Ten most powerful verses of Al Qur'an that challenge how we think, live, and understand reality

Al-Qurʾān, the last of the four Divine Scripture is a book of wisdom for those who can ponder over and reflect on every verse of Al Qur'an. For the ordinaries, these are apparent meanings which provide guidance to live our day to day life as per the Divine directions. However, each verse of Al Qur'an has far deeper meaning for these embody the Divine Wisdom, and only those who can stop at each verse, reflect while keeping in the context of the revelation and decipher the hidden Divine Wisdom to look into the future.

There are many verse in Al Qur'an that require deep reflection by men of wisdom - but out of these many, we share ten most powerful verses that challenge how we think, live, and understand reality —even today. Herein under, we only mention the verses - for detailed explanation and exegesis, links are given under each verse which have been published earlier. For the remaining, we will provide links as and when new posts are written.

1. 13:11 — Change begins within

• “Allah does not change the condition of a people until they change what is within themselves.”
• Why it matters today, because it:
• Counters victim mentality, 
• Emphasizes personal and societal responsibility. and 
• Applies to nations, communities, and individuals
• Change is not only external — it is moral and internal.
• For detailed explanation/tafsir by scholars, link to our earlier post: A single verse lays down three foundational truths about: Life, Destiny and Moral Responsibility

2. 51:56 — Purpose of existence

• “I did not create jinn and humans except to worship Me.”
• Why it matters:
• Answers the ultimate question of purpose
• Redefines life beyond career, wealth, or status
• Without purpose, success becomes empty.

3. 2:286 — Limits and responsibility

• “Allah does not burden a soul beyond what it can bear.”
• Why it matters because it:
• Addresses anxiety, hardship, and mental struggle
• Instills resilience and hope
• Your struggle is not meaningless — it is measured.
• For detailed explanation/tafsir by scholars, link to our earlier post: Verily, Allah does not lay a responsibility on anyone beyond his capacity 

4. 57:20 — Reality of worldly life

• “Know that the life of this world is play, amusement, adornment, boasting, and rivalry…”
• Why it matters for it:
• Is Perfect description of modern consumer culture
• Explains social media comparison, status competition
• What we chase may not be what truly matters.

5. 49:13 — Equality of humanity

• “The most honored of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous.”
• Why it matters, because it:
• Destroys racism, nationalism, elitism
• Establishes moral superiority, not biological or social
• Human worth is ethical, not inherited.
• For detailed explanation/tafsir by scholars, link to our earlier post: A verse in Al-Qurʾān that defines the foundation of human equality and moral worth

6. 8:2 — Signs of true faith

• “Believers are those whose hearts tremble when Allah is mentioned…”
• Why it matters because it:
• Distinguishes real faith vs cultural identity
• Calls for inner transformation, not labels
• Faith is what moves your heart, not what you claim.
• For detailed explanation/tafsir by scholars, link to our earlier post: What are the true emotional and spiritual signs of faith in Islam

7. 39:9 — Knowledge vs ignorance

• “Are those who know equal to those who do not know?”
• Why it matters because it:
• Elevates knowledge as a moral value
• Challenges anti-intellectualism
• Truth requires understanding, not blind following.

8. 34:6 — Insight of the learned

• “Those given knowledge see that what has been revealed to you is the truth…”
• Why it matters because it:
• Shows that true knowledge leads to faith, not arrogance
• Counters the idea that religion and intellect are opposed
• Deep understanding leads to humility, not denial.
• For detailed explanation/tafsir by scholars, link to our earlier post: Three verses of Qur'an that form a coherent philosophy of ‘ilm "علم" (knowledge) in Islam

9. 21:16 — Meaningful creation

• “We did not create the heavens and the earth for play.”
• Why it matters because it:
• Rejects nihilism and purposeless universe
• Affirms intentional design and accountability
• Existence is not random — it is meaningful.

10. 103:1–3 — The definition of success (Surah Al-‘Asr)

• “By time, indeed mankind is in loss — except those who believe, do righteous deeds, and advise truth and patience.”
• Why it matters because it defines success in four conditions:
• Faith
• Action
• Truth
• Patience
• Without these, even a “successful” life is a loss.
• For detailed explanation/tafsir by scholars, link to our earlier post: Exegesis of Surah Al 'Asr (The Time)

Deeper Reflection

It will be seen that across these verses, a pattern emerges:

• Purpose over pleasure
• Character over status
• Truth over illusion
• Accountability over denial

This points towards the fact that The Qur’an does not just inform — it confronts, corrects, and reorients how we see ourselves and the world.

We will try to dig out more verses that require of us deep reflection to explore and understand the Divine Wisdom so as to benefit from AL Qur'an and shape our lives as per the Divine Wisodm.

May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎) help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door. 

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”

That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

May Allah forgive me if my posts ever imply a piety far greater than I possess. I am most in need of guidance.

Reading the Qur'ān should be a daily obligation of a Muslim - Reading it with translation will make it meaningful. But reading its Exegesis / Tafsir will make you understand it fully. It will also help the Muslims to have grasp over social issues and their answers discussed in the Qur'an and other matter related to inter faith so that they are able to discuss issues with non-Muslims with authority based on refences from Qur'an.

Note: When we mention God in our posts, we mean One True God, we call Allah in Islam, with no associates. Allah is the Sole Creator of all things, and that Allah is all-powerful and all-knowing. Allah has no offspring, no race, no gender, no body, and is unaffected by the characteristics of human life.

For more verses on Selected Subjects, please refer to our reference page: Selected Verses from Al Qur'an about a Specific Subject (Reference Page) to know more about what Qur'an says about specific subjects and our reference page: Selected Verses from the Qur'an. 

You may also refer to our Reference Pages  and Understanding Al Qur'an for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.

Photo | 

Disclaimer: The material for this post has been collected from the references given above. If anyone differs with the material contained in this post, one may consult the references and their authors.  If someone has more material about the subject, he/she is most welcome to share in the comments box to make the post all encompassing.

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook. You may also refer to our Facebook  Group Islam: The Ultimate Truth for more on Islam and Da'wah.

Follow @IslamUltimate

Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, WhatsApp or any means on social media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Qur'ān - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

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Believers should not be overawed by the Beautified life of those who prefer wordily life to that of the Hereafter

For many, life is to make merry, enjoy and make best of heir worldly life - and it is for this category of people life has been deliberately made beautified. These are those who disbelieve and mock the state of those who believe. But those who are mindful of God live for a life which will be eternal and full of Divine blessings. On the Day of Resurrection, those who restrained the wordily glitters will be above those who preferred wordily life, for they know that God provides for whom He wills without limit in the wordily life and save far greater rewards for who believe in the Divine blessings and sacrifice their desires s as to be rewarded.

