If you doubt this or harbor misgivings, then travel throughout the land and observe what became of those who denied the truth. You will find only peoples who were destroyed and nations that perished under exemplary punishments. Their dwellings stand desolate, emptied of them, and every inhabitant who once enjoyed their pleasures has vanished from those abodes. The Almighty Sovereign annihilated them, and what they had built became a lesson for people of insight.

The journey commanded here is a journey of both hearts and bodies, one that gives rise to reflection and the taking of heed. Merely looking without taking heed, however, is of no benefit.

(12) “Say, ‘To whom belongs all that is in the heavens and on earth?’ Say, ‘To Allah.’ He has prescribed mercy for Himself. He will surely gather you together on the Day of Resurrection, about which there is no doubt. Those who have lost themselves will not believe.”

Allah Almighty says to His Prophet—peace and blessings be upon him—“Say” to these polytheists who associate partners with Allah, establishing the proof against them and compelling them to affirm His oneness: “To whom belongs all that is in the heavens and on earth?” That is, who created it, owns it, and governs it?

“Say” to them, “To Allah.” They acknowledge this and do not deny it. Since they admit that Allah alone possesses sovereignty and governance, should they not also acknowledge that sincere worship and monotheism are due to Him alone?