Fire for Rejecting

Ruby’s note: The fire mentioned here, I believe, is for those who completely reject the idea of God, Hereafter and who are rebellious against truth and what makes sense. These people reject because they are arrogant and they are not thinking about the reality they are in. They are arrogant thinking that they are in control of their own destiny and they do not need God. This rejection is rejection of Truth, and their whole living becomes a wrongdoing. Their purpose of living is false, the mindset from which all attitudes and actions emanate is wrong, the initiatives they take in life are based on false ideas and erroneous concepts. Their entire life and living becomes wrong. These are the people who are mentioned here for fire. But then God in His infinite Mercy may forgive us all in the end. These verses may serve as warnings for those people to take heed, to consider and reclaim them selves.

2. Surah Al Baqarah

The Quranic Text & Ali’s Version:

وَإِن كُنتُمْ فِي رَيْبٍ مِّمَّا نَزَّلْنَا عَلَى عَبْدِنَا فَأْتُواْ بِسُورَةٍ مِّن مِّثْلِهِ...

2: 23. And if ye are in doubt as to what We have revealed from time to time to Our servant, then produce a Surah like thereunto;

... وَادْعُواْ شُهَدَاءكُم مِّن دُونِ اللّهِ إِنْ كُنْتُمْ صَادِقِينَ ﴿٢٣﴾

and call your witnesses or helpers (if there are any) besides Allah, if your (doubts) are true.

C42. How do we know that there is revelation, and that is from Allah?

Here is a concrete test.

The Teacher of Allah's Truth has placed before you many Surahs. Can you produce one like it?

If there is any one besides Allah, who can inspire spiritual truth in such noble language, produce your evidence.

Or is it that your doubts are merely argumentative, refractory, against your own inner light, or conscience?

All true revelation is itself a miracle, and stands on its own merits.

فَإِن لَّمْ تَفْعَلُواْ وَلَن تَفْعَلُواْ فَاتَّقُواْ النَّارَ الَّتِي وَقُودُهَا النَّاسُ وَالْحِجَارَةُ ...

2: 24. But if ye cannot,- and of a surety ye cannot,- then fear the fire whose fuel is Men and Stones-

C43. According to commentators the "Stones" mentioned in this verse refer to the idols which the polytheists worshipped.

Thus, far from coming to the aid of their worshippers, the false gods would be means of aggravating their torment. [Eds].

... أُعِدَّتْ لِلْكَافِرِينَ ﴿٢٤﴾

which is prepared for those who reject Faith.

إِنَّا أَرْسَلْنَاكَ بِالْحَقِّ بَشِيرًا وَنَذِيرًا وَلاَ تُسْأَلُ عَنْ أَصْحَابِ الْجَحِيمِ ﴿١١٩﴾

2: 119. Verily, We have sent thee in truth as a bearer of glad tidings and a warner.

But of thee no question shall be asked of Companions of the blazing fire.

وَإِذْ قَالَ إِبْرَاهِيمُ رَبِّ اجْعَلْ هَـَذَا بَلَدًا آمِنًا...

2: 126. And remember Abraham said:

"My Lord, make this a City of Peace,

C127. The root salama in the word Islam implies (among other ideas) the idea of Peace, and therefore when Makkah is the city of Islam, it is also the City of Peace.

The same root occurs in the latter part of the name Jerusalem, the Jewish City of Peace. When the day of Jerusalem passed (see verse 134 or 141 below).

Makkah became the "New Jerusalem" - or rather the old and original "City of Peace" restored and made universal.

... وَارْزُقْ أَهْلَهُ مِنَ الثَّمَرَاتِ مَنْ آمَنَ مِنْهُم بِاللّهِ وَالْيَوْمِ الآخِرِ...

and feed its people with fruits, such of them as believe in Allah and the Last Day."

C128. The territory of Makkah is barren and rocky, compared with, say Taif, a city 70-75 miles east of Makkah . A prayer for the prosperity of Makkah therefore includes a prayer for the good things of material life. (R).

... قَالَ وَمَن كَفَرَ فَأُمَتِّعُهُ قَلِيلاً ...

He said: "(Yea), and such as reject faith, for a while will I grant them their pleasure,

... ثُمَّ أَضْطَرُّهُ إِلَى عَذَابِ النَّارِ وَبِئْسَ الْمَصِيرُ ﴿١٢٦﴾

but will soon drive them to the torment of fire, an evil destination (indeed)!"

يَسْأَلُونَكَ عَنِ الشَّهْرِ الْحَرَامِ قِتَالٍ فِيهِ...

2: 217. They ask thee concerning fighting in the Prohibited Month.

C237. Prohibited Month: See 2:194, n. 209.

... قُلْ قِتَالٌ فِيهِ كَبِيرٌ...

Say: "Fighting therein is a grave (offence);

... وَصَدٌّ عَن سَبِيلِ اللّهِ وَكُفْرٌ بِهِ وَالْمَسْجِدِ الْحَرَامِ وَإِخْرَاجُ أَهْلِهِ مِنْهُ أَكْبَرُ عِندَ اللّهِ...

but graver is it in the sight of Allah to prevent access to the path of Allah,

to deny Him,

to prevent access to the Sacred Mosque,

and drive out its members.

C238. The intolerance and persecution of the Pagan clique at Makkah caused untold hardships to the holy Messenger of Islam and his early disciples. They bore all with meekness and long-suffering patience until the holy one permitted them to take up arms in self-defence. Then they were twitted with breach of the custom about Prohibited Months, though they were driven to fight during that period against their own feeling in self defence.

But their enemies not only forced them to engage in actual warfare, but interfered with their conscience, persecuted them and their families, openly insulted and denied Allah, kept out the Muslim Arabs from the Sacred Mosque, and exiled them. Such violence and intolerance are deservedly called worse than slaughter.

... وَالْفِتْنَةُ أَكْبَرُ مِنَ الْقَتْلِ...

Tumult and oppression are worse than slaughter.

C239. Cf. 2:191, 193, where a similar phrase occurs.

Fitnah: trial, temptation, as in 2:102; or tumult, sedition, oppression, as here;

Mawlvi Muhammad Ali, Hafiz Sarwar, and M Pickthall translate "persecution" in this passage, which is also legitimate, seeing that persecution is the suppression of some opinion by violence, force, or threats.

... وَلاَ يَزَالُونَ يُقَاتِلُونَكُمْ حَتَّىَ يَرُدُّوكُمْ عَن دِينِكُمْ إِنِ اسْتَطَاعُواْ...

Nor will they cease fighting you until they turn you back from your faith if they can.

... وَمَن يَرْتَدِدْ مِنكُمْ عَن دِينِهِ فَيَمُتْ وَهُوَ كَافِرٌ ...

And if any of you turn back from their faith and die in unbelief,

... فَأُوْلَـئِكَ حَبِطَتْ أَعْمَالُهُمْ فِي الدُّنْيَا وَالآخِرَةِ...

their works will bear no fruit in this life and in the Hereafter;

... وَأُوْلَـئِكَ أَصْحَابُ النَّارِ هُمْ فِيهَا خَالِدُونَ ﴿٢١٧﴾

they will be Companions of the Fire and will abide therein.

Other versions:

2: 23

Asad And if you doubt any part of what We have bestowed form on high, step by step, upon our servant [Muhammad], then produce a surah of similar merit, and call upon any other than God to bear witness for you – if what you say is true!

Yusuf Ali And if ye are in doubt as to what We have revealed from time to time to Our servant then produce a Surah like thereunto; and call your witnesses or helpers (if there are any) besides Allah if your (doubts) are true.

Pickthall And if ye are in doubt concerning that which We reveal unto Our slave (Muhammad), then produce a sura or the like thereof, and call your witnesses beside Allah if ye are truthful.

Transliteration Wa in kuntum fi raibim mimma_ nazzalna_ 'ala_ 'abdina_ fa'tu_ bisu_ratim mim mislih(i), wad' syuhada_'akum min du_nilla_hi in kuntum sa_diqin(a).

2: 24

Asad And if you cannot do it – and most certainly you cannot do it – then be conscious of the fire whose fuel is human beings and stones which awaits all who deny the truth! (note 16)

Yusuf Ali But if ye cannot and of a surety ye cannot then fear the fire whose fuel is Men and Stones which is prepared for those who reject Faith.

Pickthall And if ye do it not and ye can never do it--then guard yourselves against the fire prepared for disbelievers, whose fuel is of men and stones.

Transliteration Fa illam taf'alu_ wa lan taf'alu_ fattaqun na_ral lati waqu_duhan na_su wal hija_rah(tu), u'iddat lil ka_firin(a).

[ Asad’s note 16: This evidently denotes all objects of worship to which men turn instead of God – their powerlessness and inefficacy being symbolized by the lifelessness of stones – while the expression “human beings” stands here for human actions deviating from the way of truth (cf. ManarI, 197):…………]

2: 119

Asad Verily, We have sent thee [O Prophet] with the truth, as a bearer of glad tidings and a warner: and thou shalt not be held accountable for those who are destined for the blazing fire.

Yusuf Ali Verily We have sent thee in truth as a bearer of glad tidings and a warner. But of thee no question shall be asked of Companions of the blazing fire.

Pickthall Lo! We have sent thee (O Muhammad) with the truth, a bringer of glad tidings and a warner. And thou wilt not be asked about the owners of hell fire.

Transliteration Inna_ arsalna_ka bil haqqi basyiraw wa nazira_(n), wa la_ tus'alu 'an asha_bil jahim(i).

[ Ruby’s note: I think it implies to the Rejecters of Truth who are extremely arrogant and unreasonable as to ask physical proof of God or want God to talk to them or appear before them. And this verse do not imply Jews or followers of any specific creed in general [See previous verses] ]

2: 126

Asad And, lo, Abraham prayed: “ O my Sustainer! Make this a land secure, and grant its people fruitful sustenance-such of them as believe in God and the Last Day.”

[God] answered: “And whoever shall deny the truth, him will I let enjoy himself for a short while – but in the end I shall drive him to suffering through fire: and how vile a journey’s end!”

