Believers!! Do not let your sins mean that you are beyond mercy - Let them become the reason to return to God

No matter which faith or belief one belongs to, it is a fact that when anyone commits a sin, there is constant hammering from the sinner's heart that something bad has taken place. At that time one really doesn't know what to do and how to take off the burden of the sin so committed to put him at ease. Under such circumstances, the sinners go to priests, religious men and scholars to know a way out. But even if these religious men offer a respite, which they themselves are not very sure of, the sinner's heart remains restless. 

Islam is perhaps the only religion which comes to the rescue of such people and asks them to repent and turn to their Creator for forgiveness, for it is Divinely reassured that anyone who turn to his Creator will always be listened to and be forgiven. His heart slate becomes clean altogether to start afresh.

This is subject of the 102nd verse of Surah 9. At Taubah (Repentance) which provides solace to the restless hearts and shows them a beacon that takes them to their Creator - with no intermediary in between. And those who sincerely repent, would have the feeling that their Creator "out there" is all ears and will surely forgive them.

The Verse

وَءَاخَرُونَ ٱعْتَرَفُوا۟ بِذُنُوبِهِمْ خَلَطُوا۟ عَمَلًا صَٰلِحًا وَءَاخَرَ سَيِّئًا عَسَى ٱللَّهُ أَن يَتُوبَ عَلَيْهِمْ ۚ إِنَّ ٱللَّهَ غَفُورٌ رَّحِيمٌ

And [there are] others who have acknowledged their sins. They had mixed [i.e., polluted] a righteous deed with another that was bad. Perhaps Allāh will turn to them in forgiveness. Indeed, Allāh is Forgiving and Merciful.

Note: Before we unpack the verse mentioned above, let us share two important previous posts to understand how important is repenting one's sins and mercy of Allah befalls on the repenting servant and is so forgiven:

• Understanding concept of Tauba and Astaghfar (Repentance and Forgiveness) in Islam
• Selected Verses from Al Qur'an about a Specific Subject: Repentance and forgiveness

Context of the verse

This verse appears in Surah At-Tawbah, a chapter that discusses several groups of people during a difficult period in the early Muslim community, including the expedition to Tabuk. Around this section of the chapter:

• Some people openly opposed the faith or acted hypocritically.
• Others sincerely believed but failed in their duties, such as staying behind from the expedition without a valid excuse.

Verse 9:102 speaks about a third category: people who were not rebels or hardened hypocrites, but believers who genuinely recognized that they had sinned. The key feature of these people is that they admitted their wrongdoing instead of denying it or making excuses for it. It is mentioned in historical books that they acknowledged their wrongdoing and chained themselves to the pillars of the Prophet's Mosque in Medina until their repentance was accepted.

The verse thus serves as a universal reminder of mercy, showing that God forgives those who confess their faults, feel sincere remorse, and strive to improve.

What does “mixed a righteous deed with another that was bad” mean?

Classical commentators generally understood this to mean that these people had both good and bad elements in their lives:

• They had faith and had performed good deeds.
• They also committed serious mistakes or acts of disobedience.
• Rather than claiming innocence, they acknowledged their faults.

The verse recognizes the complexity of human beings. A person is not always entirely righteous or entirely sinful. Many people have a mixture of obedience and failure.

How can this be a cue for sinners to return to their Creator?

This verse is often seen as one of the Qur'an's verses of hope because it highlights several principles:

• Acknowledging sin is the beginning of repentance: The people mentioned did not hide from their mistakes. They recognized them. The verse suggests that honest self-accountability is a path toward divine mercy.
• Past sins do not erase all good: The verse does not describe them as hopeless. Even though they sinned, their good deeds and faith still mattered.
• Allah's mercy remains open: The ending—“Allah is Forgiving, Merciful”—directs attention toward the possibility of forgiveness rather than despair.
• Repentance is available before perfection: The verse does not speak about people who had already become flawless. It speaks about people who were still imperfect but turned back toward God.

A broader spiritual lesson

Many readers understand 9:102 as a reminder that there is a difference between:

• A sinner who admits their fault and seeks God, and
• A person who persists in wrongdoing while refusing to acknowledge it.

The verse encourages the first response. It tells those who feel burdened by their mistakes that recognition of sin, sincere repentance, and returning to one's Creator are themselves signs of spiritual life. The emphasis is not on pretending one has never failed, but on turning back after failure with honesty and hope.

In that sense, 9:102 can be read as a powerful invitation: do not let your sins convince you that you are beyond mercy; let them become the reason you return to God.

This post is part of the five verses about forgiveness of Allah and must be read to reflect on the mercy of Allah, which no other deity can bestow upon a man:

• 9:102 – Some believers admitted their sins; they mixed good and bad deeds. Allah may forgive them — He is Merciful.
• 9:103 – The Prophet ﷺ is told to accept charity from them to purify and bless them.
• 9:104 – Allah alone accepts repentance and charity; He is Forgiving and Merciful.
• 9:105 – Everyone will be judged by their deeds; Allah and His Messenger will see them.
• 9:106 – Some will have their fate delayed until Allah decides — either punished or forgiven.

