وَمَن يُوَلِّهِمْ يَوْمَئِذٍ دُبُرَهُۥٓ إِلَّا مُتَحَرِّفًا لِّقِتَالٍ أَوْ مُتَحَيِّزًا إِلَىٰ فِئَةٍ فَقَدْ بَآءَ بِغَضَبٍ مِّنَ ٱللَّهِ وَمَأْوَىٰهُ جَهَنَّمُ ۖ وَبِئْسَ ٱلْمَصِيرُ 16
Translations
And whoever turns his back to them on such a day, unless swerving [as a strategy] for war or joining [another] company, has certainly returned with anger [upon him] from Allāh, and his refuge is Hell - and wretched is the destination.
Transliteration
Wa man yuwallihim yawma'idhin duburahu illa mutaharrifan liqitalin aw mutahayyi'zan ila fi'atin faqad ba'a bighadan min-Allah wa ma'wahu jahannum wa bi'sa al-masir
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah condemns fleeing from battle except in two legitimate tactical circumstances: repositioning oneself to fight more effectively or retreating to join another group of believers. Whoever flees from battle out of cowardice incurs Allah's wrath and will be destined for Hell. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir emphasize that this verse establishes the obligation of steadfastness in battle while recognizing that strategic military maneuvers are permissible, distinguishing between dishonorable retreat and tactical repositioning.
Revelation Context
Revealed in the Medinan period during the context of early Islamic battles, particularly following the Battle of Badr. This ayah addresses Muslim soldiers who might be tempted to flee in fear, reinforcing the obligation of courage and perseverance in defense of Islam. It is part of Surah Al-Anfal's broader instructions regarding warfare and military conduct.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: 'Whoever dies without fighting in the way of Allah, or without having intended to fight, dies upon a branch of hypocrisy' (Sahih Muslim 1910). Also relevant: 'Paradise is under the shade of swords' (Sahih Bukhari 3331), emphasizing the virtue of steadfastness in battle.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah teaches that believers should display courage and commitment when standing for their faith and community, while reminding us that strategic wisdom in difficult circumstances is permissible—the lesson encourages both spiritual resolve and intelligent action in facing life's challenges.