This is the Divine message which is mentioned in the 212nd verse of Surah 2 Al Baqarah (The Cow) of Al Qur'an being shared today.

Context within Surah Al-Baqarah

This verse comes in Surah Al-Baqarah, where themes of guidance, امتحان (testing), and the contrast between faith and disbelief are being developed. Around this section, the Qur'an addresses:

• How people react differently to divine guidance
• The temporary nature of worldly success
• The idea that امتحان (tests) often involve hardship, patience, and ایمان (faith)

So 2:212 is part of a broader message: Don’t measure truth by who looks successful right now.

Core Meaning of the Verse

The verse contrasts believers and unbelievers, and the difference in their outlook. This life, with its transient concerns and ephemeral interests and enjoyments, is all that the unbelievers know and aspire to. They are unable to see beyond the here-and-now; they know of no greater values or aspirations other than those of life on this earth. Consequently, their scope is limited, their vision is blurred, and they are deprived of the higher understanding and greater reward experienced by believers.

A believer in God may look with disdain at material and worldly things, but that is not due to a negative or pessimistic view of life. It is because a believer seeks more from life than mere material or sensual enjoyment. A believer aims to establish God’s order in society and lead his community towards a better and more fulfilled way of life.

The verse thus highlights three key ideas:

• Worldly life can be deceiving Material success, luxury, popularity—these can be very appealing. But they are not reliable indicators of truth or righteousness.
• Believers may be looked down upon Those focused on faith, modesty, or ethical limits may be mocked as “backward,” “too strict,” or “missing out.”
• Final reality is not this life The verse shifts the perspective: الحقيقي success is in the Hereafter. What seems like “losing” now may actually be success later.

Related Qur’anic Verses (Same Theme)

• Temporary Nature of Dunya (57:20 – Surah Al-Hadid): Worldly life is play, amusement, and competition in wealth and children… This verses reinforces what looks serious now is actually temporary distraction.
• Don’t Be Deceived by Success of Others (3:196 – Surah Aal-e-Imran): Do not be deceived by the movement of disbelievers through the land. Which means don’t mistake travel, business success, influences and glitters for these do not mean the ultimate success.
• True Criterion is Taqwa (49:13 – Surah Al-Hujurat) The most honored in the sight of Allah is the most righteous. This is a direct contrast to today’s metrics (followers, wealth, fame).
• Tests Will Happen (2:214 – Surah Al-Baqarah): Do you think you will enter Paradise without being tested? - This comes very close to 2:212—reminding that struggle is part of the path.

Explanation of the verse 212 by eminent Muslim scholars 

• Ibn Kathir explains that:
• “The life of this world is beautified” means Allah has allowed it to appear attractive as a test, not as a reward in itself.
• It is not necessarily that these things are evil—but their illusion of permanence and superiority misleads people.
• Those who reject faith become absorbed in appearances—wealth, status, power.
• They mock believers because believers restrain themselves (halal/haram limits), which looks like “missing out.” That is the disbelievers mock believers because Believers prioritize آخِرَة (Hereafter) over dunya - They may live simpler lives and follow moral limits
• But Ibn Kathir emphasizes the reversal:
• On the Day of Judgment, the true rank will be clear - Those who were mocked may be elevated far above those who mocked them
• His key point: The current hierarchy is temporary and misleading.
• Classical Insight Al-Tabari highlights that:
• Mockery comes from ignorance of ultimate reality - People judge based on what they see now, not what comes after death - Provision (rizq) is not a sign of Allah’s approval—it’s given widely, even to those who reject Him
• The أهل الكفر (people of disbelief) look down upon believers as weak, naïve, or backward.
• That means Wealth is not proof of being right.
• Sayyid Abul Ala Maududi: This worldly life has been made very charming and alluring for those who have adopted the way of disbelief. So they mock at those who have adopted the way of belief ,but (they forget that) the pious people will rank above them on the Day of Resurrection. As to the wordily provisions, Allah has full authority and power to bestow these without measure on anyone He wills.

A Subtle but Powerful Lesson: One of the deepest insights scholars mention: Allah did not say the world is beautiful—He said it was made to appear beautiful.

That difference is huge. (1) It means: not everything attractive is truly good, (2) It trains you to question appearances, (3) It builds intellectual and spiritual independence

Relevance to Today’s Lifestyle (Especially Muslims)

• “Mockery” Today Isn’t Always Obvious
• In earlier times it might be direct insults. 
• Today it’s often: (1) Subtle pressure: “Why are you so strict?”, (2) Cultural framing: religious people seen as “behind”, and (3) Media portrayal: الدين = limitation
• This is exactly what 2:212 describes—just in a modern form.
• Social media & comparison culture 
• Today, platforms amplify wealth, beauty, and lifestyle. It’s easy to feel: “Everyone else is ahead” or “I’m missing out”.
• This verse directly challenges that mindset: visibility ≠ value.
• Pressure to compromise values
• Muslims today may feel pressure to: (1) Engage in unethical earning, (2) Normalize things prohibited in Islam, (3) Abandon modesty or religious identity.
• The verse acknowledges this tension: people who prioritize dunya (worldly life) may mock or dismiss those who don’t.
• Redefining success
• Modern culture often defines success as: Money, Status, and Freedom without limits
• But this verse redefines success as: Taqwa (God-consciousness), Patience, and Integrity
• Psychological impact
• This verse also protects mental well-being:
• It prevents inferiority complex
• It reduces envy
• It builds long-term perspective
• Instead of asking: “Why do they have more?” It reframes it to: “What truly matters in the end?”
• The Illusion of “Having It All”
• Modern systems promote: (1) Endless consumption, (2) Instant gratification, and (3) Image over substance
• This matches the Qur’anic idea of “beautified life”—something designed to pull attention, not fulfill the soul.
• Internal Struggle (More Dangerous)
• Today the challenge is not just outside mockery—it’s inside: (1) Doubt: “Am I missing out?”, (2) Comparison: “They’re happier than me”, and /or (3) Compromise: slowly lowering standards
• The verse is a psychological anchor against this.

Practical Takeaways for Daily Life

• Don’t judge your life by الآخرين’s ظاهر (outward appearance)
• Stay grounded in your principles even if unpopular
• Be cautious of being overly dazzled by wealth or trends
• Focus on barakah (blessing), not just quantity

Balanced Understanding

This verse does not mean:

• Rejecting الدنيا completely
• Avoiding success or progress
• Looking down on others

Rather, Islam encourages balance: Engage in the world—but don’t let it define your worth. Therefore , all believers should live a balanced life and not live detached from the world. Islam does not want us to go into the wilderness and worship Allah. What Islam wants us is to live a healthy family life, earn Halal Rizq and still find time to worship Allah and thank Him for whatever He has given us - and never comparing our own life with that of those who live a carefree life, squandering money and making merry all the time.

May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎) help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door. 

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”

That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

May Allah forgive me if my posts ever imply a piety far greater than I possess. I am most in need of guidance.

Reading the Qur'ān should be a daily obligation of a Muslim - Reading it with translation will make it meaningful. But reading its Exegesis / Tafsir will make you understand it fully. It will also help the Muslims to have grasp over social issues and their answers discussed in the Qur'an and other matter related to inter faith so that they are able to discuss issues with non-Muslims with authority based on refences from Qur'an.

Note: When we mention God in our posts, we mean One True God, we call Allah in Islam, with no associates. Allah is the Sole Creator of all things, and that Allah is all-powerful and all-knowing. Allah has no offspring, no race, no gender, no body, and is unaffected by the characteristics of human life.

You may refer to more Selected Verses from Surah 2 Al Baqarah (The Cow)  already published. 

You may also refer to our exclusive reference page: Selected verses from selected Surahs of Al-Qurʾān for compiled verses from other surahs.

For verses on Selected Subjects, please refer to our reference page: Selected Verses from Al Qur'an about a Specific Subject (Reference Page) to know more about what Qur'an says about specific subjects and our reference page: Selected Verses from the Qur'an. 

You may also refer to our Reference Pages  and Understanding Al Qur'an for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.

Photo | Reference: | 1 | 2 | 3 |

Note: In our posts whenever we use the word God, the English translation of Allah in Arabic, we mean One True God without any associates, partners or relatives. Muslims believe in Monotheism and do not accept the notion many gods when referring to the God by some religions.

An effort has been made to gather explanation / exegesis of the surahs and selected verses of Al-Qurʾān from authentic sources and then present a least possible condensed explanation of the surah. In that the exegesis of the chapters of the Quran is mainly based on the "Tafhim al-Qur'an - The Meaning of the Qur'an" by one of the most enlightened scholars of the Muslim World Sayyid Abul Ala Maududi.  

In addition, other sources which have been explored and views of other scholars have been incorporated while explaining meaning of a verse. Those desirous of detailed explanations and tafsir (exegesis), may refer to these sites. For expansion of meaning and themes / contextual background help from ChatGPT is also taken.

Disclaimer: The material for this post has been collected from the references given above. If anyone differs with the material contained in this post, one may consult the references and their authors.  If someone has more material about the subject, he/she is most welcome to share in the comments box to make the post all encompassing.

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook. You may also refer to our Facebook  Group Islam: The Ultimate Truth for more on Islam and Da'wah.

Follow @IslamUltimate

Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, WhatsApp or any means on social media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Qur'ān - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

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How can Surah (34) Saba’ (The Sabaeans) guide those engaged in Da'wah (Inviting non-Muslims to Islam)

One of the most difficult task is to invite and convince someone to one's viewpoint. And this task becomes more difficult when one is engaged in Da'wah, that is inviting non believers, to the religions of Islam. Right from the earliest prophets chosen by the Lord of the world to invite their people to believe in existence of one true Deity who created this universe and worship Him exclusively without associating anyone equal or at par with Him.

Da'wah is not an ordinary task and for this Allah had in the past appointed specially chosen people as prophets and messengers to lead their people out of ignorance to an enlightened world exclusively to please and thank Him for the His blessings. Yet despite being the chosen ones, the prophets confronted extreme stubborn and arrogant resistance from their people. Even own family members refused to listen to some of the prophets, like son of Prophet Nuh (Noah) and wife of Prophet Lut (Lot). Many were tortured and even killed by the hostile audience who never wanted to leave the faith of their forefathers. Prophet Muhammad ﷺ was once stoned to an extent that his whole body was wounded and covered with blood. Despite all odds, Da'wah has continued unabated even till date by the followers of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ from all nook and corner of the world. 

Although, we have written many posts on Da'wah and its methodology, today we share some of the Da'wah principles as extracted form Surah Saba' (The Sabaeans) which may assist and guide the dāʿī  داعي in their sacred task of extending Da'wah to non-Muslims worldwide. But before we do that, let us briefly describe what Da'wah is and some of the pre-requisites for undertaking the sacred task of Da'wah:

Da‘wah (الدعوة) literally means “to call, invite, summon”. It is: Inviting humanity to Allah through truth, wisdom, character, and mercy. It is not propaganda, argumentation, or coercion — it is calling hearts and minds to guidance. “Invite to the path of your Lord with wisdom, good counsel, and argue with them in the best manner.” (Al qur'an 16:125)

A person engaged in Da'wah (the act of inviting others to understand and embrace Islam) is called a dāʿī (Arabic: داعي) 

Pre-Requisites of Da'wah: 

• Language of the audience: Adequate to complete knowledge of the audience is the foremost prerequisite for a dāʿī for unless one can convey the invitation in the language of the audience, one cannot really convince them what is the their mission. 
• Knowledge of Religion: Complete knowledge of own religion and adequate knowledge of the target audience is a must. A dāʿī  must be able to quote references from the religion/faith of the audience and correlate it to Islam so that the audience feel similarities of their religion with Islam and are able to weigh which path is better and why. 
• Resolve: This is prophetic - no matter who hostile or indifferent the audience were, the prophets never gave in. It was their conviction that one day their message will find acceptance that they remained committed in their effort to continue to invite them to Islam.

Daʿwah Principles Extracted from Surah Saba’ (34)

Surah Saba’ is one of the most strategic Makkan surahs for Daʿwah, because it speaks to the mind (ʿaql), conscience (qalb), and historical memory. Below are core Daʿwah principles, each anchored in explicit Qur’anic verses, with guidance on how to apply them today.

• Begin Daʿwah with Tawḥīd rooted in knowledge Da'wah or calling non Muslims to enter the fold of Islam is not an easy task - everyone cannot do it. Unless one is fully equipped with the knowledge of Islam and the religion of the target audience, one may fail in his Da'wah task. When one is confident in these preliminaries, then he may begin is Da'wah as per following guidelines
• Daʿwah principle: Start with Who Allah is, not just what is forbidden and establish ownership, authority, and wisdom of Allah
• Application: In Daʿwah, clarify who has the right to legislate, judge, and command - This dismantles secular or materialist worldviews at the root
• Appeal to reason: 
• Accountability is unavoidable: “Those who disbelieve say, ‘The Hour will never come to us.’ Say: Yes—by my Lord, it will surely come to you…” (34:3)
• Daʿwah principle: The Hereafter is a logical necessity, not just a theological claim - Therefore moral order demands final accountability.
• Application: Ask reflective questions like (1) Can injustice truly go unanswered? (2) Does morality make sense without judgment?
• Use history as a living argument “There was for [the people of] Saba’ a sign in their dwelling place…” (34:15)
• Daʿwah principle: Past civilizations are moral case studies, not legends.
• Application:
• Show how prosperity but ingratitude leads to collapse
• Relate ancient Saba’ to modern civilizations
• Daʿwah through civilizational reflection, not just preaching
• Highlight gratitude as the foundation of stability
• “Eat from the provision of your Lord and be grateful to Him…” (34:15)
• Daʿwah principle: Gratitude (shukr) is not emotional—it is behavioral
• Application: Teach that gratitude means Ethical use of wealth, Justice and Obedience to Allah
• This reframes Islam as a system of sustaining blessings, not restricting life.
• Expose the illusion of wealth and children
• “It is not your wealth nor your children that bring you closer to Us…” (34:37)
• Daʿwah principle: Material success is not proof of truth. 
• Application: Address modern success metrics - Ask: If wealth equals truth, why do corrupt people prosper?
• Explain Shayṭān’s strategy: misguidance without force
• “And Iblīs found his assumption about them to be true…” (34:20)
• Daʿwah principle: Shayṭān succeeds through neglect, not compulsion
• Application: Warn against spiritual laziness - Emphasize awareness over obsession with “evil forces” for Islam restores moral vigilance.
• Dispel false intercessions and misplaced hopes
• “Say: Call upon those you claim besides Allah…” (34:22)
• Daʿwah principle: No system, saint, ideology, or leader can save without Allah
• Application: Challenge blind trust in: Political systems, Religious elites, and Cultural traditions
• This establishes direct responsibility before God.
• Address the psychology of denial, not just disbelief
• “Those who disbelieve will say, ‘Our Lord, show us those who misled us…’” (34:31–33)
• Daʿwah principle: Disbelief is often emotional and social, not intellectual
• Application: Understand peer pressure, pride, and fear of loss - Daʿwah requires empathy, not just argumentation
• Clarify the Prophet’s ﷺ role: conveying, not coercing
• “We have not sent you except as a bringer of good news and a warner to all mankind.” (34:28)
• Daʿwah principle: Guidance is Allah’s work - The caller’s duty is clarity and sincerity
• Application: Relieves Daʿwah burnout - Encourages patience and wisdom
• End Daʿwah with responsibility, not despair
• “Say: My Lord extends provision to whom He wills and restricts it…” (34:36)
• Daʿwah principle: Life is a test, not a scoreboard
• Application: Reframe suffering and prosperity - Invite people to see life through the lens of purpose

Summary: Daʿwah Method of Surah Saba’

Surah Saba’ teaches Daʿwah through:

• Reason
• History
• Psychology
• Civilizational patterns
• Moral accountability

In one sentence: Call people to Allah by awakening their gratitude, exposing illusions of power, and restoring awareness of accountability.

May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎) help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door. 

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”

That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

May Allah forgive me if my posts ever imply a piety far greater than I possess. I am most in need of guidance.

Reading the Qur'ān should be a daily obligation of a Muslim - Reading it with translation will make it meaningful. But reading its Exegesis / Tafsir will make you understand it fully. It will also help the Muslims to have grasp over social issues and their answers discussed in the Qur'an and other matter related to inter faith so that they are able to discuss issues with non-Muslims with authority based on refences from Qur'an.

Note: When we mention God in our posts, we mean One True God, we call Allah in Islam, with no associates. Allah is the Sole Creator of all things, and that Allah is all-powerful and all-knowing. Allah has no offspring, no race, no gender, no body, and is unaffected by the characteristics of human life.

Photo | references: | 1 | 2 | 3 |

For more Q&A about Understanding Islam, please refer to our reference page: Understanding Islam - Frequently asked Q&A. You may also refer to our refference page: Scholars' Viewpoint on important issue related to Islam to know more about Islam.

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook. You may also refer to our Facebook  Group Islam: The Ultimate Truth for more on Islam and Da'wah.

Follow @IslamUltimate

Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, WhatsApp or any means on Social Media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Holy Qur'an - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

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How mercy of Allah shows a way out of an oath taken in anger and regretted sincerely – as in case of Prophet Job (Ayyūb AS)

Anger is a state that is considered as one of the worst thing that can happen to a man. Although anger is usually ignites a man's mind when being threatened unjustly, revoked or mislead, the resultant outburst which ranges from low to high intensity mindset can leave severe consequences if a decision is taken in that high emotional state. 

In fact, taking a decision in anger or acting impulsively while in this emotional state—often leads to "blindness" where rational thinking is suppressed, resulting in poor judgment and behaviors that are frequently regretted. That is why studies after studies are being under taken on the subject of anger management to allow controlling one's emotional state that blinds a man's rational thinking.

The state is not only restricted to common man but also many a prophet who took irrational decisions affected - but later regretted and repented sincerely. The decision made in anger ad by Prophet Jonah (Yunus AS) is a case in point, already mentioned in one of our earlier posts: Prophet Younis (Jonah) and Allah's Displeasure.

Today we share yet another example of taking an oath in anger due to misfed information related to Prophet Prophet Ayyūb (Job, عليه السلام) as mentioned in the 44th verse of Surah Ṣād, in which mercy of Allah is mentioned when the prophet repented and Allah showed him a way out of fulfilling his oath.

The Verse

(٤٤) وَخُذْ بِيَدِكَ ضِغْثًا فَاضْرِبْ بِهِ وَلَا تَحْنَثْ إِنَّا وَجَدْنَاهُ صَابِرًا نِعْمَ الْعَبْدُ إِنَّهُ أَوَّابٌ

“And take in your hand a bundle (of grass) and strike with it, and do not break your oath. Indeed, We found him patient. What an excellent servant! Indeed, he was constantly turning (to Allah).”

Quick Context Recap

This verse is about Prophet Ayyūb (Job, عليه السلام). In his old age, he faced severe illness, loss of wealth and family - yet he remained patient and faithful. During his illness, his wife took very good care of him. However due to a misfed satanic whisper, he during the hardship and extreme illness, made an oath to beat his with with 100 hundred lashes when he became healthy. When Allah restored him to health and the anger of the illness was gone, he became worried as how to fulfill the oath. For if he carried out the oath, he would be inflicting pain on an innocent person, and if he did not, he would be committing the sin of breaking the oath. Allah took him out of the difficult situation by the Command: "Take a broom containing as many sticks of straw as the number of the stripes you had sworn to give; then strike the person just once with the broom so as both to fulfill your oath and to avoid giving undue trouble to the person concerned."

Prophet Job (Ayyub AS) has been mentioned in this context to impress the reader that when the righteous servants of Allah are afflicted with hardships and calamities, they do not complain of their distress to Allah but endure the tests and trials set by Him patiently and invoke only Him for help. They do not despair of God and do not turn to others for help if their distress is not removed after making invocations to God for some time, but they believe that whatever they will get, they will get only from Allah. Therefore, they remain hopeful of His mercy, no matter how long they might have to suffer the distress. That is why they arc honored and blessed with the favors and bounties with which the Prophet Job was honored and blessed in his life. So much so that if they get involved in a moral dilemma due to a state of agitation, Allah shows them a way out of it- in order to save them from evil, as He showed a way to the Prophet Job. 

Core Lessons from the Verse

• Patience under extreme hardship
• Despite his ailment, Prophet Ayyūb (AS) didn’t just endure his ailment but He remained faithful without اعتراض (complaint against Allah) as mentioned the verse: “We found him patient”
• This means that True strength comes from steadiness in hardship.
• Allah provides merciful solutions
• Rather than forcing harm on his prophet, Allah accepted his repentance and gave an alternative.
• "Take in your hand a bundle (of thin stalks) and strike with it, and do not break your oath." This represents taking 100 thin, light twigs or grass stalks and hitting once, allowing each piece to touch her, fulfilling the count of 100.
• This shows that Islam is not rigid - It balances Law with Mercy.
• Intentions matter
• Oath of Prophet Ayyūb came from a moment of difficulty and being mislead and acted in anger - therefore Allah considered his sincerity to his wife whom the prophet loved dearly and was not willing to materialize his oath.
• This shows that Allah looks a hidden intentions, not just actions.
• This verse is also used in Islamic jurisprudence to demonstrate how oaths (ayman) are fulfilled in challenging situations, highlighting that the intention was to keep the vow without malice. 
• The quality of being “Awwāb”
• Not only ordinary humans, even prophets turn back repeatedly: "What an excellent servant! Indeed, he was constantly turning (to Allah).”
• In this part of the verse, there is a lesson for us: Perfection is not required - Returning is.

Prophet Muhammad  ﷺ also emulated the model of Prophet Ayyub (AS) in his decision making

Several Ahadith show that the Holy Prophet, in order to inflict the prescribed punishment on a fornicator who was too ill or too weak to receive a hundred stripes, also adopted the method taught in this verse. 'Allama Abu Bakr al-Jassas has related a tradition on the authority of Hadrat Said bin Sa'd bin 'Ubadah to the effect that a person from the tribe of Bani Sa`idah happened to commit fornication, and he was a sick man and a mere skeleton. Thereupon the Holy Prophet commanded: "Take a branch of the palm tree with a hundred twigs on it and strike him therewith once and for all. " (Ahkam al Qur 'an). In Musnad Ahmad, Abu Da'ud, Nasa'i, Ibn Majah, Tabarani, 'Abdur Razzaq and other collections of Hadith also there are several Ahadith supporting it, which conclusively proves that the Holy Prophet had devised this very method for inflicting the prescribed punishment on a sick or weak person. However, the jurists lay the condition that some part of every twig or piece of straw must strike the culprit, and even if only one stroke, it must also hurt the culprit; that is, it is not enough just to touch him but he must be struck with it.

Why This Verse is Important Today

• We live in a low-patience world Today we expect Instant results and Instant relief - whereas this verse teaches patience through long, difficult trials.
• Emotional reactions and regret 
• We more often than not, make harsh promises and emotional decisions - and obviously then regret them.
• The lesson is Don’t act in anger - And if you do—seek wise, gentle solutions.
• Rigid vs compassionate thinking Some today apply rules harshly - that is why this verse teaches to look for Mercy within law.
• Dealing with guilt and mistakes 
• Many people feel stuck after mistakes - but this verse shows tells us that Allah opens doors of ease and redemption if sincerely turn to Him.
• Here the question also arises that if a person has sworn to do something and afterwards he comes to know that it is improper, then what should he do? Then is a tradition from the Holy Prophet to the effect that in such a case one should do only that which is better, and the same is the atonement for the oath. Another tradition from him says that one should do something good instead of the improper thing and should atone for his oath. This verse supports this second tradition, for if keeping oneself from an improper thing had been the atonement for the oath, Allah would not have told the Prophet Job to strike the broom once and fulfill his oath, but would have said: "Do not do this improper thing, and your restraint itself is the atonement for your oath."
• Maintaining faith during hardship 
• Many of us go through Illness, financial struggle and personal losses. This verse presents us the role model of Prophet Ayyūb (AS).
• And that is never to lose faith in Allah and always try to keep connected to him.

A Balanced Principle from This Verse

Islam is not about Harsh legalism or Careless leniency. It is Principled and Compassionate. This verse shows something profound - Allah is not looking to trap you in your words, rather He is guiding us to Integrity with mercy

Final Reflection

Ask yourself: When I make a mistake or a harsh decision—do I double down, or do I seek a wiser, gentler path?

The Core Message

The above quoted verse shows us that the best believer is not one who never errs - rather it is he who is patient, returns to Allah, and and chooses mercy over harm.

May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎) help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door. 

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”

That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

May Allah forgive me if my posts ever imply a piety far greater than I possess. I am most in need of guidance.

Reading the Qur'ān should be a daily obligation of a Muslim - Reading it with translation will make it meaningful. But reading its Exegesis / Tafsir will make you understand it fully. It will also help the Muslims to have grasp over social issues and their answers discussed in the Qur'an and other matter related to inter faith so that they are able to discuss issues with non-Muslims with authority based on refences from Qur'an.

Note: When we mention God in our posts, we mean One True God, we call Allah in Islam, with no associates. Allah is the Sole Creator of all things, and that Allah is all-powerful and all-knowing. Allah has no offspring, no race, no gender, no body, and is unaffected by the characteristics of human life.

You may refer to more Selected Verses from  Sürah 38 Ṣād - the letter ص  already published. You may also refer to our exclusive reference page: Selected verses from selected Surahs of Al-Qurʾān for compiled verses from other surahs.

