(66) “In both are two gushing springs.” That is, two springs gushing forth.

“In both are fruit” of every variety, foremost among them dates and pomegranates, whose many benefits are well known.

“Within them”—that is, within all the gardens—“are virtuous and beautiful women”: excellent in character ⦗832⦘ and beautiful in face. Thus, they combine outward and inward beauty, beautiful form and excellent character.

“Fair maidens secluded in pavilions.” That is, they remain secluded in pavilions of pearl, having prepared and adorned themselves for their husbands. This does not preclude their going out into the orchards and meadows of Paradise, as is customary for the daughters of kings and other [sheltered], modest women.

“No human or jinn has touched them before. Which, then, of your Lord’s blessings will you both deny? Reclining on green spreads”—that is, the inhabitants of these two gardens will recline upon green spreads. These are furnishings laid above (1) the elevated couches and extending beyond them, thus forming a drape behind their couches that adds splendor and beauty to the scene—“and beautiful fine carpets.” The expression refers to every fabric that is beautifully and sumptuously woven. They are therefore described as beautiful in a comprehensive sense because of their fine workmanship, beautiful appearance, and soft texture.

These two gardens are lower in rank than the first two, as Allah expressly states: “Below these are two other gardens.” He also described the first two with several qualities that He did not ascribe to the latter two. Of the first two, He said, “In both are two flowing springs,” whereas of the latter two He said, “Two gushing springs.” The difference between flowing and gushing is well known.

Of the first two, He said, “Both with spreading branches,” but He did not say this of the latter two. Of the first two, He said, “In both are two kinds of every fruit,” whereas of the latter two He said, “In both are fruit, date palms, and pomegranates.” The disparity between the two descriptions is evident.

Of the first two, He said, “They will recline upon couches whose linings are of rich brocade, and the fruit of both gardens will be within easy reach.” He did not say this of the latter two, but instead said, “Reclining on green spreads and beautiful fine carpets.”

Of the first two, in describing their women and consorts, He said, “Within them are women who restrain their gaze, untouched before them by any human or jinn.” Of the latter two, He said, “Fair maidens secluded in pavilions.” The disparity between the two is evident.

Of the first two (2), He said, “Is the reward for excellence anything but excellence?” This indicates that the first two are the reward of those who excel in goodness. He did not say this of the latter two.

The mere fact that the first two are mentioned before the latter two also indicates their superiority.

These considerations establish the superiority of the first two gardens over the latter two. The former are prepared for those brought near among the prophets, the steadfast affirmers of truth, and the select righteous servants of Allah, whereas the latter are prepared for the believers in general. Each of the [aforementioned] gardens contains what no eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no human heart has ever conceived. Within them is whatever souls desire and eyes delight in. Their inhabitants enjoy the utmost comfort, contentment, tranquility, and the finest abode, to the extent that each (3) of them sees no one in a better state than himself, nor any bliss greater than [that which he enjoys].

After mentioning the vastness of His bounty and beneficence, He said, “Blessed is the name of your Lord, Possessor of Majesty and Honor.” That is, He is supremely exalted and His goodness is abundant. To Him belong awe-inspiring majesty, perfect glory, and the honoring of His allies.

Thus ends the commentary on Surah al-Rahmān. To Allah belong all praise, gratitude, and fair commendation.