Ar-Razzaq

 


Surah Ad Dhariyaat is a Makki surah with characteristic short powerful verses emphasizing the Quran's message of the might of Allah, the consequence of disbelief, the reward of belief and the reality of the hereafter. Nevertheless what we find interesting in this surah is the emphasis of Allah as Ar-Razzaq - The Provider. So many Muslim men, become more practicing when they lose their source of provision. They study the scriptures and improve their practice. The tafsir of this Surah is a bounty as it reminds us of the real factors behind the source of sustenance in creation from the beginning of Surah Ad Dhariyaat till its end.

The Surah begins characteristically with a series of short oaths by Allah to emphasize the veracity of the reality of there divine reckoning.

Allah takes the first oath on the winnowing winds. These are winds that swirl up sand, leaves, pollen, debris and other such matter with them when they blow. Then he goes on to take an oath on clouds heavy with rain water. The third oath in the series is on the sailing ships which despite their weight glide on water with ease. Finally, Allah swears by the angels who proportion matters for us based on divine instructions. 

Just in these oaths, we see how the opening of the surah sets us up for Allah's role as Ar-Razzaq. The pollen carrying winds, for which the surah is named, are essential for the start of our food chain. It is entirely in Allah's Hands how he turns the direction, force and condition of these winds, hence deciding the availability and quality of the years food production. 

Where water laden clouds are directed and precipitate is also controlled by Ar-Razzaq. Water is life and source of all sustenance for Allah's creations. He may not send clouds or the clouds he sends may not precipitate. We are entirely depended on our Lord for the most essential aspects of our food source.

The produce we do cultivate, needs to be traded with other communities for us to enjoy wealth, variety and well being. For centuries, wind powered ships have been undertaking seasonal journeys plying the waters of seas easily, despite their heavy loads. Is it not the mercy of Allah, that makes this possible for man to benefit from in his rizq?

Finally, Allah instructs the angels to proportion the rizq and other resources for us. We cannot get anything more than what is proportioned nor less. He is the Merciful Sustainer who takes care of creation fulfilling every aspect of our need. If only we can learn to acknowledge the countless blessings he has bestowed on us.

* Courtesy: Lucid Eloquence (https://bit.ly/3hj0Lmt)

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