Surah Al-Kahf

Chapter 18 · Verse 89 · Revealed in Makkah

ثُمَّ أَتْبَعَ سَبَبًا

Then he followed a way

Translation: Saheeh International

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Mishary Rashid Alafasy

Reflection — Ibn Kathir

His Journey East

Allah tells us that Dhul-Qarnayn then traveled from the west of the earth towards the east. Every time he passed a nation, he subjugated the people and called them to Allah. If they obeyed him, all well and good, otherwise he would humiliate them and take their wealth and possessions. From every nation he took what his armies needed to fight the next nation. When he reached the place where the sun rises, as Allah says,

وَجَدَهَا تَطْلُعُ عَلَى قَوْمٍ

Reflection — Maarif ul Quran

Commentary

The Holy Qur'an does describe this state of the people Dhul-Qarnain found living towards the East meaning thereby that they were not accustomed to the use of ways and means like houses, tents and dresses to seek protection against the Sun. But, it does not mention anything about their faith and deeds, nor does it say what Dhul-Qarnain did to them.

What does this verse bring up for you today?

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