Surah Al-Shura, Ayah 11

Reflection

This verse establishes Allah as the Creator of the heavens and earth, then describes His wisdom in creating pairs (mates) among humans and animals for reproduction and continuation of species. The phrase "There is nothing like unto Him" (laysa kamithlihi shay') is one of the most important statements about Allah's uniqueness - He is absolutely incomparable to anything in creation. Despite being beyond comparison, He is "As-Sami'" (All-Hearing) and "Al-Basir" (All-Seeing), meaning He is aware of and responsive to His creation. This teaches that Allah is the ultimate Creator who designed the system of reproduction for species continuation, that Allah is absolutely unique and cannot be compared to anything, that despite His transcendence, Allah is intimately aware of His creation, and that the pairing system in creation reflects divine wisdom. This verse inspires awe at Allah's creative power while providing comfort in His awareness and care.