أَذَٰلِكَ خَيْرٌ نُّزُلًا أَمْ شَجَرَةُ ٱلزَّقُّومِ 62
Translations
Is that [i.e., Paradise] a better accommodation or the tree of zaqqūm?
Transliteration
A-dhalika khayrun nuzulan am shajaratu az-zaqqum
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah presents a rhetorical question contrasting the provisions of Paradise with the tree of Zaqqum, the bitter tree of Hell. Allah is asking the disbelievers whether the former is better as provisions (nuzul) or the latter, emphasizing the stark difference between the rewards of the righteous and the punishments of those who reject faith. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir and Al-Tabari interpret this as a powerful reminder of the consequences of disbelief and the supreme superiority of Paradise's blessings over Hell's torments.
Revelation Context
This ayah appears in the context of Surah As-Saffat, which is a Meccan chapter focusing on the Day of Judgment and the fates of believers and disbelievers. The surah emphasizes the certainty of the afterlife and uses vivid descriptions of Paradise and Hell to warn the pagan Meccans and encourage believers. This particular ayah follows the description of the Zaqqum tree and serves as a stark contrast to divine mercy.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet (ﷺ) said regarding the tree of Zaqqum: 'The tree of Zaqqum is the most evil tree. It is like the heads of devils' (Tirmidhi). Additionally, numerous hadiths describe Paradise's provisions and gardens as compensation for believers' patience and obedience (Sahih Muslim).
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah teaches believers to contemplate the stark reality of the afterlife and to recognize that every choice in this world has eternal consequences. The imagery serves as a powerful incentive to choose obedience to Allah and reject the allurements of this temporary life, knowing that the provision awaiting us is determined by our deeds.