For verses on Selected Subjects, please refer to our reference page: Selected Verses from Al Qur'an about a Specific Subject (Reference Page) to know more about what Qur'an says about specific subjects and our reference page: Selected Verses from the Qur'an. 

You may also refer to our Reference Pages  and Understanding Al Qur'an for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.

Photo | Reference: | 1 | 2 | 3 |

An effort has been made to gather explanation / exegesis of the surahs and selected verses of Al-Qurʾān from authentic sources and then present a least possible condensed explanation of the surah. In that the exegesis of the chapters of the Quran is mainly based on the "Tafhim al-Qur'an - The Meaning of the Qur'an" by one of the most enlightened scholars of the Muslim World Sayyid Abul Ala Maududi.  

In addition, other sources which have been explored and views of other scholars have been incorporated while explaining meaning of a verse. Those desirous of detailed explanations and tafsir (exegesis), may refer to these sites. For expansion of meaning and themes / contextual background help from ChatGPT is also taken.

Disclaimer: The material for this post has been collected from the references given above. If anyone differs with the material contained in this post, one may consult the references and their authors.  If someone has more material about the subject, he/she is most welcome to share in the comments box to make the post all encompassing.

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook. You may also refer to our Facebook  Group Islam: The Ultimate Truth for more on Islam and Da'wah.

Follow @IslamUltimate

Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, WhatsApp or any means on social media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Qur'ān - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

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Divine Guidelines for Justice revealed to Prophet David (Dāwūd AS) - also Applicable to Men on seats of Justice today

Al Qur'an mentions many a important prophets from the history that left behind valuable imprints for the mankind. In Surah 38. Saad (The Arabic letter Saad), we come across mention of Prophets Prophet David (Dāwūd AS) and his son Prophet Solomon (Sulaiman AS). Both father and son had exceptional leadership qualities and ensured justice in their times.

Herein under we share the 26th verse from Surah Saad, in which Prophet Dāwūd AS has been asked Divinely to ensure justice. In fact this verse was revealed to him when he faultered to make a decision. Herein under we share the verse and its context which gives out the Divine guidelines for ensuring justice.

Verse: Surah Ṣād (38:26)

يَـٰدَاوُۥدُ إِنَّا جَعَلْنَـٰكَ خَلِيفَةًۭ فِى ٱلْأَرْضِ فَٱحْكُم بَيْنَ ٱلنَّاسِ بِٱلْحَقِّ وَلَا تَتَّبِعِ ٱلْهَوَىٰ فَيُضِلَّكَ عَن سَبِيلِ ٱللَّهِ ۚ إِنَّ ٱلَّذِينَ يَضِلُّونَ عَن سَبِيلِ ٱللَّهِ لَهُمْ عَذَابٌۭ شَدِيدٌۢ بِمَا نَسُوا۟ يَوْمَ ٱلْحِسَابِ 

“O Dāwūd (David)! Indeed, We have made you a خليفة (vicegerent/authority) on the earth, so judge between people in truth and do not follow desire, lest it lead you astray from the path of Allah. Indeed, those who stray from the path of Allah will have a severe punishment for forgetting the Day of Account.”

Plain Explanation

The Qur’ānic comments given after the story explain the nature of the test and specify the line God wants His servant to whom He assigned judgement between people to take. It is then a case of David being given the position of vicegerent on earth, one whereby he is required to judge between people in all fairness. He is told not to follow vain desires, which means in the case of a prophet, not to be hasty in one’s first reaction. For this can easily lead to going astray from God’s path. Rather, he must make sure of all the facts before passing judgement. The concluding sentence in the verse gives a general rule that applies to all cases of going astray from God’s path. It exposes the person concerned to severe punishment on the Day of Reckoning.

One aspect of the care God took of His servant David is that He drew his attention at the first hurdle, and put him back on the right track at the first rash move, warning him of the ultimate result, when he had not even made one step towards it. Such is God’s favour that He bestows on His chosen servants. Since they are human, they may slip when they travel an uneven patch of the road, but God takes them by the hand putting them back on course and teaching them how to repent. Then He forgives them and bestows even greater favours on them.

Context of the Verse

This verse comes after the well-known incident of Prophet Dāwūd (AS) when Two disputants came to him. One complained of injustice (the “99 sheep” case) and Prophet Dāwūd (AS) gave a quick judgment.

He then realized that he should have listened more carefully - in fact it was a test from Allah. Immediately after (38:24), he sought forgiveness and repented sincerely. 

It was then the above quoted verse (38:26) was revealed. While Allah forgave him, he was given the guidance for leadership and judgment.  This by itself shows that the error that he had committed contained an clement of the desires of the flesh; it also pertained to the abuse of power and authority; and it was an act which was unworthy of a just and fair-minded ruler.

Apparent (Ẓāhir) Meaning

The verse contains four major commands:

1. “We made you a khalīfah” 
• That is he was made a person of Authority, Responsibility, and Leadership
• But Not just a king—but a representative of justice
2. “Judge between people with truth” Allah commanded him to be fair, just and balanced when taking a decision.
3. “Do not follow desire (hawā)” - The verse warns rulers and judges against allowing personal desires or worldly inclinations to corrupt their decisions, as this causes misguidance.
4. Reminder of accountability Those who deviate in fact forget the Day of Judgment when the scales of true and absolute neutral justice will be erected and none will be wronged on that day.

Deeper Meaning (Wisdom)

• Leadership is a trust (amānah): 
• Power is not privilege - It is Responsibility before Allah
• This verse serves as a crucial guideline for leadership, emphasizing that true authority is a trust that must be handled with fairness and fear of God. 
• Justice requires discipline Even a prophet, when faultered in his justice, he was corrected. Which clearly exhibits that No one is above accountability.
• The danger of “hawā” (desires)
• Desire includes Bias, Emotions, Personal interest, and Pressure.
• These distort the Truth and become hurdle in the way of Fair judgment.
• Forgetting آخِرَة leads to injustice When people at the helm of the affairs (specially of justice) forget accountability, they abuse power by Justify ظلم the tyranny.

