وَإِنَّ عَلَيْكُمْ لَحَـٰفِظِينَ 10
Translations
And indeed, [appointed] over you are keepers,
Transliteration
Wa-inna 'alaikum la-hafizin
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah affirms that there are noble angels (kiraman katibin - the honorable scribes) appointed over each human being to guard and protect them, and to record their deeds. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir and Al-Tabari emphasize that these guardian angels are entrusted with our protection and the meticulous recording of our actions, whether good or evil, which will be presented on the Day of Judgment.
Revelation Context
This ayah appears in the context of Surah Al-Infitar, which is a Meccan surah that emphasizes divine power and the reality of the afterlife. It follows verses about the dissolution of the cosmos and precedes verses about the angels of death, establishing the theme of divine oversight and accountability in all aspects of existence.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: 'There is no one among you but has an appointed angel from among the jinn and an appointed angel from among the angels.' (Sahih Muslim 2166). Additionally, the Prophet mentioned the 'Kiraman Katibin' (Noble Scribes) who record our deeds in Surah 'Abasa (80:10-12).
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah should instill in believers a profound sense of accountability and mindfulness, knowing that our actions are constantly recorded by angels in God's presence. It serves as a reminder to maintain good conduct and consciousness of God (taqwa) in all circumstances, as nothing escapes divine knowledge and record.