ثُمَّ نَظَرَ 21
Translations
Then he considered [again];
Transliteration
Thumma nazara
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah (74:21) depicts a disbeliever pausing to reflect or look back, likely in a moment of hesitation or reconsideration regarding the message of Islam. Classical scholars like Al-Tabari and Ibn Kathir explain this as the arrogant person's momentary contemplation before ultimately rejecting the truth, demonstrating the human capacity for reflection even among those who turn away from guidance. The verb 'nazara' (looked/considered) emphasizes the intellectual awareness available to him, yet his subsequent actions show his choice to persist in denial.
Revelation Context
This ayah is part of Surah Al-Muddaththir, a Meccan chapter revealed early in the Prophet's mission, depicting various responses of the Quraysh to the divine message. The broader context (verses 21-26) describes a wealthy disbeliever's deliberation and ultimate stubbornness in rejecting faith, illustrating the psychological resistance of those who choose materialism and status over submission to Allah.
Related Hadiths
While no hadith directly quotes this ayah, it relates thematically to the hadith in Sahih Bukhari (6520) where the Prophet describes how some people recognize the truth but choose to follow their desires and worldly interests instead, similar to the reflective yet rejecting stance described here.
Themes
Key Lesson
Even when we are given moments of clarity to recognize truth, our choices and intentions determine whether we act upon that knowledge. This ayah reminds us that intellectual acknowledgment without sincere commitment to action is ultimately meaningless in the sight of Allah.