لَّا يَمَسُّهُۥٓ إِلَّا ٱلْمُطَهَّرُونَ 79
Translations
None touch it except the purified [i.e., the angels].
Transliteration
Lā yamassuhu illā al-mutahhirūn
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah refers to the Quran and establishes that only the spiritually and physically pure may touch it. Classical scholars like Al-Tabari and Ibn Kathir explain that 'al-mutahhirūn' (the purified ones) refers to those who are in a state of ritual purity (wudu' or ghusl), emphasizing the Quran's sanctity and the reverence required when handling it. Some scholars, including Al-Qurtubi, also interpret this as referring to spiritual purification—freedom from disbelief and hypocrisy—making it a profound statement about the Quran's elevated status.
Revelation Context
This ayah concludes Surah Al-Waqi'ah, which is Meccan and discusses the Day of Judgment and the Quran's divine origin. The ayah serves as a fitting conclusion to the surah's theme of the Quran being a preserved divine text (matched with 56:77-78 about the Quran being in a protected tablet), emphasizing both its physical and spiritual sanctity.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet (ﷺ) instructed that one should be in a state of wudu' before touching the Quran, as recorded in various hadith collections emphasizing ritual purity. Additionally, hadith literature reinforces the principle that the Quran should be treated with utmost respect and reverence, as seen in instructions regarding its handling and recitation.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah teaches believers to approach the Quran with utmost respect and spiritual preparation, whether through physical cleanliness or moral and spiritual purity. It reminds us that engaging with God's word is a sacred act that requires intentionality, preparation, and a sincere, purified heart.