Qur’an is a blessed Book revealed for Reflection, specially by men of understanding (ulu al-albāb), to take heed

AL Qur'an is the last of the four Divine Scriptures from Allah for the guidance of mankind. It is revealed in Arabic language, yet it is the most read Divine Scripture around the world even by non Arabic speaking Muslims. Those who cannot read Arabic, read translation of Al Qur'an and are still spellbound how Allah directly speaks to the audience no matter Muslim or Non Muslim. There is a strange connection that is established between the Lord of the universe and His creations when Al Qur'an is read.

Unfortunately many a  man do not know how to approach AL Qur'an to benefit from it. Those averse to Islam, dig into Qur'an only to find verses that can be twisted and used against Islam. Many verses so twisted are used as a platform for waging a sinister campaign and spreading Islamophobia in the world. But those who read Qur'an with an open minds and try to find the good in it, more often than not find the true guidance and come under the fold of Islam.

Although, the ordinary men get to understand the Divine message, even by reading the translation of Al Qur'an, there are many hidden meanings that only men of wisdom, intellect and understanding can understand. This is what is being said in the 29th verses of Surah 38 Saad (The letter Saad) being shared and explained herein under:

The Verse

"This is a Blessed Book which We have revealed to you, so that they may reflect upon its verses and so that those of understanding (ulu al-albāb) may take heed."

(38:29)

Key Points in the Verse

• “Blessed Book” (Kitābun Mubārak): 
• The Quran has been called a blessed Book in the sense that it is highly useful for man. It gives him the best guidance to improve and reform his life. By following it he has only to gain and nothing to lose.
• The Qur’an is full of blessings: spiritual, moral, and practical guidance, light, healing, and mercy.
• Purpose of Revelation: 
• Tadabbur (reflection)
•  Not just recitation, but pondering the meanings, wisdom, and lessons.
• Ibn Taymiyah said, “Whoever contemplates [tadabbur] upon the Qur’ān [with the condition] of seeking guidance from it, [then] the path of truth will be made clear.”
• Dhikrā (reminder) — So that people can act upon it, not merely admire it.
• “Those of Understanding” (Ulu al-Albāb): This phrase occurs often in the Qur’an. It refers to people with pure hearts, sound intellect, and sincerity who can recognize truth when they see it.

Who Are the Men of Wisdom (Ulu al-Albāb)?

Ulu al-albāb (or Ulūl albāb) is an Arabic term from the Quran that refers to people of sound intellect, wisdom, and deep insight, who integrate their intellectual faculties with spiritual awareness to understand God's signs in creation. They are characterized by their profound contemplation, reflection, piety, and ability to make wise decisions, striving for truth and seeking to serve God and humanity. 

Ibn Qayyim said, "In short, there is nothing more beneficial for the heart than reading the Quran and with contemplation and reflection. The Quran encompasses all levels of the travelers, the conditions of the workers, and the stations of those possessing know. It is the Quran that generates love, desire, fear, hope, repentance, reliance, pleasure, entrustment, gratitude, patience, and the rest of the different states that are life to the heart and perfection of it. Likewise, it repels all the rebuked characteristics and actions that cause the corruption and ruin of the heart. If people were to possess a realization of what recitation of Quran with contemplation contains, they would devote themselves to it at the expense of anything else". [Ref: Miftaah Daar as Saadah p.204]

Key characteristics of ulū al-albāb:

• Deep intellectual capacity: They possess sharp, profound, and broad understanding, often described as having "layered brains" or pure intellects. 
• Spiritual maturity: They achieve a notable degree of spiritual maturity, combining intellect with emotion and devotion. 
• Contemplation and reflection: They actively contemplate the creation of the heavens and the earth and reflect on God's decrees. 
• Wisdom and insight: They gain profound insight and wisdom, allowing them to understand the essence of things and perceive signs of God's greatness. 
• Piety and remembrance: They remember God (dhikr) while standing, sitting, or lying down and hasten towards His forgiveness. 
• Integrative approach: They integrate human reason with Divine revelation and combine worldly knowledge with religious knowledge. 
• Solution-oriented: They can act as solution-oriented individuals who use their minds for effective planning and decision-making. 

In essence: Ulu al-albāb are not just intellectually smart but are deeply spiritual, possessing a complete understanding of reality through the combined lens of reason and faith, leading to moral action and purposeful living. 

Quranic Examples:

• 3:190–191: Ulu al-albāb are those who remember Allah, reflect on creation, and say, “Our Lord, You did not create this aimlessly.”
• 13:19: They recognize that what Allah has revealed is the truth.
• 39:9: They are described as those who spend the night in prayer, humble before their Lord, fearing the Hereafter.

So "men of wisdom" are not an elite scholarly class only — but people whose hearts are alive with faith and reflection.

Can Ordinary Believers Understand the Qur’an?

Yes of course. The Qur’an was revealed for all of mankind, not just scholars.

54:17: “And We have certainly made the Qur’an easy for remembrance, so is there any who will remember?”

39:27: Allah says He has given every type of example in the Qur’an so people may take heed.

The Prophet ﷺ recited Qur’an to ordinary companions — shepherds, traders, farmers — who reflected and acted on it.

However, levels of understanding differ:

• Ordinary believers can understand the general guidance (belief in Allah, prayer, morality, justice, patience).
• Scholars with deeper study of Arabic, tafsīr, and Sunnah can uncover deeper layers and resolve complex issues.
• But reflection (tadabbur) is for everyone. The Qur’an invites all believers to think, not just scholars.

Lessons for Us Today

Al Qur'an is revealed for guidance of man and not finding shortcuts from Al Qur'an in form of supplications to steer the life as they want it. Those who understand the Qur'an will have their life well shaped as it will add the love and mercy of Allah in everything they do and wish for. 

Remember:

• Don’t treat Qur’an as just for recitation in rituals — it is for reflection and action.
• Everyone can benefit, but sincerity, humility, and use of intellect are key.
• True wisdom is not just having knowledge, but applying Qur’anic guidance to life.

Surah Ṣād 38:29 highlights that the Qur’an is a blessed Book revealed for reflection. The “men of wisdom” are not just scholars, but anyone with sincerity, humility, and sound intellect who seeks Allah’s guidance. Ordinary believers can and must reflect on the Qur’an, while scholars may access deeper layers — but everyone can benefit from its guidance.

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 page: Selected verses from selected Surahs of Al-Qurʾān for compiled verses from other surahs.

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

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

Photo | Reference: | 1 | 2 | 3 | ChatGPT / Google

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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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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Was sending of Prophet Adam to earth Divinely Pre-Ordained or committing "The Original Sin" the cause

"Expulsion" of Prophet Adam (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and his wife Eve from Heavens to earth draws a complete contrast between the Injeel (The Gospel) and Al Qur'an. The followers of the Gospel or the modern day Bible believe that it was the violation of the Divine Order for not nearing a particular tree in the Heaven and eating its fruit despite forbiddance became the Original Sin for which the duo was expelled from Heaven to earth. And all coming posterity. 

However, the Qur'an depicts a different reason for "sending" the duo to earth. We will draw a comparison of both versions in this post today. However it is only for intellectual / academic insight, and not in any case to prove who is right and who is wrong. 

Biblical Account

• The story unfolds in Genesis 2–3:Setting: God creates Adam and Eve, placing them in Eden with one prohibition: not to eat from the "tree of the knowledge of good and evil" (Genesis 2:16–17), under penalty of death.
• The Temptation: A serpent (often interpreted as Satan) tempts Eve, questioning God's command and promising godlike wisdom (Genesis 3:1–5).
• The Act: Eve eats the fruit and shares it with Adam. Their "eyes are opened," they recognize their nakedness, and they hide from God (Genesis 3:6–7).
• Consequences: 
• "God curses the serpent, the ground, and the couple—introducing pain in childbirth, toil, and expulsion from Eden (Genesis 3:14–19)." 
• This event symbolizes humanity's fall from innocence.

This narrative is echoed in the New Testament, e.g., Romans 5:12: "Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all people, because all sinned."

Original sin is thus a foundational doctrine in Christian theology, referring to the first act of disobedience by Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden, as described in Genesis 3. This "sin" fundamentally altered human nature, introducing mortality, suffering, and a propensity for sin into the world. It's not just the act itself but its inherited consequences for all humanity. 

The Qur'anic Account

The mention of "expulsion" of Prophet Adam and his wife commences much better that the anecdote of nearing the tree of the forbidden tree and enticement of Iblis (Satan) to eat its fruit, thus defying the exclusive Divine Commandment and committing an unpardonable sin which could become a cause of their expulsion from Heaven to earth. 

Herein under is the Qur'anic account:

Sequence of Events of Making a Man

• Making of the First ever Man from Clay: The Qur’an repeatedly mentions that man was created from clay (ṭīn), dust, or related terms, to emphasize both our humble origin and Allah’s power of creation. Below is a detailed description of these verses with their wording and context:
• Surah As-Sajdah (32:7): “He began the creation of man from clay.”
• Surah Al-Mu’minūn (23:12): “And certainly We created man from an extract of clay.”
• Surah Al-Raḥmān (55:14): “He created man from sounding clay like pottery.”
• Surah Al-Ḥijr (15:26): “And We did certainly create man out of clay from an altered black mud.”
• From dust (turāb): “Indeed, the example of Jesus to Allah is like that of Adam. He created him from dust, then He said to him, ‘Be,’ and he was.” (3:59)
• The appointment of man (Adam عليه السلام) as Khalīfah (vicegerent) on earth:
• Having decided to make the first man, Allah decided to make this man his vicegerent on earth.
• The account of Prophet Adam is first mentioned in Surah al-Baqarah (2:30): “And [mention, O Muhammad], when your Lord said to the angels, ‘Indeed, I will place upon the earth a successive authority (khalīfah).’ They said, ‘Will You place upon it one who causes corruption therein and sheds blood, while we declare Your praise and sanctify You?’ He said, ‘Indeed, I know that which you do not know.’”
• This verse sets the context: Allah declared His plan to appoint mankind as His representative on earth.
• And this clearly means that Adam was yet to be made and the Divine mindset laid out its plan to make a human and send him to earth as His vicegerent on earth. 
• Meaning of Khalifa / vicegerent
• Vicegerent / Representative: To act on earth in a way that upholds Allah’s commands.
• Successor / Generation after generation: Humans succeed one another in responsibility.
• It signifies duty and responsibility, not just privilege. Man is entrusted to establish justice, worship Allah, and avoid corruption.

