كَلَّآ إِنَّ ٱلْإِنسَـٰنَ لَيَطْغَىٰٓ 6
Translations
No! [But] indeed, man transgresses
Transliteration
Kalla inna al-insana layatgha
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah declares that humanity is prone to transgression and rebellion against Allah's commands when they become arrogant and forget their dependence on their Lord. Ibn Kathir explains that this ayah refutes the human tendency toward arrogance and disobedience, particularly when wealth and apparent self-sufficiency lead one away from obedience to Allah. Al-Qurtubi emphasizes that 'طغى' (tagha - to transgress) encompasses all forms of disobedience and overstepping the bounds set by Allah.
Revelation Context
This ayah appears in the early Meccan chapter Al-'Alaq, revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) in the cave of Hira. It follows the opening command to 'read' and the description of human creation, and serves as a reminder of humanity's natural inclination toward transgression unless guided by revelation and obedience to Allah. The surah addresses the fundamental weakness and arrogance inherent in human nature.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: 'The most beloved of people to Allah are those with the most piety, and the most hated of people to Allah are the transgressors' (Tirmidhi). Additionally, 'Whoever is pleased with himself, Allah is displeased with him' reflects the connection between arrogance and transgression mentioned in this ayah.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah reminds us that transgression is an inherent danger within the human soul, requiring constant vigilance, humility, and reliance upon Allah's guidance through revelation to keep ourselves on the straight path. Recognizing our vulnerability to arrogance and disobedience is the first step toward genuine piety and submission to Allah's will.