Surah Yasin — Verse 80

Word Meanings:

• Al-Shajar al-Akhdar (الشَّجَرِ الْأَخْضَرِ): The green, fresh tree full of moisture and life.
• Nāran (نَارًا): Fire, the blazing flame.
• Tūqidūn (تُوقِدُونَ): You kindle, ignite, or light a fire.

Explanation of the Verse:

This verse continues the magnificent argument for the resurrection and the infinite power of Allah, may He be exalted. Allah, the Most High, reminds us of one of His awe-inspiring signs: He, the Almighty, has placed fire within green, moist wood. From the fresh, living tree—full of sap and water—you strike a spark and kindle a blazing fire. You see the green branch, dripping with moisture, yet when you rub two pieces together or use them as fuel, fire bursts forth from it. This is a miracle of divine power: the combination of two opposites—the cold, wet nature of the green tree and the hot, burning nature of fire—within a single creation.

The scholars have noted that this refers to the practice of producing fire from specific trees, such as the *marakh* and *af'ar* trees, which were known in the Arabian Peninsula. When their green branches were rubbed together, fire would spark by Allah's permission. This demonstrates that Allah, who created fire from a moist, green source, is capable of bringing the dead back to life from the earth, just as He brings forth fire from a living tree. He is the One who brings forth the opposite from its opposite: life from death, and death from life, and fire from moisture.

This is a profound proof of Allah's oneness and His perfect power. If He can create such a wonder in the natural world—something you witness with your own eyes every day—then how can you doubt His ability to resurrect the dead from their graves? The One who created fire from green wood is certainly able to revive dry bones and bring forth living souls from lifeless bodies.

A Call to Reflection and Faith:

Dear reader, pause and reflect on this simple yet astonishing miracle. You light a fire from wood without ever wondering: how did fire come to dwell within this green branch? Who placed this hidden flame inside the moist tree? It is Allah, the All-Wise, the All-Powerful. This is not a random act of nature; it is a sign pointing to the Creator, inviting you to know Him and to trust in His promise of resurrection.

Let this verse strengthen your faith and fill your heart with awe. The same Allah who makes fire spring from green wood is the One who will raise you from your grave on the Day of Judgment. So turn to Him in gratitude and obedience, for He is the Most Merciful, the Most Compassionate, and His promise is true. Embrace Islam with a sincere heart, and let the signs of Allah guide you to the straight path—a path of light, peace, and eternal success.