“By the sky, full of perfectly formed paths.” (7)

“By the scattering winds that scatter”: that is, the winds which scatter the dust far and wide. One says: “The wind scattered the dust.”

“By the clouds bearing heavy loads”: that is, the clouds carrying a heavy burden of water.

“By the ships sailing with ease”: these are the ships that sail smoothly upon the water.

“By the angels distributing affairs”: these are the angels who distribute matters among created beings as they have been commanded. He swore by these things because they point to His workmanship and power.

He then mentioned that which was sworn to, saying: “Indeed, what you are promised”—of reward and punishment—“is true. And the Judgment”—the reckoning and requital—“will surely come to pass,” that is, it will certainly occur. He then began another oath, saying:

“By the sky, full of perfectly formed paths.” Ibn Abbas, Qatadah, and Ikrimah said: it is possessed of beautiful, harmonious formation. When a weaver weaves a garment skilfully, it is said: “How fine is its weaving!” Sa'id ibn Jubayr said: it is adorned. Al-Hasan said: it has been woven with stars. Mujahid said: it is of firmly perfected construction. Muqatil, al-Kalbi, and al-Dahhak said: it is full of paths.