A single statement from Al Qur'an that gives out a complete blueprint for human society

A righteous human society is the ultimate objective of Al Qur'an. a society which free from heartburns and false pride - a society where hearts of every believer beat together. We have been sharing such verses from Al Qur'an for the guidance of our readers. Today we share one very important verse that gives out a complete blueprint for human society. This is the 25th verse of Surah Al Ḥadīd, the 57th Surah of Al Qur'an.

The Verse

لَقَدْ أَرْسَلْنَا رُسُلَنَا بِالْبَيِّنَاتِ وَأَنْزَلْنَا مَعَهُمُ الْكِتَابَ وَالْمِيزَانَ لِيَقُومَ النَّاسُ بِالْقِسْطِ ۖ وَأَنْزَلْنَا الْحَدِيدَ فِيهِ بَأْسٌ شَدِيدٌ وَمَنَافِعُ لِلنَّاسِ وَلِيَعْلَمَ اللَّهُ مَنْ يَنْصُرُهُ وَرُسُلَهُ بِالْغَيْبِ ۚ إِنَّ اللَّهَ قَوِيٌّ عَزِيزٌ

"Indeed, We sent Our Messengers with clear proofs, and We sent down with them the Book and the Balance so that people may uphold justice. And We sent down iron, in which is great might and benefits for mankind, so that Allah may make evident who supports Him and His Messengers unseen. Indeed, Allah is All-Powerful, Almighty." (Qur'an 57:25)

This verse is widely regarded as one of the Qur'an's most comprehensive statements on the philosophy of civilization. It describes the essential ingredients required for a just and enduring human society. In a single verse, Allah mentions five pillars of civilization:

Messengers – moral leadership.

Clear proofs – evidence and truth.

The Book – Divine guidance and law.

The Balance (Mīzān) – justice, fairness and accountability.

Iron – lawful power to protect justice.

Together they present the Qur'anic blueprint for establishing a righteous civilization.

Historical Context

Surah Al-Hadid was revealed in Madinah when the Muslim community was no longer merely preaching faith but was also building a functioning society. The Muslims had (1) established a state, (2) enacted laws, (3) defended themselves militarily, (4) developed economic institutions, and (5) begun governing diverse communities.

This verse explains how every successful civilization should function.

Commentary on this verse by eminent scholars / exegetes of Al Qur'an

Let us now understand the importance and explanation of the verse by eminent Muslims scholars / exegetes:

Ibn Kathir's Commentary Ibn Kathir explains that this verse summarizes Allah's entire program for humanity.

1. Messengers came with clear evidence That is Every prophet brought unmistakable proofs establishing the truth. 

Without revelation, people differ endlessly.

2. The Book The Book refers to Divine revelation. It teaches worship, morality, law, economics, family life, government, and justice for human opinions alone cannot guarantee fairness.

3. The Balance (Mīzān) According to Ibn Kathir, the Balance means justice. Every person, be it a ruler, judge, merchant, or a parent must judge fairly. Justice is the objective behind revelation.

4. Iron Ibn Kathir explains that iron represents strength. Some people obey voluntarily, while others refuse justice. Therefore governments require lawful authority to:

• stop oppression,
• punish criminals,
• defend society,
• protect the weak.

Justice without strength eventually collapses.

5. Allah tests people Allah already knows who supports His religion. The test is for humans to demonstrate their loyalty through action.

Abul A'la Maududi's Explanation Maududi calls this verse the philosophy of Islamic government and civilization. He explains that civilization rests upon three foundations.

• First: Guidance Without Divine guidance, people disagree on morality, rights, truth, purpose. Hence revelation is essential.
• Second: Justice 
• The Book alone is not enough. Justice must actually be implemented.
• The Mīzān represents: fair courts, honest trade, equal treatment, social responsibility. 
• A nation survives through justice.
• Third: Power Law without enforcement becomes meaningless.
• Iron symbolizes government, military, police, lawful authority - Its purpose is not oppression but protecting justice.
• Power must remain under Divine guidance.

Maududi concludes: Revelation guides, justice regulates, and power protects. Remove one of these and civilization eventually fails.

Yusuf Ali's Reflection Yusuf Ali gives this verse a broader moral meaning. For him:

• The Book forms the conscience.
• The Balance forms ethical society.
• Iron Iron provides the practical means to preserve civilization. Iron has two faces: 
• Constructive It can build: bridges, hospitals, homes, industries.
• Destructive Or destroy through war, tyranny, oppression.
• Therefore moral guidance must govern technological power.

