In this issue, we will take a closer look at why the creation of the camel is of such significance, as we are asked to do in the 17th verse of Surah Al-Gashiya: “Do they not look at the Camels, how they are made?” The most striking feature of the camel is the rather unusual and interesting shape of its body. Created in such a way so that it can survive through the most adverse of conditions, the camel can go for days without water and food while still carrying hundreds of pounds on its back. All this, as it trudges alongside its owner across difficult desert terrains with fine, sinking sand through scorching days and freezing nights. The camel has always been a symbol of the desert, a staple of life in such regions of the world. But most people are ignorant to the true nature of the camel as well as to some of the incredible adaptations the most prominent creature on the Horn of Africa and Arabian Peninsula. There is a misconception that the camel is an ill-tempered animal, often imagined as spitting at passers-by. The reality is much to the contrary. Those who work closely with the animal find the camel to be smart, sociable, and gentle. To be sure, there have been observed instances of ill-tempered camels, but usually because they have been instigated in some way. The constitution of every part of a camel’s body has been specially designed by Allah (SWT). For example, the structure of the camel’s feet is unique, with two toes connected to each other with a flexible cushion, consisting of four balls of fat. This allows for a firm grasp of any type of terrain that might be encountered. The nails at the end of the toes protect them from any bumps, while the knees are protected with a covering of thick skin that’s as hard as a horn and called the callus. This is especially needed as the camel lies down to rest on the hot floor of the desert. The Shi p of the Desert Then do they not look at the camels - how they are created? -Surah Al-Gashiya,Ayah 17
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