أَن جَآءَهُ ٱلْأَعْمَىٰ 2
Translations
Because there came to him the blind man, [interrupting].
Transliteration
An jaa'ahu al-a'ma
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah refers to Ibn Umm Maktum, a blind companion who approached the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) while he was engaged in conversation with Meccan leaders, seeking to learn about Islam. The ayah censures the Prophet's initial frown of displeasure at this interruption, teaching that all seekers of knowledge and believers deserve equal attention and respect regardless of their social status or physical condition. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir and Al-Tabari emphasize that this passage serves as a divine admonition against showing preference based on worldly status or appearance.
Revelation Context
This ayah was revealed in Mecca during the early Islamic period, addressing a specific incident where the Prophet frowned when Ibn Umm Maktum interrupted him while speaking with prominent Meccan figures. The surah Abasa (meaning 'He Frowned') is entirely devoted to this incident, highlighting the importance of treating all believers equitably and giving consideration to the humble and disabled alike.
Related Hadiths
Sahih Bukhari and other collections record the incident of Ibn Umm Maktum's approach to the Prophet. Additionally, the hadith in Jami' at-Tirmidhi emphasizes the virtue of the blind in Islam and the Prophet's subsequent kindness toward Ibn Umm Maktum, even appointing him as a governor of Kufa.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah teaches us that no person's quest for knowledge or spiritual guidance should be dismissed based on their appearance, social status, or physical abilities, and it reminds us that divine correction—even of the Prophet—serves as guidance for the Muslim community to embody justice and compassion toward all.