Yusuf Ali And remember Abraham said: "My Lord make this a City of Peace and feed its people with fruits such of them as believe in Allah and the Last Day." He said: "(Yea) and such as reject faith for a while will I grant them their pleasure but will soon drive them to the torment of fire an evil destination (indeed)!"

Pickthall And when Abraham prayed: My Lord! Make this a region of security and bestow upon its people fruits, such of them as believe in Allah and the Last Day, He answered: As for him who disbelieveth, I shall leave him in contentment for a while, then I shall compel him to the doom of fire--a hapless journey's end!

Transliteration Wa iz qa_la ibra_himu rabbij'al ha_za_ baladan a_minaw warzuq ahlahu_ minas samara_ti man a_mana minhum billa_hi wal yaumil a_khir(i), qa_la wa man kafara fa umatti'uhu_ qalilan summa adtarruhu_ ila_ 'aza_bin na_r(i), wa bi'sal masir(u).

[Ruby’s note: The fire mentioned here, I believe, is for those who completely reject the idea of God, Hereafter and who are rebellious against truth and what makes sense. These people reject because they are arrogant and they are not thinking about the reality they are in. They are arrogant thinking that they are in control of their own destiny and they do not need God. This rejection is rejection of Truth, and their whole living becomes a wrongdoing. Their purpose of living is false, the mindset from which all attitudes and actions emanate is wrong, the initiatives they take in life are based on false ideas and wrong erroneous concepts. Their entire life and living is wrong. These are the people who are mentioned here for fire. But then God in His infinite Mercy may forgive us all in the end. These verses may serve as warnings for those people to take heed, to consider and reclaim themselves. ]

[Ali’s notes: 127 The root salama in the word Islam implies (among other ideas) the idea of Peace, and therefore when Mecca is the city of Islam, it is also the City of Peace. The same root occurs in the latter part of the name Jerusalem, the Jewish City of Peace. When the day of Jerusalem passed (see verse 134 or 141 below), Mecca became the "New Jerusalem" - or rather the old and original "City of Peace" restored and made universal. (2.126)

128 The territory of Mecca is barren and rocky, compared with, say Taif, a city 70-75 miles east of Mecca. A prayer for the prosperity of Mecca therefore includes a prayer for the good things of material life. This is the literal meaning. But note that the opposition in this verse is between the fruits of the Garden for the righteous and the torments of the Fire for the evil ones - a spiritual allegory of great force and aptness. (2.126)]

2: 217

Asad They will ask thee about fighting in the sacred month. Say: “Fighting in it is as awesome thing; but turning men away from the path of god and denying Him, and [turning them away from] the Inviolable House of Worship and expelling its people there from- [all this] is yet more awesome in the sight of God, since oppression is more awesome than killing.” ….till they have turned away form you faith, if they can. But if any of you should turn away from his faith and die as a denier of the truth – these it is whose works will go for nought in this world and in thelife to come; and thse it is who are destined for the fire, therein to abide.

Yusuf Ali They ask thee concerning fighting in the Prohibited Month. Say: "Fighting therein is a grave (offence); but graver is it in the sight of Allah to prevent access to the path of Allah to deny Him to prevent access to the Sacred Mosque and drive out its members. Tumult and oppression are worse than slaughter. Nor will they cease fighting you until they turn you back from your faith if they can. And if any of you turn back from their faith and die in unbelief their works will bear no fruit in this life and in the Hereafter; they will be Companions of the Fire and will abide therein.

Pickthall They question thee (O Muhammad) with regard to warfare in the sacred month. Say: Warfare therein is a great (transgression), but to turn (men) from the way of Allah, and to disbelieve in Him and in the Inviolable Place of Worship, and to expel his people thence, is a greater with Allah; for persecution is worse than killing. And they will not cease from fighting against you till they have made you renegades from your religion, if they can. And whoso becometh a renegade and dieth in his disbelief: such are they whose works have fallen both in the world and the Hereafter. Such are rightful owners of the Fire: they will abide therein.

Yas'alu_naka 'anisy syahril hara_mi qita_lin fih(i), qul qita_lun fihi kabir(un), wa saddun 'an sabililla_hi wa kufrum bihi wal masjidil hara_mi wa ikhra_ju ahlihi minhu akbaru 'indalla_h(i), wal fitnatu akbaru minal qatl(i), wa la_ yaza_lu_na yuqa_tilu_nakum hatta_ yaruddu_kum 'an dinikum inistata_'u_, wa may yartadid minkum 'an dinihi fa yamut wa huwa ka_firun fa ula_'ika habitat a'ma_luhum fid dunya_ wal a_khirah(ti), wa ula_'ika asha_bun na_r(i), hum fiha_ kha_lidu_n(a).

[ Asad’s note 102 – For an explanation of the “sacred months”, see note 171 above.]

8. Surah Al Anfal

The Quranic Text & Ali’s Version:

وَلَوْ تَرَى إِذْ يَتَوَفَّى الَّذِينَ كَفَرُواْ الْمَلآئِكَةُ يَضْرِبُونَ وُجُوهَهُمْ وَأَدْبَارَهُمْ...

8: 50. If thou couldst see, when the angels take the souls of the unbelievers (at death), (how) they smite their faces and their backs (saying):

C1219. In contrast to the taunt against those who trust in Allah, "that their religion has misled them," is shown the terrible punishment, after death, of those who laughed at Faith.

...وَذُوقُواْ عَذَابَ الْحَرِيقِ ﴿٥٠﴾

"Taste the penalty of the blazing fire.

ذَلِكَ بِمَا قَدَّمَتْ أَيْدِيكُمْ ...

8: 51. "Because of (the deeds) which your (own) hands sent forth:

C1220. The punishment is shown to be due to their own deeds of wrong, because Allah is never unjust to the least of His servants.

... وَأَنَّ اللّهَ لَيْسَ بِظَلاَّمٍ لِّلْعَبِيدِ ﴿٥١﴾

for Allah is never unjust to His servants:

كَدَأْبِ آلِ فِرْعَوْنَ وَالَّذِينَ مِن قَبْلِهِمْ...

8: 52. "(Deeds) after the manner of the people of Pharaoh and of those before them:

...كَفَرُواْ بِآيَاتِ اللّهِ فَأَخَذَهُمُ اللّهُ بِذُنُوبِهِمْ...

they rejected the signs of Allah, and Allah punished them for their crimes:

...إِنَّ اللّهَ قَوِيٌّ شَدِيدُ الْعِقَابِ ﴿٥٢﴾

for Allah is strong, and strict in punishment:

Other versions:

8: 50

Yusuf Ali If thou couldst see when the angels take the souls of the unbelievers (at death) (how) they smite their faces and their backs (saying): "Taste the penalty of the blazing fire.

Pickthall If thou couldst see how the angels receive those who disbelieve, smiting their faces and their backs and (saying): Taste the punishment of burning!

Transliteration Wa lau tara_ iz yatawaffal lazina kafaru_ wal mala_'ikatu yadribu_na wuju_hahum wa adba_rahum, wa zu_qu_ 'aza_bal hariq(i).

8: 51

Yusuf Ali "Because of (the deeds) which your (own) hands sent forth: for Allah is never unjust to His servants:

Pickthall This is for that which your own hands have sent before (to the Judgment), and (know) that Allah is not a tyrant to His slaves.

Transliteration Za_lika bima_ qaddamat aidikum wa annalla_ha laisa bi zalla_mil lil 'abid(i).

8: 52

Yusuf Ali "(Deeds) after the manner of the people of Pharaoh and of those before them: they rejected the signs of Allah and Allah punished them for their crimes: for Allah is strong and strict in punishment:

Pickthall (Their way is) as the way of Pharaoh's folk and those before them; they disbelieved the revelations of Allah, and Allah took them in their sins. Lo! Allah is Strong, severe in punishment.

Transliteration Kada'bi a_li fir'auna wallazina min qablikum, kafaru_ bi a_ya_tilla_hi fa akhazahumulla_hu bi zunu_bihim, innalla_ha qawiyyun syadidul 'iqa_b(i).

(From the story of Abel and Cain)

5: 28 Even if you lay your hand on me to slay me, I shall not lay hand on you to slay you: behold, I fear God, the Sustainer of al the worlds. (story of Abel and Cain).......

5: 29 I am willing, indeed, for you to bear all the sins ever done by me as well as of the sin done by you: then you would be destined for the fire, since that is the requital of evildoers!”

5: 36,37 Verily, if those who are bent on denying the truth had all that is on earth, and twice as much, to offer as ransom from suffering on the Day of Resurrection, it would not be accepted from them: for grievous suffering awaits them. They will wish to come out of fire, but they shall not come out of it; and long-lasting suffering awaits them.

3. Sura al-Imran

The Quranic Text & Ali’s Version:

إِنَّ الَّذِينَ كَفَرُواْ لَن تُغْنِيَ عَنْهُمْ أَمْوَالُهُمْ وَلاَ أَوْلاَدُهُم مِّنَ اللّهِ شَيْئًا...

3: 10. Those who reject faith, neither their possessions nor their (numerous) progeny will avail them aught against Allah:

...وَأُولَـئِكَ هُمْ وَقُودُ النَّارِ ﴿١٠﴾

they are themselves but fuel for the fire.

إِنَّ الَّذِينَ كَفَرُواْ لَن تُغْنِيَ عَنْهُمْ أَمْوَالُهُمْ وَلاَ أَوْلاَدُهُم مِّنَ اللّهِ شَيْئًا...

3: 116. Those who reject faith, neither their possessions nor their (numerous) progeny will avail them aught against Allah;

...وَأُوْلَـئِكَ أَصْحَابُ النَّارِ هُمْ فِيهَا خَالِدُونَ ﴿١١٦﴾

they will be companions of the fire,

dwelling therein (for ever).

C438. Cf. 3:10.

وَاتَّقُواْ النَّارَ الَّتِي أُعِدَّتْ لِلْكَافِرِينَ ﴿١٣١﴾

3: 131. Fear the fire, which is prepared for those who reject faith.

Other versions:

3: 10

Yusuf Ali Those who reject faith neither their possessions nor their (numerous) progeny will avail them aught against Allah: they are themselves but fuel for the fire.

Pickthall (On that day) neither the riches not the progeny of those who disbelieve will aught avail them with Allah. They will be fuel for fire.

