of Nokounam, , Session (1911)
This treatise is a profound and systematic exploration of the exalted Quranic teachings, which, with a deep contemplation of the Divine verses, seeks to elucidate their sublime concepts. This work, utilising the verses of the Holy Quran and traditions, examines the spiritual, ethical, and social dimensions of Divine injunctions. Its structure is designed such that, whilst preserving the authenticity of the content, it presents the concepts in a coherent and lucid manner, employing an academic and scientific framework suitable for erudite audiences. Each section is devoted to reflection on one or more verses, enriched with precise analyses and semantic interconnections, thereby enhancing the intellectual and epistemological wealth of the reader. The objective of this work is not merely to clarify the apparent meanings of the verses, but rather to uncover the deeper layers and concealed mysteries within the Divine Word, which are presented to the reader through refined allegories and metaphors.
This section, connected to previous discussions regarding the punishment of misguided peoples, investigates the story of lis she-camel and the significance of Divine signs in guidance and retribution.
O my people, this is the she-camel of God, a sign for you; so let her feed upon God's earth and do not harm her, lest a near punishment seize you.
This verse, like a radiant torch, introduces lis she-camel as a Divine sign that emerged from the heart of the mountain, manifesting the marvel of creation. The Thamd people, who obstinately rejected lis invitation and denied the truth, demanded a sign through which they might be guided. Yet, this sign, like a mirror reflecting the truth, instead of guidance, led to their destruction. The she-camel was a Divine envoy embodying grandeur, purity, and sanctity. This sign is also instructive for those living in the era of occultation; for Divine messengers, despite their utmost greatness and purity, can become a source of turmoil and misguidance for those possessing limited spiritual capacity. Such individuals, due to arrogance and recklessness, stand opposed to these Divine proofs and step into the abyss of ruin. However, he who walks hand in hand with these lamps of guidance, akin to a traveller illuminated by the moonlight, attains recognition of God and servitude to Him. These signs, like a firm document, conclusively establish the proof upon humankind and justify punishment for the misguided.
This section presented lis she-camel as a Divine sign sent for the guidance of the Thamd people, but due to their obstinacy and arrogance, it led to their punishment. This story serves as a warning regarding the importance of accepting Divine signs and avoiding denial and conflict with the truth.
Continuing the examination of the story of the Thamd people, this section addresses their relative nobility and politeness towards li and the effect of these qualities on the delay of Divine punishment.
Then they hamstrung her, so he said, Enjoy yourselves in your homes for three days; this is a promise not to be denied.
This verse, like the curtain of a tragic drama, depicts the fate of the Thamd people who, despite their relative politeness towards their prophet, killed the Divine she-camel and thus deserved punishment. Unlike the peoples of N or Hd who treated their prophets with disrespect and mockery, the Thamd showed respect and decorum towards li. They did not accuse him of madness or sorcery but only doubted his message and said:
They said, O li, you were once a source of hope among us. Will you forbid us to worship what our fathers worshipped? Surely, we are in doubt concerning that to which you invite us; it is perplexing.
This politeness and nobility, like a flower among the thorns of misguidance, caused God to grant them three days respite in the hope that they might repent and be saved from punishment. This reprieve is a sign of Divine mercy that treats even sinners with honour. Yet, due to their frivolous thinking and heedlessness, the Thamd lost this opportunity and were subjected to Divine punishment:
