نَذِيرًا لِّلْبَشَرِ 36
Translations
As a warning to humanity -
Transliteration
Nadheeran lil-bashar
Tafsir (Explanation)
This phrase means 'a warner to mankind,' referring to the Prophet Muhammad's role as a messenger sent to warn humanity of the consequences of disbelief and disobedience to Allah. Classical scholars like Al-Tabari and Ibn Kathir emphasize that the Prophet was sent with both warning (nidharah) and good tidings (bishaarah), serving as a comprehensive guide for all people. This ayah underscores the universal nature of the prophetic message and its relevance to every human being.
Revelation Context
Surah Al-Muddaththir is among the earliest Meccan surahs, revealed during a period when the Prophet faced intense opposition from the Quraysh. This ayah appears in the context of the surah's affirmation of the Prophet's divine mission and his responsibility to deliver Allah's message to all of mankind, not just a selected few.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet said, 'I have been sent to all of you' (Sahih Bukhari 4:56:667). Additionally, in Sahih Muslim, the Prophet stated that he was sent to the red and the black (referring to all of humanity regardless of race or color).
Themes
Key Lesson
Every believer inherits the spirit of the prophetic message by conveying Islamic teachings to others with wisdom and compassion. The reminder that we are accountable for warning those around us—not through force, but through clear explanation and good example—encourages us to fulfill our responsibility as representatives of Islam in our communities.