• Allah's Plan and Angels' Wondering
• Allah announced His plan (2:30) – that humans would be His khalīfah on earth.
• Angels questioned, not objected: They wondered why humans, with free will, might spread bloodshed, while they themselves only glorify Allah.
• Allah affirmed His wisdom: He has knowledge of qualities (such as intellect, moral responsibility, capacity to learn, and potential for worship) that angels do not.
• Allah taught Adam names/knowledge (2:31–33) – showing man’s unique gift of knowledge and ability to learn.
• The Order to Prostrate the First Man:  
• Once the man was made and taught the Divine wisdom, angels were ordered to prostrate. 
• Command to prostrate (2:34) – After Adam was given knowledge, Allah ordered the angels to prostrate to Adam as an honor (not worship). All obeyed except Iblīs (Satan), who arrogantly refused. And or this disobedience Iblīs was expelled from the Divine Court.

So, yes, the mention of Adam being appointed khalīfah (2:30) on earth comes before the command of prostration (2:34) in the Qur’anic sequence and eating of the fruit from the forbidden tree.

Enticement by Iblīs (Satan)

The Qur’an then narrates the story of Adam (عليه السلام) and his wife, the forbidden tree, Shayṭān’s enticement, their fall, and their repentance (duʿā’) in several places. Let’s go step by step:

• Eating the Forbidden Tree: In Qur'an a number of places the episode of eating the forbidden fruit is given. Some are quoted herein under:
• Surah Al-Baqarah (2:35–36): 
• “And We said, ‘O Adam, dwell, you and your wife, in Paradise and eat therefrom in abundance wherever you will. But do not approach this tree, lest you be among the wrongdoers.’
• But Shayṭān caused them to slip out of it and removed them from that [condition] in which they had been.”
• Surah Al-Aʿrāf (7:19–22):
• Allah commanded: “O Adam, dwell, you and your wife, in Paradise and eat from wherever you will, but do not approach this tree, lest you be among the wrongdoers.”
• Shayṭān whispered: “Your Lord did not forbid you this tree except that you become angels or become immortal.”
• Then he swore: “Indeed, I am to you a sincere advisor.”
• “So he misled them with deception. And when they tasted of the tree, their shame became apparent to them, and they began to fasten together over themselves from the leaves of Paradise.”
• Surah Ṭā Hā (20:120–121):
• Shayṭān whispered: “O Adam, shall I direct you to the tree of eternity and a kingdom that will never decay?”
• “And they both ate from it, and their private parts became apparent to them, and they began to cover themselves with leaves of Paradise. And Adam disobeyed his Lord and erred.”

The Difference between Bible and Qur'an begin from Here on

• Version of Bible:
• After the episode of enticement by Shayṭān, the Bible tells us that they were expelled from Heaven to earth fo committing the "Original Sin" which they carried and transformed the Original Sin to every new born till the world lasted.
• "God curses the serpent, the ground, and the couple—introducing pain in childbirth, toil, and expulsion from Eden (Genesis 3:14–19)." 
• This event symbolizes humanity's fall from innocence.
• Version of Al Qur'an: qur'an from hereon differs from the Bible and mentions that both Adam and Eve made a supplication for forgiveness and God forgave them:
• Their Supplication for Forgiveness
• Surah Al-Aʿrāf (7:23): “They said, ‘Our Lord, we have wronged ourselves, and if You do not forgive us and have mercy upon us, we will surely be among the losers.’”
• This is the duʿā’ of Adam and Ḥawwā’, showing acknowledgment of sin, confession, and appeal to Allah’s mercy.
• Allah’s Forgiveness
• Surah Al-Baqarah (2:37): “Then Adam received words from his Lord, and He accepted his repentance. Indeed, it is He who is the Accepting of repentance, the Merciful.”
• Surah Ṭā Hā (20:122): “Then his Lord chose him, turned to him in forgiveness, and guided him.”

Hadith about wiping of sins of those embracing Islam

In addition to the above explanation of man being born with out sins, there are clear and authentic Ḥadīths about forgiveness of sins when a person sincerely repents his past sins and embraces Islam. Let me share some of the strongest Ḥadīths on the subject:

• Sahih Muslim (121) – Narrated by Amr ibn al-‘Ās (RA):
• When Allah put Islam in his heart, Amr (RA) came to the Prophet ﷺ and said: “Stretch out your hand so that I may pledge allegiance to you.”
• The Prophet ﷺ stretched out his hand, but Amr withdrew his. The Prophet ﷺ asked, “What is wrong with you, O Amr?”
• He said, “I want to make a condition that Allah will forgive me my past sins.”
• The Prophet ﷺ said: “Do you not know that Islam destroys (erases) what came before it, and hijrah destroys what came before it, and Hajj destroys what came before it?”
• That means When someone accepts Islam, all their previous sins are forgiven, and they start with a clean slate.
• Forgiveness upon repentance
• Sahih Muslim (2749): The Prophet ﷺ said: “The one who repents from sin is like the one who has no sin.”
• This vindicates the repentance of Prophet Adam and his Divine forgiveness.
• Allah’s mercy is greater than all sins
• Sahih al-Bukhari (7554), Sahih Muslim (2751): The Prophet ﷺ said: Allah says: “O son of Adam, if your sins were to reach the clouds of the sky and then you asked forgiveness of Me, I would forgive you. O son of Adam, if you were to come to Me with sins nearly as great as the earth, and then meet Me without associating anything with Me, I would come to you with forgiveness nearly as great as it.”
• This hadith once again reassures a man that no matter how much sins a man may committed, if he repents sincerely, Allah will accept his repentance and forgive him. Though the sin of Prophet of Adam was grave for defying the Divine Commandment, he was still forgiven. 
• So there is no question to have moved to earth laden with the Original Sin.