Transliteration Innal lazina kafaru_ lan tugniya 'anhum amwa_luhum wa la_ aula_duhum minalla_hi syai'a_(n), wa ula_'ika hum waqu_dun na_r(i).

3: 116

Yusuf Ali Those who reject faith neither their possessions nor their (numerous) progeny will avail them aught against Allah; they will be companions of the fire dwelling therein (for ever).

Pickthall Lo! the riches and the progeny of those who disbelieve will not avail them aught against Allah; and such are rightful owners of the Fire. They will abide therein.

Transliteration Innal lazina kafaru_ lan tugniya 'anhum amwa_luhum wa la_ aula_duhum minalla_hi syai'a_(n), wa ula_'ika asha_bun na_r(i), hum fiha_ kha_lidu_n(a).

3: 131

Asad and beware of the fire which awaits those who deny the truth!

Yusuf Ali Fear the fire which is prepared for those who reject faith.

Pickthall And ward off (from yourselves) the Fire prepared for disbelievers.

Transliteration Wattaqun na_ral lati u'iddat lil ka_firin(a).

The Quranic Text & Ali’s Version:

Other versions:

5: 86

Yusuf Ali But those who reject faith and belie our Signs they shall be companions of hell-fire.

Pickthall But those who disbelieve and deny Our revelations, they are owners of hell fire.

Transliteration Wallazina kafaru_ wa kazzabu_ bi a_ya_tina_ ula_'ika asha_bul jahim(i).

4. Sura an-Nisa

The Quranic Text & Ali’s Version:

تِلْكَ حُدُودُ اللّهِ...

4: 13. Those are limits set by Allah:

... وَمَن يُطِعِ اللّهَ وَرَسُولَهُ يُدْخِلْهُ جَنَّاتٍ تَجْرِي مِن تَحْتِهَا الأَنْهَارُ خَالِدِينَ فِيهَا...

those who obey Allah and His Messenger will be admitted to Gardens with rivers flowing beneath, to abide therein (for ever)

... وَذَلِكَ الْفَوْزُ الْعَظِيمُ ﴿١٣﴾

and that will be the Supreme achievement.

C522a. Cf. 44:57, n. 4733. (R).

وَمَن يَعْصِ اللّهَ وَرَسُولَهُ وَيَتَعَدَّ حُدُودَهُ يُدْخِلْهُ نَارًا...

4: 14. But those who disobey Allah and His Messenger and transgress His limits will be admitted to a fire,

... خَالِدًا فِيهَا وَلَهُ عَذَابٌ مُّهِينٌ ﴿١٤﴾

to abide therein: and they shall have a humiliating punishment.

أَمْ لَهُمْ نَصِيبٌ مِّنَ الْمُلْكِ ...

4: 53. Have they a share in dominion or power?

... فَإِذًا لاَّ يُؤْتُونَ النَّاسَ نَقِيرًا ﴿٥٣﴾

Behold, they give not a farthing to their fellow-men!

C575. The word I have translated farthing is naqir, the groove in a date stone, a thing of no value whatever.

Close-fistedness and envy are among the worst forms of selfishness, and appear specially incongruous in people of power, authority, or influence, from whom is expected generosity in giving and generosity in seeing other people's prosperity or happiness.

أَمْ يَحْسُدُونَ النَّاسَ عَلَى مَا آتَاهُمُ اللّهُ مِن فَضْلِهِ...

4: 54. Or do they envy mankind for what Allah hath given them of His bounty?

... فَقَدْ آتَيْنَآ آلَ إِبْرَاهِيمَ الْكِتَابَ وَالْحِكْمَةَ وَآتَيْنَاهُم مُّلْكًا عَظِيمًا ﴿٥٤﴾

But We had already given the people of Abraham the Book and Wisdom, and conferred upon them a great kingdom.

C576. Such as the kingdoms of David and Solomon, for they had international fame.

فَمِنْهُم مَّنْ آمَنَ بِهِ وَمِنْهُم مَّن صَدَّ عَنْهُ ...

4: 55. Some of them believed and some of them averted their faces from him:

... وَكَفَى بِجَهَنَّمَ سَعِيرًا ﴿٥٥﴾

and enough is hell for a burning fire.

C577. Envy is like the eternal fire, which is in itself a hell.

إِنَّ الَّذِينَ كَفَرُواْ بِآيَاتِنَا سَوْفَ نُصْلِيهِمْ نَارًا...

4: 56. Those who reject Our Signs, We shall soon cast into the fire:

... كُلَّمَا نَضِجَتْ جُلُودُهُمْ بَدَّلْنَاهُمْ جُلُودًا غَيْرَهَا لِيَذُوقُواْ الْعَذَابَ...

as often as their skins are roasted through, We shall change them for fresh skins, that they may taste the penalty:

... إِنَّ اللّهَ كَانَ عَزِيزًا حَكِيمًا ﴿٥٦﴾

for Allah is Exalted in Power, Wise.

Other versions:

4: 13

Asad These are the bounds set by God. And whoever pays heed unto God and His Apostle, him will He bring unto gardens through which running waters flow, therein to abide: and this is a triumph supreme.

Yusuf Ali Those are limits set by Allah: those who obey Allah and His Apostle will be admitted to Gardens with rivers flowing beneath to abide therein (for ever) and that will be the Supreme achievement.

Pickthall These are the limits (imposed by) Allah. Whoso obeyeth Allah and His messenger, He will make him enter Gardens underneath which rivers flow, where such will dwell for ever. That will be the great success.

Transliteration Tilka hudu_dulla_h(i), wa may yuti'illa_ha wa rasu_lahu_ yudkhilhu janna_tin tajri min tahtihal anha_ru kha_lidina fiha_, wa za_likal fauzul 'azim(u).

4: 14

Asad And whoever rebels against God and His Apostle and transgresses His bounds, him will He commit unto fire, therein to abide; and shameful suffering awaits him.

Yusuf Ali But those who disobey Allah and His Apostle and transgress His limits will be admitted to a fire to abide therein: and they shall have a humiliating punishment.

Pickthall And whoso disobey Allah and His messenger and transgress His limits, He will make him enter Fire, where such will dwell for ever; his will be a shameful doom.

Transliteration Wa may ya'silla_ha wa rasu_lahu_ wa yata'dda hudu_dahu_ yudkhilhu na_ran kha_lidan fiha_, wa lahu_'aza_bum muhin(un).

4: 53

Asad Have they, perchance, a share in [God’s] dominion [note 70]? But [if they had], lo, they would not give to other people as much as [would fill] the groove of a date-stone!

Yusuf Ali Have they a share in dominion or power? Behold they give not a farthing to their fellow-men!

Pickthall Or have they even a share in the Sovereignty? Then in that case, they would not give mankind even the speck on a date stone.

Transliteration Am lahum nasibum minal mulki fa izal la_ yu'tu_nan na_sa naqira_(n).

[[ Asad’s note 70 –An allusion to the Jews belief that they occupy a privileged position in the sight of God.]]

4: 54

Asad Do they, perchance, envy other people for what God has granted them out of His bounty [note 71]? But then, We did grant revelation and wisdom unto the House of Abraham, and We did bestow on them a mighty dominion:

Yusuf Ali Or do they envy mankind for what Allah hath given them of His bounty? But We had already given the people of Abraham the Book and Wisdom and conferred upon them a great kingdom.

Pickthall Or are they jealous of mankind because of that which Allah of His bounty hath bestowed upon them? For We bestowed upon the house of Abraham (of old) the Scripture and Wisdom, and We bestowed on them a mighty kingdom.

Transliteration Am yahsudu_nan na_sa 'ala_ ma_ a_ta_humulla_hu min fadlih(i), faqad a_taina_ a_la ibra_himal kita_ba wal hikmata wa a_taina_hum mulkan 'azima_(n).

[[ Asad’s note 71 – I.e., revelation, which – according to the Jews – ahs been reserved to them alone.]]

4: 55

Asad Among them are such as [truly] believe in him [note 72], and among them are such as have turned away from him. And nothing could be as burning as [the fire of] hell:

Yusuf Ali Some of them believed and some of them averted their faces from him: and enough is hell for a burning fire.

Pickthall And of them were (some) who believed therein and of them were (some) who disbelieved therein. Hell is sufficient for (their) burning.

Transliteration Fa minhum man a_mana bihi wa minhum man sadda 'anh(u), wa kafa_ bi jahannama sa'ira_(n).

4: 56

Yusuf Ali Those who reject Our Signs We shall soon cast into the fire: as often as their skins are roasted through We shall change them for fresh skins that they may taste the penalty: for Allah is Exalted in Power Wise.

Pickthall Lo! Those who disbelieve Our revelations, We shall expose them to the Fire. As often as their skins are consumed We shall exchange them for fresh skins that they may taste the torment. Lo! Allah is ever Mighty, Wise.

Transliteration Innal lazina kafaru_ bi a_ya_tina_ saufa nuslihim na_ra_(n), kullama_ nadijatjula_duhum baddalna_hum julu_dan gairaha_ layuaza_qul'aza_b(a), innalla_ha ka_na'azizan hakima_(n).

[[ Ali’s notes -- 575 The word I have translated farthing is naqir, the groove in a date stone, a thing of no value whatever. Close-fistedness and envy are among the worst forms of selfishness, and appear specially incongruous in people of power, authority, or influence, from whom is expected generosity in giving and generosity in seeing other people's prosperity or happiness. (4.53)

576 Such as the kingdoms of David and Solomon, for they had international fame. (4.54)

577 Cf. iv. 97, viii. 37, ix. 95, ixx. 68. (4.55)]]

5. Surah Al-Ma'idah

The Quranic Text & Ali’s Version:

وَالَّذِينَ كَفَرُواْ وَكَذَّبُواْ بِآيَاتِنَا أُوْلَـئِكَ أَصْحَابُ الْجَحِيمِ ﴿١٠﴾

5: 10. Those who reject faith and deny our signs will be companions of Hell-fire.

إِنَّ الَّذِينَ كَفَرُواْ لَوْ أَنَّ لَهُم مَّا فِي الأَرْضِ جَمِيعًا...

