كُلَّمَآ أَرَادُوٓا۟ أَن يَخْرُجُوا۟ مِنْهَا مِنْ غَمٍّ أُعِيدُوا۟ فِيهَا وَذُوقُوا۟ عَذَابَ ٱلْحَرِيقِ 22
Translations
Every time they want to get out of it [i.e., Hellfire] from anguish, they will be returned to it, and [it will be said], "Taste the punishment of the Burning Fire!"
Transliteration
Kullama arado an yakhrujo minha min ghammin ueedu feeha wa dhuqoo adhaba al-hareeq
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah describes the eternal punishment of the inhabitants of Hell, depicting their futile attempts to escape the torment. Whenever they wish to exit Hell due to the overwhelming distress and anguish they experience, they are returned to it, forced to taste the punishment of the Hellfire. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir and Al-Qurtubi interpret this as illustrating the inescapable nature of Hell's punishment for those who rejected Allah's signs, emphasizing that there is no relief or respite for the inhabitants of Hell—only perpetual torment.
Revelation Context
This ayah is part of Surah Al-Hajj's detailed description of the Day of Judgment and the fate of disbelievers. It comes within a broader Medinan context addressing both believers and disbelievers about the consequences of their deeds. The ayah serves as a warning to those who reject faith, emphasizing the reality and severity of Hell's punishment.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: 'The people of Hell will wish to come out of it, but they will be prevented' (related to themes in Sahih Bukhari and Sahih Muslim regarding the description of Hell). Additionally, Surah Al-Hajj 22:20-21 describes the garments and skin being melted from the heat, which complements various hadiths about the horrors of Hellfire.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah should inspire believers to reflect deeply on their choices and actions, recognizing that accountability is absolute and real. For the modern reader, it serves as a powerful reminder to pursue righteousness and faith while in this life, as the opportunity for redemption and escape from consequences is limited to this worldly existence.