Lessons for Us Today

• Anyone who accepts Islam becomes as pure as a newborn baby, free of all past sins.
• For Muslims, sincere tawbah (repentance) has the same effect: Allah erases sins and restores purity.
• This highlights Allah’s immense mercy — He loves to forgive, and His forgiveness is greater than any sin.

The Conclusion

The above detailed comparison shows that:

• Allah had already chosen to send a man He would make to the earth as His vicegerent
• The eating of the forbidden fruit was not the reason of the expulsion of Adam and Eve from Heaven to earth as per Bible. Rather it was pre-ordained to happen at a time to be decided by Allah.
• Since Allah had pardoned Adam and Eve of their folly of falling to the Satanic enticement, there is no question of carrying the sin of defiance of Allah by them to the earth.
• And since they were sinless, there also doesn't no question arises of transformation of the so called Original Sin to their posterity. 

You may like to listen to a narration on the subject of Khalifah on Earth: The Real Story of Adam by eminent Muslim scholar Nouman Ali Khan, given herein under:

With this explanation, I leave here for academic, intellectual and theological correlation of events for those who want to ponder more over the subject.

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: Grok | References: | ChatGPT and Grok | Al Qur'an | Hadith References: | Sahi Muslim 12m 1 | Sahi Muslim 2749 |

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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Where is the Zaqqūm tree - why it is oft mentioned in Al Qur'an?

The earthly world is specially made for us, the men and women, so Divinely created as offspring of Prophet Adam (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and his wife Eve. And for our sustenance, innumerable eatables have been created to which every living being has access too. This blessing is for this world only. A Day would soon come when a bifurcation will be made: One category which will have an abode in Jannah will have access to all good things and eatables. Beside other other things, Al Qur'an mentions four categories of tree including the fruit trees, olive trees, palm trees, and lote trees.

BUT FOR THOSE UNLUCKY AND THE DOOMED WHO WILL BE THROWN INTO THE PIT OF BURNING FIRE OF HELL WILL HAVE ACCESS TO THE FIFTH CATEGORY OF TREES: THE "CURSED" ZAQQUM TREE.

Zaqqūm tree is the most dreadful for the Zaqqūm tree (Shajarat al-Zaqqūm) grows at the bottom of Hell (Jahannam), not in this world. Zaqqūm is a tree of the cactus species found in Tihamah. It is bitter in taste, obnoxious in smell and sheds a milk like juice when cut or broken. The fruits of Zaqqūm are shaped like heads of devils (Qur'an 37:62-68). Some Muslim scholars believe in a literal meaning of this tree grown in fire, showing the inverted flora of hell. The inhabitants of hell are forced to eat the tree's fruits, which tears their bodies apart and releases bodily fluids as a punishment. 

That is why Al Qur'an has exclusively mentioned the Zaqqūm tree as a warning to the sinners and idolaters or the polytheists to mend their way, repent and seek forgiveness of Allah before they are thrown into the pit of hell and forced to eat the "fruit" of the Zaqqūm tree.

Where Zaqqūm tree is mentioned in the Qur’an

It appears in several places:

•  Surah Ad-Dukhan (44:43-46)
• "Indeed, the tree of Zaqqūm will be food for the sinful.
• Like molten brass, it will boil in their bellies.
• Like the boiling of scalding water."
• Surah Al-Waqi‘ah (56:52-54)
• "Then you will surely eat from the tree of Zaqqūm
• And fill your bellies with it,
• Then drink on top of that scalding water."
• Surah Al Isra (17:60) And recall when We said to you, (O Muhammad), that your Lord encompasses these people; and that We have made that vision that We have shown you, and the tree accursed in the Qur'an, but as a trial for people. We go about warning them, but each warning leads them to greater transgression.
• Surah As-Saffat (37:62-66)
• "Is that (Paradise) a better accommodation or the tree of Zaqqūm?
• Indeed, We have made it a trial for the wrongdoers.
• Indeed, it is a tree issuing from the bottom of Hellfire,
• Its emerging fruit as if it were heads of devils.
• And indeed, they will eat from it and fill their bellies with it."
• Explanation by Ibn Kathir: When this revelation was made in the Quran, the people of ancient Arabia started mocking it. One of the chiefs said, ‘How can a tree grow amidst the fire of hell?’ Another chief said, ‘Muhammad is terrifying us by talking of Zaqqum, when the fact is that dates and butter are called Zaqqum, in the Berber language.’ Abu Jahl took some people home and asked his maidservant to bring some dates and butter and when they were brought, he said to his companions, ‘Eat this. This is the Zaqqum with which you are being threatened by Muhammad.’ (Tafsir al-Mazhari). Such Quranic statements were misused by unbelievers to demonstrate the untrustworthiness of the Quran. God might well have refrained from using such a word as would give unbelievers the opportunity to raise unnecessary issues, but He did not do so. The reason is that this creates the very situation in which a man is meant to be tried. In order to achieve salvation, he has to prove that by avoiding unnecessary issues he has given his full attention to the truth; that, by carefully avoiding misunderstandings, he has managed to discover the real purpose of the argument; that he has concentrated entirely on facts, although there were many opportunities for his mind to be diverted from them. God’s selected few are those who rise above traditional religion and discover the real Truth; who rise above outward appearances and realise the real meaning of occurrences; who recognize God’s representative and become his supporters.

