هَـٰذَا بَصَـٰٓئِرُ لِلنَّاسِ وَهُدًى وَرَحْمَةٌ لِّقَوْمٍ يُوقِنُونَ 20
Translations
This [Qur’ān] is enlightenment for mankind and guidance and mercy for a people who are certain [in faith].
Transliteration
Haadhaa basaa'iru lin-naasi wa hudaw wa rahmatun liqawmin yuqinun
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah refers to the Qur'an as clear proofs and signs (basā'ir) for mankind, serving as guidance and mercy specifically for those who possess certainty of faith (yaqīn). Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir emphasize that while the Qur'an is a mercy for all people, its benefits are fully realized only by those whose hearts are firmly grounded in belief and conviction. Al-Qurtubi notes that the Qur'an contains both intellectual proofs and spiritual guidance that illuminate the path to truth.
Revelation Context
This ayah appears in the context of Surah Al-Jathiyah, which was revealed in Mecca and addresses the signs of Allah in creation and revelation. The ayah comes after verses discussing those who take their desires as gods and reject the Qur'an. The broader theme emphasizes that the Qur'an is clear evidence (bayyinah) for those willing to recognize it, contrasting believers from disbelievers.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said: 'The best of you are those who learn the Qur'an and teach it' (Sahih Bukhari 5027). Additionally, 'Whoever listens to one ayah from the Book of Allah and believes in what it contains will enter Paradise' (Jami' at-Tirmidhi) relates to the theme of the Qur'an being mercy and guidance for the believers.
Themes
Key Lesson
The Qur'an's transformative power and mercy are not passive gifts but require active engagement through genuine faith and conviction. Modern readers should recognize that intellectual understanding of Islamic texts must be accompanied by heartfelt certainty and commitment to benefit fully from divine guidance.