5: 36. As to those who reject Faith -- if they had everything on earth

... وَمِثْلَهُ مَعَهُ لِيَفْتَدُواْ بِهِ مِنْ عَذَابِ يَوْمِ الْقِيَامَةِ مَا تُقُبِّلَ مِنْهُمْ ...

and twice repeated, to give as ransom for the penalty of the Day of Judgment, it would never be accepted of them.

... وَلَهُمْ عَذَابٌ أَلِيمٌ ﴿٣٦﴾

Theirs would be a grievous penalty.

يُرِيدُونَ أَن يَخْرُجُواْ مِنَ النَّارِ وَمَا هُم بِخَارِجِينَ مِنْهَا...

5: 37. Their wish will be to get out of the fire, but never will they get out therefrom:

... وَلَهُمْ عَذَابٌ مُّقِيمٌ ﴿٣٧﴾

their penalty will be one that endures.

Other versions:

5: 10

Asad and giving the lie to Our messages --they are destined for the blazing fire.

Yusuf Ali Those who reject faith and deny our signs will be companions of hell-fire.

Pickthall And they who disbelieve and deny Our revelations, such are rightful owners of hell.

Transliteration Wallazina kafaru_ wa kazzabu_ bi a_ya_tina_ ula_'ika asha_bul jahim(i).

5: 36

Yusuf Ali As to those who reject faith if they had everything on earth and twice repeated to give as ransom for the penalty of the Day of Judgment it would never be accepted of them. Theirs would be a grievous penalty.

Pickthall As for those who disbelieve, lo! if all that is in the earth were theirs, and as much again therewith, to ransom them from the doom on the day of Resurrection, it would not be accepted from them. Theirs will be a painful doom.

Transliteration Innal lazina kafaru_ lau anna lahum ma_ fil ardi jami'aw wa mislahu_ ma'ahu_ liyaftadu_ bihi min 'aza_bi yaumil qiya_mati ma_ tuqubbila minhum, wa lahum 'aza_bun alim(un).

5: 37

Yusuf Ali Their wish will be to get out of the fire but never will they get out there from: their penalty will be one that endures.

Pickthall They will wish to come forth from the Fire, but they will not come forth from it. Theirs will be a lasting doom.

Transliteration Yuridu_na ay yakhruju_ minan na_ri wa ma_ hum bi kha_rijina minha_, wa lahum 'aza_bum muqim(un).

7. Sura al-Araf

The Quranic Text & Ali’s Version:

يَا بَنِي آدَمَ إِمَّا يَأْتِيَنَّكُمْ رُسُلٌ مِّنكُمْ يَقُصُّونَ عَلَيْكُمْ آيَاتِي...

7: 35. O ye children of Adam!

whenever there come to you Messengers from amongst you, rehearsing my signs unto you,

...فَمَنِ اتَّقَى وَأَصْلَحَ فَلاَ خَوْفٌ عَلَيْهِمْ وَلاَ هُمْ يَحْزَنُونَ ﴿٣٥﴾

those who are righteous and mend (their lives), on them shall be no fear, nor shall they grieve.

وَالَّذِينَ كَذَّبُواْ بِآيَاتِنَا وَاسْتَكْبَرُواْ عَنْهَا أُوْلَـَئِكَ أَصْحَابُ النَّارِ هُمْ فِيهَا خَالِدُونَ ﴿٣٦﴾

7: 36. But those who reject our signs and treat them with arrogance, they are companions of the fire, to dwell therein (for ever).

فَمَنْ أَظْلَمُ مِمَّنِ افْتَرَى عَلَى اللّهِ كَذِبًا أَوْ كَذَّبَ بِآيَاتِهِ...

7: 37. Who is more unjust than one who invents a lie against Allah or rejects his signs?

...أُوْلَـئِكَ يَنَالُهُمْ نَصِيبُهُم مِّنَ الْكِتَابِ...

For such, their portion appointed must reach them from the Book (of decrees);

C1018. It must not be supposed that the rebels against Allah would at once be cut off in this life for their sins. They will get the portion allotted to them, including the good things of life and the chance of repentance and reformation, during their probationary period on this earth.

During that period they will have a full run. After that period expires, they will be called to account. They will themselves see that the false things, in which they put their trust, were false, and they will confess their sin, but it will be too late.

...حَتَّى إِذَا جَاءتْهُمْ رُسُلُنَا يَتَوَفَّوْنَهُمْ قَالُواْ أَيْنَ مَا كُنتُمْ تَدْعُونَ مِن دُونِ اللّهِ...

until, when Our messengers (of death) arrive and take their souls, they say:

"Where are the things that ye used to invoke besides Allah?"

...قَالُواْ ضَلُّواْ عَنَّا وَشَهِدُواْ عَلَى أَنفُسِهِمْ أَنَّهُمْ كَانُواْ كَافِرِينَ ﴿٣٧﴾

They will reply, "They have left us in the lurch,"

and they will bear witness against themselves, that they had rejected Allah.

وَنَادَى أَصْحَابُ الأَعْرَافِ رِجَالاً يَعْرِفُونَهُمْ بِسِيمَاهُمْ...

7: 48. The men on the heights will call to certain men whom they will know from their marks,

...قَالُواْ مَا أَغْنَى عَنكُمْ جَمْعُكُمْ وَمَا كُنتُمْ تَسْتَكْبِرُونَ ﴿٤٨﴾

saying: "Of what profit to you were you hoards and your arrogant ways?

C1027. This speech is in three parts:

1. the last lines of this verse are addressed to the Companions of the Fire, reminding them (as a bench of judges might speak to a prisoner) of the futility of their wealth and riches and arrogance in their earthly life:

2. the second part, in the first half of verse 49, recalls to their minds how false was their contempt of the good but lowly men who are now to be the inheritors of heaven: and

3. the latter part of verse 49, "enter ye the Garden" is addressed to the Blessed, to give them a welcome to their state of felicity.

أَهَـؤُلاء الَّذِينَ أَقْسَمْتُمْ لاَ يَنَالُهُمُ اللّهُ بِرَحْمَةٍ...

7: 49. "Behold! are these not the men whom you swore that Allah with His mercy would never bless?

...ادْخُلُواْ الْجَنَّةَ لاَ خَوْفٌ عَلَيْكُمْ وَلاَ أَنتُمْ تَحْزَنُونَ ﴿٤٩﴾

Enter ye the garden:

no fear shall be on you, nor shall ye grieve."

وَنَادَى أَصْحَابُ النَّارِ أَصْحَابَ الْجَنَّةِ أَنْ أَفِيضُواْ عَلَيْنَا مِنَ الْمَاء أَوْ مِمَّا رَزَقَكُمُ اللّهُ...

7: 50. The companions of the fire will call to the companions of the garden;

"Pour down to us water or anything that Allah doth provide for your sustenance."

...قَالُواْ إِنَّ اللّهَ حَرَّمَهُمَا عَلَى الْكَافِرِينَ ﴿٥٠﴾

They will say:

"Both these things hath Allah forbidden to those who rejected Him.

C1028. The Companions of the Fire will thirst for water and not get it, and for sustenance which will not be theirs, while the Companions of the Garden will have the crystal waters of the springs and rivers and they will enjoy the bliss of Allah's Countenance, which will be their supreme nourishment and the fruit of their life of probation and seeking. These things will not be transferable.

Cf. also 37:41-47, 62-67. (R).

الَّذِينَ اتَّخَذُواْ دِينَهُمْ لَهْوًا وَلَعِبًا وَغَرَّتْهُمُ الْحَيَاةُ الدُّنْيَا...

7: 51. "Such as took their religion to be mere amusement and play, and were deceived by the life of the world."

...فَالْيَوْمَ نَنسَاهُمْ كَمَا نَسُواْ لِقَاء يَوْمِهِمْ هَـذَا...

That day shall We forget them as they forgot the meeting of this day of theirs,

C1029. "Forgetfulness" may be involuntary, from a defect of memory, or figuratively, a deliberate turning away from, or ignoring of, something we do not want, as when we say in an argument, "you conveniently forget that so- and-so is so-and-so." Here the latter kind is meant.

If men deliberately ignored the Hereafter in spite of warnings, can they expect to be received by Allah, Whom they themselves rejected?

...وَمَا كَانُواْ بِآيَاتِنَا يَجْحَدُونَ ﴿٥١﴾

and as they were wont to reject Our signs.

وَلَقَدْ جِئْنَاهُم بِكِتَابٍ فَصَّلْنَاهُ عَلَى عِلْمٍ...

7: 52. For We had certainly sent unto them a Book, based on knowledge, which We explained in detail,

...هُدًى وَرَحْمَةً لِّقَوْمٍ يُؤْمِنُونَ ﴿٥٢﴾

a guide and a mercy to all who believe.

هَلْ يَنظُرُونَ إِلاَّ تَأْوِيلَهُ ...

7: 53. Do they just wait for the final fulfillment of the event?

... يَوْمَ يَأْتِي تَأْوِيلُهُ...

On the day the event is finally fulfilled,

C1030. If those without Faith want to wait and see what happens in the Hereafter, they will indeed learn the truth, but it will be too late for them to profit by it then. All the false ideals and false gods which they put their trust upon will leave them in the lurch.

If they thought that the goodness or greatness of others would help them, they will be undeceived on the day when their personal responsibility will be enforced. There will be no salvation except on their own record. How they will then wish that they had another chance! But their chance will be gone.

...يَقُولُ الَّذِينَ نَسُوهُ مِن قَبْلُ قَدْ جَاءتْ رُسُلُ رَبِّنَا بِالْحَقِّ...

those who disregarded it before will say:

"The Messengers of our Lord did indeed bring true (tidings).

...فَهَل لَّنَا مِن شُفَعَاء فَيَشْفَعُواْ لَنَا أَوْ نُرَدُّ فَنَعْمَلَ غَيْرَ الَّذِي كُنَّا نَعْمَلُ...

Have we no intercessors now to intercede on our behalf?

Or could we be sent back? Then should we behave differently from our behavior in the past."

...قَدْ خَسِرُواْ أَنفُسَهُمْ وَضَلَّ عَنْهُم مَّا كَانُواْ يَفْتَرُونَ ﴿٥٣﴾

In fact they will have lost their souls, and the things they invented will leave them in the lurch.