Hadiths that mention Zaqqūm tree

• The Prophet (pbuh) sates the following about the tree of Zaqqūm: “If one drop from the tree of Zaqqūm were to fall into the seas of the world, it would turn the life of everybody upside down. What about the state of those who will eat Zaqqūm?” (Tirmidhi, Jahannam, 4; Hakim, al-Mustadrak, 2/294)
• Narrated Ibn `Abbas: Regarding: 'And We granted the vision (Ascension to the Heaven "Miraj") which We showed you (O Muhammad as an actual eye witness) but as a trial for mankind.' (17.60) It was an actual eyewitness which was shown to Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) during the night he was taken on a journey (through the heavens). And the cursed tree is the tree of Az-Zaqqum (a bitter pungent tree which grows at the bottom of Hell). Sahih al-Bukhari 4716

Why It’s Mentioned

• Mention of this cursed and dreadful tree serves as a warning to disbelievers and wrongdoers about the torment of Hell.
• It highlights the contrast between the blessings of Paradise and the punishments of Hell.
• The tree is a symbol of ultimate suffering, as its fruits are repulsive and its consumption causes extreme torment.

Key Lessons

• Accountability: Actions have consequences in the afterlife.
• Contrast: Qur’an often juxtaposes the rewards of Jannah with the punishments of Jahannam to encourage righteousness.
• Spiritual Reality: The Zaqqūm tree is not metaphorical in Islamic belief; it is part of the unseen reality of the Hereafter.

Every warning in Al Qur'an is to forewarn the sinners and the wrongdoers to reform their lives and turn to One True God in repentance of their cursed and dark past. Those who seek repentance before angel of death knocks at their door will be pardoned. But those who shrug off such warnings and continue to follow a life and path of Satan will be the utter losers and inhabitants of hell, where the boiling water will be their drink and thorns of the Zaqqūm tree their food - neither of the two difficult to drink and eat, but will be forced to do so again and again.

Time is now to change our life course and repent, lest we end up in a place so detestable and cursed. Decide now: Is it better to eat from the tree of Zaqqum and drink boiling water or to eat the food of Paradise and drink from the rivers of Paradise?

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 Reference Pages  and Understanding Al Qur'an for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.

Photo | Reference: | 1 | 2 | 3 | 

Disclaimer: The material for this post has been collected from the references given above and ChatGPT. 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 eyebrows are raised when Muslims label some food as Halāl (Lawful) and Harām (Unlawful)

Eating meat has been the favourite food of the man since ages. And generally man does not differentiate in meat coming from any animal and devour it to their full. Yet when it comes to Muslims, they strictly follow the Divine Command on the subject as pronounced in Al Qur'an, specially with regard to eating pork or any animal upon whom name of Allah has not been called at the time of slaughter. While Muslims follow the Divine commandment, yet many a eyebrow are raised for Muslims not eating pork.

The reason eyebrows are often raised is usually due to lack of awareness of the common ground between Islam, Judaism, and even parts of Christianity regarding food laws. We will explain the exclusive verse from Qur'an as given below with reference to the Divine Commandment on the subject in other Divine Scriptures.

Let’s unpack verse 115 of Surah al-Naḥl (The Honey Bee) which specifically lays down the dividing line between the lawful and unlawful (ḥalāl and ḥarām), and Allah’s mercy in giving guidance about what can and cannot be consumed.

اِنَّمَا حَرَّمَ عَلَيۡكُمُ الۡمَيۡتَةَ وَ الدَّمَ وَلَحۡمَ الۡخِنۡزِيۡرِ وَمَاۤ اُهِلَّ لِغَيۡرِ اللّٰهِ بِهٖ​ۚ فَمَنِ اضۡطُرَّ غَيۡرَ بَاغٍ وَّلَا عَادٍ فَاِنَّ اللّٰهَ غَفُوۡرٌ رَّحِيۡمٌ‏ 

(16:115) Allah has forbidden you only carrion, and blood, and the flesh of swine; also any animal over which the name of any other than Allah has been pronounced. But whoever eats of them under compelling necessity - neither desiring it nor exceeding the limit of absolute necessity - surely for such action Allah is Much Forgiving, Most Merciful.

The Key point of the verse:

While Muslims are free to eat anything that Nature has provided for them, only four foods are explicitly forbidden:

• Dead animals (carrion).
• Blood.
• Pork.
• Anything slaughtered in the name of other than Allah.
• Exception: In necessity (life-saving situation), it is permitted.

Main Themes

• Clear rules: Allah explicitly defines only a few forbidden foods.
• Flexibility & Mercy: Necessity allows exceptions.
• Authority belongs to Allah: Humans must not invent their own halal/haram.
• Past nations’ mistakes: Jews made religion difficult by adding prohibitions.
• Repentance: Islam emphasizes Allah’s mercy for those who correct themselves.

