إِنَّا كَذَٰلِكَ نَجْزِى ٱلْمُحْسِنِينَ 80
Translations
Indeed, We thus reward the doers of good.
Transliteration
Inna kadhalika najzi al-muhsinin
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah affirms that Allah rewards those who do good deeds (al-muhsinun) in the manner described—with honor, preservation, and excellence in this life and the next. Ibn Kathir explains that this verse comes after the mention of Nuh (Noah), highlighting how Allah preserved him and his believers, establishing a divine pattern of rewarding righteousness. Al-Tabari emphasizes that 'ihsan' (excellence) encompasses both correct belief and virtuous action, and Allah's reward is proportionate to the quality of one's deeds.
Revelation Context
This ayah appears in the context of Surah As-Saffat's discussion of righteous prophets and their nations. It follows the narrative of Prophet Nuh and precedes stories of other prophets (Ibrahim, Musa, etc.), establishing a recurring theme throughout the surah: that Allah consistently rewards those who maintain faith and perform good deeds despite opposition and trials.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet (ﷺ) said: 'The best of you are those who have the best manners and character' (Sahih Bukhari 3331). Also relevant: 'Whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day, let him speak good or remain silent' (Sahih Muslim 47), emphasizing ihsan in speech and conduct.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah teaches that excellence in faith and action is never without reward from Allah, regardless of worldly circumstances or opposition faced. It encourages believers to maintain high moral and spiritual standards, knowing that Allah's justice ensures the muhsinun (those who excel) will receive their due recompense in this life and eternally.