Surah Al-Kahf — Verse 92

Word Meanings:

• ثُمَّ (Thumma): Then, indicating a sequence of events.
• أَتْبَعَ (Atba'a): He followed or pursued, meaning he took a path or route.
• سَبَبًا (Sababan): A means, cause, or way — here referring to a road, route, or passage between two regions.

Explanation of the Verse:

After Dhul-Qarnayn had completed his journey to the far west, where he witnessed the sun setting over a murky spring, and then his journey to the far east, where he saw the sun rising over a people who had no shelter from it, Allah tells us that he then followed another means — a third route. This was a path that lay between the east and the west, running from the south toward the north. It was a new direction, a fresh phase of his mission, as he continued his travels with the power and resources Allah had granted him.

This verse highlights the relentless determination of Dhul-Qarnayn. He did not stop after two great expeditions; rather, he pressed on, seeking to explore more lands, encounter more peoples, and extend justice and aid wherever he went. His journey was not aimless wandering — it was purposeful, guided by divine wisdom, and driven by a sincere desire to establish righteousness on earth.

A Call to Reflection and Action:

Dear reader, see how this righteous servant of Allah used the blessings given to him — power, knowledge, and means — not for selfish gain, but to serve humanity and uphold justice. He traveled tirelessly, facing unknown lands and peoples, all for the sake of fulfilling his duty to Allah. This teaches us a profound lesson: whatever abilities, wealth, or influence Allah has granted us, we should use them in ways that benefit others and draw us closer to Him. Let us not become complacent after a single achievement; rather, let us keep striving, keep learning, and keep serving — for the path of goodness has no final stop. And remember, every step you take for the sake of Allah, whether big or small, is witnessed by Him and will never be lost.