Al-Qasas · Ayah 80

وَقَالَ ٱلَّذِينَ أُوتُوا۟ ٱلْعِلْمَ وَيْلَكُمْ ثَوَابُ ٱللَّهِ خَيْرٌ لِّمَنْ ءَامَنَ وَعَمِلَ صَـٰلِحًا وَلَا يُلَقَّىٰهَآ إِلَّا ٱلصَّـٰبِرُونَ 80

Translations

But those who had been given knowledge said, "Woe to you! The reward of Allāh is better for he who believes and does righteousness. And none are granted it except the patient."

Transliteration

Wa qala alladhina ootoo al-ilma wa yalakum thawab allahi khayrun liman amana wa amila salihan wa la yulaqqa ha illa al-sabirun

Tafsir (Explanation)

The people of knowledge (referring to the wise believers among the Israelites) rebuked those who rejoiced in Qarun's worldly wealth, reminding them that Allah's reward for those who believe and do righteous deeds is far superior to temporary material possessions. Ibn Kathir emphasizes that true success lies in obedience to Allah rather than accumulation of wealth, and this reward is only granted to those who exercise patience and steadfastness in faith. Al-Qurtubi notes that 'the people of knowledge' represent the voice of wisdom that counters the dazzlement of material riches with eternal spiritual values.

Revelation Context

This ayah occurs within the story of Qarun (Korah), a wealthy man from the people of Musa who was arrogant in his abundance. The context shows believers witnessing Qarun's vast treasures and responding with envy, prompting the knowledgeable among them to offer divine perspective. This narrative serves as a Meccan reminder to the Prophet's community about the transient nature of worldly wealth compared to the eternal reward of the Hereafter.

Related Hadiths

The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said: 'Wealth and children are the adornment of this worldly life, but the everlasting good deeds are better' (Sahih Bukhari 4636). Also relevant is the hadith in Sahih Muslim about the three whose deeds will be most rewarded: 'One who is patient when tested, one who is just when in power, and one who is moderate when wealthy.'

Themes

Spiritual wealth vs. material wealthThe value of knowledge and wisdomPatience and steadfastness (sabr)Divine reward in the HereafterRejection of worldly arroganceCharacteristics of believers

Key Lesson

This ayah teaches us that accumulation of worldly wealth should never be the measure of success or worth; true honor and lasting fulfillment come through faith, righteous action, and patient perseverance in obedience to Allah. For modern readers, it serves as a powerful antidote to materialism and consumerism, redirecting our aspirations toward eternal spiritual gains.

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