Javed Ahmad Ghamidi's Explanation Ghamidi emphasizes the sequence of the verse.

• Allah first mentions: Prophets Evidence Revelation Justice - Only then mentions iron.
• This order is deliberate for Power is never the starting point - rather Power serves justice.

According to Ghamidi, Islam does not seek dominance through force. Instead: Truth leads to Conviction and Conviction leads to Justice to establish Responsible Authority. The state exists to protect justice—not to impose faith by coercion.

Nouman Ali Khan's Reflection Nouman Ali Khan often highlights the remarkable progression in this verse. He explains that Allah did not say He sent iron first. Instead, He established a sequence:

• Truth is taught.
• Hearts are convinced.
• Society accepts justice.
• Only then is authority exercised when necessary.

He also notes the symbolism:

• The Book shapes the mind.
• The Balance shapes relationships.
• Iron protects both.

Without revelation, power becomes tyranny. Without power, justice can become ineffective against oppression. A healthy society requires all three working together in the proper order.

He further points out that iron is described as containing both "great might" and "benefits for mankind," reminding us that technology and material resources are morally neutral; whether they become tools of mercy or oppression depends on the values that govern them.

Why This Verse Is a Blueprint for Human Society

The verse outlines the progression necessary for a flourishing civilization:

     Foundation             Purpose

Messengers             Moral leadership

Clear proofs             Convincing evidence

The Book             Divine guidance and law

The Balance             Justice and fairness

Iron                             Lawful authority and protection

This progression teaches that: (1) truth precedes law, (2) law aims at justice, (3) justice sometimes requires legitimate authority to protect it.

How Can We Implement This Verse Today?

Although most individuals do not govern nations, the principles of this verse apply at every level of life.

1. Seek guidance from revelation Let the Qur'an and the authentic Sunnah shape beliefs, ethics, and decisions rather than changing social trends.

2. Practice justice Be fair (1) in business, (2) within the family, (3) in the workplace, (4) in courts, (5) on social media, (6) even toward those with whom you disagree.

The Qur'an repeatedly commands justice, even against one's own interests (e.g., 4:135 and 5:8).

3. Use power responsibly Whatever authority a person possesses—as a parent, employer, teacher, community leader, or public official—the authority should be exercised to protect rights, not to dominate others.

4. Use technology for benefit

"Iron" today extends beyond metal to the tools and technologies that shape society. Scientific knowledge, industry, engineering, transportation, communication, and even artificial intelligence should serve humanity under ethical guidance rather than exploitation.

5. Support justice actively

The verse concludes by distinguishing those who support Allah and His messengers "unseen." This means standing for truth and justice even when there is no worldly reward, public recognition, or immediate personal benefit.

A Timeless Reflection

Surah Al-Ḥadīd 57:25 teaches that a righteous society is not built by power alone, nor by ideals alone. It requires revelation to guide, justice to regulate, and lawful authority to protect. When moral guidance is separated from power, oppression follows; when justice lacks authority, oppression prevails; and when power is restrained by revelation and exercised with justice, society flourishes. This is why many scholars regard this verse as one of the Qur'an's most comprehensive statements on the foundations of a just civilization.

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 for more Selected Verses from Sürah 57. Al-Ḥadīd (The Iron), 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 | 4 | 5 |

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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Race toward forgiveness from your Lord - Al Qur'an's most profound passages on the reality of worldly life viz the eternal life of the Hereafter

Surah Al-Ḥadīd (57:20–21) forms one of the Qur'an's most profound passages on the reality of worldly life versus the eternal life of the Hereafter. These verses were revealed in Madinah, where the Muslim community was becoming established and experiencing increasing prosperity. Allah reminds the believers not to let material success distract them from their ultimate purpose. Verse 20 describes the temporary nature of this world, while verse 21 immediately redirects believers toward striving for Allah's forgiveness and Paradise. Together, they balance detachment from the dunya with active striving for the Ākhirah.

