Tafsir of An-Naba' 78:8

Surah An-Naba' (The Tidings): Verse 8

"And We created you in pairs (or as spouses)."

There are two established opinions regarding the meaning of this verse:

1. The first opinion: It refers specifically to the male and the female, as stated in the verse: "And that He created the two mates, the male and the female" (An-Najm: 45).
2. The second opinion: It refers to every pair and every set of opposites: the ugly and the beautiful, the tall and the short, and all corresponding opposites. This is supported by the verse: "And of everything We created pairs" (Adh-Dhariyat: 49).

This concept of creating things in pairs is a clear proof of the perfection of His Power and the ultimate extent of His Wisdom. This duality is necessary for the validity of divine testing and trial. Thus, the favored individual is commanded to show gratitude (Shukr), and the less favored is commanded to show patience (Sabr).

Furthermore, the true nature of everything becomes known through its opposite. For instance, a person only recognizes the value of youth when old age arrives, and only recognizes the security of safety when experiencing fear. This contrast serves to make the blessings (Ni'am) more profoundly known.

"And We made your sleep a rest (or repose)."