لَآ أَعْبُدُ مَا تَعْبُدُونَ 2
Translations
I do not worship what you worship.
Transliteration
Lā aʿbudu mā taʿbudūn
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah expresses the Prophet's categorical rejection of idolatry and polytheism, affirming that he will never worship what the Quraysh worship. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir emphasize that this statement establishes a clear boundary between monotheistic faith (Tawhīd) and shirk (associating partners with Allah). The negation is absolute and unconditional, reflecting the incompatibility between Islamic belief and the pagan practices of Mecca.
Revelation Context
Surah Al-Kafirun was revealed in Mecca during a period of intense religious tension when the Quraysh attempted to negotiate a compromise with the Prophet Muhammad—proposing he worship their gods for a period in exchange for their acceptance. This surah categorically rejects any such compromise, establishing the principle of complete religious separation and freedom of conscience ("lā ikrāha fī al-dīn").
Related Hadiths
The theme relates to the hadith in Sahih Bukhari where the Prophet said, 'I have been commanded to fight people until they testify that there is no god but Allah,' emphasizing the primacy of pure monotheism. Also relevant is the account in Sahih Muslim regarding the Quraysh's attempts at negotiation, which prompted this surah's revelation.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah teaches believers the importance of unwavering commitment to their faith without compromise, even when facing social pressure or negotiation. It demonstrates that true belief requires complete rejection of falsehood and establishes the Islamic principle of religious autonomy—each person is responsible for their own faith journey.