Other versions:

7: 35

Asad O children of Adam! Whenever there come unto you apostles of your own, conveying My messages unto you, then all who are conscious of Me and live righteously – no fear need they have, and neither shall they grieve;

Yusuf Ali O ye children of Adam! whenever there come to you apostles from amongst you rehearsing my signs unto you those who are righteous and mend (their lives) on them shall be no fear nor shall they grieve.

Pickthall O Children of Adam! If messengers of your own come unto you who narrate unto you My revelations, then whosoever refrain from evil and amend there shall no fear come upon them neither shall they grieve.

Transliteration Ya_ bani a_dama imma_ ya'tiyannakum rusulum minkum yaqussu_na 'alaikum a_ya_ti, famanittaqa_ wa aslaha fala_ khaufun 'alaihim wa la_ hum yahzanu_n(a).

7: 36

Asad but they who give the lie to Our messages and scorn them in their pride – these are destined for the fire, therein to abide.

Yusuf Ali But those who reject our signs and treat them with arrogance they are companions of the fire to dwell therein (for ever).

Pickthall But they who deny Our revelations and scorn them such are rightful owners of the Fire; they will abide therein.

Transliteration Wallazina kazzabu_ bi a_ya_tina_ wastakbaru_ 'anha_ ula_'ika asha_bun na_r(i), hum fiha_ kha_lidu_n(a).

7: 37

Asad And who could be more wicked than they who attribute their own lying inventions to God or give the lie to His messages? Whatever has been decreed to be their lot [in life] will be theirs – till there shall come unto them Our messengers to cause them to die,…………….

Yusuf Ali Who is more unjust than one who invents a lie against Allah or rejects his signs? For such their portion appointed must reach them from the Book (of decrees); until when Our messengers (of death) arrive and take their souls they say: "where are the things that ye used to invoke besides Allah?" They will reply "they have left us in the lurch" and they will bear witness against themselves that they had rejected Allah.

Pickthall Who doeth greater wrong than he who invent a lie concerning Allah or deny Our tokens. (For such) their appointed portion of the Book (of destiny) reaches them till, when Our messengers come to gather them, they say: Where (now) is that to which ye cried beside Allah? They say: They have departed from us. And they testify against themselves that they were disbelievers.

Transliteration Faman azlamu mimmaniftara_'alalla_hi kaziban au kazzaba bi a_ya_tih(i), ula_'ika yana_luhum nasibuhum minal kita_b(i), hatta_ iza_ ja_'athum rusuluna_ yatawaffaunahum, qa_lu_ aina ma_ kuntum tad'u_na min du_nilla_h(i), qa_lu_ dallu_'anna_ wa syahidu_ 'ala_ anfusihim annahum ka_nu_ ka_firin(a).

[[ Ali’s note - 1018 It must not be supposed that the rebels against Allah would at once be cut off in this life for their sins. They will get the portion allotted to them, including the good things of life and the chance of repentance and reformation, during their probationary period on this earth. During that period they will have a full run. After that period expires, they will be called to account. They will themselves see that the false things, in which they put their trust, were false, and they will confess their sin, but it will be too late. (7.37)]]

7: 48

Asad And they who [in life] has possessed this faculty of discernment will call out to those…….”What has your amassing [of wealth] availed you, and all the false pride of your past?”

Yusuf Ali The men on the heights will call to certain men whom they will know from their marks saying: "Of what profit to you were you hoards and your arrogant ways?

Pickthall And the dwellers on the Heights call unto men whom they know by their marks, (saying): What did your multitude and that in which ye took your pride avail you?

Transliteration Wa na_da_ asha_bul a'ra_fi rija_lay ya'rifu_nahum bi sima_hum qa_lu_ ma_ agna_ 'ankum jam'ukum wa ma_ kuntum tastakbiru_n(a).

[[ Ruby’s comment – I disagree with Asad here: this faculty of discernment is given to everyone, each human being, whether they use it or not that is a different question. I do not know this meaning of the word “araf” is appropriate here or not. ]]

7: 49

Yusuf Ali "Behold! are these not the men whom you swore that Allah with his mercy would never bless? Enter ye the garden: no fear shall be on you nor shall ye grieve."

Pickthall Are these they of whom ye swore that Allah would not show them mercy? (Unto them it hath been said): Enter the Garden. No fear shall come upon you nor is it ye who will grieve.

Transliteration Aha_'ula_'il lazina aqsamtum la_ yana_luhumulla_hu bi rahmah(tin), udkhulul jannata la_ khaufun 'alaikum wa la_ antum tahzanu_n(a).

7: 50

Yusuf Ali The companions of the fire will call to the companions of the garden; "pour down to us water or anything that Allah doth provide for your sustenance." They will say: "Both these things hath Allah forbidden to those who rejected Him.

Pickthall And the dwellers of the Fire cry out unto the dwellers of the Garden; Pour on us some water or some of that where with Allah hath provided you. They say: Lo! Allah hath forbidden both to disbelievers (in His guidance),

Transliteration Wa na_da_ asha_bun na_ri asha_bal jannati an afidu_ 'alaina_ minal ma_'i au mimma_ razaqakumulla_h(u), qa_lu_ innalla_ha harramahuma_ 'alal ka_firin(a).

7: 51

Yusuf Ali "Such as took their religion to be mere amusement and play and were deceived by the life of the world." That day shall We forget them as they forgot the meeting of this day of theirs and as they were wont to reject Our signs.

Pickthall Who took their religion for a sport and pastime, and whom the life of the world beguiled. So this day We have forgotten them even as they forgot the meeting of this Day and as they used to deny Our tokens.

Transliteration Allazinattakhazu_ dinahum lahwaw wa la'ibaw wa garrathumul haya_tud dunya_, fal yauma nansa_hum kama_ nasu_ liqa_'a yaumihim ha_za_, wa ma_ ka_nu_ bi a_ya_tina_ yajhadu_n(a).

7: 52

Yusuf Ali For We had certainly sent unto them a Book based on knowledge which We explained in detail a guide and a mercy to all who believe.

Pickthall Verily We have brought them a Scripture which We expound with knowledge, a guidance and a mercy for a people who believe.

Transliteration Wa laqad ji'na_kum bi kita_bin fassalna_hu 'ala_ 'ilmin hudaw wa rahmatal liqaumiy yu'minu_n(a).

7: 53

Yusuf Ali Do they just wait for the final fulfillment of the event? On the day the event is finally fulfilled those who disregarded it before will say: "the apostles of our Lord did indeed bring true (tidings). Have we no intercessors now to intercede on our behalf? Or could we be sent back? Then should we behave differently from our behavior in the past." In fact they will have lost their souls and the things they invented will leave them in the lurch.

Pickthall Await they aught save the fulfillment thereof? On the day when the fulfillment thereof cometh, those who were before forgetful thereof will say: The messengers of our Lord did bring the Truth! Have we any intercessors, that they may intercede for us? Or can we be returned (to life on earth), that we may act otherwise than we used to act? They have lost their souls, and that which they devised hath failed them.

Transliteration Hal yanzuru_na illa_ ta'wilah(a_), yauma ya'ti ta'wiluhu_ yaqu_lul lazina nasu_hu min qablu qad ja_'at rusulu rabbina_ bil haqq(i), fahal lana_ min syufa'a_'a fa yasyfa'u_ lana_ au nuraddu fa na'mala gairal lazi kunna_ na'mal(u), qad khasiru_ anfusahum wa dalla 'anhum ma_ ka_nu_ yaftaru_n(a).

The Quranic Text & Ali’s Version:

Other versions:

10: 7

Yusuf Ali Those who rest not their hope on their meeting with Us but are pleased and satisfied with the life of the present and those who heed not Our Signs

Pickthall Lo! those who expect not the meeting with Us but desire the life of the world and feel secure therein, and those who are neglectful of Our revelations,

Transliteration Innal lazina la_ yarju_na liqa_'ana_ wa radu_ bil haya_tid dunya_ wa-tma'annu_ biha_ wallazina hum 'an a_ya_tina_ ga_filu_n(a).

10: 8

Yusuf Ali Their abode is the Fire because of the (evil) they earned.

Pickthall Their home will be the Fire because of what they used to earn.

Transliteration Ula_'ika ma'wa_humun na_ru bima_ ka_nu_ yaksibu_n(a).

13.Surah ArRa'd

The Quranic Text & Ali’s Version:

وَإِن تَعْجَبْ فَعَجَبٌ قَوْلُهُمْ أَئِذَا كُنَّا تُرَابًا أَئِنَّا لَفِي خَلْقٍ جَدِيدٍ...

13: 5. If thou dost marvel (at their want of faith), strange is their saying:

"When we are (actually) dust, shall we indeed then be in a creation renewed?"

C1808. After seeing the Signs in nature and the Signs in revelation, it is indeed strange that people should deny their Creator.

But if they admit the Signs of the Creator, Who works marvels before their very eyes every day, why should they doubt that when they are reduced to dust, they can be raised up again?

If one creation is possible, what difficulty can there be in accepting a renewed creation?

It becomes then a question of an obstinate and rebellious will, for which the punishment is described.

...أُوْلَـئِكَ الَّذِينَ كَفَرُواْ بِرَبِّهِمْ...

They are those who deny their Lord!

...وَأُوْلَئِكَ الأَغْلاَلُ فِي أَعْنَاقِهِمْ...

They are those round whose necks will be yokes (of servitude):

C1809. Aglal: yokes (of servitude): Cf. 7:157 and n. 1128.

The punishment may be conceived of in two stages:

- immediately, yokes of servitude to superstition, falsehood, etc., as against the freedom in Faith;

- and finally, the Fire which bums the very soul.

...وَأُوْلَـئِكَ أَصْحَابُ النَّارِ هُمْ فِيهَا خَالِدونَ ﴿٥﴾

they will be Companions of the Fire, who dwell therein (for aye)!

وَيَسْتَعْجِلُونَكَ بِالسَّيِّئَةِ قَبْلَ الْحَسَنَةِ وَقَدْ خَلَتْ مِن قَبْلِهِمُ الْمَثُلاَتُ...

