قَالَ ٱهْبِطُوا۟ بَعْضُكُمْ لِبَعْضٍ عَدُوٌّ ۖ وَلَكُمْ فِى ٱلْأَرْضِ مُسْتَقَرٌّ وَمَتَـٰعٌ إِلَىٰ حِينٍ 24
Translations
[Allāh] said, "Descend, being to one another enemies. And for you on the earth is a place of settlement and enjoyment [i.e., provision] for a time."
Transliteration
Qala ahabitu ba'dukum liba'din 'aduwwun wa lakum fil-ardi mustaqarrun wa mata'un ila hinin
Tafsir (Explanation)
Allah commanded Adam, Eve, and Iblis to descend from Paradise to the earth, stating that they would be enemies to one another. This ayah establishes that humanity and Satan are mutual adversaries, and that the earth is appointed as a place of settlement and sustenance for mankind until an appointed time (the Day of Judgment). Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir note this marks the beginning of human trial and responsibility on earth, with the promise of provision balanced against the reality of satanic enmity.
Revelation Context
This ayah occurs within the narrative of Adam's expulsion from Paradise (Surah Al-A'raf: 11-25), following his disobedience and consumption of the forbidden tree. The surah was revealed in Mecca during the early Meccan period and addresses the consequences of transgression while establishing the foundational relationship between humanity, Satan, and earthly life.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: 'Iblis said: By Your Might, O Lord, I will not cease leading Your servants astray as long as their souls are in their bodies.' Allah replied: 'Then by My Might, I will keep filling Hell with you and with those who follow you among them' (Jami' at-Tirmidhi). Also related: 'Satan circulates in the son of Adam like blood' (Sahih al-Bukhari 3175).
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah reminds us that worldly life is a test and temporary journey where we face spiritual opposition from Satan, yet we are provided with sustenance and means by Allah. Understanding Satan as an enemy helps believers maintain vigilance against harmful influences while relying on God's guidance and mercy throughout their earthly sojourn.