إِنَّ ٱلسَّاعَةَ ءَاتِيَةٌ أَكَادُ أُخْفِيهَا لِتُجْزَىٰ كُلُّ نَفْسٍۭ بِمَا تَسْعَىٰ 15
Translations
Indeed, the Hour is coming - I almost conceal it - so that every soul may be recompensed according to that for which it strives.
Transliteration
Inna al-sa'ata atiyan akadu ukhfīhā li-tujzā kulla nafs bi-mā tas'ā
Tafsir (Explanation)
Allah asserts that the Hour (Day of Judgment) is certainly coming, and He emphasizes its inevitability by saying He almost hides its knowledge from creation—meaning He keeps it secret even from the angels. The purpose of this concealment is so that every soul will be rewarded or punished according to its deeds and efforts in this life. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir note that this ayah underscores both the certainty of the Day of Judgment and the divine wisdom in keeping its exact time unknown, which motivates believers to remain righteous at all times.
Revelation Context
This ayah appears in Surah Taha, a Meccan surah revealed during the early period of the Prophet's mission when the Quraysh were skeptical of the resurrection. It is part of a broader section addressing disbelief in the afterlife and emphasizing accountability. The verse serves to remind the Meccan audience of the inescapable reality of divine judgment.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said: 'The most truthful of you are the most careful of you, and the Hour will come suddenly when you least expect it.' (Tirmidhi) Additionally, in Sahih Bukhari, the Prophet states that no one knows the Hour except Allah, reinforcing the theme of its hidden nature mentioned in this ayah.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah teaches believers that since the Hour is certain yet its timing remains hidden with Allah alone, one should live a life of continuous righteousness and accountability, never becoming complacent in faith. The knowledge that every action will be weighed and judged should inspire constant vigilance in one's conduct and intentions.