the impact they had had on man's life will follow him on the Day of Judgement.

The Qur’an is saying: What you see in nature is what will happen to power, wealth, and life itself.

Final Reflection

The 21st verse of Surah Az Zumar is part of a family of Qur’anic parables. But it is unique in ending with: “a reminder for people of understanding.” Which means that not everyone benefits from Divine cautions and warnings - rather only reflective hearts awaken. Remember, what rain does to crops, time does to worldly life, and only the mindful prepare for what comes after.

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.
• The above comparison is a personal reflection for academic purpose. Readers are free to agree or disagree with what has been written. However, it is requested that in case of disagreement, please leave your point of view in the comment box at the end of the post.
• The comparison is given in point form which easily explain our viewpoint. However, those want a deeper reflection, may ponder over information available on the social media.

You may also refer to our exclusive reference page: Selected verses from selected Surahs of Al-Qurʾān for compiled verses from other surahs.

For more Selected Subjects, please refer to our reference page: Selected Verses from Al Qur'an about a Specific Subject (Reference Page) to know more about what Qur'an says about specific subjects and our reference page: Selected Verses from the Qur'an. .

You may also refer to our Reference Pages  and Understanding Al Qur'an for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.

Photo | Reference: | Prosomal reflections | ChatGPT | Google |

An effort has been made to gather explanation / exegesis of the surahs and selected verses of Al-Qurʾān from authentic sources and then present a least possible condensed explanation of the surah. In that the exegesis of the chapters of the Quran is mainly based on the "Tafhim al-Qur'an - The Meaning of the Qur'an" by one of the most enlightened scholars of the Muslim World Sayyid Abul Ala Maududi.  

In addition, other sources which have been explored and views of other scholars have been incorporated while explaining meaning of a verse. Those desirous of detailed explanations and tafsir (exegesis), may refer to these sites. For expansion of meaning and themes / contextual background help from ChatGPT is also taken.

Disclaimer: The material for this post has been collected from the references given above. If anyone differs with the material contained in this post, one may consult the references and their authors.  If someone has more material about the subject, he/she is most welcome to share in the comments box to make the post all encompassing.

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook. You may also refer to our Facebook  Group Islam: The Ultimate Truth for more on Islam and Da'wah.

Follow @IslamUltimate

Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, WhatsApp or any means on social media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Qur'ān - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

Read More

A deeply reflective verse of Al Qur’an that teaches man the entire cycle of human life

Al Qur'an is book of Divine Wisdom which uses many a approach to show to the man what life really is and how men of wisdom can interpret verses of Qur'an through deep reflection. While many verses are straight and easy to understand, some verses use natural imagery to deliver a single, powerful worldview about life (dunyā). One such verse is 21st verse of Surah 39 Az-Zumar which is a deeply reflective verse that combines observable nature, divine control, and moral guidance. Its wisdom lies not merely in describing a natural process, but in teaching how to think about life, time, power, and the Hereafter.

اَلَمۡ تَرَ اَنَّ اللّٰهَ اَنۡزَلَ مِنَ السَّمَآءِ مَآءً فَسَلَـكَهٗ يَنَابِيۡعَ فِى الۡاَرۡضِ ثُمَّ يُخۡرِجُ بِهٖ زَرۡعًا مُّخۡتَلِفًا اَ لۡوَانُهٗ ثُمَّ يَهِيۡجُ فَتَـرٰٮهُ مُصۡفَرًّا ثُمَّ يَجۡعَلُهٗ حُطَامًا​ ؕ اِنَّ فِىۡ ذٰ لِكَ لَذِكۡرٰى لِاُولِى الۡاَلۡبَابِ

(39:21) Do you not see that Allah sent down water from the sky, then made it flow on earth as springs and streams and rivers and then with it He brings forth vegetation of various hues; then this vegetation ripens and dries up, turning yellow, where after He reduces it to broken straw? Surely there is a lesson in this for those endowed with understanding.

Understanding of the verse by the Ordinaries

For most of the readers of AL Qur'an, this verse just describes a natural phenomenon. Allah in ths verses describes a natural process wherein the rain descends from the clouds, Water flows and settles in the earth, vegetation grows in different colors and the plants mature. Then a time comes when there is no rain and the vegetation dries up and turns yellow and finally crumbles into straw.

Then Allah concludes: “Surely in this is a reminder for those endowed with understanding.”

Understanding of the verse by those endowed with wisdom and understanding

The men of wisdom correlate this verse with various phases plant life with that of man's life cycle: (1) Rain means birth of a child, the growth of plants to the developing youth and turning into a man's prime age when he is contributing and reflecting. Then slowly and gradually man enters into his old age just like yellowing of the plants and then like lifeless straw, a man too dies and the life cycle ends.

Sayyid Abul Ala Maududi, One of the eminent scholars and exegetes of Al Qur'an explains the core idea behind this verse as under:

"A man of understanding learns this lesson from it that the life of this world and its adornments are all transitory: the end of every spring is autumn; the fate of every youth is weakness and death; and every rise has a fall. Therefore, this world is not something of which one should be charmed and enamored so as to forget God and the Hereafter and should conduct himself here in a manner as to nun his Hereafter, only for the sake of enjoying the short lived pleasures of this world. Then a man of understanding also learns this lesson from these phenomena that the spring and autumn of this world are only under Allah's control: Allah allows to grow and prosper whomever He wills and ruins and lays waste whomever He wills. Neither it is in anybody's power to stop the growth of someone whom Allah wills to grow, nor has anyone the power to save him from destruction whom Allah wills to destroy.

