بَلْ تُؤْثِرُونَ ٱلْحَيَوٰةَ ٱلدُّنْيَا 16
Translations
But you prefer the worldly life,
Transliteration
Bal tu'thirūn al-hayāt ad-dunyā
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah rebukes humanity for preferring the temporal pleasures of worldly life over the eternal afterlife and obedience to Allah. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir and Al-Qurtubi interpret this as a direct condemnation of those who prioritize material gains, status, and worldly desires at the expense of spiritual development and preparation for the Day of Judgment. The word 'tuāthirūn' (you prefer/choose) emphasizes the conscious choice humans make to chase fleeting worldly matters rather than eternal spiritual realities.
Revelation Context
Surah Al-A'la is a Meccan chapter addressing the fundamental themes of divine lordship, resurrection, and the accountability of human choices. This particular ayah fits within the broader rhetorical structure of the surah, which contrasts the glorification of Allah with human negligence and misplaced priorities. The context reflects the Meccan period's focus on correcting false values and reminding the polytheists of their ultimate responsibility before Allah.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) 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), emphasizing balanced life priorities. Additionally, the hadith 'Wealth and children are the adornments of this worldly life, but the everlasting good deeds are better' (Surah Al-Kahf 18:46) directly parallels this ayah's theme.
Themes
Key Lesson
Believers should constantly examine their priorities and intentions, ensuring they do not become so consumed by worldly pursuits that they neglect their relationship with Allah and preparation for the eternal life. This ayah serves as a spiritual mirror to evaluate whether our daily choices reflect a balance between lawful worldly needs and our ultimate purpose—serving Allah and seeking His pleasure.