Verse 20

"Know that the life of this world is only play, amusement, adornment, boasting among yourselves, and competition in wealth and children. It is like rain whose resulting vegetation pleases the farmers; then it dries and you see it turn yellow; then it becomes debris. But in the Hereafter is severe punishment and forgiveness from Allah and His pleasure. And the life of this world is nothing but the enjoyment of delusion." (57:20)

• Context This verse does not condemn worldly life itself. Islam permits earning wealth, raising a family, enjoying Allah's blessings, and beautifying one's life within lawful limits. Rather, it warns against making the dunya one's ultimate goal.
• Allah describes the stages of worldly attachment:
• Play (لَعِبٌ) – the carefree pursuits of childhood.
• Amusement (لَهْوٌ) – distractions that consume time.
• Adornment (زِينَةٌ) – concern with appearance and status.
• Boasting (تَفَاخُرٌ) – pride in achievements and lineage.
• Competition in wealth and children (تَكَاثُرٌ) – endless rivalry for more.
• The imagery of rain and vegetation illustrates how worldly success flourishes briefly before fading into dry stubble. Human life follows a similar pattern: youth, strength, prosperity, decline, and death.
• Explanation by Classical scholars
• Ibn Kathīr explains that Allah compares worldly life to crops that delight farmers but soon wither, showing how quickly worldly attractions disappear. The lasting realities are Allah's forgiveness or His punishment.
• Al-Ṭabarī notes that every stage mentioned reflects a common preoccupation of human beings, yet all are temporary and cannot accompany a person into the grave.
• Al-Qurṭubī emphasizes that the world becomes blameworthy only when it distracts from obedience to Allah. Used in His service, worldly blessings become acts of worship.

We have already published a detailed exegesis of verse 20 which can be accessed from our post: O’ Man! Know that the life of this world is only amusement, adornment, boasting and competition

Verse 21

"Race toward forgiveness from your Lord and a Garden as wide as the heavens and the earth, prepared for those who believe in Allah and His messengers. That is the bounty of Allah which He gives to whom He wills. And Allah is the Possessor of immense bounty." (57:21)

• Context
• After warning about worldly competition, Allah redirects that same human drive toward something worthy.
• People naturally compete for wealth, fame, influence, and recognition. Allah says: compete instead for forgiveness and Paradise.
• The command "Race" (سَابِقُوا) conveys urgency. Just as athletes strive for victory, believers should hasten toward repentance, righteous deeds, charity, prayer, patience, and beneficial knowledge.
• This verse parallels:
• 3:133: "Race toward forgiveness from your Lord and a Garden..."
• 23:61: "It is those who hasten to good deeds, and they are foremost in them."
• 83:26: "So for this let the competitors compete."

The Scholarly explanation This verse follows immediately after Allah's description of the fleeting nature of worldly life (57:20). Having shown that worldly competition is temporary, Allah redirects believers toward a competition that truly matters—the pursuit of His forgiveness and Paradise.

• Ibn Kathir 
• Ibn Kathir explains that after showing how temporary worldly life is, Allah redirects believers to what deserves real effort. He notes that: the command "Race" (سَابِقُوا) indicates eagerness and urgency; forgiveness comes before Paradise because no one enters Paradise except through Allah's mercy and forgiveness; describing Paradise as "as wide as the heavens and the earth" emphasizes its unimaginable vastness rather than giving a geometric measurement.
• Ibn Kathir also relates this to the Prophet's encouragement to hasten toward good deeds before obstacles prevent them.
• Abul A'la Maududi's explanation Abul A'la Maududi focuses on the contrast between verses 20 and 21. 
• He explains: Human beings naturally compete. Although Islam does not abolish competition. Islam redirects competition from temporary achievements to eternal success.
• He writes that worldly rivalry often produces: envy, arrogance, injustice, greed.
• Allah therefore invites believers to engage instead in a noble competition whose prize is Allah's forgiveness and Paradise.
• Maududi also notes that Paradise's vastness teaches that Allah's reward is beyond human imagination.
• Abdullah Yusuf Ali's explanation Abdullah Yusuf Ali sees the passage as a beautiful contrast.
• Verse 20 exposes: the glitter of the world.
• Verse 21 presents: the reality of eternity.
• Yusuf Ali explains that believers should not merely avoid worldly attachment but actively strive toward Allah.
• He remarks that Paradise is described in immense dimensions to help human minds grasp something that ultimately exceeds earthly comparison.
• Javed Ahmad Ghamidi's explanation Javed Ahmad Ghamidi emphasizes the literary flow of the passage. According to Ghamidi:
• Verse 20 dismantles the illusion that worldly life deserves ultimate devotion.
• Verse 21 immediately fills that vacuum by directing human ambition toward Allah.
• He stresses that Islam does not condemn worldly work, wealth, or family.
• Rather, it condemns making them life's highest purpose.
• The command to "race" means that a believer should pursue Allah's pleasure with the same determination that others pursue worldly success.

