عَلَيْهَا تِسْعَةَ عَشَرَ 30
Translations
Over it are nineteen [angels].
Transliteration
'Alayha Tis'atu 'Ashara
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah refers to the nineteen angels guarding Hell (Jahannam), as mentioned in the preceding verses of Surah Al-Muddaththir. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir and Al-Tabari explain that these nineteen angels are the keepers of Hell, appointed by Allah to maintain and oversee the punishment of the disbelievers. The specific number nineteen holds divine wisdom, and some scholars note it serves as a sign and trial for believers, as mentioned in verse 74:31 where it states this number is "a trial for those who have disbelieved."
Revelation Context
This ayah is part of Surah Al-Muddaththir, revealed in Mecca during the early period of Islam. The surah addresses the disbelievers' mockery of the Qur'an and the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), particularly their skepticism about the descriptions of the Hereafter and Hell. The mention of nineteen angels serves to emphasize the reality and certainty of the Hereafter, countering the denials of the Meccan polytheists.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) reportedly said regarding the angels of Hell: 'Each of them has a troop of angels under their command' (referenced in classical tafsir works). Additionally, hadith collections discuss the reality of Hell and its keepers as confirmation of Qur'anic descriptions, though no single hadith directly cites this specific verse as its primary focus.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah reminds believers that Allah has established a precise order in His creation, including consequences for disobedience, which should inspire both fear of Hell and mindfulness of our actions. The specific mention of nineteen angels serves as a sign that should strengthen our conviction in the unseen realities described by Allah, encouraging us to live with awareness of divine accountability.