of Nokounam, may his sanctity be honoured (Session 1245)
The Holy Quran, akin to a radiant lamp, guides humanity along the path of understanding creation and their duties regarding Divine blessings. Verse 142 of Surah Al-Anm, with eloquent expression, describes the creation of animals and invites lawful utilisation of Divine sustenance, cautioning humans against following the footsteps of Satan. This treatise, through a profound examination of this noble verse, endeavours to elucidate Divine creation, the role of blessings in human life, and the dangers of satanic temptations with clarity and dignity. Employing allegories and semantic connections, the text strives to present Quranic concepts in a coherent and comprehensive manner for its readers.
The Holy Quran, in verse 141 of Surah Al-Anm, prior to discussing animals, addresses the creation of plants and trees, mentioning cultivated gardens (trellised) and uncultivated ones, palm trees, crops, olives, and pomegranates. This depiction, akin to a novel painting, portrays the order and beauty of Divine creation. The Almighty, by creating these blessings, invites humans to contemplate the signs of His wisdom.
This verse, serving as a prelude to the verse under discussion, signifies the diversity and multiplicity of Divine blessings. Cultivated gardens, supported by trellises, and spontaneous gardens that grow unrestrained in nature, each fulfill human needs in a distinctive manner. Palm trees and crops, which are sources of life and sustenance for mankind, and olives and pomegranates, symbols of blessing and healing, all testify to the boundless grace of the Almighty.
In verse 142 of Surah Al-Anm, the Almighty addresses the creation of animals and categorises them into two groups: hamlah (bearing loads) and farsh (non-bearing). This classification, articulated with particular delicacy, reveals Divine wisdom in the creation of creatures to fulfil the diverse needs of humanity.
Key Point: The hamlah animals, like faithful servants, carry the burden of humans, meeting their needs in transportation and agriculture. The farsh animals, spread upon the earth, embellish nature and provide peace and beauty.
Hamlah animals, such as horses, camels, cows, and donkeys, were created to carry loads and serve humans. These creatures, with their strength, move heavy burdens and symbolise Divine power and wisdom in serving mankind. Conversely, farsh animals, such as small birds (like sparrows and canaries), dwelling upon the earth, were created not for carrying loads but for adorning and beautifying creation. These beings, which sometimes soar in the sky and sometimes rest upon the ground, reflect delicacy and diversity in creation.
This classification, presented in the Holy Quran by the phrase حَمُولَةً وَفَرْشًا
, demonstrates Divine precision and order in creation. Each group of animals, with its distinct characteristics, satisfies certain material and spiritual needs of humanity.
وَمِنَ الْأَنْعَامِ حَمُولَةً وَفَرْشًا ۚ كُلُوا مِمَّا رَزَقَكُمُ اللَّهُ وَلَا تَتَّبِعُوا خُطُوَاتِ الشَّيْطَانِ ۚ إِنَّهُ لَكُمْ عَدُوٌّ مُبِينٌ
"And of the cattle are [some] for burden a
