وَشَدَدْنَا مُلْكَهُۥ وَءَاتَيْنَـٰهُ ٱلْحِكْمَةَ وَفَصْلَ ٱلْخِطَابِ 20
Translations
And We strengthened his kingdom and gave him wisdom and discernment in speech.
Transliteration
Wa shadadna mulkahu wa ataynahul hikmata wa fasla al-khitab
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah refers to Prophet Dawud (David) and describes how Allah strengthened his kingdom and granted him wisdom and decisive speech. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir and Al-Tabari note that 'fasla al-khitab' (decisive speech) means the ability to speak with clarity, eloquence, and the power to judge between people with justice, enabling him to resolve disputes definitively. The verse emphasizes that Dawud's authority and influence stemmed from both divine wisdom and the gift of persuasive, articulate speech that commanded respect.
Revelation Context
Surah Sad is a Meccan surah that presents stories of various prophets to comfort Prophet Muhammad and illustrate divine wisdom. This specific ayah appears within the narrative of Dawud's prophethood and serves to highlight how Allah elevated him among his people through both spiritual wisdom and practical leadership qualities. The context shows Dawud as an exemplary leader whose strength came from divine grant, not mere worldly power.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet Muhammad said, 'The best of you are those who have the best character' (Tirmidhi), which relates to the quality of decisive speech. Additionally, 'Dawud would recite the Zabur (Psalms) with a beautiful voice' (Bukhari), reflecting the eloquence mentioned in this ayah.
Themes
Key Lesson
True authority and influence come not from force alone but from wisdom, eloquence, and the ability to speak truth with clarity and justice. This teaches believers that strengthening one's character, knowledge, and communication skills are means of securing genuine respect and positive impact in society.