13: 6. They ask thee to hasten on the evil in preference to the good: yet have come to pass, before them, (many) exemplary punishments!

C1810. The Unbelievers by way of a taunt say: "If there is a punishment, let us see it come down now."

The answer to it is threefold.

1. Why do you want to see the punishment rather than the mercy of Allah?

Which is better?

2. Have you not heard in history of terrible punishments for evil?

And have you not before your very eyes seen examples of wickedness brought to book?

3. Allah works not only in justice and punishment, but also in mercy and forgiveness, and mercy and forgiveness come first.

...وَإِنَّ رَبَّكَ لَذُو مَغْفِرَةٍ لِّلنَّاسِ عَلَى ظُلْمِهِمْ...

But verily thy Lord is full of forgiveness for mankind for their wrongdoing:

...وَإِنَّ رَبَّكَ لَشَدِيدُ الْعِقَابِ ﴿٦﴾

and verily thy Lord is (also) strict in punishment.

وَيَقُولُ الَّذِينَ كَفَرُواْ لَوْلآ أُنزِلَ عَلَيْهِ آيَةٌ مِّن رَّبِّهِ...

13: 7. And the Unbelievers say!

"Why is not a Sign sent down to him from his Lord?"

C1811. After all the Signs that have just been mentioned it is mere fractiousness to say, "Bring down a Sign."

Al-Mustafa brought Signs and credentials as other Prophets did, and like them, refused to satisfy mere idle curiosity.

...إِنَّمَا أَنتَ مُنذِرٌ وَلِكُلِّ قَوْمٍ هَادٍ ﴿٧﴾

But thou art truly a warner and to every people a guide.

C1812. The last sentence of this verse has usually been interpreted to mean that the Prophet's function was merely to warn, and that guidance was sent by Allah to every nation through its Prophets.

I think the following interpretation is equally possible:

'it is itself a Sign that Al-Mustafa should warn and preach and produce the Quran, and the guidance which he brings is universal guidance, as from Allah.'

مَّثَلُ الْجَنَّةِ الَّتِي وُعِدَ الْمُتَّقُونَ...

13: 35. The parable of the Garden which the righteous are promised! --

...تَجْرِي مِن تَحْتِهَا الأَنْهَارُ...

beneath if flow rivers:

...أُكُلُهَا دَآئِمٌ ...

perpetual is the enjoyment thereof

C1854. For the comprehensive meaning of the root akala (literally "to cat"), see 5:66, n. 776.

In its derived meaning it means fruit and enjoyment of all kinds, spiritual as well as other.

The joys of heaven are not like the joys of the earth, which fade away or cloy. The joys of heaven are pure, lasting, and without any of the drawbacks which we associate with the joys of the sense.

... وِظِلُّهَا...

and the shade therein:

C1855. Zillun: literally shade, hence, shelter, protection, security.

All these meanings are implied.

Shade is one of the delights of a garden. Cf. 4:57 and n. 579.

...تِلْكَ عُقْبَى الَّذِينَ اتَّقَواْ...

such is the End of the Righteous;

...وَّعُقْبَى الْكَافِرِينَ النَّارُ ﴿٣٥﴾

and the End of Unbelievers is the Fire.

C1856. In this, as in other places, the Fire is contrasted with the Garden, as Misery is contrasted with Bliss.

We can also imagine other incidents in contrast with those of the Garden, e.g., with the Fire will be drought, aridity, thirst, instead of beautiful rivers; pain and suffering, instead of perpetual delight; no protection against the fierceness of the heat, as contrasted with the cool shades ever deepening as you proceed in the Garden.

Other versions:

13: 5

Ali If thou dost marvel (at their want of faith) strange is their saying: "When we are (actually) dust shall we indeed then be in a creation renewed?" They are those who deny their Lord! They are those round whose necks will be yokes (of servitude): they will be Companions of the Fire who dwell therein (for aye)!

Pickthall And if thou wonderest, then wondrous is their saying: When we are dust, are we then forsooth (to be raised) in a new creation? Such are they who disbelieve in their Lord; such have carcans on their necks; such are rightful owners of the Fire, they will abide therein.

Yuksel If you wonder, then what is more wondrous is their saying: "Can it be that when we are dust, we will be created anew!" These are those who rejected their Lord, and they will have chains around their necks, and they are the dwellers of the fire, in it they will abide.

Transliteration Wa in ta'jab fa 'ajabun qauluhum a'iza_ kunna_ tura_ban ainna_ lafi khalqin jadid(in), ula_'ikal lazina kafaru_ bi rabbihim, wa ula_'ikal agla_lu fi a'na_qihim, wa ula_'ika asha_bun na_r(i), hum fiha_ kha_lidu_n(a).

13: 6

Yusuf Ali They ask thee to hasten on the evil in preference to the good: yet have come to pass before them (many) exemplary punishments! But verily thy Lord is full of forgiveness for mankind for their wrongdoing: and verily thy Lord is (also) strict in punishment.

Pickthall And they bid thee hasten on the evil rather than the good, when exemplary punishments have indeed occurred before them. But lo! thy Lord is rich in pardon for mankind despite their wrong, and lo! thy Lord is strong in punishment!

Yuksel They ask you to hasten with the doom rather than the good, yet the examples of those before them have already been given. Your Lord is with great forgiveness to the people despite their transgression, and your Lord is severe in retribution.

Transliteration Wa yasta'jilu_naka bis sayyi'ati qablal hasanati wa qad khalat min qablihimul masula_t(u), wa inna rabbaka lazu_ magfiratil lin na_si 'ala_ zulmihim, wa inna rabbaka lasyadidul 'iqa_b(i).

13: 7

Yusuf Ali And the Unbelievers say! "Why is not a Sign sent down to him from his Lord?" But thou art truly a warner and to every people a guide.

Pickthall Those who disbelieve say: If only some portent were sent down upon him from his Lord! Thou art a warner only, and for every folk a guide.

Yuksel Those who reject say, "If only a sign was sent down to him from his Lord." You are but a warner, and to every nation is a guide.

Transliteration Wa yaqu_lul lazina kafaru_ lau la_ unzila 'alaihi a_yatum mir rabbih(i), innama_ anta munziruw wa likulli qaumin ha_d(in).

[[ Ali’s note -

1809 Aglal: yokes (of servitude): Cf. vii. 157 and n. 1128. The punishment may be conceived of in two stages: immediately, yokes of servitude to superstition, falsehood, etc., as against the freedom in Faith; and finally, the Fire which burns the very soul. (13.5)

1810 The Unbelievers by way of a taunt say: "If there is a punishment, let us see it come down now." The answer to it is threefold. (1) Why do you want to see the punishment rather than the mercy of Allah? Which is better? (2) Have you not heard in history of terrible punishments for evil? And have you not before your very eyes seen examples of wickedness brought to book? (3) Allah works not only in justice and punishment, but also in mercy and forgiveness, and mercy and forgiveness come first. (13.6)

1811 After all the Signs that have just been mentioned it is mere fractiousness to say, "Bring down a Sign." Al-Mustafa brought Signs and credentials as other Prophets did, and like them, refused to satisfy mere idle curiosity. (13.7)

13: 35

Yusuf Ali The parable of the Garden which the righteous are promised! beneath it flow rivers: perpetual is the enjoyment thereof and the shade therein: such is the End of the Righteous; and the End of Unbelievers is the Fire.

Pickthall A similitude of the Garden which is promised unto those who keep their duty (to Allah): Underneath it rivers flow; its food is everlasting, and its shade; this is the reward of those who keep their duty, while the reward of disbelievers is the Fire.

Transliteration Masalul jannatil lati wu'idal muttaqu_n(a), tajri min tahtihal anha_r(u), ukuluha_ da_'imuw wa zilluha_, tilka 'uqbal lazina-ttaqaw, wa 'uqbal ka_firinan na_r(u).

17. Surah Al Isra

The Quranic Text & Ali’s Version:

17: 97. It is he whom Allah guides, that is on true guidance;

...وَمَن يُضْلِلْ فَلَن تَجِدَ لَهُمْ أَوْلِيَاء مِن دُونِهِ...

but he whom He leaves astray -- for such wilt thou find no protector besides Him.

C2302. 'All your insincere subtleties are of no use. The only real guidance is the guidance of Allah. If you do not seek His grace, you will be lost. Besides Him, there is no true friend or protector'.

...وَنَحْشُرُهُمْ يَوْمَ الْقِيَامَةِ عَلَى وُجُوهِهِمْ عُمْيًا وَبُكْمًا وَصُمًّا...

On the Day of Judgment We shall gather them together, prone on their faces, blind, dumb, and deaf:

...مَّأْوَاهُمْ جَهَنَّمُ كُلَّمَا خَبَتْ زِدْنَاهُمْ سَعِيرًا ﴿٩٧﴾

their abode will be Hell:

every time it shows abatement, We shall increase for them the fierceness of the Fire.

C2303. 'If you still persist in your evil ways, what is to be your evil end?

You will become more and more identified with the Company of Evil. You will come to shame and ignominy, like men thrown down prone on their faces. You will lose the use of all the faculties of judgment with which Allah has endowed you.

Instead of seeing, you will be blind to Allah's Signs. Instead of having the power of seeking Him in prayer and rejoicing in His grace, you will be dumb. Instead of hearing the harmony and music of the spheres, as typified in the pure and harmonious lives of men, you will hear nothing or only hear dull or confused sounds like deaf men.

The scorching fire of your punishment will not grow less, but grow more fierce as you go deeper into Hell'.

ذَلِكَ جَزَآؤُهُم بِأَنَّهُمْ كَفَرُواْ بِآيَاتِنَا...

17: 98. That is their recompense, because they rejected Our Signs,

...وَقَالُواْ أَئِذَا كُنَّا عِظَامًا وَرُفَاتًا أَإِنَّا لَمَبْعُوثُونَ خَلْقًا جَدِيدًا ﴿٩٨﴾

and said, "When we are reduced to bones and broken dust, should we really be raised up (to be) a new Creation?"

C2304. This phrase is repeated from 17:49.

The reminiscence rounds off the argument. After certain moral precepts to which Faith was linked, we have had a discussion of Unfaith. Its various motives have been analyzed, and its penalties have been allegorically shadowed forth.