The 14th century Muslim scholar Ibn Kathir explains that:

• The natural phenomenon described is not random but a deliberate sign from Allah, designed to lead people to recognize their Creator and the ultimate reality beyond the physical world. 
• The verse serves as a parable for the life of this world, which begins with life and ends in decay, urging people to heed the divine message.  

Wisdom behind the verse - Layer by Layer

• 1️⃣ Allah as the Absolute Controller
• “Allah sent down water from the sky…” That is the verse begins by attributing the entire process directly to Allah, not to chance or nature acting independently.
• Wisdom: Man learns that the rain is beyond human control - which means that human planning is useless without divine permission. This cultivates humility, not arrogance 
• ➡️ Lesson: Human power is limited; divine power is absolute.
• 2️⃣ Hidden Provision and Divine Planning
• “…then made it flow on earth as springs…” - That is water does not just fall and disappear as it penetrates the ground and stored invisibly. Then it re-emerges as springs, streams, and rivers
• Wisdom: Allah provides sustenance in unseen ways - What disappears from sight is not lost and that delay does not mean denial
• ➡️ Lesson: Trust Allah even when provision is unseen.
• 3️⃣ Diversity within Unity
• “…vegetation of various hues…” That is rain is alike all over where it falls, yet it produces multicoloured hues, different taste and benefits.
• Wisdom: Unity of source, diversity of outcomes - describing the Evidence of divine design, not randomness
• ➡️ Lesson: Differences among people and creations are intentional and meaningful.
• 4️⃣ Peak Does Not Mean Permanence
• “…then it ripens…” that is the vegetation reaches: Full beauty and maximum usefulness , yet the stage is brief and temporary.
• Wisdom: Every worldly success has a peak -but youth, power, wealth are temporary and do not last forever.
• ➡️ Lesson: Do not be deceived by temporary perfection.
• 5️⃣ Inevitable Decline
• “…then you see it turn yellow…” Which means no force stops aging and plants weaken, the once vibrant and fresh hues start to fade and lose strength.
• Wisdom: Decline is part of divine law for nothing created is permanent and has to decay and die ultimately.
• ➡️ Lesson: This world is not a place of eternity.
• 6️⃣ Complete Dissolution
• “…then He makes it broken straw…” That is what once was nourished, beautified and sustained life, becomes worthless debris.
• Wisdom: Material value is temporary and that pride in worldly status is foolish
• ➡️ Lesson: Attachment to dunya leads to loss. Those who live for this world alone with disregard to the life of the Hereafter will be the ultimate losers.

The Central Message

This verse is a parable of human life: Just as plants do not remain, neither do humans.

• Why Allah Ends with “People of Understanding” because everyone sees plants grow and die - yet not everyone reflects. 
• True intelligence in the Qur’an is not IQ, Knowledge or Science. It is reflection that leads to humility and obedience.

Practical Lessons for Today

Since this life is temporary and is a testing ground for man to reflect upon purpose of one's creation. Therefore one should:

• Never be arrogant in success or boast about it for nothing is permanent.
• Never despair in decline for it is a natural phenomena and no matter how much a man may try, the decline is bound to happen.
• Use prosperity before it fades
• Prepare for the Hereafter while time remains
• Read nature as a sign, not just a resource

Surah 39:21 teaches that just as vegetation rises, flourishes, and fades by Allah’s will, so too does human life — and only those who reflect prepare for what comes after the harvest.

You may refer to more Selected Verses from Sürah 39. Az-Zumar (The Throngs) already published.

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.

For more Selected Subjects, please refer to our reference page: Selected Verses from Al Qur'an about a Specific Subject (Reference Page) to know more about what Qur'an says about specific subjects and our reference page: Selected Verses from the Qur'an. .

You may also refer to our Reference Pages  and Understanding Al Qur'an for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.

Photo | Reference: | 1 | 2 | 3 |

An effort has been made to gather explanation / exegesis of the surahs and selected verses of Al-Qurʾān from authentic sources and then present a least possible condensed explanation of the surah. In that the exegesis of the chapters of the Quran is mainly based on the "Tafhim al-Qur'an - The Meaning of the Qur'an" by one of the most enlightened scholars of the Muslim World Sayyid Abul Ala Maududi.  

In addition, other sources which have been explored and views of other scholars have been incorporated while explaining meaning of a verse. Those desirous of detailed explanations and tafsir (exegesis), may refer to these sites. For expansion of meaning and themes / contextual background help from ChatGPT is also taken.

Disclaimer: The material for this post has been collected from the references given above. If anyone differs with the material contained in this post, one may consult the references and their authors.  If someone has more material about the subject, he/she is most welcome to share in the comments box to make the post all encompassing.

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook. You may also refer to our Facebook  Group Islam: The Ultimate Truth for more on Islam and Da'wah.

Follow @IslamUltimate

Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, WhatsApp or any means on social media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Qur'ān - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

Read More