أَرَءَيْتَ ٱلَّذِى يَنْهَىٰ 9
Translations
Have you seen the one who forbids
Transliteration
Ara'ayta alladhee yanhaa
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah begins a rhetorical question addressing the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) about a person who forbids the servant (the Prophet) from praying. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir and Al-Tabari identify this as referring to Abu Jahl, who attempted to prevent the Prophet from performing salah at the Ka'bah. The ayah sets up a powerful rebuke of those who obstruct worship and oppose the divine message, establishing the theme of standing firm against persecution.
Revelation Context
This ayah is part of the concluding section of Surah Al-'Alaq (96), revealed in the early Meccan period. It addresses the historical opposition the Prophet faced from the Quraysh, particularly Abu Jahl's attempts to intimidate him and prevent his worship. The surah shifts from the opening theme of 'Iqra' (Read) to warning against those who would hinder faith and obedience to Allah.
Related Hadiths
Sahih Bukhari (4770): Reports that Abu Jahl was among those who tried to prevent the Prophet from praying at the Ka'bah, and that the Prophet continued his worship despite threats. Also related is the hadith about the Prophet's steadfastness despite Quraysh opposition, emphasizing obedience to Allah over fear of creation.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah teaches believers that obstacles and opposition from others should not deter them from their worship and devotion to Allah. It reminds us that those who try to prevent others from the path of truth will ultimately face divine judgment, while the steadfast believer remains protected by Allah's support.