ثُمَّ إِنَّكُم بَعْدَ ذَٰلِكَ لَمَيِّتُونَ 15
Translations
Then indeed, after that you are to die.
Transliteration
Thumma innakum ba'da dhalika lamayytun
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah affirms the inevitable reality of death that comes after life, emphasizing humanity's mortality as a universal and inescapable decree from Allah. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir and Al-Tabari interpret this verse as part of Allah's argument against those who deny the resurrection, establishing that just as death is certain, so too is the Day of Judgment. The verse serves as a powerful reminder that all living beings, regardless of status or strength, must taste death.
Revelation Context
This ayah appears within Surah Al-Mu'minun, a Meccan surah that emphasizes the characteristics of true believers and refutes the denial of the Hereafter. It follows the description of human creation and development, contextualizing death as the natural conclusion to earthly life and a prelude to accountability in the Hereafter—a central theme addressing the Meccan disbelievers' rejection of resurrection.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: 'Remember frequently the destroyer of pleasures—death' (Jami' At-Tirmidhi 2307). Additionally, in Sahih Muslim, the Prophet emphasized that 'No soul knows in what land it will die,' highlighting the uncertainty of when death will occur while its certainty remains absolute.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah invites believers to use the contemplation of death as a means to purify the soul, redirect focus toward righteous deeds, and maintain perspective on life's temporary nature—encouraging detachment from worldly pursuits and preparation for the eternal life to come.