تَبَـٰرَكَ ٱلَّذِى بِيَدِهِ ٱلْمُلْكُ وَهُوَ عَلَىٰ كُلِّ شَىْءٍ قَدِيرٌ 1
Translations
Blessed is He in whose hand is dominion, and He is over all things competent -
Transliteration
Tabaarak alladhee biyadihi al-mulk wa huwa 'ala kulli shay'in qadeer
Tafsir (Explanation)
This opening ayah of Surah Al-Mulk proclaims the infinite blessedness and majesty of Allah, in whose hand rests all sovereignty and dominion, emphasizing His absolute power and control over all creation. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir and Al-Qurtubi note that 'Tabaarak' (Blessed/Exalted) emphasizes Allah's transcendence and the abundance of His blessings, while the phrase establishes that true kingship belongs only to the Almighty, not to earthly rulers. The ayah serves as a powerful opening to remind humanity of Allah's ultimate authority and capability over all affairs.
Revelation Context
Surah Al-Mulk is a Meccan surah revealed during the early period of Islamic revelation, a time when the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) faced opposition from the Quraysh. This opening ayah sets the spiritual tone of the surah by redirecting believers' focus from earthly power structures to the eternal kingdom of Allah, providing reassurance during times of persecution and uncertainty.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: 'Whoever recites Surah Al-Mulk at night, Allah will protect him' (Sunan an-Nasa'i). Additionally, the Prophet emphasized seeking refuge in Allah's power and might through the dua: 'O Allah, I seek refuge in Your forgiveness from Your punishment' (Sahih Muslim 2713), reflecting the theme of submission to Allah's sovereignty.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah teaches believers that all worldly power and authority are temporary and secondary to Allah's eternal dominion, encouraging Muslims to place their trust and hope in Him alone rather than in earthly rulers or circumstances. For modern readers, it serves as a reminder that regardless of life's challenges or apparent powerlessness, Allah's complete control and infinite capability offer ultimate comfort and assurance.