(1–6) “In the name of Allah, the Most Compassionate, the Most Merciful. By the winds that scatter far and wide, * and the clouds bearing a heavy load, * and the stars gliding with ease, * and the angels distributing affairs, * surely what you are promised is true, * and surely the Judgment will come to pass.”

This is an oath from Allah—who is truthful in His speech—by these magnificent created things, in which He has placed such benefits and uses as He has willed, affirming that His promise is true and that the Judgment—the Day of Recompense and reckoning for deeds—will inevitably come to pass, with nothing able to avert it. When the Great and Truthful One has announced it, sworn to it, and established its proofs and evidence, why, then, do the deniers reject it, and why do those who should prepare for it turn away from doing so?

What is meant by the scatterers is the winds, which scatter things as they blow—sometimes gently and mildly, and at other times powerfully and with driving force.

“And the clouds bearing a heavy load” refers to the clouds, which carry abundant water through which Allah benefits the lands and His servants.

“And the stars gliding with ease” refers to the stars, which move smoothly and easily. The heavens are adorned by them, people use them for guidance in the darkness of land and sea, and reflection upon them brings benefit.

“And the angels distributing affairs” refers to the angels who distribute and administer affairs by Allah’s permission. Allah has assigned each of them to administer some matter of this world or the Hereafter. None goes beyond what has been decreed for him or the bounds and duties laid down for him, nor does he fall short of them.