Let us never be disheartened if a sin is committed - we must immediately repent our action and seek forgiveness of Allah with the form resolve of not repeating it. Allah says that He wil keep forgiving His servants so long they seek His forgiveness till they see the angel of death - a time when Divine forgiveness ceases and the sinner will be punished for not seeking forgiveness which was thrown open to him and the denial of this open favour did not become a reason for him to return to Allah.

Let us share a video of tafseer / explanation of verses 102 to 106 by one of the eminent Muslim scholar and exegete Ibn Kathir:

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 9 At-Tauba (The Repentance)  already published.

You may also refer to our exclusive reference pages: 

• Selected verses from selected Surahs of Al-Qurʾān for compiled verses from other surahs.
• Selected Verses from Al Qur'an about a Specific Subject (Reference Page) to know more about what Qur'an says about specific subjects
• 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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Why the word Bayyinah البينة‎ - The (irrefutable) Evidence is used in Al Qur'an

Man is always tied to traditions and cultures of his forefathers and thus rejects any idea presented to him which is at tangent to what he already knows. This has also been true in case of the prophets, specially chosen by the Creator of the universe, and the Divine scriptures given to them to break the shackles of the bondages which restrict his mind to new ideas - new ways to find his Creator.

That is there always have been people deeply entrenched in their ancestral ways and claimed that they would not abandon their religions until "clear evidence" came to them. Like all previous people, the people of Makkah, the polytheists and the idolaters, rejected the message of Islam which was Divinely revealed to Prophet Muhammad so that his people could get out life of ignorance and step into the life of true faith. But the polytheists of Makkah rejected him out rightly and asked him to bring something with clear proof and evidence so that they could beleive in him.

But when Prophet Muhammad presented them with the verses which were Divinely revealed to him, they still rejected like old people and mocked him for not bringing to them the conclusive evidence that could remove doubt and undeniable truth so that they could "believe."

The Quran uses the word Bayyinah البينة to highlight the ultimate irony: they were waiting for undeniable proof to believe, but when the definitive Bayyinah (Prophet Muhammad and the divine scripture) finally arrived, most of them still rejected it out of arrogance. Let us understand the true meaning of this word which supports the Divine revelations as true and irrefutable evidence what Al Qur'an and Prophet Muhammad brought to them.

Literal meaning Bayyinah البينة

البَيِّنَة comes from the root ب ي ن (b-y-n), which conveys the idea of something becoming clear, distinct, separated from confusion, or manifest. Literally, bayyinah means:

• A clear proof
• An evident sign
• A manifest demonstration
• Conclusive evidence that removes doubt
• How it is used in the Qur'an

The word appears in several places with related meanings:

• Clear evidence from God.
• Miracles given to prophets.
• Revelation that makes truth evident.
• A proof that leaves people without a valid excuse.

For example, the opening of Surah Al-Bayyinah says:

لَمْ يَكُنِ الَّذِينَ كَفَرُوا مِنْ أَهْلِ الْكِتَابِ وَالْمُشْرِكِينَ مُنفَكِّينَ حَتَّىٰ تَأْتِيَهُمُ الْبَيِّنَةُ 

( 1 )   Those who disbelieved among the People of the Scripture and the polytheists were not to be parted [from disbelief] until there came to them clear evidence

According to Ibn Kathir, the use of Bayyinah sets the stage for the rest of the Surah. It emphasizes that humanity is divided into two distinct camps upon the arrival of this clear proof: those who act upon it and become the "best of creation," and those who reject it and become the "worst of creation."

Another view point: The word is uniquely tied to the psychology of those who reject faith. The Quran uses it to address the excuses given by both polytheists and the People of the Book (Jews and Christians). These groups were deeply entrenched in their ancestral ways and claimed that they would not abandon their religions until "clear evidence" (Bayyinah) came to them. The Quran uses the word to highlight the ultimate irony: they were waiting for undeniable proof to believe, but when the definitive Bayyinah (Prophet Muhammad and the divine scripture) finally arrived, most of them still rejected it out of arrogance.

* The next verse identifies that "clear proof" as a messenger from God reciting purified scriptures.

Why is this word used?

The Qur'an often uses bayyinah when discussing accountability. The idea is:

• People should not be judged before the truth is made sufficiently clear.
• Once a bayyinah arrives, ignorance is no longer a complete excuse.
• The truth has been distinguished from falsehood in a way that can be recognized by sincere seekers.

So bayyinah is stronger than merely "information" or "an argument." It refers to evidence that is clear enough to separate truth from doubt.

Root and Core Meaning

• The word comes from the root: ب ي ن (b-y-n). This root carries the idea of:
• becoming clear,
• being distinct,
• separating one thing from another,
• making something evident.
• Other Qur'anic words from the same root include:
• تبيان (tibyān) — clarification, exposition.
• يُبَيِّن (yubayyin) — he makes clear.
• بَيِّن (bayyin) — clear, evident.
• So bayyinah is literally: "that which makes the truth stand out clearly from falsehood."
• Grammatical Nuance
• بَيِّنَة is an intensive form meaning not merely "evidence" but:
• a self-evident proof,
• a manifest sign,
• something whose clarity becomes apparent to the observer.
• It implies that the proof itself possesses clarity.

