فِى عَمَدٍ مُّمَدَّدَةٍۭ 9
Translations
In extended columns.
Transliteration
Fī 'amadin mumaddadah
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah describes the pillars of Hell that will confine the punishment of those who engaged in slander and backbiting. According to classical scholars like Ibn Kathir and Al-Qurtubi, these are extended, elongated pillars that stretch vertically through the Fire, symbolizing the inescapable nature of their torment. The specificity of this imagery emphasizes the severity and eternity of the punishment awaiting those who spent their lives hurting others through malicious speech.
Revelation Context
This ayah is part of Surah Al-Humazah, revealed in Mecca to condemn the practices of slander, backbiting, and mockery prevalent in pre-Islamic Arabia and among some in early Muslim society. The surah provides vivid descriptions of the punishment for those who engage in such reprehensible behavior, serving as a stern warning to believers about the gravity of harming others through speech.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: 'The greatest sin is to associate partners with Allah, then to disobey parents, then to commit murder, and then false testimony.' (Sahih Bukhari) Additionally, regarding backbiting specifically, the Prophet stated: 'Do you know what backbiting is? It is to mention about your brother that which he dislikes.' (Sahih Muslim 2589)
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah reminds us that our words have eternal consequences—what we say about others will be accounted for on the Day of Judgment. We should guard our tongues from slander and backbiting, recognizing that hurting others through speech is among the gravest sins in Islam.