Al-Ghashiyah (88): (7) It neither nourishes nor...

Grammatical Note: The phrase is either in the nominative case (as a description of the state) or genitive (as an adjective for food or ḍarīʿ [a type of thorny plant]).

Regarding the Meaning (Tafsir), there are three perspectives:

1. It is not of the nature of human food: This is because ḍarīʿ is a type of thorn. While camels graze on some thorns, this specific type is repulsive to them. Therefore, the two benefits of nourishment are negated: relieving hunger and providing strength and fatness to the body.

2. They have no food at all: Because ḍarīʿ is not food even for beasts, let alone humans. Food is that which satiates and fattens, and ḍarīʿ is devoid of both qualities. This is similar to saying, "So-and-so has no shade except the sun," meaning an absolute negation of shade, used for emphasis.

3. A historical context: It is narrated that the disbelievers of Quraysh claimed, "Our camels fatten up on ḍarīʿ." In response, this verse was revealed: {It neither nourishes nor does it suffice against hunger}.
   • If they were lying to argue obstinately, their statement is refuted by denying both nourishment and satiety.
   • If they were truthful, the meaning is that their food is ḍarīʿ, but it is not the ḍarīʿ that fattens or suffices against hunger; rather, it is a ḍarīʿ that lacks these qualities.

Al-Qadi [Al-Baqillani] stated: It is obligatory for all their food to not suffice against hunger because satiety is a benefit and kindness, which is not permissible in punishment.

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