ʿĀDIYĀT (عاديات)
Definition and Context
ʿĀDIYĀT (عاديات), translated as “Swift Horses” or “Snorting Chargers,” is the title of the 100th Sūrah (chapter) of the Qurʾān. This chapter is composed of 11 verses (āyāt) and primarily focuses on themes of divine retribution and the consequences of human ingratitude and disobedience.
Etymology
The term ʿĀDIYĀT is derived from the Arabic root ʿ-D-W (ع-د-و), which generally conveys meanings related to running or rushing forth. The term عاديات specifically refers to entities that are racing or galloping swiftly, often used to describe warhorses in the context of the sūrah.
Arabic Translation
- Arabic: عاديات
- Transliteration: ʿĀDIYĀT
Verses and Translation
The second verse of the Sūrah emphasizes the imagery of swift horses:
Qur’anic Verse:
بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم
والعاديات ضبحا
فالموريات قدحا
Translation: “In the name of Allah, the Most Compassionate, the Most Merciful. By the swift chargers, and those who strike fire with their hoofs.”
Translations and Interpretations
- Professor Palmer’s Translation: “By the snorting chargers.”
Significance in Islam
Sūrah al-ʿĀdiyāt serves as a vivid reminder of the power and swiftness with which divine events can unfold. The imagery of galloping horses is used to signify the rapid and transformative might of God’s decrees, particularly focusing on the suddenness and intensity of the Day of Judgment.
Books for Further Studies
- “The Qur’an: A New Translation” by M.A.S. Abdel Haleem.
- “An Accessible Exegesis: A Translation of al-Jalalayn” by Jalaal al-Din al-Mahalli and Jalaal al-Din al-Suyuti.
- “Tafsir al-Jalalayn” by Jalal al-Din al-Mahalli and Jalal al-Din al-Suyuti.
- “The Study Quran: A New Translation and Commentary” by Seyyed Hossein Nasr.
- “A Thematic Commentary on the Qur’an” by Muhammad al-Ghazali.
Takeaways
- Symbolism: ʿĀdiyāt serves as a potent symbol of speed and force in executing divine commands.
- Divine Reminder: The sūrah functions as a reminder of the immediate and final consequences awaiting those who turn away from righteousness.
- Literary Excellence: The vivid imagery used in the chapter highlights the profound and expressive nature of Qur’anic revelations.
Conclusion
Sūrah al-ʿĀdiyāt (عاديات) is an evocative chapter of the Qurʾān that employs the metaphor of swift horses to convey messages of divine power, the imminence of judgment, and the fate awaiting those who neglect their spiritual responsibilities. The imagery invokes reflection on the rapidity of divine justice, emphasizing the importance of righteous living and humility before God’s omnipotence.
