يَعْلَمُونَ مَا تَفْعَلُونَ 12
Translations
They know whatever you do.
Transliteration
Ya'lamun ma taf'alun
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah concludes Surah Al-Infitar, referring to the recording angels (kiraman katibin) who know and witness all of humanity's deeds. According to Ibn Kathir and Al-Tabari, the phrase emphasizes the comprehensive knowledge of the angels who record every action, thought, and intention of humans without any omission. This serves as a powerful reminder of divine oversight and accountability before Allah on the Day of Judgment.
Revelation Context
This ayah is part of the broader Meccan context of Surah Al-Infitar, which addresses fundamental beliefs about the angels, the soul's separation at death, and divine governance. The surah establishes the concept of the noble recording angels (verses 10-12) as part of the Islamic creed, reminding the disbelievers in Mecca of realities they denied.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: 'Every one of you has been assigned an angel' (Sahih Muslim 2996). Additionally, the Quran itself states in Surah At-Tariq 86:4: 'There is no soul but that it has over it a protector/guardian' referring to these recording angels.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah invites believers to maintain consciousness of Allah (taqwa) by recognizing that all deeds are witnessed and recorded by noble angels, encouraging ethical behavior and sincere intentions in all actions. It provides comfort to the righteous and a warning to those who commit evil, emphasizing that nothing escapes Allah's knowledge and justice.