Qur’an & Hadith Correlation

• Qur’an (5:3) also lists prohibited foods in detail, matching 16:115.
• Hadith: Prophet ﷺ said: “What is lawful is clear and what is unlawful is clear, and between the two are doubtful matters which many people do not know…” (Bukhari, Muslim).
• This shows balance: Allah has kept Islam simple and clear.

Qur'an and the Old Testament

While the Islamic viewpoint on Halal and Haram food is elaborated above, let us see what the Old Testament and the Bible says about consuming pork.

• The Bible prohibits eating pork. Both Jewish and Christian scriptures contain passages that identify swine as unclean and prohibit their consumption. 
• Prohibition in the Old Testament (Torah) The prohibition is not unique to Islam — it’s found in the Jewish law:
• Leviticus 11:7–8 – “And the pig, though it has a divided hoof, does not chew the cud; it is unclean for you. You must not eat their meat or touch their carcasses; they are unclean for you.”
• Deuteronomy 14:8 repeats the same rule.
• Thus, Jews traditionally do not eat pork (kosher law).
• New Testament
• Early Christians, many of whom were Jews, also followed these dietary restrictions.
• Later, Paul’s letters (e.g., Romans 14:14, Colossians 2:16) argued that dietary laws were not binding for salvation, which is why many Christians today eat pork.
• This shift creates the perception that pork prohibition is “uniquely Islamic,” though historically it is not.
• Thus despite the above said interpretations of the New Testament which suggest a shift away from these Old Testament dietary laws, particularly for Christians, the Old Testament prohibitions remain clear. 

Why the “Eyebrow Raising”?

Despite pork being made unlawful to eat even in the Old Testament, the eyebrows keep raising on Muslims. This unnecessary raising of eyebrows is thus resultant of the following factors"

• Ignorance of Biblical parallels: Many people simply don’t know it’s also in the Bible.
• Cultural habits: In the West, pork is very common in cuisine (bacon, ham, sausages), so rejecting it seems unusual.
• Religious divergence: Since most Christians don’t observe the prohibition anymore, they see Muslims (and Jews) as being “overly strict.”
• Negation of Shared Abrahamic Wisdom
• All Divine religions stem from the Prophet Abraham (Ibrahim عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and should thus be followed in letter and spirit.
• Therefore, Islam reaffirms the same Divine law that existed in the Torah.
• It emphasizes continuity: the same God who forbade it to Moses reaffirmed it to Muhammad ﷺ.
• The wisdom includes both obedience to Divine command and health protection (pigs are carriers of parasites and diseases historically).

Lessons for Today

• Islam is not about restrictions — it is about balance.
• Don’t fall into extremes: making too many things haram (like some past nations), or ignoring clear prohibitions.
• Always remember necessity overrides prohibition — Islam is practical and merciful.
• Allah’s law is for guidance and purification, not hardship.

Let us not single out Islam for the sake of objection without understanding the reference to the context of the commandments contained in Al Qur'an with relation to Old Testament. Muslims follow AL Qur'an in true letter and spirit for they believe in it and do not deviate. If others do not follow what was brought to them, Islam cannot be made to answer for it.

You may also like to read the following posts with similar theme:

• An oft misinterpreted Prophetic Hadith by Muslims living in Non-Muslim countries
• Extraordinary conditions to consume otherwise forbidden food

You may refer to our reference page Selected verses from Surah 16. An Nahl for more selected verses from this surah already published.

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 page: Selected verses from selected Surahs of Al-Qurʾān for compiled verses from other surahs.

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

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

Photo | Reference: | 1 | 2 | 3 |

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

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

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

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

Follow @IslamUltimate

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

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Why must one restrain Anger and how: Islamic viewpoint on Anger Management

Anger is an outburst of emotion which almost every human confronts much too often in his life. From petty matters to larger and major issues, the incontrollable anger outburst is more harmful than what some may think that such outbursts will ease their emotions. People get angry for many reasons — some biological, some emotional, and some spiritual. 

The negative fallout of being angry always outweigh its positive face, if any. And this is the reason, anger management is become a subject in its self and psychologists around the world are constantly looking ways and means to tame the angry and let them live in peace, for anger leaves many harmful within one self. Today, study of Anger management means recognizing, controlling, and expressing anger in a healthy and constructive way so that it does not harm yourself, your relationships, or your surroundings.

Remember, Anger Management is not about suppressing anger completely — because anger is a natural human emotion — but about learning how to handle it wisely.

Let us understand why people get angry, how and why they must control and restrain their emotional state and how Islam helps in anger management.

Why People Get Angry

Before we come to the Islamic concept of anger management, let us first hurriedly run down on some factors due to which anger often arises. This negative emotional state occurs when:

• Ego is hurt — feeling disrespected, insulted, or ignored.
• Injustice is perceived — either real or imagined.
• Unmet expectations — when things don’t go our way.
• Frustration or stress — from personal or environmental pressures.
• Envy or jealousy — seeing others enjoy something we don’t have.
• Lack of patience — reacting impulsively instead of with reflection.
• Provocation from others — deliberate or accidental.

Why Restraining anger is important?

