وَإِنَّ رَبَّكَ لَهُوَ ٱلْعَزِيزُ ٱلرَّحِيمُ 9
Translations
And indeed, your Lord - He is the Exalted in Might, the Merciful.
Transliteration
Wa-inna rabbaka la-huwa al-'Azīzu ar-Rahīm
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah affirms that Allah, the Lord of the Prophet Muhammad and all creation, is both Al-'Azīz (The Mighty/The Invincible) and Ar-Rahīm (The Merciful). Ibn Kathir explains that these two attributes work in perfect harmony: Allah's might ensures His justice and ability to punish the arrogant rejectors, while His mercy encompasses those who believe and obey. The pairing of these attributes in Surah Ash-Shu'ara emphasizes Allah's complete control over all affairs and His compassionate guidance toward His creation.
Revelation Context
This ayah appears within the narrative of Surah Ash-Shu'ara, which details the stories of various prophets and their peoples. It comes as a reassurance to Prophet Muhammad regarding the message he carries and serves as a warning to the disbelievers of Mecca. The surah's Meccan context reflects the early period when the Prophet faced fierce opposition, making this affirmation of Allah's power and mercy particularly significant for the believers.
Related Hadiths
The concept is reflected in the Hadith Qudsi: 'My Mercy preceded My Wrath' (recorded in Sahih Muslim and other collections), emphasizing Allah's attribute of mercy. Additionally, the Prophet (peace be upon him) taught that Allah is 'Al-'Azīz al-Hakīm' (The Mighty, The Wise) in various supplications and teachings recorded in the Sunnah.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah teaches believers to recognize that Allah's power guarantees His ability to help and protect His servants, while His mercy ensures that He never abandons those who turn to Him sincerely. In times of difficulty or when facing opposition, Muslims should find comfort in knowing that their Lord combines the might to defend them with the compassion to guide them.