Relationship between the two verses

The two verses form a complete contrast:

            Verse 20                                 Verse 21

Temporary enjoyment                 Eternal reward

Competing for wealth                 Competing for forgiveness

Crops that wither                         Paradise that never fades

Illusion                                         Reality

Pride                                         Humility before Allah

As can be seen from comparison above, Allah first changes our perspective, then redirects our ambition.

Connection with Hadith

The Prophet ﷺ said: "Be in this world as though you were a stranger or a traveler." (Sahih al-Bukhari, 6416) [ Read explanation of hadith at: But the life of this world (compared to the Hereafter) is only a fleeting enjoyment]

And he also said: "The world is sweet and green, and Allah has made you successors in it to see how you will act." (Sahih Muslim, 2742)

These hadith complement the verses perfectly: the world is not to be abandoned, but it is a temporary trust and a place of testing.

What do these verses teach us today?

These verses are especially relevant in an age dominated by consumerism, social media, and constant comparison.

They remind us that likes, followers, possessions, titles, and status are temporary.

They expose the emptiness of defining success solely by wealth or recognition.

They encourage us to redirect our competitive spirit toward faith, character, generosity, and service.

They teach us to enjoy Allah's lawful blessings with gratitude while keeping our hearts attached to the Hereafter rather than to the fleeting attractions of this world.

They remind us that the true measure of success is not what we accumulate before death, but what we send ahead through sincere faith and righteous deeds.

A reflective summary

Surah Al-Ḥadīd 57:20–21 teaches that worldly life is like a beautiful crop after rain—captivating for a short time but destined to wither. Allah does not forbid the blessings of this world; rather, He warns us not to mistake the temporary for the eternal. Having exposed the illusion of worldly rivalry, He calls believers to race instead toward His forgiveness and the everlasting Paradise. The message is timeless: let the dunya remain in your hands, but let the Ākhirah remain in your heart, for only what is done for Allah will endure.

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: ChatGPT | 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.

Read More

What is the philosophy behind Allah asking questions in Al Qur’an and then sometimes answering His own question?

At a number of places in Al Qur'an a questions is posed to the readers and then sometimes it is also replied. The question arises why such methodology is resorted to and what is the philosophy behind such an approach? It must be understood that Allah’s questions in the Qur’an are not requests for information—Allah already knows everything. These questions in fact are a powerful method of teaching, awakening and making the listener participate mentally in the truth being presented.

Let us dwell on the Divine philosophy using a passage from Al Qur'an as an example:

The Passage

In Surah Al-Kahf 18:103, Allah commands the Prophet ﷺ: “Shall We inform you of the greatest losers in their deeds?” Allah then answers the question in the very next verse: “They are those whose effort is lost in worldly life while they think that they are doing good.” 

In this case, a question is asked before the answer for several reasons. Let us discuss this in some detail:

1. To capture attention

A direct statement might be heard passively. But a question creates suspense: Who are the greatest losers? The listener pauses and becomes eager—or fearful—to know the answer.

The Qur’an frequently uses this method elsewhere too: “Shall I inform you of a trade that will save you from a painful punishment?” — Qur’an 61:10

That is such questions prepares the heart to receive an important truth.

2. To make us examine ourselves

Had Allah simply said, “Certain people are losers,” we might immediately think of others. But when He asks, “Shall We inform you?”, every reader is invited to consider: “Could this description apply to me?”

Thus, the question turns information into self-accountability.

3. To correct a mistaken assumption

People normally imagine that the greatest loser is someone who does nothing, fails in business, or loses worldly possessions. Allah overturns that assumption. The greatest loser may actually be someone who:

• Works extremely hard,
• Believes he is righteous,
• Receives admiration from people,
• Yet rejects Allah’s guidance or acts without sincerity. 

The question therefore prepares us for a surprising answer.

4. To emphasize the seriousness of the answer

The question gives the answer greater weight. It is similar to a teacher saying: “Do you know what the most dangerous mistake is?” Immediately, the students become attentive. The teacher already knows the answer; the question is used to impress its importance upon them.

5. To establish an undeniable truth

Some Qur’anic questions are asked because the answer is already obvious:

“Is Allah not sufficient for His servant?” — Qur’an 39:36

The intended answer is: Yes, certainly He is. Such a question is often stronger than a plain statement because the listener is compelled to acknowledge the truth himself.

