قَالَ يَـٰٓإِبْلِيسُ مَا لَكَ أَلَّا تَكُونَ مَعَ ٱلسَّـٰجِدِينَ 32
Translations
[Allāh] said, "O Iblees, what is [the matter] with you that you are not with those who prostrate?"
Transliteration
Qala ya iblis ma laka alla takun ma'a as-sajideen
Tafsir (Explanation)
Allah addresses Iblis directly, questioning why he refused to join the angels in prostration before Adam. This ayah marks the moment of Iblis's disobedience and his separation from the command of Allah. According to Ibn Kathir and Al-Tabari, this rhetorical question emphasizes the gravity of Iblis's refusal and sets the stage for his expulsion from Allah's mercy, demonstrating that pride and arrogance are the roots of rebellion against divine commands.
Revelation Context
This ayah occurs within the narrative of Surah Al-Hijr that recounts the creation of Adam and Allah's command to the angels to prostrate before him. Iblis's refusal to obey this command is presented as a pivotal moment in Islamic theology, illustrating how even a being of high status can fall through disobedience. The surah contextualizes Iblis's transgression within the broader theme of divine authority and human choice.
Related Hadiths
The hadith in Sahih Muslim (2996) narrated by Abu Hurairah describes how Iblis was from the jinn but disobeyed Allah's command while the angels obeyed. Another relevant narration in Sunan Ibn Majah discusses how Iblis's refusal stemmed from pride, as he considered himself superior to Adam who was created from clay.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah teaches that no position or status exempts one from obedience to Allah's commands—pride and self-regard can lead even the most exalted beings to ruin. For believers, it serves as a warning against arrogance and a reminder that true honor lies in humble submission to divine guidance.