• Health: The first effect of the emotional outburst falls on the health of the one being angry, specially those who are unable to control their anger and get angry much too often. Such people who have chronic history of getting angry  are often found to be suffering from high blood pressure, heart disease, anxiety, and depression.
• Relationships: Poorly handled anger damages trust and respect. And if the angry mindset becomes a habit, one start to lose near and dear ones, and finally his friends, leaving him all alone in a vacuum with no one around to console or to tame.
• Decision-Making: Anger clouds judgment and leads to impulsive, regretful actions. Leaders, managers and men at the helm of the affair suffer because of their angry mindset for it mars taking correct decisions. Anger usually let a man take a hasty decision which hurts one's positions, business and standing. 

What to Do?

We could go on listing the remedial measures as listed in studies on Anger Management, but these could be read from any media or by attending a course on anger management. But we will restrict ourselves the concept of anger management as taught in Qur'an when it was revealed more than fourteen centuries ago and in the saying of Prophet Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم. The mere mention of restraining one's anger in a Divine Book, that is Al Qur'an, and emphasis by Prophet Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم suggests the gravity of being anger and its effects on man.

In Islam, anger is viewed as a natural human emotion but one that must be controlled, not allowed to control us.

Islam provides a comprehensive framework for managing anger, emphasizing self-control, patience, and seeking refuge in Allah. The Quran and Hadith offer guidance on how to address anger constructively. Below, I’ll outline key teachings and quote relevant verses and hadiths. 

Quranic Teachings on Anger Management

The Quran encourages believers to restrain anger, practice forgiveness, and maintain patience, as these qualities are associated with righteousness and closeness to Allah.

• Restraining Anger and Practicing Forgiveness:
• Quran 3:134: 
• "Those who spend [in Allah’s cause] during ease and hardship and who restrain anger and who pardon the people – and Allah loves the doers of good."
• This verse praises those who control their anger and choose forgiveness, highlighting it as a characteristic of the righteous.
• This verse highlights three progressive steps:
• Control the reaction (restrain anger).
• Forgive.
• Do good to the one who wronged you.
• Patience and Forbearance:
• Quran 42:37: "And those who avoid the major sins and immoralities, and when they are angry, they forgive."
• The Quran emphasizes that forgiveness, even in moments of anger, is a virtue of those who avoid major sins.
• Seeking Refuge from Satan:
• Quran 41:36: "And if there comes to you from Satan an evil suggestion, then seek refuge in Allah. Indeed, He is the Hearing, the Knowing."
• Anger is often linked to Satan’s influence, and seeking Allah’s protection helps calm the heart and mind.
• Patience as a Virtue:
• Quran 2:153: "O you who have believed, seek help through patience and prayer. Indeed, Allah is with the patient."
• Patience (sabr) is a key tool for managing emotions, including anger, and is reinforced through prayer.
• Avoid Hastiness in Anger
• "And hasten not with the Qur’an before its revelation is completed to you..." (20:114)
• Although this verse is context-specific, scholars also use it to show that rushing in any matter — including speech in anger — is discouraged.

Hadith Teachings on Anger Management

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) provided practical advice and spiritual guidance for controlling anger. Below are key hadiths:

• Anger as a Burning Coal:
• Hadith (Sunan Ibn Majah 4189): The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, "Beware of anger, for it is a burning coal on the heart of the son of Adam. Do you not notice the swelling of the veins of his neck and the redness of his eyes? If anyone feels that, let him sit down if he is standing, and lie down if he is sitting."
• This hadith describes the physical signs of anger and suggests changing one’s physical state to calm down.
• Silence During Anger:
• Hadith (Sahih al-Bukhari 6116): The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, "If one of you becomes angry, let him be silent."
• Silence prevents rash words or actions that may lead to regret.
• Changing Position:
• Hadith (Sunan Abi Dawud 4782): The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, "If one of you becomes angry while standing, he should sit down. If the anger does not go away, he should lie down."
• This practical advice helps diffuse anger by altering one’s physical posture.
• Seeking Refuge from Satan:
• Hadith (Sahih al-Bukhari 3282): The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, "I know a word, the saying of which will cause the anger to go away from him: if he says, ‘A’udhu billahi min ash-shaytan ir-rajim’ (I seek refuge with Allah from the accursed devil), his anger will go away."
• Reciting this dua helps redirect focus to Allah and counters Satan’s influence.
• Strength in Controlling Anger:
• Hadith (Sahih Muslim 2609): The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, "The strong man is not the one who can wrestle, but it is the one who controls himself when he is angry."
• This emphasizes that true strength lies in self-restraint.
• Performing Wudu (Ablution):
• Hadith (Sunan Abi Dawud 4784): The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, "Anger comes from the devil, the devil was created from fire, and fire is extinguished only with water. So, when one of you becomes angry, he should perform wudu."
• Ablution is a practical and spiritual act to cool down anger.

Practical Islamic Strategies for Anger Management

Based on the Quran and Hadith, Islam suggests the following steps:

• Pause and Stay Silent: Avoid speaking or acting impulsively when angry.
• Change Position: Sit or lie down to physically disrupt the anger response.
• Perform Wudu: Use water to calm both body and mind.
• Seek Refuge in Dedication: Recite A’udhu billahi min ash-shaytan ir-rajim to ward off Satan’s influence.
• Practice Patience and Forgiveness: Reflect on Quranic teachings to cultivate a forgiving mindset.
  
• Pray and Reflect: Turn to Allah through prayer to seek patience and guidance.

