إِلَّا حَمِيمًا وَغَسَّاقًا 25
Translations
Except scalding water and [foul] purulence -
Transliteration
Illa hamiman wa-ghassaqa
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah describes the drink of the inhabitants of Hell, referring to boiling water (hamim) and a discharge from the wounds of the damned (ghassaq). Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir and Al-Tabari explain that these represent the most repugnant and painful beverages, emphasizing the severe punishment awaiting the deniers of Allah's signs. The mention of these specific punishments serves as a deterrent and highlights the contrast with the provisions given to the righteous in the preceding ayahs.
Revelation Context
This ayah appears in the context of Surah An-Naba, a Meccan chapter that contrasts the blessings prepared for the believers with the punishments awaiting the disbelievers on the Day of Judgment. The surah systematically describes both Paradise and Hell to convince the Meccan disbelievers of the reality of the afterlife and divine justice.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said regarding the drink of the people of Hell: 'The most evil drink is that which will be given to the people of the Fire' (referenced in Sunan At-Tirmidhi and similar sources). Additionally, Sahih Bukhari contains descriptions of the punishments of Hell mentioned by the Prophet.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah serves as a powerful reminder of the ultimate consequences of rejecting divine guidance and turning away from righteousness. For modern believers, it emphasizes the importance of sincere repentance, obedience to Allah, and mindfulness of the afterlife as motivations for ethical conduct in this world.