قُلْ يَـٰقَوْمِ ٱعْمَلُوا۟ عَلَىٰ مَكَانَتِكُمْ إِنِّى عَـٰمِلٌ ۖ فَسَوْفَ تَعْلَمُونَ 39
Translations
Say, "O my people, work according to your position, [for] indeed, I am working; and you are going to know
Transliteration
Qul ya qawmi'malu alaa makaanatikum inni aamil fasawfa ta'lamun
Tafsir (Explanation)
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is commanded to tell his people to continue in their beliefs and practices while he continues in his mission, with the assurance that the truth will eventually become manifest. Ibn Kathir explains this as a declaration of confidence in Allah's message and a challenge to the disbelievers, indicating that time will reveal who is upon the truth. Al-Tabari notes this ayah reflects the Prophet's steadfastness despite opposition, with the promise that the consequences of their actions will become clear.
Revelation Context
This ayah appears near the end of Surah Az-Zumar (a Meccan surah) during a period of intense opposition to the Prophet in Mecca. It reflects the context of the early Islamic period when the Prophet and believers faced ridicule and resistance from the Quraysh, yet remained resolute in their mission. The surah's overall theme emphasizes the reality of the afterlife and Allah's ultimate judgment.
Related Hadiths
The statement reflects the principle found in Sahih Bukhari (Book of Tawheed) where the Prophet said, 'The best jihad is a word of truth before a tyrannical ruler.' Also related is the hadith in Jami' at-Tirmidhi about patience and steadfastness in faith despite persecution.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah teaches believers to remain unwavering in their commitment to truth and righteousness, trusting that Allah will ultimately vindicate His message regardless of worldly opposition. It encourages patience and confidence that one's sincere efforts in service of truth will bear fruit, whether in this life or the next.