After this, the example of Pharaoh is held as a type of Unfaith in the next section, and the Surah closed with an exhortation to faith and a declaration of the glory of Allah.

أَوَلَمْ يَرَوْاْ أَنَّ اللّهَ الَّذِي خَلَقَ السَّمَاوَاتِ وَالأَرْضَ قَادِرٌ عَلَى أَن يَخْلُقَ مِثْلَهُمْ...

17: 99. See they not that Allah, Who created the heavens and the earth, has power to create the like of them (anew)?

C2305. Allah, Who created all that is in the heavens and on earth, has surely the power to revive the life of individual souls after their bodies have perished, -and revive them with memories of their past life and for a continuation of their spiritual history. Only He has fixed a term for each stage of our existence, which we can neither prolong nor shorten.

...وَجَعَلَ لَهُمْ أَجَلاً لاَّ رَيْبَ فِيهِ...

Only He has decreed a term appointed, of which there is no doubt.

...فَأَبَى الظَّالِمُونَ إَلاَّ كُفُورًا ﴿٩٩﴾

But the unjust refuse (to receive it) except with ingratitude.

C2306. This phrase carries us back to 17:89, after we began the argument about the real motives for the rejection of the Quran by skeptics.

The argument is now closed in a sort of minor circle within the major circle sketched in n. 2304 above.

Other versions:

17: 97

Transliteration Wa may yahdilla_hu fahuwal muhtad(i), wa may yudlil falan tajida lahum auliya_'a min du_nih(i), wa nahsyuruhum yaumal qiya_mati 'ala_ wuju_hihim 'umyaw wa bukmaw wa summa_(n), ma'wa_hum jahannam(u), kullama_ khabat zidna_hum sa'ira_(n).

Yusuf Ali It is he whom Allah guides that is on true guidance; but he whom He leaves astray for such wilt thou find no protector besides Him. On the Day of Judgment We shall gather them together prone on their faces blind dumb and deaf: their abode will be Hell: every time it shows abatement We shall increase for them the fierceness of the Fire.

Pickthall And he whom Allah guideth, he is led aright; while, as for him whom He sendeth astray, for them thou wilt find no protecting friends beside Him, and We shall assemble them on the Day of Resurrection on their faces, blind, dumb and deaf; their habitation will be hell; whenever it abateth, We increase the flame for them.

[Ruby’s note: Fire is for the worst of sins and failures in life: here rejecting the truth ingrained in reality and failing to notice the signs pointing toward the Ultimate Cause is the greatest failure of life. This failing and this rejection can only come from arrogance, ignorance, and addiction to the false things of life. And therefore the highest punishment is for this main or root failing from where all other failings stem from.]

17: 98

Transliteration Za_lika jaza_'uhum bi annahum kafaru_ bi a_ya_tina_ wa qa_lu_ a'iza_ kunna_ 'iza_maw wa rufa_tan a'inna_ lamab'u_su_na khalqan jadida_(n).

Asad Such will be their requital for having rejected Our Messages and having said, “After we will have become bones and dust, shall we, forsooth, be raised from the dead in a new act of creation?”

Yusuf Ali That is their recompense because they rejected Our Signs and said "When we are reduced to bones and broken dust should we really be raised up (to be) a new Creation?"

Pickthall That is their reward because they disbelieved Our revelations and said: When we are bones and fragments shall we, forsooth, be raised up as a new creation?

17: 99

Awalam yarau analla_hal lazi khalaqas sama_wa_ti wal arda qa_dirun 'ala_ ay yakhluqa mislahum wa ja'ala lahum ajalal la_ raiba fih(i), fa abaz za_limu_na illa_ kufu_ru_(n).

Yusuf Ali See they not that Allah Who created the heavens and the earth has power to create the like of them (anew)? Only He has decreed a term appointed of which there is no doubt. But the unjust refuse (to receive it) except with ingratitude.

Pickthall Have they not seen that Allah Who created the heavens and the earth is Able to create the like of them, and hath appointed for them an end whereof there is no doubt? But the wrong-doers refuse aught save disbelief.

18.Surah Al Kahf

The Quranic Text & Ali’s Version:

...

18: 29. Say, "The Truth is from your Lord":

... فَمَن شَاء فَلْيُؤْمِن وَمَن شَاء فَلْيَكْفُرْ...

let him who will, believe, and let him who will, reject (it):

C2371. Our choice in our limited Free-will involves a corresponding personal responsibility. We are offered the Truth: again and again is it pressed on our attention,

If we reject it, we must take all the terrible consequences which are prefigured in the Fire of Hell. Its flames and roof will completely enclose us like a tent. Ordinarily there is water to quench the heat of thirst: here the only drink will be like molten brass, thick, heavy, burning, sizzling. Before it reaches the mouth of the unfortunates, drops of it will scald their faces as it is poured out.

... إِنَّا أَعْتَدْنَا لِلظَّالِمِينَ نَارًا أَحَاطَ بِهِمْ سُرَادِقُهَا...

for the wrongdoers We have prepared a Fire whose (smoke and flames), like the wall and roof of a tent, will hem them in:

... وَإِن يَسْتَغِيثُوا يُغَاثُوا بِمَاء كَالْمُهْلِ يَشْوِي الْوُجُوهَ...

if they implore relief they will be granted water like melted brass that will scald their faces.

... بِئْسَ الشَّرَابُ وَسَاءتْ مُرْتَفَقًا ﴿٢٩﴾

How dreadful the drink!

How uncomfortable a couch to recline on!

Other versions:

18: 29

Asad And say: “ The truth [has now come] from your Sustainer: let, then, him who wills, believe in it, and let him who wills, reject it.”……….

Yusuf Ali Say "The Truth is from your Lord": let him who will believe and let him who will reject (it): for the wrongdoers We have prepared a Fire whose (smoke and flames) like the wall and roof of a tent will hem them in: if they implore relief they will be granted water like melted brass that will scald their faces. How dreadful the drink! How uncomfortable a couch to recline on!

Pickthall Say: (It is) the truth from the Lord of you (all). Then whosoever will, let him believe, and whosoever will, let him disbelieve. Lo! We have prepared for disbelievers Fire. Its tent encloseth them. If they ask for showers, they will be showered with water like to molten lead which burneth the faces. Calamitous the drink and ill the resting place!

Transliteration Wa qulil haqqu mir rabbikum, faman sya_'a falyu'miw wa man sya_'a falyakfur, inna_ a'tadna_ liz za_limina na_ra_(n), aha_ta bihim sura_diquha_, wa iy yastagisu_ yuga_su bi ma_'in kal muhli yasywil wuju_h(a), bi'sasy syara_b(u), wa sa_'at murtafaqa_(n).

Roman Translition of the Arabic Source
18:29		Waquli alhaqqu min rabbikum faman shaa falyu/min waman shaa falyakfur inna aAAtadna lilththalimeena naran ahata bihim suradiquha wa-in yastagheethoo yughathoo bima-in kaalmuhli yashwee alwujooha bi/sa alshsharabu wasaat murtafaqan	&#x21E8

Generally Accepted Translations of the Meaning
Muhammad Asad	And say: "The truth [has now come] from your Sustainer: let, then, him who wills, believe in it, and let him who wills, reject it." Verily, for all who sin against themselves [by rejecting Our truth] We have readied a fire whose billowing folds will encompass them from all sides; and if they beg for water, they will be given water [hot] like molten lead, which will scald their faces: how dreadful a drink, and how evil a place to rest!	&#x21E8
M. M. Pickthall	Say: (It is) the truth from the Lord of you (all). Then whosoever will, let him believe, and whosoever will, let him disbelieve. Lo! We have prepared for disbelievers Fire. Its tent encloseth them. If they ask for showers, they will be showered with water like to molten lead which burneth the faces. Calamitous the drink and ill the resting-place!	&#x21E8
Shakir	And say: The truth is from your Lord, so let him who please believe, and let him who please disbelieve; surely We have prepared for the iniquitous a fire, the curtains of which shall encompass them about; and if they cry for water, they shall be given water like molten brass which will scald their faces; evil the drink and ill the resting-place.	&#x21E8
Yusuf Ali	Say, "The truth is from your Lord": Let him who will believe, and let him who will, reject (it): for the wrong-doers We have prepared a Fire whose (smoke and flames), like the walls and roof of a tent, will hem them in: if they implore relief they will be granted water like melted brass, that will scald their faces, how dreadful the drink! How uncomfortable a couch to recline on!	&#x21E8
[Al-Muntakhab]	And say to them: "Allah's truth has come to guide us into all truth and he who wishes to acknowledge it with judgement and choice is free to do so and he who wishes to reject it is free to do so. We have prepared for the wrongful of actions a fire whose scorching and merciless flames beset them on all sides as if it were a bed having an arched canopy and covered sides. As often as they cry for help they are given a draught of boiling water like molten brass or molten lead scalding the faces; evil indeed is the drink and evil is the society!	&#x21E8
[Progressive Muslims]	And Say: "The truth is from your Lord, so let whomever desires believe, and whomever desires reject." We have prepared for the wicked a Fire whose walls will be surrounding them. And if they cry out, they are given a water like boiling oil which burns their faces. What a miserable place!

19. Surah Maryam

The Quranic Text & Ali’s Version:

Hence the mention of the seven Gates to Hell: see 15:44. and n. 1977. (R).

ثُمَّ لَنَنزِعَنَّ مِن كُلِّ شِيعَةٍ أَيُّهُمْ أَشَدُّ عَلَى الرَّحْمَنِ عِتِيًّا ﴿٦٩﴾

19: 69. Then shall We certainly drag out from every sect all those who were worst in obstinate rebellion against (Allah) Most Gracious.

ثُمَّ لَنَحْنُ أَعْلَمُ بِالَّذِينَ هُمْ أَوْلَى بِهَا صِلِيًّا ﴿٧٠﴾

19: 70. And certainly We know best those who are most worthy of being burned therein.

Other versions:

19: 69

Asad and thereupon We shall, indeed, draw forth from every group [of sinners] the ones that had been most determined in their disdainful rebellion against the Most Gracious:

Yusuf Ali Then shall We certainly drag out from every sect all those who were worst in obstinate rebellion against (Allah) Most Gracious.

