Transliteration:( Wa ja'alnaa fil ardi rawaasiya an tameeda bihim wa ja'alnaa feehaa fijaajan subulal la'allahum yahtadoon )
"And We put anchors [46] in the earth lest it should shake with them, and We made therein wide pathways so that they may be guided."
In this verse, Allah describes mountains as "anchors" (rawasi) placed upon the earth to prevent it from shaking.
Just as anchors keep a ship stable and grounded, mountains stabilize the earth's surface.
This has been interpreted by some classical scholars to mean that the earth is stationary and that the mountains stop it from moving.
However, modern understanding sees this as referring to tectonic stability—mountains help balance the earth's crust, preventing violent tremors.
Allah also mentions the creation of broad paths and routes within the earth—valleys, rivers, roads—so people may be guided in travel, settlement, and migration.
These pathways also metaphorically guide people to reflect on the Creator’s wisdom, and to be led toward faith.
Thus, the verse combines a physical reality (geography) with a spiritual lesson—recognizing Allah’s precision in design should lead to belief.
The tafsir of Surah Anbiya verse 31 by Ibn Kathir is unavailable here.
Please refer to Surah Anbiya ayat 30 which provides the complete commentary from verse 30 through 33.
(21:31) And We placed firm mountains on earth lest it should sway with them,[30] and We made wide paths[31] in them that they may find their way;[32]
30. For explanation, see (Surah An-Nahl, ayat 15) note 12.
31. “Broad highways” are the passes between high mountains and the valleys and ravines made by the rivers in the mountainous regions and other natural ways that connect different regions on the earth.
32. This is a very meaningful sentence. It may mean that the people may find paths for traveling on the earth, and it may also mean that the wisdom that underlies the skill and the system of their creation may guide them to the reality.
For a faster and smoother experience,
install our mobile app now.
Related Ayat(Verses)/Topics