2. Surah Al Baqarah

The Quranic Text & Ali’s Version:

يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُواْ لاَ تَقُولُواْ رَاعِنَا وَقُولُواْ انظُرْنَا وَاسْمَعُواْ...

2: 104. O ye of Faith! say not (to the Prophet) words of ambiguous import, but words of respect; and hearken (to him);

C106. The word disapproved is Raina, which is used by the Muslims meant “Please look at us, attend to us.”

But it was ridiculed by enemies by a little twist to suggest some insulting meaning. So an unambiguous word “Unzurna,” with the same meaning is suggested.

The general lesson is that we must guard ourselves against the cynical trick of using words which should complimentary to the ear but have a hidden barb in them. Not only must we be plain and honest in our words. We must respectfully hearken to the words of a Teacher whom we have addressed. Thoughtless people use vain words or put foolish questions, and straightaway turn their minds to something else.

... وَلِلكَافِرِينَ عَذَابٌ أَلِيمٌ ﴿١٠٤﴾

to those without faith is a grievous punishment.

Other versions:

2: 104

Asad O you who have attained to faith! Do not say [to the Prophet], “Listen to us,” but rather say, “Have patience with us,” and hearken, since grievous suffering awaits those who deny the truth.

Yusuf Ali O ye of Faith! say not (to the Apostle) words of ambiguous import but words of respect; and hearken (to him); to those without faith is a grievous punishment.

Pickthall O ye who believe, say not (unto the Prophet): "Listen to us" but say "Look upon us," and be ye listeners. For disbelievers is a painful doom.

Transliteration Ya_ ayyuhal lazina a_manu_ la_ taqu_lu_ ra_'ina_ wa qu_lun zurna_ was ma'u_ wa lil ka_firina 'aza_bun alim(un).