مَا سَلَكَكُمْ فِى سَقَرَ 42
Translations
[And asking them], "What put you into Saqar?"
Transliteration
Mā salakakum fī saqar
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah presents the question that the inhabitants of Paradise will ask those being driven into Hell on the Day of Judgment: "What has cast you into Saqar (Hell)?" According to Ibn Kathir and Al-Qurtubi, this rhetorical question emphasizes the accountability of the disbelievers and serves as a means of humiliation and rebuke, highlighting the stark contrast between the blessed and the condemned. The question implies amazement at how these individuals chose a path leading to such a terrible destination despite having received clear signs and warnings.
Revelation Context
This ayah occurs in the context of Surah Al-Muddaththir's description of the Day of Judgment and the states of the people in the Hereafter. The surah, revealed in Mecca during the early period of Islam, addresses the disbelievers' rejection of the Prophet and outlines the consequences they will face, with this particular ayah being part of a vivid dialogue between the dwellers of Paradise and those in Hell.
Related Hadiths
The hadith in Sahih Muslim (2626) describes the interactions between the people of Paradise and Hell on the Day of Judgment, where they will be able to see and communicate with one another, directly supporting the scene depicted in this ayah.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah reminds us that our choices in this life will be questioned and scrutinized on the Day of Judgment, urging believers to reflect constantly on their decisions and ensure they are walking the path of righteousness before it is too late.