ذِى قُوَّةٍ عِندَ ذِى ٱلْعَرْشِ مَكِينٍ 20
Translations
[Who is] possessed of power and with the Owner of the Throne, secure [in position],
Transliteration
Dhi quwwatin 'inda dhi al-'arshi makīn
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah describes the angel Jibril (Gabriel) as possessing great power and holding a firm, honored position with Allah, the Lord of the Throne. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir and Al-Tabari interpret this as emphasizing Jibril's exalted rank among the angels and his trustworthiness as the bearer of divine revelation. The description underscores that the Qur'an comes from a messenger of the highest integrity and authority in the divine realm.
Revelation Context
This ayah appears in the context of Surah At-Takwir, which describes the Day of Judgment and the revelation of the Qur'an. Specifically, verses 19-20 identify the messenger of revelation as one possessing great power and a firm station with Allah, establishing the credibility and authenticity of the divine message being conveyed to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
Related Hadiths
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) described Jibril as having six hundred wings in a hadith reported in Sahih Bukhari. Additionally, 'Aisha reported that the Prophet described Jibril's descent with the revelation in Sahih Muslim, affirming his mighty and honored status.
Themes
Key Lesson
Believers should recognize that the Qur'an comes through a messenger of unparalleled integrity and divine authority, which strengthens faith in its authenticity and commands full obedience to its guidance. This ayah invites reflection on the care Allah takes in transmitting His message through the most trustworthy and powerful of His creation.