Usage in the Qur'an

The Qur'an uses bayyinah in several contexts.

1. Miracles of Prophets

• For example, prophets are said to come with bayyināt (plural of bayyinah):
• "Their messengers came to them with clear proofs."
• These may include miracles, signs, or unmistakable evidence of prophethood.

2. Revelation Sometimes the Qur'an itself is described as containing clear proofs. The emphasis is not only that information was delivered, but that it was delivered in a way that clarifies reality.

3. Conclusive Proof Before Accountability A recurring Qur'anic principle is: 

• God does not hold people accountable before the truth has been made clear.
• The arrival of a bayyinah removes ambiguity and establishes responsibility.

Why is Surah Al-Bayyinah called "The Clear Proof"?

• The opening verses say: "The People of the Scripture and the polytheists were not to cease (from their ways) until there came to them the Bayyinah.'
• Then the next verse explains: 'A messenger from God reciting purified scriptures."
• Many commentators understood this to mean that the bayyinah is not merely a miracle or a book alone, but the combination of: the Messenger, the Revelation, and the clarity of the message.
• The truth becomes unmistakably presented.

Difference Between Bayyinah and Burhan

The Qur'an also uses another word بُرْهَان (burhān). Both can mean "proof," but there is a nuance.

• Bayyinah emphasizes clarity and manifestness.
• Burhan emphasizes logical or decisive demonstration.

A simple way to think about it:

• Bayyinah is evidence that becomes clear.
• Burhan is argument that compels conviction.

Why this word Bayyinah البينة‎  is powerful

The Qur'an could have used words meaning "sign," "argument," or "information." Instead, bayyinah emphasizes that the truth is not hidden in obscurity. It has been made distinct and recognizable. The root idea is separation:

• Truth becomes separated from falsehood.
• Guidance becomes separated from misguidance.
• Clarity becomes separated from confusion.

That is why البَيِّنَة is often translated as "the clear proof", but its deeper sense is "a proof that makes reality clear and leaves the matter distinguished from doubt."

Application of Bayyinah in relation to AL Qur'an and all other religions

Let us reflect on the idea, for academic sake only, what "bayyinah" (clear proof) could mean in a world where many religions, philosophies, and ideologies all claim to possess truth.

• From a contemporary perspective, the challenge is that a claim is not the same thing as a bayyinah. Every religion can claim:
• "Our scripture is the final revelation."
• "Our founder is the true prophet."
• "Our path is the correct one."
• If everyone makes exclusive claims, the mere existence of the claim cannot itself be the "clear proof."

How the Qur'an presents the issue In the Qur'anic sense, a bayyinah is supposed to be something that makes the truth evident, not merely something asserted. The Qur'an repeatedly invites people to: 

• Reflect. 
• Examine evidence. 
• Consider signs in nature. 
• Think critically rather than blindly imitate ancestors.

For example, it frequently asks variations of "Will you not reason?" or "Will you not reflect?"

The implication is that a sincere person should engage with the evidence rather than accept a claim solely because it is traditional or popular.

The modern difficulty Today, people have access to:

• Multiple religions.
• Historical scholarship.
• Scientific knowledge.
• Philosophical arguments.
• Diverse cultures.

As a result, what counts as a "clear proof" is often disputed. 

• A Muslim may see the Qur'an's language, preservation, and message as a bayyinah. 
• A Christian may see the life and resurrection claims concerning Jesus as decisive. 
• A Hindu may point to spiritual experience and ancient tradition. 
• A secular thinker may argue that none of these rise to the level of conclusive proof.

One way to understand bayyinah today

Many modern readers understand bayyinah less as "a proof that forces everyone to agree" and more as:

Evidence that is sufficiently clear for a sincere seeker to recognize, even if reasonable people still disagree.

That distinction matters. In everyday life, even strong evidence often does not produce universal agreement:

• Scientific findings can be disputed.
• Historical events can be interpreted differently.
• Political facts can be viewed through competing lenses.

The existence of disagreement does not automatically mean there is no evidence; it means people evaluate evidence differently.

A philosophical question

I for myself while reflecting on the word under discussion, pondered over what is relevance of this world in present times when every religion boasts of their religion as the final and consulted AI / Chat GPT for an answer which in fact also raises a deeper issue: If a true religion exists, should its proof be so obvious that nobody could reasonably disagree?

Different traditions answer differently.

• Some theologians argue that God intentionally leaves room for free choice and faith rather than making belief unavoidable.
• Some philosophers argue that a truly universal revelation should be clearer than what we observe.
• Others conclude that religious truth may be something approached through a combination of reason, experience, ethics, and revelation rather than a single irrefutable proof.
• In practical terms

In today's pluralistic world, the relevance of bayyinah may be less about accepting someone's claim that they possess the truth and more about asking:

• What is the evidence?
• How reliable is it?
• Is it internally coherent?
• Does it correspond to reality?
• What explains the human condition most convincingly?
• What assumptions am I bringing to the question?

In that sense, the concept of bayyinah remains relevant because it challenges people not merely to inherit beliefs, but to examine whether the reasons for those beliefs are genuinely clear and compelling. The debate today is not whether people make truth claims—almost every worldview does—but whether those claims are supported by what one considers a genuine bayyinah.

