Al-Israa (The Night Journey)

68. “Do you then feel secure that He will not cause the shore to swallow you up, or send on you squall of pebbles? Then, you will not find a protector for yourselves.”

The annihilation of the former nations has been completed in various ways. The Lord has made the earth bury some of the violators and enemies, while He has made others drown at sea. Some have been stoned in landslip, and others have been perished in thunderbolts.

Therefore, the Lord is evermore capable of annihilation of the pagans. If today you are saved from a ship-wreck at sea, landing safely, do not feel to be safe in other circumstances, or that you are secure from future punishments.

This same feeling of security from chastisement provides grounds for our negligence and unruliness. Man is at Allah’s power whenever and wherever he is; whether be it at sea or on a dry land; makes no difference for Allah.

The verse says:

“Do you then feel secure that He will not cause the shore to swallow you up, or send on you squall of pebbles?…”

Therefore, Do you think that Allah is unable to inflict severe punishment on you, whether at sea or on land? Do you then feel safe if there is a tornado in which you get caught, stoning you to death? Such a chastisement is harsher than being drowned at sea.

Thus, why do you not look out for a protector to guard you off all dangers?

The verse concludes:

“…Then, you will not find a protector for yourselves.”