What Does 'Maghrib ash-shams' (Setting of the Sun) Mean?

[Reader Questions]

Salaam Joseph sir

Might I ask you a question?

The Quran speaks of him reaching the setting of the sun and also the rising of the sun. I read your article on what it means to see the sun setting in a spring

But how do I understand expressions like Maghrib ash-shams?

[Joseph Islam]

Wa alaikum assalam

'Maghrib al-shams' merely indicates the setting place of the sun, e.g. a most westerly point from the reference perspective of the individual. In the case you have kindly shared (18:86), it will be a most westerly point reached by Dhu'l-Qarneyn in his travels where either the road or his particular travel route ended.

Please see my following travelogue which may assist to elaborate, God willing

LAND'S END, ENGLAND, UNITED KINGDOM
http://quransmessage.com/travelogues/lands%20end%20FM3.htm

Regards,
Joseph