It is inconceivable that the unbelievers among the people of the earlier revelations and the idolaters could have ever changed their ways until there had come to them the clear evidence of the truth: a Messenger from God reciting revelations blest with purity, wherein are sound decrees of high value.

I leave this question here open ended for my readers to reflect over what has been written in this post and how should really pursue for the irrefutable evidence to find the plain truth as desired by our Creator.

Readers may like to listen to the video on Surah Al Bayyinah with reference to its first verse shared above;

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 also refer to our exclusive reference pages: 

• Selected verses from selected Surahs of Al-Qurʾān for compiled verses from other surahs.
• Selected Verses from Al Qur'an about a Specific Subject (Reference Page) to know more about what Qur'an says about specific subjects
• 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 | 4 |

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

Al Qur'an: The parable of faithful battle charging horses to warn man of his unfaithfulness to his Lord

Man by nature is drawn towards fiction, parables and metaphors for these help them to remain absorbed in the lessons behind these parables and metaphors better than plain fictional text. In theology, such parables are necessary for many find difficult to understand the Divine wisdom contained in the holy scriptures.

In Arabic, the Qur'an often uses the term mathal (plural: amthāl), usually translated as "parable," "example," or "likeness." A parable, therefore, is a short comparison, analogy, story, or illustrative example used to convey a deeper truth. Rather than stating an idea directly, a parable helps people understand something abstract through something familiar. 

We have already shared a number of parables and metaphors mentioned in AL Qur'an, which can be accessed from our exclusive reference page: Most profound Metaphors and Parables in Al Qur'an. Today we share a very important and mind boggling parable which is mentioned in Surah 100. Al Adiyat (The battle charging horses) - rather this parable is the backbone of a very important lesson for the believers to understand.

Why Horse has been chosen as a parable

In this 11 verses Surah, Allah has taken a charging battle horse as a parable and taken their oath to show how an animal shows utter faithfulness to his master, while a man who has been gifted so much by his Creator, yet he remains unfaithful to his Creator. The parable of horses is for a reason for Arabs are avid horse riders and the Arabian horses are known for their strength, speed and extreme faithfulness. Therefore God swears an oath by the charging steeds that pant, while producing sparks by striking their heels to overawe the opposing enemy and instill fear in their hearts.  They make raids in the early morning when their enemies are unaware and stir up clouds of dust when they dash into the middle of the enemy troops.

The Display of Faithfulness by the Steeds

The "charging horses" imagery appears at the beginning of Surah Al-'Adiyat. Those who are avid horse riders would know why horse is a symbol of faithfulness. Even the onlookers would notice a horse which is running at his top speed, panting heavily with his whole body sweating beyond perhaps his physical limits - but he never stops so long his master doesn't want him to. In fact the parable using a charging horse is not the merely his speed but a fine display of faithfulness.

That is why Al Qur'an opens the surah with a series of oaths describing powerful warhorses rushing into battle. In fact the surah opens up portraying a high high pitched battle scene where amid the howling and shouting of war slogans, the heavy thumping of the horses, and the spark due to striking of their metal shoes under their hooves, making the battle scene eerie. In fact the scene depicts a fine display of faithfulness by an animal rather than a man,

"By the charging steeds, panting, striking sparks of fire, raiding at dawn..." (100:1–3)

Classical and modern commentators have understood these verses in slightly different ways, but the main question is: What are these horses pointing to? The horses are portrayed as:

• Extreme loyalty to their riders.
• Committed to their task.
• Willing to expend all their strength.
• Fearless in carrying out their duty.

Let us go deeper in each of the verse mentioned in the opening of the surah:

( 1 )   وَالْعَادِيَاتِ ضَبْحًا  By the racers, panting,

• Here Allah is taking is the oath of the horses, who when charge, pant heavily as if they are using all their energies to run at a pace desired the riders.
• Meaning of ضَبْحًا 
• The root is ض ب ح (ḍ-b-ḥ). Classical Arabic dictionaries describe ḍabḥ as the sound of heavy breathing, panting, or snorting produced by a horse (or similar animal) when running at full speed and has crossed his physical endurance.
• It is not merely "running"; it specifically evokes: (1) Forceful breathing after intense exertion. (2) The audible snorting or panting of a galloping horse. (3) A vivid sensory image of speed, power, and effort.
• The word is in the accusative form (ḍabḥan), functioning as a verbal noun (maṣdar) that intensifies the action of the preceding participle العاديات ("those that charge/run swiftly").
• Why is it used in the opening verse? The opening verses of Surah Al-'Adiyat form a sequence of dramatic images:
• Charging animals.
• Panting/snorting as they run.
• Striking sparks with their hooves.
• Raiding at dawn.
• Raising clouds of dust.
• Penetrating into the midst of a group.
• The use of ضَبْحًا contributes several effects:
• 1. Creates an auditory image Rather than simply saying "the runners" or "the horses," the verse lets the listener almost hear the animals breathing heavily. This makes the scene vivid and immediate.
• 2. Emphasizes effort and determination Panting indicates that the animals are exerting themselves completely. Classical commentators often saw this as highlighting loyalty and obedience: the animals push themselves to exhaustion for their riders.
• 3. Builds dramatic momentum The surah begins with intense movement and energy. The panting sound is the first detail in a rapid sequence that culminates in a charge through dust into the enemy ranks.
• 4. Supports the surah's argument Many classical exegetes, including Al-Tabari and Ibn Kathir, understood the oath as drawing attention to creatures that display remarkable dedication and faithfulness. The surah then contrasts that with the human tendency toward ingratitude toward God. The loyal, hard-driving animals become part of the rhetorical setup for that contrast.
• This word thus display the Loyalty Protocol of a beast for his master. He knows his utmost will bring victory to his master - while not caring for his own fate when confronting sharp spears and arrows.

