Q: While reciting the Qur'an, I came across the noble Ayah: Do they not look at the camels, how they are created? And at the heaven, how it is raised? (Part No. 3; Page No. 461) What is the wisdom behind the mention of camels before other things? What are the traits that distinguish these species of animals from other animals? We know that Allah raises the mighty heavens without supporting pillars. What then, is so peculiar about this animal?

A: These Qur'anic Ayahs (verses) have been mentioned after the following Ayahs: Has there come to you the narration of the overwhelming (i.e. the Day of Resurrection)? It indicates the resurrection that will take place on the Day of Judgment. These Ayahs also confirm Allah's ability to resurrect creation after death and call them to account for their actions. One who is capable of creating camels in this amazing fashion, raising heavens without visible pillars, placing stake-like mountains which are firmly set in earth, so that it may not shake under the feet of creation, and spreading out the earth so that it becomes fit for life is indeed capable of raising mankind and all other living beings from the dead.The mention of camels precedes other created things, for they have been made subservient to mankind who mount them for great distances in the desert and load them with heavy burdens to remote places which they cannot reach except with great hardship. In addition to their ability to live off a small amount of food and to resist thirst, camels are naturally docile animals easily mounted by the old and the young. As camels sit down and rise easily, people ride them and carry great burdens on their backs, etc. The marvelous creation of a camel's bones enables it to carry (Part No. 3; Page No. 462) heavy burdens. The marvelous length of its neck helps it rise and walk smoothly carrying heavy burdens. Camels also have hooves that help them walk smoothly in regions where other hoofed animals may falter. There are many wonders in the creation of camels which people have yet to discover. Praised be Allah, Who creates camels in such a distinctive manner and made them strong and great, yet tractable to His servants and a means of bringing benefit to them.May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and companions!