وَمَا نُؤَخِّرُهُۥٓ إِلَّا لِأَجَلٍ مَّعْدُودٍ 104
Translations
And We do not delay it except for a limited term.
Transliteration
Wa mā nu'akhkhiruhu illā li-ajal ma'ddūd
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah affirms that Allah does not delay the Day of Judgment except for a specific, predetermined term known only to Him. Classical scholars like Al-Tabari and Ibn Kathir explain that despite the apparent delay from humanity's perspective, the Hour has an appointed time that is fully determined by Allah's wisdom. The verse emphasizes divine sovereignty over time and the inevitability of the Final Day, serving as a response to those who mock the concept of resurrection or question why it has not yet occurred.
Revelation Context
This ayah appears in the context of Surah Hud's discussion of the Day of Judgment and responses to those who deny it. The broader surah addresses disbelievers' mockery of the prophets' warnings about the Hour, and this verse provides reassurance that despite their ridicule, the appointed time remains fixed and will certainly arrive.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet (ﷺ) said: 'The Hour will not be established until... time passes quickly' (Sahih Muslim 2958), indicating the appointed time draws near. Additionally, in Sahih Bukhari 4735, the Prophet emphasized the certainty of the Hour's arrival, though its exact time remains unknown to creation.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah teaches that believers should maintain certainty in Allah's promises and not be swayed by disbelievers' ridicule or the apparent delay of divine justice. Understanding that all events unfold according to Allah's precise wisdom should encourage patience, steadfastness in faith, and continued obedience regardless of worldly circumstances.