Pickthall Then We shall pluck out from every sect whichever of them was most stern in rebellion to the Beneficent

Transliteration Sum ma lananzi'an na min kul li si'atin ay yuhum asyad du alar rahma_ni itiy ya_

[Ruby’s note- It is important to note that every group or sect of humanity is mentioned. Therefore failure is not an excusive domain of one brand of faith or followers. FAILURE is among all groups and followers, Muslims or non-Muslims.]

19: 70

Asad for, indeed, We know best as to which of them is most deserving of the fires of hell.

Yusuf Ali And certainly We know best those who are most worthy of being burned therein.

Pickthall And surely We are best aware of those most worthy to be burned therein.

Transliteration Sum ma lanahnu a'lamu bil lazina hum aula_ biha_ shiliy ya_

22. Sura al-Hajj

The Quranic Text & Ali’s Version:

وَمِنَ النَّاسِ مَن يُجَادِلُ فِي اللَّهِ بِغَيْرِ عِلْمٍ...

22: 3. And yet among men there are such as dispute about Allah, without knowledge,

...وَيَتَّبِعُ كُلَّ شَيْطَانٍ مَّرِيدٍ ﴿٣﴾

and follow every evil one obstinate in rebellion!

كُتِبَ عَلَيْهِ أَنَّهُ مَن تَوَلَّاهُ فَأَنَّهُ يُضِلُّهُ وَيَهْدِيهِ إِلَى عَذَابِ السَّعِير ﴿٤﴾

22: 4. About the (Evil One) it is decreed that whoever turns to him for friendship, him will he lead astray, and he will guide him to the Penalty of the Fire.

C2772. Even after the warnings there are men who are such fools as to turn away from Allah who created them and cherishes them with His love and care; they become outlaws in His Kingdom, making friends with Satan, which is a rebel in Allah's Kingdom.

إِنَّ اللَّهَ يُدَافِعُ عَنِ الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا...

22: 38. Verily Allah will defend (from ill) those who believe:

...إِنَّ اللَّهَ لَا يُحِبُّ كُلَّ خَوَّانٍ كَفُورٍ ﴿٣٨﴾

verily, Allah loveth not any that is a traitor to faith, or shows ingratitude.

أُذِنَ لِلَّذِينَ يُقَاتَلُونَ بِأَنَّهُمْ ظُلِمُوا...

22: 39. To those against whom war is made, permission is given (to fight) because they are wronged --

C2816. Several translators have faded to notice that yuqatalina (in the best-approved texts) is in the passive voice, "against whom war is made", -not "who take arms against the unbelievers" as Sale translates it.

The clause -and verily ... their aid- is parenthetical. Verse 40 connects on with "they are wronged". The wrong is indicated: 'driven by persecution from their home, for no other reason than that they worshipped the One True God'.

This was the first occasion on which fighting -in self-defence- was permitted. This passage therefore undoubtedly dates from Madinah.

...وَإِنَّ اللَّهَ عَلَى نَصْرِهِمْ لَقَدِيرٌ ﴿٣٩﴾

and verily, Allah is Most powerful for their aid --

الَّذِينَ أُخْرِجُوا مِن دِيَارِهِمْ بِغَيْرِ حَقٍّ إِلَّا أَن يَقُولُوا رَبُّنَا اللَّهُ...

22: 40. (They are) those who have been expelled from their homes in defiance of right -- (for no cause) except that they say, "Our Lord is Allah."

...وَلَوْلَا دَفْعُ اللَّهِ النَّاسَ بَعْضَهُم بِبَعْضٍ...

Did not Allah check one set of people by means of another,

C2817. To allow a righteous people to fight against a ferocious and mischief-loving people was fully justified. But the justification was far greater here, when the little Muslim community was not only fighting for its own existence against the Makkan Quraish, but for the very existence of the Faith in the One True God.

They had as much right to be in Makkah and worship in the Ka'bah as the other Quraish; yet they were exiled for their Faith. It affected not the faith of one peculiar people. The principle involved was that of all worship, Jewish or Christian as well as Muslim, and of all foundations built for pious uses.

...لَّهُدِّمَتْ صَوَامِعُ وَبِيَعٌ وَصَلَوَاتٌ وَمَسَاجِدُ يُذْكَرُ فِيهَا اسْمُ اللَّهِ كَثِيرًا ...

there would surely have been pulled down monasteries, churches, synagogues, and mosques, in which the name of Allah is commemorated in abundant measure.

...وَلَيَنصُرَنَّ اللَّهُ مَن يَنصُرُهُ...

Allah will certainly aid those who aid His (cause);

...إِنَّ اللَّهَ لَقَوِيٌّ عَزِيزٌ ﴿٤٠﴾

for verily Allah is Full of Strength, Exalted in Might, (Able to enforce His Will).

C2818. 'Aziz means:

- Exalted in power, rank, dignity;

- Incomparable;

- Full of might and majesty;

- Able to enforce His Will.

The last signification is the one that predominates here.

وَيَعْبُدُونَ مِن دُونِ اللَّهِ مَا لَمْ يُنَزِّلْ بِهِ سُلْطَانًا وَمَا لَيْسَ لَهُم بِهِ عِلْمٌ...

22: 71. Yet they worship, besides Allah, things for which no authority has been sent down to them, and of which they have (really) no knowledge:

...وَمَا لِلظَّالِمِينَ مِن نَّصِيرٍ ﴿٧١﴾

for those that do wrong there is no helper.

C2852. When plain common-sense shows the absurdity of false worship, behind which there is neither knowledge, intelligence, nor authority (quite the contrary), who or what can help the false misguided creatures who dishonour Allah by false worship?

وَإِذَا تُتْلَى عَلَيْهِمْ آيَاتُنَا بَيِّنَاتٍ تَعْرِفُ فِي وُجُوهِ الَّذِينَ كَفَرُوا الْمُنكَرَ...

22: 72. When Our Clear Signs are rehearsed to them, thou wilt notice a denial on the faces of the Unbelievers!

C2853. Munkar;

- a refusal to accept something offered;

- a denial of something stated or pointed out;

- a feeling of disapproval or active aversion, or disgust.

...يَكَادُونَ يَسْطُونَ بِالَّذِينَ يَتْلُونَ عَلَيْهِمْ آيَاتِنَا...

They nearly attack with violence those who rehearse Our Signs to them.

...قُلْ أَفَأُنَبِّئُكُم بِشَرٍّ مِّن ذَلِكُمُ...

Say,

"Shall I tell you of something (far) worse than these Signs?

C2854. There is irony here.

'You think Allah's revelations and Signs are distasteful to you! There will be something far more distasteful to you if you do not repent! What do you say to the inevitable Punishment?'

...النَّارُ...

It is the fire (of Hell)!

...وَعَدَهَا اللَّهُ الَّذِينَ كَفَرُوا...

Allah has promised it to the Unbelievers!

...وَبِئْسَ الْمَصِيرُ ﴿٧٢﴾

And evil is that destination!"

يَا أَيُّهَا النَّاسُ ضُرِبَ مَثَلٌ فَاسْتَمِعُوا لَهُ...

22: 73. O men!

Here is a parable set forth! Listen to it!

... إِنَّ الَّذِينَ تَدْعُونَ مِن دُونِ اللَّهِ لَن يَخْلُقُوا ذُبَابًا وَلَوِ اجْتَمَعُوا لَهُ ...

Those on whom, besides Allah ye call, cannot create (even) a fly, if they all met together for the purpose!

...وَإِن يَسْلُبْهُمُ الذُّبَابُ شَيْئًا لَّا يَسْتَنقِذُوهُ مِنْهُ...

And if the fly should snatch away anything from them, they would have no power to release it from the fly:

...ضَعُفَ الطَّالِبُ وَالْمَطْلُوبُ ﴿٧٣﴾

feeble are those who petition and those whom they petition!

C2855. Both idols and their worshippers are poor, foolish, feeble creatures!

مَا قَدَرُوا اللَّهَ حَقَّ قَدْرِهِ...

22: 74. No just estimate have they made of Allah:

...إِنَّ اللَّهَ لَقَوِيٌّ عَزِيزٌ ﴿٧٤﴾

for Allah is He Who is strong and able to carry out His Will.

C2856. No one can have a true idea of Allah, who descends to the base forms of false worship. Allah has all power, and He is fully able to carry out every part of His Will and Plan.

He is exalted above all in power and dignity.

Cf. 22:40 and n. 2818 for the full meaning of 'Aziz.

اللَّهُ يَصْطَفِي مِنَ الْمَلَائِكَةِ رُسُلًا وَمِنَ النَّاسِ...

22: 75. Allah chooses Messengers from angels and from men:

C2857. Men are chosen as Messengers to ordinary men; for ordinary men will not be able to understand and be in communion with beings so refined as angels. But angels are sent as Messengers to Allah's chosen prophets, to convey the Message from time to time.

In either case they are chosen by Allah, are subject to Allah's Will, and should not be worshipped as gods.

...إِنَّ اللَّهَ سَمِيعٌ بَصِيرٌ ﴿٧٥﴾

for Allah is He Who hears and sees (all things).

C2858. As Allah regards the humblest of His creatures and hears their prayer, He sends men messengers out of their own brethren (see last note), and to such messengers He communicates the highest spiritual Truths through His angels.

يَعْلَمُ مَا بَيْنَ أَيْدِيهِمْ وَمَا خَلْفَهُمْ...

22: 76. He knows what is before them and what is behind them:

...وَإِلَى اللَّهِ تُرْجَعُ الأمُورُ ﴿٧٦﴾

and to Allah go back all questions (for decision).

C2859. Time, before or behind, may be of some importance to men. They may dispute as to what was the first Message, and what is the last Message.

To Allah, this question of priority and posteriority is of no consequence. All questions go back ultimately to Him and are judged on their merits.

Asad’s Version:

22:3

And yet, among men there is many a one who argues about God without having any

knowledge [of Him], and follows every rebellious satanic force 3

(22:4) about which it has been decreed that whoever entrusts himself to it, him will it lead astray and guide towards the suffering of the blazing flame!