وَمِنْهُم مَّن يَنظُرُ إِلَيْكَ ۚ أَفَأَنتَ تَهْدِى ٱلْعُمْىَ وَلَوْ كَانُوا۟ لَا يُبْصِرُونَ 43
Translations
And among them are those who look at you. But can you guide the blind although they will not [attempt to] see?
Transliteration
Wa minhum man yanzuru ilayka afa anta tahdil-umya wa law kanu la yubsiroon
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah addresses the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), clarifying that some disbelievers look upon him, yet he cannot guide those who are spiritually blind—those unwilling to perceive truth. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir explain that spiritual blindness (umya) refers to hearts sealed by disbelief and stubbornness, not physical sight. The rhetorical question emphasizes the futility of guidance for those who reject it by their own choice and refuse to use their intellect and perception.
Revelation Context
This verse appears in the Meccan period and is part of Surah Yunus's broader theme addressing the Prophet's struggle against Meccan polytheists who witnessed his signs yet rejected him. The context reflects the early Islamic period when the Quraysh would observe the Prophet but refuse to embrace faith, demonstrating that mere observation or exposure to truth does not guarantee acceptance without sincere intention.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: 'Guidance is not [achieved by] my leading you, but Allah guides whom He wills' (related to themes in Sahih Muslim 2865). Additionally, Surah Al-Qasas 28:56 contains a parallel divine instruction: 'Indeed, you do not guide whom you like, but Allah guides whom He wills.'
Themes
Key Lesson
The Prophet's role—and by extension, every believer's role in da'wah—is to convey the message clearly, not to force acceptance. True guidance comes from Allah alone, and our responsibility is limited to sincere effort; the choice to accept or reject faith ultimately rests with each individual's heart and will.