فَشَـٰرِبُونَ عَلَيْهِ مِنَ ٱلْحَمِيمِ 54
Translations
And drinking on top of it from scalding water.
Transliteration
Fa-sharibun alayhi min al-hamim
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah describes the punishment of the inhabitants of Hell, who will be forced to drink from al-hamim (scalding water). Ibn Kathir explains that al-hamim is extremely hot water that will scald their throats and insides, representing a severe punishment for their rejection of faith. Al-Qurtubi notes that the phrase emphasizes the compulsion of this punishment—they will drink despite its unbearable pain, highlighting the inescapable nature of Hell's torment.
Revelation Context
This ayah appears within Surah Al-Waqi'ah's vivid description of the Day of Judgment and the three categories of people in the afterlife. The surah was revealed in Mecca to warn disbelievers about the inevitable reality of resurrection and the consequences of rejecting God's message, with detailed depictions of both reward and punishment serving as a deterrent.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: 'The most painful punishment in Hell is for those who drank from Al-Hamim,' narrated in various collections. Additionally, Surah Al-Waqi'ah's descriptions are supported by Hadith Qudsi where Allah describes the drink of the people of Hell as being from al-hamim and pus.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah serves as a sobering reminder of the serious consequences of turning away from God's guidance, encouraging believers to reflect deeply on their choices and actions in this life. The graphic imagery emphasizes that Hell's punishment is real and severe, motivating sincere repentance and steadfast obedience to Allah's commands.