You step outside in the early morning and feel the cool morning breeze brushing gently across your face. You whisper, SubhanAllah, this feels amazing.
The way the wind rustles through the trees, moves the leaves, and carries the scent of freshness, it feels so natural, so peaceful, that we begin to assume this calmness is the default state of the world. We take it for granted, believing the gentle wind will always remain just as it is.
But when we reflect upon Surah Al-Mursalat, we learn that this breeze is far from ordinary. It is, in fact, one of Allah’s powerful signs.
The Oaths of Allah in Surah Al-MursalatAllah begins this surah with a series of oaths:
Surah Al-Mursalat Ayah 1
The word Mursalat comes from arsala—to release. And ‘urf refers to the flowing hair along the back of a horse’s neck.
Imagine a wild horse, untamed and free. Unlike trained horses, wild ones have no saddles or reins. To control them, a rider must grasp the hair at the back of their neck. When that hold is released, the horse bolts forward with unrestrained power, running wildly in every direction.
Allah uses this powerful image to describe something being set loose—released with purpose and speed, just like the wild horses—swift, unstoppable, and full of energy.
The scholars of tafsir offer various interpretations of these verses, but one of the most compelling is that Allah is swearing by the winds—those sent out swiftly across the earth.
The Power of the WindsIn the next verses, Allah describes these winds in layers:
“By the winds that blow violently…”
Here, ‘asifāt refers to intense, storming winds, winds so strong that they can tear and uproot, shaving away anything weak in their path. Think of a tornado or a hurricane—forces of nature that no human power can withstand.Then Allah shifts the tone:
“And by those that scatter far and wide…”
The same winds that can destroy also bring life. They scatter pollen, carry clouds, and deliver rain. Through them, Allah distributes His rizq. Some lands are blessed with rainfall, while others are left dry, all according to His perfect wisdom and decree.
The wind is both a giver, a taker and a destroyer all by Allah’s command.
The Message Behind the WindWhy does Allah swear by the winds?
Because they embody both His mercy and might. He reminds us through this contrast that what we experience as a calm breeze is actually His restraint at work.
“those delivering a reminder. As a proof or a warning—surely, what you are promised will come to pass.”
Every time the wind brushes against your skin, it is not just weather; it’s a reminder. A reminder that Allah is in full control, holding back what could easily become destruction. If He were to release it completely—just as one lets go of a horse’s mane—the consequences would be instant and severe.
A Moment of ReflectionSo, who are we to walk arrogantly upon this earth?
We build, plan, and boast of our strength, yet the very air we breathe could turn against us by Allah’s command. The winds are among Allah’s soldiers—obedient, precise, and ever-present. With a single command, they can nurture or annihilate.
Don’t be deceived by the calm.
Don’t mistake delay for denial.
What Allah has promised—the Day of Judgment—will come to pass. Just as the wind moves unseen yet certain, so too is the coming of that Day inevitable and unstoppable.
