أَن كَانَ ذَا مَالٍ وَبَنِينَ 14
Translations
Because he is a possessor of wealth and children,
Transliteration
An kana dha malin wa banin
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah refers to those who possess wealth and children, describing a condition of material affluence that may lead to arrogance and rejection of truth. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir and Al-Tabari interpret this phrase in the context of Surah Al-Qalam's discussion of those who reject the Quran and the Prophet ﷺ despite their worldly possessions. The possession of wealth and offspring is presented as a trial and test from Allah, often causing people to become heedless of their spiritual obligations.
Revelation Context
This ayah is part of Surah Al-Qalam (Chapter 68), a Meccan chapter that opens with Allah's oath by the Pen and addresses the opposition the Prophet ﷺ faced from wealthy Meccan disbelievers. The broader context discusses how material prosperity can become a veil preventing people from accepting divine guidance, as exemplified by those who rejected the message despite their advantages.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet ﷺ said: 'Wealth and children are adornments of this worldly life, but the everlasting good deeds are better' (Surah Al-Kahf 18:46). Additionally, Sahih Muslim records that the Prophet ﷺ warned against being deceived by wealth and children, emphasizing that true success lies in piety and obedience to Allah.
Themes
Key Lesson
Wealth and children are blessings from Allah that should increase one in gratitude and humility, not arrogance and heedlessness. Muslims must recognize that material prosperity is a temporary trial and use these blessings to draw closer to Allah rather than allowing them to become obstacles to faith and righteousness.