Surah An-Nahl (16) — Ayah 79
Translation by Dr. Muhammad Muhsin Khan & Dr. Taqi-ud-Din al-Hilali
Word by Word — Arabic, Transliteration & Meaning
Tafsir al-Quran al-Karim — Hafiz Abdus Salam Bin Muhammad Bhutvi
Tafsir al-Quran al-Karim is a 4-volume Quran commentary by Hafiz Abdus Salam bin Muhammad Bhutvi, a renowned Salafi (Ahl al-Hadith) scholar and Sheikh ul-Hadith from Pakistan. Based on over 45 years of teaching and research, this tafsir follows the methodology of Tafsir bil-Ma'thur — interpreting the Quran through authentic Hadith, statements of the Companions, and the understanding of the early generations (Salaf). It is distinguished by its complete avoidance of Israeliyyat (Judeo-Christian narratives) and unverified reports. The tafsir is originally written in Urdu, translated to English by tohed.com.
The plural of {وُقُوْفًا بِهَا صَحْبِيْ عَلَيَّ مَطِيَّهُمْ ¤ يَقُوْلُوْنَ لَا تَهْلِكْ أَسًي وَ تَجَمَّلِ ¤ ’’رَاكِبٌ ‘‘} is {’’رَكْبٌ‘‘}, the {’’شَرْبٌ‘‘} of {’’شَارِبٌ‘‘}, and the {’’سَفْرٌ‘‘} of {’’سَافِرٌ‘‘}, etc. Have these polytheists not reflected on the birds flying between the sky and the earth? Who is the Being Who made the structure of their wings, arms, and tails suitable for flying, and Who holds them up from falling while they fly between the earth and the sky? Let any claimant come forward, yet they continue to associate partners with Allah. Truly, only those people benefit from these signs who, when they understand something, accept it. For those who are not willing to accept, every sign is useless. See also Surah Al-Mulk (19).
Tafsir Ahsan al-Bayan — Hafiz Salahuddin Yusuf
Tafsir Ahsan al-Bayan is a well-known Quran commentary by Hafiz Salahuddin Yusuf, a renowned Salafi (Ahl al-Hadith) scholar from Pakistan. This tafsir explains the meanings of the Quran in accordance with the methodology of the Salaf (early righteous generations), relying on authentic sources and straightforward language. Due to its reliability and adherence to sound Islamic scholarship, the Saudi government publishes and distributes this tafsir among the Hujjaj (pilgrims) visiting the Haramain. The tafsir is originally written in Urdu, translated to English by tohed.com.
Tafsir Taiseer ul-Quran — Maulana Abdul Rahman Kilani
Tafsir Taiseer ul-Quran (Facilitation of the Quran) is a comprehensive Quran commentary by Maulana Abdul Rahman Kilani, a renowned Salafi (Ahl al-Hadith) scholar from Pakistan. Known for his eloquent and accessible writing style, Kilani authored this tafsir with a focus on clarity — making Quranic meanings understandable to the common reader. The tafsir provides detailed historical context for verses related to battles and expeditions, and firmly refutes modernist ideologies using strong scriptural evidence. It is widely regarded as an invaluable resource for understanding the Quran and countering deviant interpretations. The tafsir is originally written in Urdu, translated to English by tohed.com.
[80]
The Structure of Birds That Float and Move in the Air:
Nothing can remain suspended in the air; due to the subtlety of the air and the gravitational pull of the earth, it falls to the ground. But Allah Almighty has established such a balance in the structure of the birds’ wings and tails that neither does the earth’s gravity pull them down, nor does the subtlety of the air cause them to fall, and they move about freely in the atmosphere. Moreover, they do not even need to learn this skill. All these things have been placed in their nature. When birds begin to fly, they flap and spread their wings. Then, when they reach the air, it is not necessary for them to keep their wings spread at all times. They also fold them, yet they do not fall. Man, by reflecting on the flight and structure of birds, has invented the airplane. But the Being who has made such natural laws by which birds or airplanes fly in the air—man has made no effort to attain the recognition of that Being.
[81]
The Reliance of Birds and Their Setting Out:
After mentioning the eyes, ears, and heart, the mention of birds also points to the fact that every living being, using these three things, strives for its livelihood—both humans and birds. No one brings anything from their mother’s womb. Now, as for humans, their condition is such that they become so engrossed in earning a livelihood and worldly affairs that these very things become obstacles for them in believing in Allah and remaining obedient to Him. Whereas their sustenance is the responsibility of Allah. In this regard, birds are far better than humans. Thus, Sayyiduna Umarؓ says that the Messenger of Allah ﷺ said: “If you rely on Allah as He deserves to be relied upon, you would be provided for as the birds are provided for. They go out in the morning with empty stomachs and return in the evening with their bellies full.” [ترمذی، ابواب الزہد۔ باب ماجاء فی الزہادۃ فی الدینا]
