any creature that people are not in the habit of riding—such as cattle. Some scholars maintained that this is permissible so long as it does not overburden the animal; others said it is not permissible, because the animal was not created for that purpose. The correct view is that it is permissible and that there is no objection to riding an animal that is not commonly used for riding, provided the rider does not cause it hardship. If hardship results, then it is prohibited.

Concerning the Almighty’s words, “so that you may sit secure on their backs” ⦗Q 43:13⦘, the preposition lam may indicate purpose or eventual outcome. In other words, He has provided mounts for us so that we might be able to settle firmly on their backs; He did not make them so awkward or narrow that a person could neither sit nor keep his balance on them. Rather, one sits steadily upon them—something clearly observable with cars, ships, airplanes, docile camels, and the like.

He then says, “and remember your Lord’s favor when you are so seated” ⦗Q 43:13⦘—meaning: once you are settled, you recall Allah’s blessing in having made easy for you the livestock He created and the vessels He taught you to build, and you say, “Glory be to Him who has subjected this to us; we could never have done it on our own. Surely to our Lord we shall return.” ⦗Q 43:13–14⦘

One might have thought that a person would say, “Praise be to Allah who has subjected this to us,” yet he is commanded instead to say, “Glory be to Him who has subjected this to us.” Why? Because the word subḥān signifies declaring Allah’s transcendence—affirming that He is above all need and free of every deficiency. When a person mounts these vessels and beasts, he feels his dependence upon them in meeting his needs; therefore, he glorifies Allah, who Himself is utterly free of any need.