فَٱسْتَقِمْ كَمَآ أُمِرْتَ وَمَن تَابَ مَعَكَ وَلَا تَطْغَوْا۟ ۚ إِنَّهُۥ بِمَا تَعْمَلُونَ بَصِيرٌ 112
Translations
So remain on a right course as you have been commanded, [you] and those who have turned back with you [to Allāh], and do not transgress. Indeed, He is Seeing of what you do.
Transliteration
Fastaqim kama umirt wa man taba maak wa la tatghaw, innahu bima tamalun basir
Tafsir (Explanation)
Allah commands the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) to remain steadfast upon the path of guidance as he has been commanded, along with those who repent and follow him, and to warn against transgression since Allah is fully aware of all their deeds. Ibn Kathir notes this ayah emphasizes the necessity of unwavering adherence to the Divine command and that this steadfastness is a collective responsibility for the Prophet and his followers. Al-Tabari highlights that 'istiqamah' (steadfastness) here means remaining firm on the Straight Path without deviation, and that Allah's perfect knowledge ('basir') of their actions serves as both warning and encouragement.
Revelation Context
This ayah appears near the conclusion of Surah Hud, which was revealed in Mecca during the period of intense opposition to the Prophet's message. It comes after the stories of various prophets who remained steadfast despite persecution, providing both consolation and instruction to the Prophet and the early Muslim community to maintain their commitment to Islam regardless of external pressures.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: 'The best of deeds is to believe in Allah and His Messenger, and the best character is good character' (Jami' at-Tirmidhi). Also relevant is the hadith: 'Straighten yourselves, for indeed you will not be able to count your deeds' (Sunan Abu Dawud), emphasizing the importance of straightness and steadfastness.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah teaches that true faith requires unwavering commitment to Islamic principles in all circumstances, and that this steadfastness is strengthened by the knowledge that Allah is eternally aware of our intentions and actions—a reality that should motivate believers toward consistent obedience and discourage them from deviation and excess.