أَوَلَا يَرَوْنَ أَنَّهُمْ يُفْتَنُونَ فِى كُلِّ عَامٍ مَّرَّةً أَوْ مَرَّتَيْنِ ثُمَّ لَا يَتُوبُونَ وَلَا هُمْ يَذَّكَّرُونَ 126
Translations
Do they not see that they are tried every year once or twice but then they do not repent nor do they remember?
Transliteration
Awa la yarawn annahum yuftanun fee kulli amin marratan aw marratain thumma la yatubun wa la hum yadhakkarun
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah addresses the Hypocrites (Munafiqun) of Medina, questioning whether they do not see that they are tested with trials and calamities year after year, yet they neither repent nor take heed. Ibn Kathir explains that these afflictions are divinely sent as reminders and opportunities for repentance, but the hypocrites persistently ignore these signs, demonstrating their hardened hearts and obstinate disbelief. Al-Tabari notes that the repeated trials serve as clear evidence of divine guidance, yet their refusal to be admonished seals their spiritual blindness.
Revelation Context
This ayah is part of Surah At-Tawbah's broader discourse on the hypocrites of Medina during the 9th year of Hijrah. The surah was revealed in the context of the failed Treaty of Hudaybiyyah and military expeditions, periods when the Muslim community faced significant trials. This particular ayah critiques those who witnessed calamities as divine tests yet refused to derive lessons or turn to Allah in repentance.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: 'The greatest trial in this world is the trial of wealth and poverty' (related to trials mentioned in the ayah). Also relevant: 'Trials will continue to afflict the believers until the son of Mary descends' (Tirmidhi), emphasizing that tests are a continuous feature of life meant for spiritual refinement.
Themes
Key Lesson
Believers should recognize that worldly afflictions and challenges are divine reminders calling us to repentance and spiritual renewal rather than causes for despair. We must cultivate sincere hearts that respond to Allah's tests with humility and transformation, lest we become among those whose hearts are sealed to guidance.