55:11
QURANHIVE
Ayah 55:11
فِيهَا فَاكِهَةٌ وَالنَّخْلُ ذَاتُ الْأَكْمَامِ

“Therein is fruit and palm trees possessing sheathed clusters”.

Language points and insights

فَاكِهَةٌ Faakihah

Eating for pleasure and delight (came to denote fruit in general).

  • Refers to what is enjoyed beyond mere sustenance.
  • Used for fruit in general due to the delight of their taste.
  • Applies to trees bearing fruits people enjoy for pleasure.
grapes figs pomegranates apples

النَّخْلُ An‑Nakhl

Palm-trees mentioned specifically after the general “fruit”.

  • An example of fruit trees, highlighted in particular.
  • Specified due to their particular importance to the Arabs.

ذَاتُ الْأَكْمَامِ Dhaat ul‑Akmaam

“Possessing covers and sheaths”.

  • Dates are enclosed in protective coverings before ripening.
  • These coverings are fibrous or leafy sheaths.
  • When they split, they reveal the fruit stalks upon which dates gradually ripen.
  • Sheathes and clusters hang down, evoking a colourful gift awaiting harvest.

Sheathed clusters: a visual progression

Protected stage

Before ripening, date clusters remain covered within fibrous or leafy sheaths.

Revealing stalks

As the sheath splits, the fruit stalks are exposed and dates begin their gradual ripening.

Gift-like beauty

Clusters hang down, presenting a colourful, gift-like image that enhances the palm’s natural beauty.

Structure: from general to specific

General mention

“Fruit” encompasses what is enjoyed for pleasure and delight.

Specific emphasis

“Palm-trees” are singled out due to their particular importance to the Arabs.

Insight emphasized

Beyond basic sustenance

Provision here highlights not only what nourishes and sustains, but also tastes and beauty that far exceed physical needs.

Ayah 11