لَّـٰبِثِينَ فِيهَآ أَحْقَابًا 23
Translations
In which they will remain for ages [unending].
Transliteration
Lābithīna fīhā aḥqāban
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah describes the inhabitants of Hell remaining therein for ages (aḥqāb - plural of ḥuqb, a lengthy period of time). Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir and Al-Qurtubi interpret this as emphasizing the long duration of punishment for the disbelievers, though some note theological discussions about whether this duration is eternal or for extended periods. The context of Surah An-Naba emphasizes divine justice and the reality of the Hereafter, warning of inevitable consequences for those who reject faith.
Revelation Context
This ayah appears in the Meccan period within Surah An-Naba, which is devoted entirely to establishing belief in the Day of Judgment and describing the states of the righteous and the wicked. The surah serves as a warning to the Quraysh who mocked the concept of resurrection, making this verse part of that broader message of accountability.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet (ﷺ) said: 'The Fire will continue to say: Is there any more? Until the Lord places His foot upon it, then it will say: Enough, enough!' (Sahih Bukhari 4736). This hadith relates to the duration and nature of punishment in Hell.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah serves as a sobering reminder of the permanence and severity of consequences for rejecting faith, motivating believers to maintain steadfastness and gratitude in this life, while emphasizing the importance of sincere repentance and righteous deeds as safeguards against Hell.