( 2 )    فَالْمُورِيَاتِ قَدْحًا  And the producers of sparks [when] striking

The second verses further intensifies the capabilities of the charging horse and adds the sparks that come out when the metal shoes of the horses strike the stones and pebbles. In modern scientific interpretation, these sparks are due to the combination of kinetic and thermal energy. More the speed, more the friction and more the sparks. This combination of speed, panting and sparks is a scene to demoralize the enemy in defence and breaks their will to resist. This also adds to the first verse and shows that loyalty to the master is not only in simple worship, but worship from the core of the heart - that is the ultimate loyalty.

( 3 )    فَالْمُغِيرَاتِ صُبْحًا  And the chargers at dawn,

The third verse is about the dawn attack - a time when the opposing forces are generally at rest and least expect an enemy to attack. Like men of the attacking forces, the horses too have had a restless day by closing up to the enemy and waiting to be unleashed at their full capacity and speed. It is a time, when men and animal need rest from a restful day and night before. But when forces get ready to attack and men prepare their horses for the battle charge, the horses display an unmatchable obedience beyond the comfort zone. He gets ready in minutes, ready to take his rider to the enemy with a speed that frightens the enemy.

( 4 )   فَأَثَرْنَ بِهِ نَقْعًا   Stirring up thereby [clouds of] dust,

And here comes the last act which creates the smoke screen effect as it is called in modern day warfare where in the movement is obscured by firing smoke shells to create a smoke screen between the defender and the charging / attacking side. The horses by their high speed and thumping fly dust which creates the same effect as of the modern day smoke screen.

( 5 )   فَوَسَطْنَ بِهِ جَمْعًا  Arriving thereby in the center collectively

And thus the combination of speed, thumping, sparking and creating dust clouds, the horses overrun the first layer of defence and take the attacking forces right behind them to create the immediate imbalance. - generally enough to destabilize the enemy defences and being overawed. At this stage the horse and his rider are surrounded by the enemy, yet they do not turn back - they fight to win or face their doom. Yet, horses never gives up charging, attacking so long he knows his master is with him and his loyalty demands to remain with him even if injured or fatigued.

The central point of the parable

Many commentators see the oath as highlighting a contrast:

• The horse faithfully serves its master.
• Human beings frequently neglect their duty to Allah.

In this reading, the horse becomes a symbol of steadfast service, exposing human ingratitude.

Change in Theme After discussing the faithfulness and loyalty of the horse, on which Allah has taken an oath, the theme of the surah abruptly changes in the last six verses from loyalty of the horse to the selfishness and unfaithfulness of the man and his intentions. Let us take these two themes briefly with the parable of the horse at the back of our mind.

The Ultimate lesson from the Parable

The first five verses are not merely a parable, these have a far greater lesson for the man. That is why the surah abruptly turns to human beings:

"إِنَّ الْإِنسَانَ لِرَبِّهِ لَكَنُودٌ Indeed, mankind is ungrateful to his Lord." (100:6)

The contrast is striking. The horses display remarkable loyalty and dedication, while humans often fail to show gratitude and devotion to the One who created them.

• Literal meaning of كَنُود (kanūd) The word كَنُود comes from the root ك ن د (k-n-d). In classical Arabic, it refers to someone who:
• Is ungrateful for blessings.
• Remembers hardships but forgets favors.
• Withholds appreciation despite receiving good.
• Fails to acknowledge benefits received.
• Classical lexicographers often describe a kanūd person as one who counts misfortunes and ignores blessings.
• Why not just use the common word for "ungrateful"? 
• Arabic has more common words for gratitude and ingratitude, such as: شَكُور (shakūr) – grateful and كَفُور (kafūr) – ungrateful.
• But kanūd is more vivid and psychologically specific. It doesn't merely mean "ungrateful"; it suggests a person who habitually focuses on what is lacking while overlooking what has been given.
• A concise literal gloss  If translated very literally, كَنُود might be rendered as: "one who ignores favors and dwells on grievances" or "one who is persistently ungrateful despite receiving good." That nuance is stronger and more specific than the simpler translation "ungrateful," which is why many scholars regard kanūd as a particularly powerful choice in verse 100:6.
• This is the lesson: A horse just for a pail of water and grass can render his utmost faithfulness and loyalty to his master - but man always a kanūd is always unfaithful to his Creator and is always lamenting for more, rather than being thankful for what he has been blessed with.

