ثُمَّ مَآ أَدْرَىٰكَ مَا يَوْمُ ٱلدِّينِ 18
Translations
Then, what can make you know what is the Day of Recompense?
Transliteration
Thumma mā adrāka mā yawmu ad-dīn
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah poses a rhetorical question to emphasize the incomprehensibility and magnitude of the Day of Judgment to human understanding. The phrase 'What will make you know what the Day of Judgment is?' conveys that no matter how much one tries to comprehend or describe this momentous day, its true reality and severity remain beyond complete human grasp. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir note this rhetorical device is used to awaken hearts to the gravity of the Day of Reckoning and inspire appropriate fear and preparation.
Revelation Context
Surah Al-Infitar is a Meccan surah emphasizing fundamental Islamic beliefs. This particular ayah appears in the final verses (82:17-19) which form a powerful conclusion warning of the Day of Judgment and the recording angels. The repetition of 'What will make you know' appears three times in succession, creating a rhythmic emphasis on the indescribable nature of the Day of Judgment.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet (ﷺ) said: 'None of you truly knows the value of the Day of Judgment until it comes.' [Thematically related to emphasizing human inability to comprehend the unseen]. Also relevant is the hadith in Sahih Muslim where the Prophet describes the vastness of the Day of Judgment and its trials, highlighting how incomprehensible it is to human minds in their current state.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah teaches believers that despite our attempts to understand the afterlife, the Day of Judgment remains a reality beyond our complete comprehension, which should motivate us to live with God-consciousness and preparation rather than complacency. It reminds us that true knowledge of divine matters comes through faith and revelation, not mere human reasoning.