تَبْصِرَةً وَذِكْرَىٰ لِكُلِّ عَبْدٍ مُّنِيبٍ 8
Translations
Giving insight and a reminder for every servant who turns [to Allāh].
Transliteration
Tabsiratan wa dhikra li-kulli 'abdin munib
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah refers to the signs of creation (the heavens and earth mentioned in the preceding verses) serving as clear evidence and a reminder for every servant who turns back to Allah in repentance and obedience. According to Ibn Kathir and Al-Qurtubi, 'tabsiratan' (insight/clear vision) denotes the intellectual understanding of Allah's oneness through His creation, while 'dhikra' (reminder) emphasizes the emotional and spiritual awakening. These signs are specifically beneficial for those with 'munib' hearts—those who are inclined toward Allah and responsive to His guidance.
Revelation Context
Surah Qaf is a Meccan chapter that emphasizes Allah's power over creation and resurrection. This ayah appears within a passage (50:6-11) describing the creation of the heavens and earth in six days, the mountains, vegetation, and water sources. The context addresses the Meccan disbelievers who rejected the message, presenting creation itself as undeniable proof of Allah's existence and power, particularly resonating with those whose hearts are inclined to receive the message.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: 'In every creation of Allah, there is a lesson for those who would understand' (related to themes in Surah Qaf). Additionally, Tirmidhi reports the Prophet saying that reflection upon creation for an hour is better than a year of worship, aligning with the concept of 'tabsiratan' in this ayah.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah teaches that Allah's creation constantly surrounds us as evidence of His existence and power, serving as a tool for spiritual growth for those whose hearts are truly inclined toward Him. For modern believers, it encourages mindful observation of nature and the cosmos not merely as scientific phenomena, but as signs inviting us to deeper awareness of the Creator and greater devotion to Him.