Surah Ar-Rahman — Verse 25

Word Meanings:

• آلَاء (Ālā’): The countless blessings, favors, and bounties of Allah.
• رَبِّكُمَا (Rabbikumā): Your Lord — addressed to both mankind and jinn (the two creations mentioned throughout this surah).
• تُكَذِّبَانِ (Tukadhdhibān): You both deny or reject (i.e., you call it a lie).

Explanation of the Verse:

This verse is a powerful rhetorical question that Allah repeats throughout Surah Ar-Rahman, addressing both humans and jinn together: "So which of the favors of your Lord do you both deny?"

The context here follows the mention of Allah's blessings in creating the means of travel and transportation — the ships that sail through the sea and the guidance given to humanity to build and navigate them. Allah reminds both mankind and jinn that He is the One who created the materials for ships, taught humans how to construct them, and set the oceans in motion for their benefit. He also guided them to use these vessels for trade, travel, and connecting with one another across vast distances.

The question is not asked because Allah needs an answer — rather, it is a gentle yet profound rebuke that awakens the conscience. It challenges every soul: after all these visible and invisible blessings, how can anyone still deny the existence, unity, or mercy of their Creator? How can anyone use these very blessings to disobey the One who gave them?

This verse carries a deep call to reflection. Every time you board a ship, a plane, or any means of transport, remember that it is Allah who made it possible. Every wave that carries you safely, every wind that fills the sails, every engine that runs — all are from His mercy. The question echoes in the heart of every believer: with such overwhelming evidence of His love and care, what excuse remains for denial?

A Call to Reflection and Gratitude:

Dear reader, pause for a moment. Look at the world around you — the seas, the skies, the earth beneath your feet. Every single blessing you enjoy, from the air you breathe to the technology you use, is a gift from your Lord. He did not create these things for you to forget Him, but to remember Him. He did not grant you these favors so you could become arrogant, but so you could be grateful.

The verse gently invites you to count His blessings — and you will find they are too many to number. So let your heart answer this divine question with humility and love: "O our Lord, we do not deny any of Your favors. We acknowledge them all, and to You belongs all praise and gratitude." Let this acknowledgment transform your life into one of continuous thankfulness, worship, and obedience — for the One who blessed you so generously deserves nothing less than your complete devotion.