كَلَّآ إِنَّهُۥ تَذْكِرَةٌ 54
Translations
No! Indeed, it [i.e., the Qur’ān] is a reminder.
Transliteration
Kallā innahū tadhkirah
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah emphatically affirms that the Qur'an is indeed a reminder (tadhkirah) and admonition for all of mankind. The particle 'Kallā' (nay/verily) serves as a strong affirmation, refuting any doubt about the Qur'an's purpose and efficacy as a means of remembrance and guidance. Classical scholars like Al-Tabari and Ibn Kathir interpret this as Allah's confirmation that the Qur'an fulfills its essential function of reminding people of divine truth, regardless of whether individuals accept or reject it.
Revelation Context
This ayah appears in the closing section of Surah Al-Muddaththir, which addresses those who turn away from the message of the Qur'an. The broader context deals with the rejection the Prophet Muhammad faced from Meccan disbelievers, and this ayah serves as a reassurance that the Qur'an's role as a divine reminder remains valid and purposeful despite opposition.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said: 'The best of you are those who learn the Qur'an and teach it' (Sahih Bukhari 5027). Additionally, 'Whoever reads the Qur'an, learns it, and acts upon it, his parents will be crowned with a crown on the Day of Resurrection' (Sunan Ibn Majah 215), emphasizing the Qur'an's role as a means of remembrance and guidance.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah reminds us that the Qur'an's fundamental purpose is to serve as a timely reminder and guidance for those who sincerely seek it, regardless of external opposition or skepticism. We should approach the Qur'an with the intention of being reminded, reflected upon, and guided toward righteousness in our daily lives.