هَلَكَ عَنِّى سُلْطَـٰنِيَهْ 29
Translations
Gone from me is my authority."
Transliteration
Halaka anni sultaniyah
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah expresses the words of a disbeliever on the Day of Judgment, lamenting that his power and authority in the worldly life have perished and abandoned him. Ibn Kathir explains that 'sultaniyah' (sultaniyyah) refers to the proof, argument, or authority that the disbeliever possessed in this life, which he thought would protect him, but which has now become worthless in the Hereafter. Al-Tabari notes this reflects the despair of those who relied on worldly power and influence instead of obedience to Allah, realizing too late that such things cannot avail on the Day of Reckoning.
Revelation Context
This ayah appears in the context of Surah Al-Haqqah, which emphasizes the certainty and reality of the Day of Judgment. The ayah is part of a passage (verses 25-29) depicting the regret and despair of the disbeliever in the afterlife, serving as a warning to those who neglect the Hereafter and trust in their worldly position and might.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: 'The best of you are those who are best to their families, and I am the best among you to my family' (Jami' at-Tirmidhi 3895). Additionally, related to the loss of worldly authority is: 'Wealth and children are adornments of this worldly life, but the everlasting good deeds are better' (Quran 18:46), emphasizing that earthly power is temporary.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah reminds believers that worldly power, wealth, and influence are temporary illusions that cannot protect us on the Day of Judgment; true security lies only in righteous deeds and obedience to Allah. We should not become arrogant or complacent in our worldly status, as every person will stand alone before Allah and answer for their deeds.