Scholarly Insight

• Ibn Kathir emphasizes that this is a universal principle for rulers and judges. He explains this highlights the heavy responsibility of leaders to judge by truth and remember the Day of Reckoning to avoid severe punishment. 
• Al-Qurtubi notes that “Hawā” is the root cause of injustice

Similar Verses from Al Qur'an

• Surah An-Nisa (4:135): “Stand firmly for justice… even against yourselves…”
• Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:8): “Do not let hatred cause you to be unjust…”

Relevance Today

This verse is extremely relevant today where judges give biased decisions, saving and protecting the powerful elite, the affluent and the wealth - and giving false verdicts against the escape goats, normally the poor and the weak. Thus this verse is applicable to:

• Leadership & authority: 
• Applies to (1) Governments, and the officials, (2) Judges, (3) Managers, and even Parents - or for that matter Anyone with influence.
• Everyday decisions: Even in daily life conflicts, in arguments and family disputes, we are required to be fair and impartial.
• Bias in modern world Today’s “hawā” includes Tri, Tribalism, Politics, Personal benefit, and Social pressure. This leads to Distorted truth and injustice.
• Forgetting accountability 
• Today most of the people specially on those sitting on seats of justice act as if there will be no consequences of their injustice and that they will not be held accountable for the acts.
• That is why al Qur’an reminds time and again that every decision will be judged

Core Lessons

• Justice must override emotion - so Control your desires.
• Bias is dangerous -so Be just.
• Accountability is inevitable - Remember accountability: be in this world or the Hereafter.

This is advice from Allah, may He be exalted, to those who are in positions of authority. They should rule according to the truth and justice revealed from Him, they should not turn away from it and be led astray from the path of Allah. Allah has issued a stern warning of a severe punishment to those who go astray from His path and forget the Day of Resurrection. 

That is the path of true leadership in Islam

Final Reflection: This verse asks When you have power—even small—do you follow truth or your desires? Unfortunately judges today give verdicts as fed to them or give verdicts in favour of those who influence them with bribes and power of their authority. Even governments today, in the name of their national interests, harm the interests of other nations and wage war to subdue the weak nations to dominate the world. Perhaps we are not afraid of accountability specially on the Day of Judgement. Are you?

May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎) help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door. 

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”

That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

May Allah forgive me if my posts ever imply a piety far greater than I possess. I am most in need of guidance.

Reading the Qur'ān should be a daily obligation of a Muslim - Reading it with translation will make it meaningful. But reading its Exegesis / Tafsir will make you understand it fully. It will also help the Muslims to have grasp over social issues and their answers discussed in the Qur'an and other matter related to inter faith so that they are able to discuss issues with non-Muslims with authority based on refences from Qur'an.

Note: When we mention God in our posts, we mean One True God, we call Allah in Islam, with no associates. Allah is the Sole Creator of all things, and that Allah is all-powerful and all-knowing. Allah has no offspring, no race, no gender, no body, and is unaffected by the characteristics of human life.

You may refer to more Selected Verses from  Sürah 38 Ṣād - the letter ص  already published. You may also refer to our exclusive reference page: Selected verses from selected Surahs of Al-Qurʾān for compiled verses from other surahs.

For verses on Selected Subjects, please refer to our reference page: Selected Verses from Al Qur'an about a Specific Subject (Reference Page) to know more about what Qur'an says about specific subjects and our reference page: Selected Verses from the Qur'an. 

You may also refer to our Reference Pages  and Understanding Al Qur'an for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.

Photo | Reference: | 1 | 2 | 3 | For detailed reading of with reference to previous verses, refer to Exegesis of Surah Sad already published

An effort has been made to gather explanation / exegesis of the surahs and selected verses of Al-Qurʾān from authentic sources and then present a least possible condensed explanation of the surah. In that the exegesis of the chapters of the Quran is mainly based on the "Tafhim al-Qur'an - The Meaning of the Qur'an" by one of the most enlightened scholars of the Muslim World Sayyid Abul Ala Maududi.  

In addition, other sources which have been explored and views of other scholars have been incorporated while explaining meaning of a verse. Those desirous of detailed explanations and tafsir (exegesis), may refer to these sites. For expansion of meaning and themes / contextual background help from ChatGPT is also taken.

Disclaimer: The material for this post has been collected from the references given above. If anyone differs with the material contained in this post, one may consult the references and their authors.  If someone has more material about the subject, he/she is most welcome to share in the comments box to make the post all encompassing.

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook. You may also refer to our Facebook  Group Islam: The Ultimate Truth for more on Islam and Da'wah.

Follow @IslamUltimate

Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, WhatsApp or any means on social media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Qur'ān - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

Read More

Forgiveness of Prophet Joseph (Yusuf AS) - The Highest form of Forgiveness mentioned in Al Qur’an

One of the most difficult virtue of a man's character is forgiveness. We are often wronged on petty matters - but when the gravity of being wronged surpasses the ultimate limit of a man's patience, forgiveness become extremely difficult for the ordinaries. Those who still opt to forgive and forget and even pray for someone who wronged them, is the highest form of forgiveness and quality character of a man,

If someone asks me which is the highest form of forgiveness one can render, I would present the example of Prophet Joseph / Yusuf (Peace be upon him -ʿalayhis-salām عليه السلام) as mentioned in the 92nd verse of Sürah Yusuf of Al-Qurʾān. 

Those who are the people of the Book, must have read the anecdote related to Prophet Yusuf AS when his brothers out of jealousy hatched a conspiracy against him, for he was the most beloved son of his father, Prophet Jacob / Yaqub AS. They took him out with them one day and threw him in a dead well to die. It was by chance that a caravan which was passing by who saw the well and tried to extract water. But instead they found a boy inside the well, whom they pulled out and later sold him as a slave. There he grew up in the house of a noble and one day rose to highest level in the court of the ruler of Egypt. There he one day saw the entire bunch of his brothers who had come to Egypt in search of food as there was a famine in the area. Prophet Yusuf instantly recognized them, yet not only forgave them and erased the painful memory of their betrayal from his heart and even made a supplication for them for their forgiveness.

This entire anecdote is mentioned in Al Qur'an in an exclusive Surah / Chapter dedicated to Prophet Yusuf AS, the exegesis of which we have already published and can be accessed from the links given below:

| Overview | Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4 | Lessons | Selected verses from Surah 12. Yusuf

| How Sürah Yusuf guides believers to seek Divine Guidance in their daily chores | Surah Yusuf  - One of the most psychologically rich narratives in religious literature |

Now, herein under, we share the 92nd verse of Surah Yusuf which exclusively mention the forgiveness of Prophet Yusuf AS, which is considered as the highest form of Forgiveness mentioned in Al Qur’an. We are sharing this exclusive form of forgiveness so that we too try to build our character to such a height that we too are able to forgive others no matter how grave the offence has been committed against us.

The Verse:

قَالَ لَا تَثْرِيبَ عَلَيْكُمُ ٱلْيَوْمَ ۖ يَغْفِرُ ٱللَّهُ لَكُمْ ۖ وَهُوَ أَرْحَمُ ٱلرَّٰحِمِينَ

He said, "No blame will there be upon you today. Allāh will forgive you; and He is the most merciful of the merciful.

