ٱلَّذِينَ ضَلَّ سَعْيُهُمْ فِى ٱلْحَيَوٰةِ ٱلدُّنْيَا وَهُمْ يَحْسَبُونَ أَنَّهُمْ يُحْسِنُونَ صُنْعًا 104
Translations
[They are] those whose effort is lost in worldly life, while they think that they are doing well in work."
Transliteration
Alladhīna ḍalla saʿyuhum fī al-ḥayāh ad-dunyā wa-hum yaḥsabūn annahum yuḥsinūn ṣunʿā
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah refers to those whose deeds and efforts in worldly life have gone astray and become nullified, yet they remain deluded in thinking they are doing good work. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir explain this describes people engaged in futile actions devoid of righteous intention or Islamic guidance—their works are wasted because they lack faith in Allah and adherence to His revelation. Al-Qurtubi emphasizes that this applies particularly to disbelievers whose efforts, however outwardly impressive, are rendered void without the foundation of Tawhīd (monotheism).
Revelation Context
This ayah appears in the latter part of Surah Al-Kahf, within a section discussing the reality of worldly life and the deception it presents. The broader context of the surah emphasizes the themes of trial, temptation, and the ephemeral nature of worldly pursuits, serving as a reminder that true success lies in righteous deeds done with proper faith and intention.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet (ﷺ) said: 'Verily, actions are judged by intentions, and for every person is what he intended' (Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī 1, Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim 1907). Additionally, 'The best of you are those who have the best manners and character' relates to the necessity of sincere conduct (At-Tirmidhī 3895).
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah teaches us that external accomplishments and good appearances mean nothing without genuine faith in Allah and sincere intention in our actions. Believers must regularly examine their intentions and ensure their efforts are grounded in submission to Allah's guidance, not mere worldly ambition or self-deception.