This rhetorical method is sometimes called istifhām taqrīrī—a question intended to make a person admit or confirm what is already true.

6. To expose contradiction

Allah sometimes questions people in order to reveal the inconsistency of their beliefs:

“Did they create themselves, or were they the creators?” — Qur’an 52:35

No sensible person can answer “yes” to either possibility. The question dismantles false thinking without needing a long argument.

7. To create dialogue between revelation and the human conscience

The Qur’an does not speak to us like a cold textbook. It questions, challenges, reminds, warns and invites reflection. The reader is not merely receiving facts; he is being personally addressed.

Questions such as:

“Will you not reason?”

“Will you not reflect?”

“Where, then, are you going?”

“Which of your Lord’s favours will you deny?”

make the Qur’an a living conversation with the human conscience.

Why does Allah sometimes answer His own question?

Because the purpose is not to obtain an answer from us. The purpose is to:

• awaken attention,
• allow the question to enter the heart,
• remove false assumptions,
• and then provide the authoritative answer.

In 18:103–105, the sequence is deliberate:

• Question: Who are the greatest losers?
• Human expectation: Perhaps the poor, weak or unsuccessful.
• Divine answer: Those whose entire effort is misguided while they confidently believe they are doing good.

That answer becomes far more striking because the question came first.

The deeper spiritual philosophy

Allah’s questions teach us that revelation is not only to be read—it is to be answered through our lives.

• When Allah asks: “Will you not reflect?” our answer should be reflection.
• When He asks: “Will you not be grateful?” our answer should be gratitude.
• When He asks: “Is Allah not sufficient for His servant?” our answer should be trust in Him.

Therefore, Allah asks and answers not because He needs knowledge, but because we need awakening. The question opens the mind; the answer guides it; and together they move the heart toward faith and reform.

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 |

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.

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Be lievers! Do not pursue that of which you have no knowledge- Al Qur'an

The caption of my post may be misleading for some, thinking the development we see around started with things not known before. It were men of wisdom who pondered over and reflected over the available knowledge and found answers which led to inventions and discoveries. If that be so, they would mock Al Qur'an for making such an irresponsible statement.

This is the text of the verse from  Surah Al-Isra (17:36). On the face of it, everyone will gather the same impression as given above. But a deep reflection of this verse will give the answer which is not discouraging the pursuit of knowledge—it is discouraging acting, speaking, or making claims without knowledge. The Quran consistently encourages learning, reflection, and observation of the natural world; for example, it repeatedly invites people to reflect on the heavens and the earth, asks whether those who know are equal to those who do not, and encourages thinking and reasoning. Scientific discovery itself begins with acknowledging what we do not know and then seeking evidence through careful observation and testing. That approach is fully consistent with the verse. What the verse prohibits is presenting speculation as fact, spreading unverified information, making judgments without evidence, or following assumptions blindly. In this sense, the verse supports the very intellectual honesty on which genuine science, scholarship, and the pursuit of truth depend.

Now let us turn to the verse and reflect over it in detail:

The Verse

Quran, Surah Al-Isra (17:36) says:

"Do not pursue that of which you have no knowledge. Indeed, the hearing, the sight, and the heart—each of those will be questioned."

This is one of the Quran's foundational verses on knowledge, truth, and accountability. It speaks not only about what we know, but about how we form judgments, speak, and act.

The context of the verse

This verse appears in Surah Al-Isra within a passage (17:22–39) that presents a series of ethical commands. These include:

Worship Allah alone.

Be good to parents.

Give relatives and the needy their rights.

Avoid extravagance.

Do not kill your children out of fear of poverty.

Avoid adultery.

Do not kill unjustly.

Protect the property of orphans.

Give full measure and weight.

Do not follow what you have no knowledge of.

Do not walk the earth arrogantly.

Notice that the Quran places this command among major moral principles. That tells us that speaking without knowledge is not a minor mistake—it is an ethical issue with spiritual consequences.

Breaking down the verse

1.    "Do not pursue..."

The Arabic word تَقْفُ (taqfu) means: to follow, to chase, to imitate, to speak about, to make claims concerning something.

It is broader than "don't say." It means:

• Don't build your life on assumptions.
• Don't accept ideas merely because everyone else does.
• Don't accuse people without proof.
• Don't claim certainty where you lack knowledge.

2.    "...that of which you have no knowledge."

Notice that Allah does not say: Don't pursue what is false. Instead He says: Don't pursue what you do not know.