What Makes This the Highest Level?

We have already explained the context and the circumstances through which Prophet Yusuf AS went through. Now let us see how this form of forgiveness is so extraordinary to be exclusively mentioned.

Yūsuf (AS) did not just forgive—he did three extraordinary things:

• Complete removal of blame (ʿAfw) - “No blame upon you”
• That is he didn’t remind them of their crime, or shame them or sought an apology.
• His utterance “No blame upon you” is beyond forgiveness - thus erasing the offense completely
• No revenge despite full power
• At that moment, Yusuf had the authority, control and even the opportunity to settle the old scores. Yet he chose mercy.
• This is Forgiveness when revenge is possible (the hardest kind)
• Making du‘ā for them (Iḥsān)
• This is the highest form of character of a man who not only forgave them, and shelve his right to take a revenge, but also pray for them.
• “May Allah forgive you” - that is he didn’t just pardon, but also prayed for their forgiveness.
• This is the highest level of forgiveness - Turning hurt into goodness

Levels of Forgiveness in Islam

Let us just enumerate the levels of forgiveness in Islam as described by the scholars and then compare these with the forgiveness exhibited by Prophet Yusuf AS. And then let us ponder over which level should be adopt to forgive someone who may have wronged us bitterly.

• Level 1: Justice  Take your right with equal response
• Level 2: Forgiveness (ʿAfw) Let go of punishment
• Level 3: Iḥsān (Excellence) Forgive and do good in return - This is the level of  forgiveness displayed by Prophet Yūsuf (AS)

That is why it is mentioned in Al Qur'an, Surah Fussilat (41:34): “Repel evil with what is better…”

Why is this the highest status?

Now some ask, how come this forgiveness is given such a high status. It is because the misgivings and wounds of abandonment required extreme sense of overcoming: Ego, Anger, and the Desire for revenge. This kind act on part of Prophet Yusuf AS reflects Taqwa (God-consciousness) and Trust in Allah’s justice.

Parallel from the Sunnah

Here it would not be out of place to mention the great forgiveness displayed by Prophet Muhammad ﷺ at the conquest of Makkah. But before we mention the great forgiveness, let us just in few lines mentioned the utter torture and inhuman treatment to Prophet ﷺ and his family when he proclaimed Islam in Makkah. The affluent and the rich polytheists of Makkah tortured him verbally, mentally and even physically to pursue him to leave the propagation of Islam. Many of his companions were tortured and even killed to dissuade Prophet ﷺ. But he never lost his ground, for propagation of Islam was more dear to him than his life and family. When, however, the torture by the infidels, the idol worshipping polytheists became unbearable, Prophet ﷺ along with the handful of Muslims migrated to the city of Medinah, where the people welcomed him and entered the fold of Islam. The infidels did not lose him and had three battles to overpower him but he prevailed upon them. And then a time came when he moved to Makkah with his army - and captured it without fighting as the polytheists were overawed by his might and strength, 

And when he along with his army marched into streets of Makkah, he forgave them all, without any exception, and told them: “Go, you are free.”

His blanket forgiveness follow the same pattern of forgiveness by Prophet Yusuf AS. There was no revenge, no humiliation - but simply general amnesty. Such are the ways of prophets who have hearts bigger than mountains to forgive and forget.

Relevance Today

Forgiveness is not a trait of the prophets only - but the examples of their traits are mentioned time and again so that we humans too inculcate the virtue of forgiveness in our character and try our best not to seek revenge if wronged and forgive as much as we can.

Here is how we should do:

• In personal relationships  When there are family conflicts and betrayals - most people hold grudges. But Qur’an calls to rise above, forgive and forget.
• In leadership Power often leads to revenge. But example of Yūsuf (AS) shows that true power calls for mercy, not revenge or keeping grudges.
• In emotional healing Being wronged leaves scars but forgiveness frees removes these from within, and from the heart and mind.
• Important Balance  we need to ensure a balance, though which is not always obligatory as Islam allows Justice and lays down boundaries. But at the same time, Islam does encourage Forgiveness when possible and erasing the hurt from one's soul forever to live a happy life on ward - rather than taking the wounded heart along and continue to have heartburns.

Final Reflection

Take a test when you have been harmed. Ask yourself: If I had the power to take revenge… would I still forgive? That’s the real test.

The Core Message

The example of Prophet Yusuf AS and even that of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ teach us the highest level of forgiveness is "Forgive completely, without blame, and respond with goodness." Try it, though very hard to practice but take a start - it is rewarding.

May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎) help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door. 

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”

That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

May Allah forgive me if my posts ever imply a piety far greater than I possess. I am most in need of guidance.

Reading the Qur'ān should be a daily obligation of a Muslim - Reading it with translation will make it meaningful. But reading its Exegesis / Tafsir will make you understand it fully. It will also help the Muslims to have grasp over social issues and their answers discussed in the Qur'an and other matter related to inter faith so that they are able to discuss issues with non-Muslims with authority based on refences from Qur'an.

Note: When we mention God in our posts, we mean One True God, we call Allah in Islam, with no associates. Allah is the Sole Creator of all things, and that Allah is all-powerful and all-knowing. Allah has no offspring, no race, no gender, no body, and is unaffected by the characteristics of human life.

Please visit our reference page: Surah 12. Yusuf - Prophet Josef (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) for selected verses from Surah Yusuf You may also refer to our exclusive reference page: Selected verses from selected Surahs of Al-Qurʾān for compiled verses from other surahs.

For verses on Selected Subjects, please refer to our reference page: Selected Verses from Al Qur'an about a Specific Subject (Reference Page) to know more about what Qur'an says about specific subjects and our reference page: Selected Verses from the Qur'an. 

You may also refer to our Reference Pages  and Understanding Al Qur'an for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.

Photo | Reference: | 1 | 2 | 3 |

An effort has been made to gather explanation / exegesis of the surahs and selected verses of Al-Qurʾān from authentic sources and then present a least possible condensed explanation of the surah. In that the exegesis of the chapters of the Quran is mainly based on the "Tafhim al-Qur'an - The Meaning of the Qur'an" by one of the most enlightened scholars of the Muslim World Sayyid Abul Ala Maududi.  

In addition, other sources which have been explored and views of other scholars have been incorporated while explaining meaning of a verse. Those desirous of detailed explanations and tafsir (exegesis), may refer to these sites. For expansion of meaning and themes / contextual background help from ChatGPT is also taken.

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