Al-Wāqiʿah – Verse 30

وَظِلٍّ مَمدودٍ

And an extended shade.

EXPOSITION

Extended shade represents the optimal condition and the maximum comfort that is to be found in paradise. It may also signify the concealment and covering of their sins and mistakes. They will be under the extended shade of God’s mercy on a day where there is no shade but God’s, which will be a blissful and pleasant state in which God’s special mercy and compassion overshadowing and embracing one from every side will be felt.[1] Such an honourable shade is for those who conceal the errors of others in this world. The extended shade of the heavenly trees is for those who provide a shade and shelter for the homeless and needy in this world, extend their help to the servants of God, and strive to reach their highest potentials. These are some examples of how one might qualify for such blessings. They will find comfort in a shade of God’s mercy that never falls short, neither does it vanish, and nor does it expire.[2]

[1] Sadra, 7/49.
[2] Kashif, 7/222-223.