وَغَدَوْا۟ عَلَىٰ حَرْدٍ قَـٰدِرِينَ 25
Translations
And they went early in determination, [assuming themselves] able.
Transliteration
Wa-ghada-w 'ala hardin qadirin
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah describes how the people (of the garden) went forth in the morning with firm resolve and determination to harvest their fruits, intending to prevent the poor from receiving any share. According to Ibn Kathir and Al-Tabari, the phrase 'ala hardin qadirin (upon hardship/severity, being able) indicates they set out with a resolute and harsh intention, having made a firm decision to keep their wealth for themselves without charity. This reflects their arrogance and misplaced confidence in their ability to control their property without acknowledging Allah's sovereignty.
Revelation Context
This ayah is part of the story of the two gardens (Ashab al-Jannatain) in Surah Al-Qalam, which illustrates the consequences of wealth combined with ingratitude and stinginess. The broader surah addresses themes of character, truthfulness, and the trials believers face. The story serves as a moral lesson about the dangers of material attachment and the importance of gratitude and charity.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: 'Wealth and children are the adornments of this worldly life, but the everlasting good deeds are far better...' (Surah Al-Kahf 18:46). Additionally, hadiths emphasizing the obligation of zakah and the prohibition of hoarding wealth relate thematically to the moral failure depicted in this ayah.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah teaches that material wealth and perceived control over possessions breed arrogance and moral blindness when not accompanied by gratitude and recognition of Allah's ultimate sovereignty. Believers should remain humble and charitable, remembering that true security lies not in hoarding wealth but in obedience to Allah and kindness to others.