وَرَبُّكَ أَعْلَمُ بِمَن فِى ٱلسَّمَـٰوَٰتِ وَٱلْأَرْضِ ۗ وَلَقَدْ فَضَّلْنَا بَعْضَ ٱلنَّبِيِّـۧنَ عَلَىٰ بَعْضٍ ۖ وَءَاتَيْنَا دَاوُۥدَ زَبُورًا 55
Translations
And your Lord is most knowing of whoever is in the heavens and the earth. And We have made some of the prophets exceed others [in various ways], and to David We gave the book [of Psalms].
Transliteration
Wa rabbuka a'lamu biman fi as-samawati wa al-ardi wa laqad faddalna ba'da an-nabiyyin ala ba'din wa ataina Dawuda zabura
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah affirms Allah's complete knowledge of all creation in the heavens and earth, followed by the assertion that Allah has given superiority (fadl) to some prophets over others according to His divine wisdom. The mention of Prophet Dawud (David) receiving the Zabur (Psalms) exemplifies this differentiation of blessings among the prophets. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir and Al-Tabari emphasize that while all prophets are honored, Allah distributed different miracles, scriptures, and stations among them based on divine purpose and the needs of their respective communities.
Revelation Context
This ayah appears in the Meccan period of Surah Al-Isra and is part of a broader discussion addressing the polytheists' misconceptions about prophethood and Allah's attributes. The context responds to those who questioned why certain individuals were chosen as prophets, establishing that such choices reflect divine wisdom beyond human comprehension.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: 'Do not prefer me to other prophets' (Sahih Bukhari 3441). Additionally, the hadith in Sahih Muslim establishes the distinction among prophets while maintaining their collective honor and mission.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah teaches believers to trust in Allah's wisdom regarding how He distributes blessings, talents, and roles among His servants, while recognizing that apparent differences in status or ability reflect divine purpose rather than arbitrary distinction. It encourages humility before divine wisdom and respect for all prophets while acknowledging their individual contributions to guidance.