Theme of the remaining part of the Surah

• Theme-1 (Verses 6 – 8 ) People are ungrateful God says that there is no doubt that the human being is disloyal to his master (God).  Most people are ungrateful for all the bounties and blessings He bestows upon them.  They deny God’s favors and this ingratitude is shown through their actions and verbal statements.  There are many who do not even believe that God exists let alone acknowledge the blessings He has bestowed.  On the Day of Judgment, each person will testify against him or herself because they will be unable to speak anything but the truth. Let us briefly discuss the remaining verses:
• ( 7 ) وَإِنَّهُ عَلَىٰ ذَٰلِكَ لَشَهِيدٌ  And indeed, he is to that a witness That is his own conscience and his own deeds are a witness to it; then there are many disbelievers also who by their own tongue express their ingratitude openly, for they do not even believe that God exists to say nothing of acknowledging His blessings for which they may have to render gratitude to Him.
• ( 8 ) وَإِنَّهُ لِحُبِّ الْخَيْرِ لَشَدِيدٌ And indeed he is, in love of wealth, intense Literally He is most ardent in the love of khair خَيْرِ. But the word khair is not only used for goodness and virtue in Arabic but also for worldly wealth. In ( Surah Al-Baqarah, Ayat 180), khair has been used in the meaning of worldly wealth. The context itself shows where khair has been used in the sense of goodness and where in that of worldly goods. The context of this verse clearly shows that here khair means worldly wealth and not virtue and goodness. For about the man who is ungrateful to his Lord and who by his conduct is himself testifying to his ingratitude it cannot be said that he is very ardent in the love of goodness and virtue.
• Theme-2 (Verses 9 – 11) Intentions and actions have consequences Pondering the final three verses provides a cure for ingratitude.  It describes a scene from the Day of Resurrection that makes any right-minded person shudder with fear.   We are shocked by a violent and frightening scene; the graves burst open scattering their contents.   People will exit their graves by being wrenched out and thrown around forcefully.  It leaves no doubt that the intense longing for wealth and multitudes of world possessions will provide no protection whatsoever.  Let us unpack the remaining three verses of the surah:
• ( 9 ) أَفَلَا يَعْلَمُ إِذَا بُعْثِرَ مَا فِي الْقُبُورِ But does he not know that when the contents of the graves are scattered Man is so drowned in the lust of wealth and worldly gains that he does not know how every day he is inching towards his grave where he will be buried empty handed. Even if his coffin is made of gold, studded with diamonds and rubies, these will not save him from the torment he awaits in the Hereafter.
• ( 10 ) وَحُصِّلَ مَا فِي الصُّدُورِ And that within the breasts is obtained That is all the intentions, aims and objects, ideas and thoughts and the motives behind acts and deeds that lie hidden in the hearts will be exposed and examined in order to sort out the good from the evil. In other words judgment will not be passed only on the apparent and superficial as to what a man practically did but the secrets hidden in the hearts will also be brought out to see what were the intentions and motives under which a man did what he did. If man only considers this, he cannot help admitting that real and complete justice cannot be done anywhere except in the court of God. Secular laws of the world also admit in principle that a person should not be punished merely on the basis of his apparent act but his motive for so acting also should be seen and examined. But no court of the world has the means by which it may accurately ascertain the motive and intention. This can be done only by God: He alone can examine the underlying motives behind every apparent act of man as well as take the decision as to what reward or punishment he deserves. Then, as is evident from the words of the verse, this judgment will not be passed merely on the basis of the knowledge which Allah already has about the intentions and motives of the hearts, but on Resurrection Day these secrets will be exposed and brought out openly before the people and after a thorough scrutiny in the court it will be shown what was the good in it and what was the evil. That is why the words hussila ma fissudur حُصِّلَ مَا فِي الصُّدُورِ have been used. Tahsil means to bring out something in the open, and to sort out different things from one another. Thus, the use of tahsil concerning hidden secrets of the hearts contains both the meanings: to expose them and to sort out the good from the evil. This same theme has been expressed in Surah At-Tariq, thus: The Day the hidden secrets are held to scrutiny. (verse 9).
• ( 11 ) إِنَّ رَبَّهُم بِهِمْ يَوْمَئِذٍ لَّخَبِيرٌ Indeed, their Lord with them, that Day, is [fully] Acquainted. That is, Allah's knowledge is full and vigilant at all times. But on that day it will reveal to men secrets which they had long forgotten, for the Book of their Deeds will be made manifest at Judgment.

Spiritual reflection

The surah can be read as asking:

If an animal can show such commitment to a temporary earthly mission, why does a human being often fail to show commitment to their eternal purpose?

The "charging horses" are therefore not merely a scene of battle. They serve as a vivid sign that leads to the surah's real subject: human gratitude, devotion, attachment to wealth, and accountability before Allah. The surah ends by reminding that on the Day of Judgment, what is hidden in hearts will be brought forth and fully known by Allah.

