أُو۟لَـٰٓئِكَ ٱلْمُقَرَّبُونَ 11
Translations
Those are the ones brought near [to Allāh]
Transliteration
Ulaa'ika al-muqarraboon
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah refers to those who are brought near to Allah—the foremost believers and righteous servants who will have the highest stations in Paradise. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir and Al-Tabari explain that al-muqarraboon (the brought-near ones) are those closest to Allah in rank, characterized by their piety, obedience, and proximity to Him in this life, which grants them proximity in the Hereafter. This designation emphasizes that closeness to Allah is achieved through righteous deeds and sincere devotion, not by accident or mere declaration.
Revelation Context
Surah Al-Waqi'ah was revealed in Mecca during the middle Meccan period. This ayah appears within the broader context of the surah's description of the three categories of people on the Day of Judgment—the companions of the right hand, the companions of the left hand, and the foremost (al-sabiqun), who are further described here as those brought near to Allah. The surah aims to motivate believers toward righteousness by depicting the different stations of the Hereafter.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet ﷺ said: 'The closest of people to me on the Day of Judgment will be those who are most truthful in speech' (Jami' at-Tirmidhi). Additionally, the Quran describes in Surah At-Taghabun 64:9 that Allah will forgive those who believe and do righteous deeds, elevating them in rank.
Themes
Key Lesson
Spiritual closeness to Allah is not predetermined but earned through sincere faith and righteous action in this life, serving as motivation for believers to strive for excellence in their worship and character. Understanding that there are varying ranks in Paradise based on one's deeds encourages Muslims to continuously improve their relationship with Allah and pursue ihsan (spiritual excellence).