Question:
The Qur’an (89:6–9) mentions the people of ‘Aad and Thamud and says that none were created like them in strength, and that they carved mountains and built dwellings. We have also carved mountains, built metro tunnels, highways, and even space stations. Does that mean our community is stronger than the people of ‘Aad?
Answer:
When Allahﷻ mentions the strength of ‘Aad, He is referring to their physical strength, not technological advancement. Today, we carve mountains using machines. We reach space using scientific tools. That reflects intellectual and technological development, not necessarily physical strength.
The people of ‘Aad carved mountains with their physical power, without modern machinery. That demonstrates extraordinary bodily strength. Allahﷻ describes their physical creation and stature as unmatched.
So we cannot say we are physically stronger just because we have advanced tools. Our achievements are due to scientific instruments, not raw physical strength.