 

One scholar sums up the Surah by saying that if a beast can put his life in danger by extracting the last of strength and power from his muscles, then why cannot the man leave his ego and lust for wealth and become a God obedient? That is cannot we show the least of the loyalty displayed by a beast to our Creator? Man is running and panting like a horse, not in loyalty to God, but in pursuit of wealth and worldly gains. The question here is why -  if all our purists are for wealth, then we are nothing but kanūd. And if all our purists are for our Creator then we fall in loyalty to Him as do the horses for their masters. Therefore, we must learn from horses and recognize our Creator and run towards Him the same way a panting horse takes his rider to his objective. Please ponder over it!!

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 our exclusive reference pages: 

• Surah Al ‘Adiyat - The Chargers: Exegesis / Tafsir 100th Chapter of Qur'an
• Selected verses from selected Surahs of Al-Qurʾān for compiled verses from other surahs.
• Selected Verses from Al Qur'an about a Specific Subject (Reference Page) to know more about what Qur'an says about specific subjects
• 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.

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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.

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What is true Salvation - Does it come from wealth, power or status?

We live in a materialistic world where one's status, power and wealth is more weightier than the truth and piety. For those who have plenty of wealth and wield power, ethics and morality are things of the past and to be left to the priests and imams, Their entire orientation remains focused on how to have more wealth, elevated status and unparoled power so that none can compete or challenge their authority. We have umpteen examples from the history where such people commanded the meek and the weak and anyone who came their way was slain or taken off the scene forever.

But does this ensure freedom or salvation? For all such people have left behind their imprints in the history books to be remembered for their obstinacy, false ego and pride and as a lesson for coming generations to stand with the truth for the salvation lies for those who stand with the truth, no matter what their status may be. We have names like Pharaoh, Genghis Khan and many dictators who ruled through their armies, killed millions who dared to challenge them. But in the end, they too died deaths that were torturing, regretful and empty hands with not a penny in their coffins t save them from the torment of the graves and later when they will be presented to the Lord of the World on the Day of Judgment, when they will be charge sheeted for torturing those who cling to the truth and had the audacity to challenge them, despite knowing their fate.

So who does achieve true salvation in the end? The wealthy demagogues and the torturous rulers or the simple souls who did not possess anything, yet stood by the truth as revealed to them by the prophets and messengers of God?

The answer lies in reading history, specially the formatting years of Islam when Islam was trying to find inroads into hearts of the stubborn, proud and egoistic elite of the Makkah who confronted Prophet Muhammad ﷺ with brutal resistance and never parted with the faith of their forefathers. And who stood with Prophet Muhammad ﷺ? The poor and the weak, who saw salvation from the bondage of their ruthless masters. They stood with the strength of every drop of their blood and sided with the truth - truth that made them rise much above the status of their masters and ultimately became the true servant of One True God.

When a man pitches whatever he has earned his ego against the truth, his wealth and status becomes meaningless. For wealth, status, power can be taken away Divinely when one persists in blocking the truth to himself due to his ego. This is exactly what has been mentioned in the second verse of Surah 111 Al Masad wherein it is said: “مَآ أَغْنَىٰ عَنْهُ مَالُهُۥ وَمَا كَسَبَ His wealth and whatever he earned will not avail him.” This has been said about a rich, in fact claimed to be among the four richest men of the leading tribe of Makkah,  and egoistic man called Abu Lahab, who despite being an uncle of the Prophet, not only refused to heed to the Divine truth, but along with his wife, did his utmost to harm his nephew. And thus he faced the Divine torment and the couple died miserably, and his wealth and whatever he had earned did not avail him any good.

The verse conveys a broader principle:

• Wealth alone cannot save a person.
• Social position, power, family ties, or worldly achievements cannot guarantee success before Allah.
• What ultimately matters is faith, sincerity, and one's deeds.

Some commentators have taken ma kasaba in the meaning of the earning, i.r. the benefits that accrued to him from his wealth were his kasab(earning), and some other commentators have taken it to imply children, for the Holy Prophet (upon whom be peace) has said that a man's son also is his kasab (earning). (Abu Da'ud, Ibn Abi Hatim). Both these meanings fully correspond to the fate met by Abu Lahab. For when he was afflicted with the malignant pustule, his wealth availed him nothing, and his children also left him alone to die a miserable, wretched death. They did not even bury him honorably. Thus, within a few years the people witnessed how the prophecy which had been made in this Surah about Abu Lahab was literally fulfilled. 

Abu Lahab and his wife being specifically mentioned in Al Qur'an as the cursed ones, among the enemies of Islam, is just to emphasize that no relationship whatsoever, even with the holy Prophet (S), can be of any benefit when the person lacks in Faith. The men of Faith show no inclination toward those who go astray and never follow them in their wrong way, even when they are their close relatives.

Surah Al-Masad 111:2 teaches that the things people often rely on for security—wealth, influence, and worldly accomplishments—cannot provide true salvation. True salvation comes from one's relationship with Allah, faith, repentance, and righteous deeds. 

This verse is an eye opener for all those who think their wealth and status is ever lasting and none can harm them. But this fallacy is much too often proved wrong as none of the worldly galore remains forever. Men like Karun (Qarun) lost their wealth and their lives too while thinking that their wealth and status will be their saviours. While poor clad in rag tags rose to the highest glories for they knew their salvation rested on their standing with the Divine truth.

