53:1
By the Star when it goes down,-
The term najm has been interpreted in several ways by commentators. In its most common usage, it refers either to a star in general or specifically to the cluster of seven stars known as the Pleiades within the constellation Taurus. Astronomically, this cluster becomes visible in seasonal cycles: during the winter months it gradually ascends in the night sky, while around mid-April it sets shortly after sunset as the sun approaches the same region of the sky. By late May, it rises shortly before sunrise. Because of these seasonal patterns, the Pleiades may be associated with the spring constellation period (Ali).
For societies accustomed to clear, star-filled skies—such as many ancient open-air cultures including the Arabs—the Pleiades held particular significance and often appeared in folklore and traditional narratives. The image of this striking star cluster descending toward the horizon and fading into the greater light of the sun has been interpreted symbolically as an expression of humility. Even the brilliance of the stars ultimately yields to the greater light created by God, thus representing the submission of beauty, power, and grandeur before the divine source of all creation and revelation (Ali).
The Arabic word hawā in the relevant verse can be interpreted either as “setting” or “descending,” though some exegetes also consider the meaning “rising.” Regardless of which translation is adopted, the overall symbolic interpretation remains consistent: the movement of the star or star cluster serves as a sign pointing to divine order and to the humility of created phenomena before the supreme authority and wisdom of God (Ali, n.d.).
References:
Yusuf Ali, Abdullah. Translation and Commentary of the Quran. (surah 53 verse 1.