Is it wrong to interpret the word “thumma” in the verse with “rutb tarahi” (order of time)?

- Is it wrong for us to interpret the word thumma in the verse as rutb tarahi (order of time)?

Dear Brother / Sister,

The verse in question is as follows:

“Moreover, He comprehended in His design the sky, and it had been (as) smoke: He said to it and to the earth: ‘Come ye together, willingly or unwillingly.’ They said: ‘We do come (together), in willing obedience.’” (Fussilat, 41/11)

The word “thumma” in the verse does not mean tarahi/then (later). It serves to show the difference between the creation of the earth and the skies. (Baydawi, the interpretation of the verse in question)

Therefore, the word “moreover” was preferred in the translation instead of “then”.

The verb “i’tiya” meaning “come” has been interpreted differently in tafsirs:

a) This divine command has been interpreted as a metaphor in the sense of the divine command ensuring the creation of the skies and the earth (takwin) before they come into existence.

“For to anything which We have willed, We but say the word, “Be”, and it is.” (an-Nahl, 16/40)

That command, related to creation, is indicated in the verse above. (See Mawardi, Qurtubi, the interpretation of the verse in question)

b) According to the great majority of scholars, that divine command is in question after the creation of the skies and the earth. The explanations of the verse of those who support that view are concentrated on four points:

1) “O skies and earth! Obey us by moving along the path/orbits We have set for you.”

2) “O skies and earth! Know Me well and show your obedience to Me by fulfilling your duty properly.”

3) “O skies and earth! Obey Us willingly or unwillingly together with the beings within you.”

4) “Obey us in severity, in gentleness, in distress and ease, in hindering and allowing.” Thereupon, they said, ‘We will obey You willingly.’ Thus, the skies, the sun, the moon, and their stars, and the earth, with trees, rivers, and their products, came forth. (Mawardi, Mawardi, ibid)

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