Surah Al-Waqi'ah — Verse 70

Word Meanings:

• Ajajan (أُجَاجًا): Extremely salty or bitter water that is undrinkable and unsuitable for any use.
• Falawla (فَلَوْلَا): A phrase used to urge or encourage, meaning "Why do you not..." or "Would you not then..."

Tafsir (Explanation):

This verse continues Allah's profound reminders of His boundless mercy and power. After drawing our attention to the rain that falls from the clouds, giving life to the earth, Allah now poses a striking question: "If We willed, We could make this water intensely salty and bitter—so why do you not give thanks?"

Imagine for a moment: the same water that quenches your thirst, irrigates your crops, and sustains your very existence could easily be transformed into something utterly undrinkable. The One who sends it down as fresh, sweet, and pure has complete control over its nature. With a single command, it could become so salty that it would be harmful to every living thing—no human could drink it, no plant could grow with it, and no animal could survive on it.

This is not a distant possibility; it is a reality that Allah demonstrates in the oceans and seas that cover most of the earth. Yet, out of His infinite mercy and kindness, He provides you with fresh water for your daily needs. He did not have to do this. He could have made all water on earth salty, and you would have no choice but to suffer. But He chose to bless you instead.

The verse ends with a gentle yet powerful call: "So why do you not give thanks?" This is not merely a rhetorical question—it is an invitation to reflect, to open your heart, and to recognize the countless blessings that surround you every single day. When you drink a glass of cool, fresh water, do you pause to thank the One who made it possible? When you see rivers flowing and rain falling, do you remember that it is Allah who sustains you?

Gratitude is not just a word on the lips; it is a state of the heart that leads to action. When you truly appreciate Allah's blessings, you naturally turn to Him in worship, you obey His commands, and you use His gifts in ways that please Him. And Allah, in His generosity, promises to increase the blessings of those who are thankful.

So, dear reader, let this verse awaken within you a deep sense of appreciation. Your Lord did not have to make water fresh for you—but He did, out of His love and mercy. Will you not, then, be among those who remember, who thank, and who draw closer to Him? Indeed, the key to unlocking even greater blessings is the simple yet profound act of gratitude.