يَحْذَرُ ٱلْمُنَـٰفِقُونَ أَن تُنَزَّلَ عَلَيْهِمْ سُورَةٌ تُنَبِّئُهُم بِمَا فِى قُلُوبِهِمْ ۚ قُلِ ٱسْتَهْزِءُوٓا۟ إِنَّ ٱللَّهَ مُخْرِجٌ مَّا تَحْذَرُونَ 64
Translations
The hypocrites are apprehensive lest a sūrah be revealed about them, informing them of what is in their hearts. Say, "Mock [as you wish]; indeed, Allāh will expose that which you fear."
Transliteration
Yahdharu al-munafiqun an tunazzala alayhim suratin tunabbiuhum bima fi qulubihim. Qul istahziu, inna Allah mukhrijun ma tahdhirun.
Tafsir (Explanation)
The hypocrites fear that a Surah (chapter of the Qur'an) will be revealed that exposes the secrets and true intentions hidden in their hearts. Allah commands the Prophet to tell them to mock if they wish, for Allah will surely bring forth what they fear—their hidden hypocrisy and falsehood will be exposed. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir note this reflects the hypocrites' anxiety that divine revelation would uncover their deception, while Al-Tabari emphasizes that this ayah demonstrates the comprehensive knowledge of Allah regarding all hidden matters.
Revelation Context
This ayah is part of Surah At-Tawbah (the Medinan chapter dealing extensively with hypocrisy), revealed during a period when hypocrites in Medina were actively working against the Muslim community while outwardly professing Islam. The specific context involves hypocrites' fear that revelations would explicitly name and shame them for their treachery and false faith.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: 'The best of you are those with the best character' (Sahih Bukhari 3331). Related to hypocrisy: 'Signs of the hypocrite are three: when he speaks he lies, when he makes a promise he breaks it, and when he is trusted he betrays' (Sahih Bukhari 33).
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah teaches believers that Allah's knowledge encompasses all hidden secrets and intentions—nothing can be concealed from Him. It should inspire believers to cultivate sincerity in their faith and actions, knowing that true commitment to Islam requires alignment of outward conduct with inward intention, as hypocrisy is ultimately futile before the All-Knowing.