But, some interpreters have said that the Arabic word /wara/...

But, some interpreters have said that the Arabic word /wara/ has the meaning of 'behind' in some texts and of 'forward' in some others.' (1) In the next verse they are warned not to be proud of their strength, because it is Allah who gave it, and other faculties, to them so whenever He Wills He can take these back at once.

Look again at the sentiments of the verse: " It is We Who created them and strengthened their joints and when We Will, We can substitute the like of them (in their place) by a complete change". The term /asr/, in Arabic etymology, means: 'to fasten with a chain' and that is why 'captives' are called 'asir' in Arabic. In the old days, captives were fastened with chains.

But, here in this verse, 'asr' means 'to firm the joints' of Man which strengthens him to move about and enables him to carry out his activities, efficiently.

Certainly, the Qur'an has touched on a most fascinating point: 'firming the different joints of Man' , which consists of small and large nerves; connecting tissues that hind muscles to each other; rope-like (1) If the term /wara/ is added to the subject it means 'behind' and if is added to the object it means 'forward, front': (Ruh-al-Bayan, vol. 8, P. 439) ligaments and the various muscles themselves.

Small and large pieces of bone, clothed in flesh, comprise the body and are so uniquely tied together that it totally forms a complete unit (Man) , which is able to do almost anything. On the whole, the statement is about man's strength. This verse also makes it clear that Allah is self-sufficient (free from want) and is not in need of their faith and their obedience but, it is only to make them understand. If the verse insists on their faith, it is a grace from Allah's favor to them.

There is a similar sense in Sura An'am, No.6, verses 133, which says: 'And they Lord is self-sufficient', full of Mercy. if it were His Will, He could destroy you and in your place appoint whom He will as your successors....' The next verse covers the general idea which the Sura conveys and, on the whole, it is a complete program for the happiness of Man: "Surely this is an admonishment, that whosoever will, (taking this straight way) may take a path unto his Lord".

It is for Us to show you the Way. There is no compulsion on you to choose it. It is you, using your wisdom, that must distinguish between right and wrong and of your own free-will decide which way to follow.