Interpretation: Reflections on Surah Al-Arf

Interpretation: Reflections on Surah Al-A'raf

of Session 1270

Preface

Surah Al-Arf, one of the Meccan chapters of the Holy Quran, unveils a profound narrative concerning the story of Adam and Eve, the expulsion of Iblis, and the satanic insinuations. It opens a gateway towards understanding Divine wisdom and human free will. This treatise, relying on exegetical lectures, delves into the verses of this Surah and elucidates its theological, philosophical, and ethical concepts for readers with an eloquent and dignified style. Employing allegories and literary allusions, it endeavours to present the deep meanings of these verses in a coherent and clear manner, as if the reader is strolling in a garden of knowledge, where each verse is akin to a fragrant flower emitting the scent of truth to the souls perception.

Section One: The Expulsion of Iblis and Consequences of Following Him

The Glorious Quran in Surah Al-Arf provides a magnificent account of the rejection of Iblis from his exalted station. This section, focusing on a pivotal verse, examines the role of Iblis and human free will in the face of his temptations.

Key Verse and Translation

He said, "Get out of it, accursed and expelled! Whoever among them follows you, I will surely fill Hell with you all."

Reflection on Exegesis

This verse, expressed with decisive wording, conveys Gods command to Iblis to depart from his lofty position. Iblis, who was expelled for his disobedience to the command to prostrate before Adam, was not only rejected himself but his followers were threatened with a similar fate. In this narrative, God introduces Hell as a vessel of punishment that will be filled with Iblis and his adherents. Yet a fundamental question arises here: Is this punishment just for humans who fall prey to Iblis deception? The answer is concealed within a subtle analogy: Iblis operates like the 'phase' in an electric circuit a driving force that only functions when connected to the 'neutral' representing human free will. If the human, as the neutral, disconnects from this current, Iblis cannot mislead him. This metaphor casts light on the darkness of determinism and free will, showing that man, by his own volition, is responsible for his destiny.

Iblis is merely the initiator, whereas the human, by virtue of free will, determines his own path. Just as a rootless tree cannot bear fruit, Iblis temptation is ineffective without human acceptance.

Analysis and Quranic Correlations

This viewpoint aligns with another Quranic verse: "Indeed, My servants - no authority will you have over them." (Al-Isra: 65), which underscores the limited power of Iblis and the primacy of human free will. Within this framework, the question of Divine justice interlaces with the philosophical debate on determinism and free will. The Quran further states: "God does not burden any soul beyond its capacity." (Al-Baqarah: 286), signifying human responsibility in making choices. Man, like a traveller on lifes path, encounters two routesgood and eviland it is he who selects the way through reason and faith.

The expulsion of Iblis and the threat to fill Hell with his followers serves not only as a warning to Iblis but also as a lesson for humanity. Free will, as a key in human hands, enables resistance against temptations. This section, using the analogy of phase and neutral, beautifully illustrates human agency in shaping destiny and emphasises Divine wisdom in creating a system based on free will.

Section Two: The Settlement of Adam and Eve in Paradise and the Prohibition from the Forbidden Tree

The story of Adam and Eves abode in Paradise is one of the central narratives in Surah Al-Arf, which explores the relationship between humanity and God as well as Divine limitations.

Key Verse and Translation

And We said, "O Adam, dwell you and your spouse in Paradise and eat thereof freely wherever you will, but do not approach this tree, lest you be among the wrongdoers."

Reflection on Exegesis

This verse depicts a paradise wherein Adam and Eve were settled, granted full freedom to enjoy its abundant blessings, save for one exception: the prohibition against approaching a specific tree. This tree, mentioned solely as "the tree" (shajarat) in the Quran, has been the subject of extensive speculation. Some have identified it as wheat, olive, apple, or even sexual desire, yet the text humorously rejects these interpretations, emphasising that the Quran mentions no other name. The tree, as a sealed secret in the garden of Divine wisdom, was placed solely to test Adam and Eve. To ascribe extraneous meanings such as "Ahl al-Bayt" or "knowledge" to it is akin to adorning a tree already complete in its simplicity with unnecessary branches and leaves.

The forbidden tree, like a mirror of Divine wisdom, was a test of human free will. Adherence to the Qurans apparent meaning spares us from baseless conjectures and guides us toward comprehending the truth.

Analysis and Quranic Correlations

This interpretation corresponds with the verse: "And you were not given of knowledge except a little." (Al-Isra: 85), which reminds of the limitations of human knowledge. Emphasis on the apparent meaning is an invitation to avoid unsupported interpretations and to adhere to the text of the Quran. The prohibition from approaching the tree serves as a warning for man to submit to Divine restrictions, much like a mariner humbles himself before the signs of a storm.

The settlement of Adam and Eve in Paradise symbolizes Divine boundless grace accompanied by a simple prohibition. This prohibition was not merely a test of obedience but an invitation to contemplate Divine boundaries. The enigmatic nature of the forbidden tree calls man to a deeper understanding of free will and responsibility.

Section Three: The Oppressors before Adam and the Concept of Injustice

The phrase "lest you be among the wrongdoers" in the previous verse raises questions regarding the existence of oppressors prior to Adam and Eve.

Key Verse and Translation