قُلْ إِنِّىٓ أَخَافُ إِنْ عَصَيْتُ رَبِّى عَذَابَ يَوْمٍ عَظِيمٍ 15
Translations
Say, "Indeed I fear, if I should disobey my Lord, the punishment of a tremendous Day."
Transliteration
Qul inni akhafu in 'asaytu rabbi 'adhaba yawmin 'adhim
Tafsir (Explanation)
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is commanded to declare that he fears the punishment of the Day of Judgment if he were to disobey his Lord, emphasizing his complete submission and fear of Allah despite his status as a messenger. This statement demonstrates the utmost piety and humility before Allah, showing that even the greatest servant of Allah prioritizes obedience and fears divine retribution. According to Ibn Kathir and Al-Tabari, this ayah establishes that fear of Allah (taqwa) is the foundation of all righteous action, and it refutes any claims that the Prophet acted from personal desire rather than divine command.
Revelation Context
This ayah appears in the context of Surah Al-An'am, which addresses the polytheists' objections to monotheism. The Prophet is responding to their claims and challenges by asserting his unwavering commitment to obedience and submission to Allah alone, using his own fear of divine punishment as an example of true faith rather than a weakness.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: 'Fear Allah wherever you are, and follow up a bad deed with a good deed which will wipe it out, and behave towards people with good character' (Tirmidhi). Additionally, Aisha reported that the Prophet said regarding this ayah: 'Do you not know that I fear Allah more than you fear Allah' (Tafsir Ibn Kathir).
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah teaches that true strength lies in fearing Allah and maintaining obedience, regardless of one's position or status—even the Prophet prioritized adherence to divine commands above all worldly considerations. For believers today, it serves as a powerful reminder that consciousness of Allah and fear of His judgment should motivate ethical behavior and spiritual vigilance in all aspects of life.