وَهُوَ يَخْشَىٰ 9
Translations
While he fears [Allāh],
Transliteration
wa-huwa yakhshā
Tafsir (Explanation)
This phrase refers to the one who fears Allah (the wealthy person mentioned in the preceding verse who turns away from the poor). Classical scholars like Al-Tabari and Ibn Kathir interpret this as emphasizing that despite his material wealth and arrogance in turning away from the blind man, this person is aware of Allah's greatness and fears His punishment. The statement highlights the contradiction between possessing fear of Allah yet acting with pride and cruelty toward the needy.
Revelation Context
This ayah appears in Surah 'Abasa, which was revealed in Mecca and addresses the Prophet's (peace be upon him) frown at 'Abdullah ibn Umm Maktum, a blind companion who interrupted his conversation with wealthy Meccan leaders. The broader context criticizes the arrogance of the wealthy and emphasizes that fear of Allah should manifest in ethical behavior toward all people, regardless of status.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: 'The best of you are those who are best to their families, and I am the best among you to my family' (Jami' at-Tirmidhi 3895). This relates thematically to how true God-consciousness should translate into kindness and respect for all.
Themes
Key Lesson
Fearing Allah is meaningless if it does not translate into compassionate and ethical treatment of others, especially the vulnerable and marginalized. True taqwa (God-consciousness) must be reflected in our daily conduct and attitudes toward all people.