The Meaning of the Term "Tasrif al-Riyah" in the Quran

The term "tasrif al-riyah" has been used twice in the holy Quran and has been regarded as one of the “ayat” (signs of God). Interpreters have offered different accounts about its meaning which can be classified into three general categories: the four winds, the effects of winds in nature, and the circulating flow of winds. It seems that "tasrif al-riyah" cannot be related merely to one of these categories, and a broader meaning should be sought for it. Considering the literal and idiomatic meanings of tasrif, riyah, and ayeh, it should be appreciated that “tasrif al-riyah” may refer to various changes that winds undergo or contribute to their creation. It can be further said that the reason why "tasrif al-riyah" is regarded as one of the signs of God is that each of these changes suggests one of the Divine attributes of God.