This is a remarkably high standard. It teaches that the absence of evidence is itself a reason to pause. A believer should be comfortable saying:

"I don't know."

"I'm not sure."

"I'll check."

"Allah knows best."

Classical scholars often regarded saying "I don't know" as a sign of sincerity rather than weakness.

Why hearing, sight, and the heart?

The verse continues: "Indeed, the hearing, the sight, and the heart—each of those will be questioned."

The Quran identifies three faculties through which we receive and process information:

1. Hearing: (1) What do you listen to? (2) What information do you accept? (3) Do you listen carefully before judging?

2. Sight: What do you witness? (1) Do you trust appearances without deeper understanding? (2) Do you verify what you think you saw?

3. The heart: In the Quran, the heart (qalb) is more than emotion. It is the center of intention, understanding, and moral judgment. Even if your eyes see correctly, your heart can distort reality through pride, envy, prejudice, and desire.

The verse reminds us that accountability extends beyond our senses to the way we interpret and act on what we perceive.

Scholarly commentary

Ibn Kathir explains that this verse forbids speaking without knowledge. It includes:

1.    Giving testimony without certainty,

2.    Making false accusations,

3.    Spreading rumors,

4.    Claiming knowledge one does not possess.

He emphasizes that every faculty Allah has given us will be questioned on the Day of Judgment.

Al-Tabari interprets the verse as a prohibition against following assumptions and conjecture in matters where evidence is lacking. He stresses that people should only affirm what they truly know.

Sayyid Abul Ala Maududi notes:

The meanings of "Do not follow that of which you have no knowledge" are very comprehensive. It demands that both in individual and collective life, one should not follow mere guess work and presumption instead of "knowledge". This instruction covers all aspects of Islamic life, moral, legal, political, administrative and applies to science, arts and education. It has thus saved the society from numerous evils which are produced in human life by following guesswork instead of knowledge.

The Islamic moral code demands: Guard against suspicion and do not accuse any individual or group without proper investigation. In law, it has been made a permanent principle that no action should be taken against anyone without proper investigation. It has been made unlawful to arrest, beat or imprison anyone on mere suspicion during investigation. In regard to foreign relations, the definite policy has been laid down that no action should be taken without investigation, nor should rumors be set afloat. Likewise in education the so-called sciences based on mere guess-work, presumptions and irrational theories have been disapproved. Above all, it cuts at the very root of superstitions, for this instruction teaches the Believers to accept only that which is based on the knowledge imparted by Allah and His Messenger. 

Why this verse is extraordinary

Most ethical systems tell us: "Don't lie." - The Quran goes further. It says: Don't even act as though you know something when you don't.

That is a much deeper moral principle. It cultivates humility and intellectual honesty.

What does this mean today?

This verse is remarkably relevant in an age of instant communication.

• Social media Before sharing a post, ask yourself: Do I know this is true? Or am I just passing it on?
• News Before becoming angry, ask Have I verified the facts? Or am I reacting to a headline?
• Relationships Before believing gossip, ask Have I actually heard both sides?
• Religion 
• Before saying: "Islam says..." - Ask: Do I actually know that? Or am I repeating something I've heard?
• This even true for all religions. Today, the image of Islam is tarnished on heresy - most haters of Islam have never verified what they have been fed. And when the truth is uncovered, they feel low for their emotional reactions rather than being logical.
• Science and learning The verse encourages intellectual humility. Knowledge should be pursued with evidence, curiosity, and honesty—not certainty without basis.

A deeper reflection

There is an interesting progression in the verse:

Hearing — information enters.

Seeing — observation confirms or challenges it.

Heart — interpretation, intention, and judgment.

The Quran reminds us that accountability is not only for what we hear or see, but for what we choose to believe, conclude, and act upon.

What direction this verse gives us

This verse calls believers to become people of truth:

• Speak only when you have knowledge.
• Verify before believing or sharing.
• Be willing to say, "I don't know."
• Use your senses responsibly.
• Guard your heart against bias and pride.
• Remember that every word and judgment carries moral weight.

In many ways, Surah Al-Isra 17:36 lays the foundation for an Islamic ethic of knowledge. It teaches that seeking truth is not merely an intellectual exercise—it is an act of worship, because Allah will ask us how we used the faculties He entrusted to us.

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 17. Al-Isra'ʾ (The Night Journey) already published from Sürah 17. Al-Isra'ʾ. This verse is also part of our reference page: Some of the most profound verses of Al Qur'an that must be deeply reflected upon.

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.

Read More