One has to be a true believer, who must understand the instructions given in Qur'an and Hadith and implement these in one's daily life, be at home or without, in office, in business or among people and friends. And the best antidote for anger management is Sabr - Patience. For it is patience which restrains one's anger and his faith in Allah for whatever happens to one, is from Allah and one must accept the Devine decree and observe patience. Those who are patient and persevere inn times of stress, pass the Devine tests and are finally awarded with the mercy and grace of Allah.

You may like to read our earlier posts on anger management in Islam from links given below:

• Selected Verses from Quran: Charity and Suppression of Anger
• Allah loves those who restrain their anger, and forgive others 
• Anger Management as taught by Prophet Muhammad ﷺ : What to say when one is angry

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 Reference Pages  and Understanding Islam - Frequently asked Q & A for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.

Photo: Grok | 

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

The relationship between Taqwa and Justice in Islam

Taqwa is an oft mentioned word in Islam, often translated as God-consciousness or piety. However, it is also deeply intertwined with  justice "adl / عدل". The relationship between the both is not only conceptual and practical, but also rooted firmly in the Qur’an and reinforced by the conduct of the Prophet ﷺ and his companions.

And why is  that so? A God fearing man cannot be unjust and an unjust man cannot be a man of Taqwa. In communities and nations when injustice gains ground, neutrality is no virtue. To witness falsehood and remain silent is not caution ,  it’s complicity. The Qur’an does not call believers to sit quietly. It commands them to stand — with fairness, even when emotions run high. It must be thus understood that Taqwa is not passivity, rather it is principled action. A God fearing man cannot keep quiet when injustice is rampart and rights of people are usurped. Likewise, under such circumstance, Justice should not be a  mere slogan - it should be a firm stand to rollback injustice.

Before we expand the theme to establish relationship between Taqwa and Justice, those interested to know what Taqwa really is, may refer to our earlier posts links given below:

• What is Taqwa?
• What is Taqwa and complete faith in Allah
• Who are Men of Taqwa?
• Should we use Fear of Allah approach to teach Islam to our children

Let us now try to understand the relationship between Taqwa and Justice as per Qur'an and teachings of Prophet Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم.

Qur’anic Foundations

• “Be just—it is nearer to Taqwa”
• “And do not let hatred of a people prevent you from being just. Be just; that is nearer to Taqwa.” (Qur’an 5:8)
• That is Justice is not just recommended—it’s said to be integral to Taqwa itself.
• Justice without bias, even toward kin
• “Stand firmly for justice, as witnesses for Allah—even against yourselves, parents, or relatives.” (Qur’an 4:135)
• The verse explicitly ties justice to divine consciousness. One should not waiver while sitting on the seat of justice to pass a verdict even it is against one's very own kith and kin.
• And if any favour is shown, one's level of Taqwa degrades manifold, much to the annoyance of the Lord of the Universe.
• Upholding the divine Balance
• Taqwa and Justice must balance out when pitched against each other.
• “We sent Our messengers with the Book and the Balance so that people may maintain justice.” (Qur’an 57:25)
• That means establishing justice is presented as a universal objective of revelation.

Conceptual Synergy: Why Taqwa Leads to Justice

• Divine Awareness Prevents Injustice: A sincere fear and awareness of Allah act as internal barriers against bias and wrongdoing. One with Taqwa judges fairly because they know their deeds are seen.
• Sincere Obedience is Just by Nature: Inner piety (Taqwa) manifests outwardly in moderation, balance, and honoring the rights of others—hallmarks of justice.
• Illustrative Qur’anic Examples
  Qur’an 5:8: Be just even toward enemies → justice is near to Taqwa
  Qur’an 4:135: Testimony must remain fair—even against sympathies
  Qur’an 6:152: Justice in transaction reflects Taqwa

Prophetic Practice and Supporting Traditions

The Prophet ﷺ modeled justice in trade, personal conduct, and even in judgments against close relatives- always motivated by his fear and consciousness of Allah.

A famous hadith relevant here: when a man offered unequal gifts to his children, the Prophet ﷺ refused to witness it, saying: “Have Taqwa of Allah and remain just even to your children.”

Why the Link Matters Today

In today's world, there have been many breeches of Taqwa by even Muslim jurists when they fail to uphold justice due to pressures and authoritative control. In such circumstances, we cannot ensure:

• Social Integrity: Without Taqwa, justice collapses into personal whims and bias. Taqwa centers your moral compass on accountability to Allah, not people.
• Ethical Leadership: A leader without fear of Allah and a lower shade of Taqwa may not rule justly, and will always be succumbing to pressure or vested interests.
• Inner Peace & Societal Stability: When piety and God fearing is shelved, Justice fails to foster spirituality, trust, fairness, and harmony in social dealings..

To summarize, it may be said:

• Taqwa is not only a personal spiritual state—it fuels justice.
• Justice is not just moral—it is the outward measure of true Taqwa.
• Both form a virtuous cycle: Awareness of Allah ensuring Just conduct and adding greater piety.

Remember: “Justice is closer to Taqwa” (Qur’an 5:8) isn’t just poetic—it’s prophetic guidance for both personal faith and societal ethics.

Let us be men of Taqwa in totality - never giving in to support versed interests for paltry worldly gains. If that is done, one can be sure to be paraded with all worldly titles stripped and shown the door to Jahannam (Hell).

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 |

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