ভূমিকা

Three aspects make up every simile: the first entity, the second entity (which is being compared to the first) and the similitude between the two. However, the important point in order to appreciate the eloquence of the speaker or the skill employed in constructing the imagery contained in the phrase is to understand the similitude correctly, because the reason for using the simile to convey the intended meaning is embedded in the type of similitude that has been used.

Especially in the case of Divine revelation and the Qur’anic verses, which are precise and full of meaning, it is important to ponder more carefully about the various aspects of similarity between the two objects which are being used in a simile, in order to uncover even more of the fascinating secrets contained in God’s words and to enable man to imbibe from the limitless oceans of God’s knowledge to the extent of his own capacity.

In their exegesis of this verse, the eminent commentators of the Qur’an have explained that the basis of the similitude is the swarming of mankind out their graves and scattering out into the plains of the place of gathering ( mahshar ), because of the momentous advent of the day of Judgement. That explosive event will be heralded by the destruction of the universe and the abrupt collapse of the cosmic order and the emergence of mankind from their graves.

It will be such a terrifying and dreadful event that men will scatter in confusion and disperse aimlessly just like locusts when they swarm out of their larvae. They will begin to move, but not consciously towards any destination.