لِّيَجْزِىَ ٱللَّهُ ٱلصَّـٰدِقِينَ بِصِدْقِهِمْ وَيُعَذِّبَ ٱلْمُنَـٰفِقِينَ إِن شَآءَ أَوْ يَتُوبَ عَلَيْهِمْ ۚ إِنَّ ٱللَّهَ كَانَ غَفُورًا رَّحِيمًا 24
Translations
That Allāh may reward the truthful for their truth and punish the hypocrites if He wills or accept their repentance. Indeed, Allāh is ever Forgiving and Merciful.
Transliteration
Li-yajziya Allahu as-sadiqeen bi-sidqihim wa-yu'aththiba al-munafiqeen in sha'a aw yatuba 'alayhim. Inna Allaha kana ghafuran rahimah.
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah states that Allah will reward the truthful (as-sadiqeen) for their truthfulness and sincerity, while hypocrites (al-munafiqeen) will be punished unless they repent and Allah grants them mercy. Classical scholars like Al-Qurtubi and Ibn Kathir emphasize that this verse highlights the ultimate justice of Allah—rewarding authentic faith and sincere deeds while warning against the spiritual danger of hypocrisy, yet leaving the door open for repentance and divine mercy.
Revelation Context
This ayah is part of Surah Al-Ahzab, revealed in Medina during the Battle of the Confederates (Ghazwat Al-Ahzab, 5 AH), when the Muslim community faced severe external and internal threats. The surah frequently addresses hypocrites (munafiqun) who wavered during trials, making this verse a reminder that Allah distinguishes between the sincere believers and those whose hearts are divided.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet (ﷺ) said: 'The best of you are those who are best to their families, and I am the best among you to my family' (Tirmidhi 3895), reflecting the reward for truthfulness and sincere conduct. Additionally, 'Whoever conceals (hides) the faults of a Muslim, Allah will conceal his faults on the Day of Judgment' (Sahih Muslim 2590), emphasizing Allah's mercy toward the truthful.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah teaches believers that authenticity in faith and sincerity of intention are the foundation of spiritual success, while warning against the spiritual emptiness of hypocrisy. It also offers hope through Allah's mercy—that even those who have strayed can find redemption through genuine repentance.