مِن شَرِّ ٱلْوَسْوَاسِ ٱلْخَنَّاسِ 4
Translations
From the evil of the retreating whisperer -
Transliteration
Min sharri al-waswasi al-khannās
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah seeks refuge from the evil of whispers (waswas) of the whisperer (al-khannās), referring to Satan's insidious temptations and insinuations that he constantly directs at human hearts. The term 'al-khannās' (the slinking one) describes Satan's characteristic behavior of retreating when remembered with Allah's name, then returning to whisper evil suggestions. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir and Al-Qurtubi emphasize that these whispers are among Satan's most dangerous weapons, as they are subtle, persistent, and target the heart and mind rather than outward actions.
Revelation Context
Surah An-Nas, revealed in Mecca, forms part of the final chapter of the Quran and addresses universal human vulnerabilities. This ayah specifically contextualizes the surah's theme of seeking divine protection from all forms of harm, with particular emphasis on the internal spiritual threat posed by Satanic whispers—a trial all believers face regardless of their station.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: 'Satan is closer to one of you than his jugular vein,' (Tafsir Ibn Kathir citing related narrations). Additionally, 'The best supplication is that of the night, and the best thing to say is what the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: Glory be to You, O Allah, and all praises are due to You' (Tirmidhi), emphasizing protection through remembrance of Allah as a guard against waswas.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah teaches believers that the struggle against evil begins within the heart and mind, and that constant vigilance against whispered temptations through remembrance of Allah (dhikr) is essential to spiritual health. Modern believers should recognize that anxiety, doubt, and evil suggestions are common spiritual challenges requiring active protective measures through Quranic recitation, prayer, and mindfulness of Allah.