فَغَفَرْنَا لَهُۥ ذَٰلِكَ ۖ وَإِنَّ لَهُۥ عِندَنَا لَزُلْفَىٰ وَحُسْنَ مَـَٔابٍ 25
Translations
So We forgave him that; and indeed, for him is nearness to Us and a good place of return.
Transliteration
Faghafarna lahu dhalika wa inna lahu 'indana lazulfa wa husna ma'ab
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah refers to Allah's forgiveness of Prophet Dawud (David) for his lapse in judgment regarding the case of the two litigants, as mentioned in the preceding verses. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir and Al-Qurtubi explain that despite Dawud's error, Allah forgave him and granted him an exalted station (zulfa) near His presence and an excellent return or ultimate abode (husn ma'ab). This demonstrates that even the greatest prophets are human and subject to error, but their sincere repentance and close relationship with Allah results in divine mercy and elevated status.
Revelation Context
This ayah concludes the narrative of Prophet Dawud in Surah Sad, which recounts the story of two litigants who came to him for judgment. The surah is Meccan and emphasizes the patience and perseverance of the prophets. The context shows how Allah tests His chosen servants and how their response to correction reflects their closeness to Him.
Related Hadiths
The hadith in Sahih Muslim from Abu Hurairah states that the Prophet Muhammad said: 'The best of you are those who are best to their families, and I am the best among you to my family.' This relates thematically to the importance of justice and wisdom in leadership, qualities for which Dawud was known.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah teaches that closeness to Allah and His favor are not forfeited by occasional human errors, but rather by sincere repentance and humility; believers should understand that perfection belongs only to Allah, and that seeking forgiveness with genuine remorse leads to elevated spiritual stations and divine blessing.