وَإِخْوَٰنُهُمْ يَمُدُّونَهُمْ فِى ٱلْغَىِّ ثُمَّ لَا يُقْصِرُونَ 202
Translations
But their brothers - they [i.e., the devils] increase them in error; then they do not stop short.
Transliteration
Wa ikhwānuhum yamuddūnahum fil-ghayyi thumma lā yuqsirūn
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah refers to the devils (shayāṭīn) among jinn and humans who actively encourage and extend others into misguidance and error, without ceasing or relenting in their efforts. Classical scholars like Al-Qurṭubī and Ibn Kathīr explain that 'their brothers' refers to the satanic influences who persistently lead people astray, emphasizing how evil companionship and demonic whispers work together to deepen one's deviation from the straight path.
Revelation Context
This ayah appears in Surah Al-A'rāf (7:202), which is part of a passage discussing the relationship between humans and jinn, and how both righteous and evil entities interact with mankind. The broader context discusses those who remember Allah versus those who are led astray by their desires and satanic influences. The specific theme addresses how evil companions (both human and jinn) collectively work to perpetuate misguidance.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet (ṣallallāhu 'alayhi wa sallam) said: 'A person follows the religion of his close friend, so let each of you be careful about whom he takes as a close friend' (Jami' at-Tirmidhi 2378). This reinforces the ayah's warning about harmful companionship and its influence on one's spiritual path.
Themes
Key Lesson
Believers must be vigilant about choosing righteous companions and guarding themselves against negative influences, whether from people or satanic whispers, recognizing that evil often works persistently to establish itself. This ayah serves as a reminder to seek protection through remembrance of Allah and to distance oneself from those who would lead one toward disobedience.