Surah Ash-Shura — Verse 49

Word Meanings:

• Mulk (مُلْكُ): Absolute dominion, ownership, and sovereign authority.
• Yahabu (يَهَبُ): He grants, bestows, or gives as a gift.
• Ināthan (إِنَاثًا): Female offspring.
• Al-Dhukūr (الذُّكُورَ): Male offspring.

Tafsir (Explanation):

To Allah alone belongs the absolute sovereignty and dominion over the heavens and the earth and everything within them. He is the Sole Owner, the Disposer of all affairs, and nothing escapes His authority. He creates whatever He wills, in whatever form, shape, or manner He chooses, without any restriction or obligation from anyone. His creative power is limitless, and His wisdom is perfect.

From this boundless authority, He grants female children to whom He wills, and He grants male children to whom He wills. He may bless some parents with daughters only, others with sons only, and still others with both sons and daughters together. And He may leave some people barren, with no children at all. In all of this, there is no one who can question His decision, object to His choice, or challenge His wisdom. He does as He pleases, and His judgment is absolute.

This verse carries a profound message of humility and submission to the Divine will. How often do human beings become anxious or disappointed over the gender of a child, or over the inability to have children? Yet, the Creator, in His infinite wisdom, knows what is best for each soul. He distributes His gifts according to His perfect knowledge and mercy, not according to human whims or preferences.

Dear believer, reflect on this: the One who grants you a child — whether male or female — is the same One who created you, sustains you, and knows what will bring you true happiness in this life and the next. A daughter is not a burden; she is a blessing and a means of drawing closer to Allah. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: "Whoever has three daughters, or three sisters, and treats them well, will enter Paradise." So do not let the customs of ignorance make you despise what Allah has chosen for you.

And if you have been blessed with children, remember that they are a trust from Allah. If you have been tested with infertility, know that Allah’s wisdom is greater than your desires, and His plan for you may be even more beautiful. Perhaps He wants you to devote your heart entirely to Him, or perhaps He has chosen to reward you with something far greater in the Hereafter.

So, O servant of Allah, submit to His decree with contentment, and trust in His wisdom. For He is All-Knowing of what He creates, and All-Capable of everything He wills. Nothing is impossible for Him, and no one can alter His decision. Indeed, in His perfect management of creation lies the greatest sign for those who reflect and the greatest comfort for those who believe.