Overall meaning : Allah Almighty states that those who associate partners with Him worship idols that have no power to provide them with sustenance—neither from the heavens, such as rain, nor from the earth, such as crops—nor do they have the power to do nothing at all. If these are the characteristics of their gods, how can they, then, worship them besides Allah? Thus, Allah addresses mankind, saying: Therefore, do not set up equals to Allah and worship them besides Him; surely Allah knows, but you do not know.
He then sets forth two parables demonstrating his oneness and power, and the falsehood embodied in worshipping false gods besides Him. First He strikes the parable of two men: a slave who does not possess anything and is unable to do anything of his own accord, and a free man to whom Allah has given ample wealth, so that he can spend at will, both secretly and openly. Are these two men equal? By the same token, Allah the Creator, the Sovereign and Disposer of all affairs, cannot by any means whatsoever equal to His creatures. Why, then, do you consider them equal?! Praise be to Allah, who alone is worthy of all praise and glory, but most idolaters do not know that Allah alone is worthy of worship and praise.
Then He sets forth the parable of two other men: One of them is speech-impaired, deaf, unable to understand anything or benefit himself or others and is a burden to his caretaker; wherever he sends him to fulfil a task he comes back with nothing good. The other one has sound senses, is able to benefit himself as well as others, commands justice and is on the straight path. Can they be considered equal at all?! How can you, then, consider the deaf, mute idols equal to Allah the Almighty, who enjoins justice and gives all good things?!
Allah alone has knowledge of the hidden secrets of the heavens and the earth. The matter of resurrection and Judgement Day and the swiftness of its coming will be like the twinkling of an eye, or even quicker. Surely Allah has power over all things.