This is what Islam asks the men: What attitude one has when it comes to siding with the truth, and not how much wealth one amassed or the status one attained. Because Salvation lies with standing with the truth, and not by boasting of one's status and wealth.

A worth scholar once said: Anyone who wants to stands with the truth and is ready to sacrifice whatever he has to support the truth, should believe firmly on what he believes, develop his character strongly on this belief - this will aid in developing the true spiritual power that will make him stand against the demagogues sure footed - this spiritual growth provide strength much needed to brave the thorny track of truth for the worldly gods will come on to them with their full might to protect their wealth and status built on inner hollowness.

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 | 4 |

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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What is Divine Abandonment – why does it happen

God, the Creator of the entire universe, has sent a large number of prophets and messengers to various nations and communities so that the disarrayed people could be shown the Divine path and guided to it so that they could be blessed. Many had heeded to the Divine guidance since the life on earth began - but at the same time many confronted the prophets and rejected the Divine guidance shown to them. And it is the latter who are given ample time to steer their course of life and life a live as ordained to them Divinely. And when they still persist in their  egoistic outlook, God abandons them for good. 

This question of Divine abandonment  has been discussed by theologians and believers for centuries. In the Qur'an, God is often described as being near to people, guiding them, and responding to those who call upon Him. At the same time, there are verses that speak about God "leaving" people in error or withdrawing guidance from those who persistently reject it.

Let us reflect over this question and try to find out why the mere chastisement of Hell fire is not the only punishment men who deny One Ture God will get. In fact after their denial of Him, this world is made a place unlivable. Here is how it happens:

God, through his prophets establishes a pattern for guidance of men to His path: 

• The God deniers are shown signs, guidance, or opportunities. They are told the stories of the previous nations who confronted and resisted the prophets.
• God allowed them to continue on the path they have chosen.
• And their resistance becomes entrenched by repeatedly rejecting, ignoring, and turning away from prophets of God, they were subjected to horrible wrath which left only the ruins of their buildings as a lesson for the following people to take heed from and return to Him.
• In this view, divine "abandonment" is not usually portrayed as arbitrary. Rather, it is often described as a consequence of a person's persistent choices.

However, many people ask a different question: Why does it feel like God leaves someone alone even when they are trying, suffering, or seeking Him? Different religious traditions offer different answers. Within Islam, common themes include:

• A period of testing or spiritual growth.
• A call to patience and perseverance.
• The fact that God's wisdom may not be immediately apparent.
• The distinction between feeling abandoned and actually being abandoned.

The Quran contains expressions of deep distress from prophets and righteous people who experienced loneliness, fear, or apparent silence. Yet those experiences are not presented as evidence that God had truly forsaken them.

From a philosophical perspective, some thinkers argue that if humans are to have genuine freedom, there must be times when God does not overwhelm them with unmistakable signs or constant intervention. Otherwise, choice and moral responsibility would be diminished.

But those who persistently deny God's guidance, a time comes when they are abandoned altogether.  This abonnement is far severe than  any other test in this world. they are robbed of the peace of mind - although they are seen happy outwardly enjoying the luxuries of life, but deep inside their hearts there is a hollowness, a feeling of left out, finding no light at the end of the tunnel. This happens after persistent denial of God's existence and His blessings that are bestowed upon man. The more one is blessed, more egoistic, proud and criminal minded one becomes. From this stage on, one is something far different from one's actual self - a stage when the prick of the conscious becomes so light that one doesn't even feel it the warning bell that is continuously been sounded but now the volume start to dim and then finally fade.

Does it mean the man has been abandoned forever

When the prick of conscious and the ringing danger bells become ineffective to stir the conscious, does it mean the abandonment is total and complete and a point of no return has reached?

Well, the answer is a BIG NO. Allah has promised at many a places in Al Qur'an that His servants should never lose hope of being forgiven, provided they repent and seek Divine forgiveness. The idea that Allah accepts repentance up until a person reaches the point of death is expressed in the Qur'an, especially in:

“But repentance is not accepted of those who continue to do evil deeds until, when death comes to one of them, he says, ‘Indeed, I have now repented,’ nor of those who die while they are disbelievers...” — Qur'an

Another often-cited verse is: “Say, ‘O My servants who have transgressed against themselves, do not despair of the mercy of Allah. Indeed, Allah forgives all sins. Indeed, it is He who is the Forgiving, the Merciful.’” — Qur'an

Many scholars explain these verses together: Allah's forgiveness is available for any sin as long as a person sincerely repents before reaching the point of death.

This verses indicate that repentance remains open until death actually arrives; once a person reaches the moment of death and sees it approaching, repentance is no longer accepted. As can be seen in the above quoted verse, there is a catch: The catch is before one hears the angel of death knocking at the door. IF one repents before that and seek to be forgives, it is Divine promise that he will be forgiven, for God doesn't leave His servants helpless and unforgiven till the very last moment. 

So do no despair if you think your association with Allah has net been good or you think after so many denials now you will not be heard and Divinely forgiven. Repent as often as you can and continuously seek Divine forgiveness before you are caught unguard by the angel of the death - a time when you will depart this world ready to face the Divine wrath on the Day of Judgement.

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.

Read More