عَلَى ٱلْأَرَآئِكِ يَنظُرُونَ 23
Translations
On adorned couches, observing.
Transliteration
Alá al-ará'iki yandhurūn
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah describes the righteous inhabitants of Paradise reclining upon elevated couches or thrones, observing the blessings around them. According to Ibn Kathir and Al-Qurtubi, the 'arā'ik (couches/thrones) symbolize honor, comfort, and the highest stations in Paradise, while the verb 'yandhurūn' (they observe/look around) conveys their state of peaceful contentment and joyful contemplation of the divine blessings bestowed upon them.
Revelation Context
This ayah appears in the latter part of Surah Al-Mutaffifin, which addresses those who defraud in weights and measures. The surah contrasts the fate of the defrauders with the reward of the righteous, providing glad tidings to believers. This particular ayah is part of the description of Paradise reserved for the pious, serving as motivation for ethical conduct and honest dealings.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: 'In Paradise there are one hundred degrees which Allah has prepared for those who fight in His cause.' (Sahih Bukhari) Additionally, numerous ahadith describe the comfort and beauty of Paradise's furnishings, including couches and thrones prepared for the believers.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah reminds believers that honest conduct and piety lead to eternal reward and peace in Paradise, encouraging us to maintain integrity in all dealings and trust in Allah's promise of ultimate justice and comfort for the faithful.