وَمَا يُغْنِى عَنْهُ مَالُهُۥٓ إِذَا تَرَدَّىٰٓ 11
Translations
And what will his wealth avail him when he falls?
Transliteration
Wa mā yughni ʿanhu māluhu idhā taraddā
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah conveys that wealth will be of no benefit to a person when they fall into the Fire of Hell on the Day of Judgment. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir and Al-Qurtubi emphasize that this verse highlights the ultimate futility of material possessions in the afterlife, serving as a stark warning against prioritizing wealth over righteous deeds and obedience to Allah. The word 'taraddā' (he fell/descended) specifically refers to falling into the depths of punishment.
Revelation Context
This ayah appears in Surah Al-Layl, a Meccan chapter that contrasts the paths of the righteous and the wicked. The broader context of the surah (verses 5-10) describes those who give in charity and fear Allah versus those who withhold and turn away, with this verse concluding the consequences for those who rejected guidance—their wealth will not save them from divine punishment.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: 'The best of you are those who are best to their families, and I am the best among you to my family' (Tirmidhi), emphasizing that true wealth is in character and obedience. Also relevant: 'Wealth and children are adornments of life, but the everlasting good deeds are better' (Quran 18:46), reinforcing the theme of material impermanence.
Themes
Key Lesson
Believers should not be deceived by the illusion that wealth provides security or salvation; only righteous actions and sincere faith matter in the eternal life. This ayah encourages a balanced perspective on worldly possessions—using them as a means to do good rather than as an end in themselves.