The Life & Character of the Seal of Prophets (sa) - Volume I — Page 57
II - Arabia & its Inhabitants 57 an altitude of approximately 10,000 feet. In Arabia, there are no rivers worthy of mention, however, when it rains, water level rises in river channels and ravines, which gush forth water, and at times this results in floods. However, a scarcity of water generally exists in such magnitude as one is unable to find water for hundreds of miles. Fountains are found in some places and are the source of succulence for surrounding habitation. Such fountains as have trees and gardens planted around them, surrounded by miles and miles of barren desert, are known as an oasis. In Arabia, they are considered an immense blessing. The area of Yemen is the most fertile and verdant in all of Arabia, and in contrast to other regions it possesses an abundance of ravines and springs. In the same manner, the region of Ṭā’if, which is situated at a distance of twenty miles to the south- east of Makkah, is also a pleasant and fertile region, which produces fruits of fine quality. Climate Geographers acknowledge the fact that external winds can reach Arabia from two directions alone: the north-east and south-west. However, there exists nothing but dry land on both sides; therefore, the winds that enter Arabia are naturally dry and devoid of moisture. It is for this very reason that there is a dearth of rain in the country. However, mountainous regions still extract the little moisture that these incoming winds bring, and due to this fact, some rainfall does occur in these regions as well. The passing of the Tropic of Cancer through the centre of this country also contributes to its desert condition and shortage of water. To geographers it is not hidden that a region of this type, with regards to constant winds, is a zone of placidity. Therefore, it must be generally stated that Arabia is an arid country. Due to its location and land type, it is a country of scorching temperature. Hence, ultimately, its overall climate is to be recognized as hot and dry. In Arabia, the temperature during day and night drastically differ, the cause of which is an abundance of sand. Sand burns exceedingly during the day and becomes very cold during the night after rapidly releasing its heat. An abundance of dew is also attributed to this phenomenon. At times, a hot wind of a certain type blows in Arabia, which is referred to as Samūm. When this wind blows, it causes complete darkness, and due to heavy sand concentration, often results in significant damage to lives and property. During the winter