إِنَّ فِى ذَٰلِكَ لَـَٔايَـٰتٍ لِّلْمُتَوَسِّمِينَ 75
Translations
Indeed in that are signs for those who discern.
Transliteration
Inna fee dhalika la-ayatin lilmutawassimeen
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah affirms that in the destruction of the people of Lot (mentioned in the preceding verses) there are clear signs for those who possess discernment and insight (al-mutawassimun - those who reflect deeply and observe attentively). According to Ibn Kathir and Al-Tabari, the ayah emphasizes that Allah's punishment of those who commit immoral acts serves as a lesson for those with the capacity to contemplate and learn from historical examples. The signs are evident to those who examine carefully the consequences of rejecting divine guidance and engaging in abominable deeds.
Revelation Context
This ayah concludes the account of Lot's people in Surah Al-Hijr, which is a Meccan surah revealed to warn the Quraysh of Mecca about the consequences of rejecting the Prophet Muhammad's message. The broader context addresses various nations that were destroyed due to their disbelief and immoral conduct, serving as cautionary tales for those who witness these divine punishments through the Qur'anic narrative.
Related Hadiths
The concept of taking lessons from past nations is supported by the hadith: 'The best of stories is the story of the Qur'an' (Tafsir Ibn Kathir). Additionally, in Sahih Muslim, the Prophet emphasized observing and learning from the fates of previous peoples as evidence of Allah's justice and power.
Themes
Key Lesson
For believers today, this ayah reminds us to be among those who deeply reflect (mutawassimun) upon historical events and divine punishments, extracting wisdom and moral lessons rather than dismissing them as mere stories. It encourages us to use our intellect to recognize Allah's signs in the rise and fall of civilizations, strengthening our faith and commitment to righteous conduct.