نَّحْنُ نَقُصُّ عَلَيْكَ نَبَأَهُم بِٱلْحَقِّ ۚ إِنَّهُمْ فِتْيَةٌ ءَامَنُوا۟ بِرَبِّهِمْ وَزِدْنَـٰهُمْ هُدًى 13
Translations
It is We who relate to you, [O Muḥammad], their story in truth. Indeed, they were youths who believed in their Lord, and We increased them in guidance.
Transliteration
Nahnu naqussu 'alayka naba'ahum bil-haqq. Innahum fityatun amanu bi-rabbihim wa-zidnahum hudan.
Tafsir (Explanation)
Allah assures the Prophet (peace be upon him) that He will relate the true account of the young men of the Cave, emphasizing their sincere faith in their Lord and His reward of increased guidance upon them. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir note that this ayah establishes the authenticity of the narrative and highlights that Allah increases in guidance those who believe sincerely, as mentioned in Surah Al-Ankabut (29:69). The phrase 'zidnahum hudan' (We increased them in guidance) reflects a Quranic principle that faith and righteousness lead to further spiritual illumination.
Revelation Context
This ayah appears at the beginning of the detailed narrative of Ashab al-Kahf (the Companions of the Cave) in Surah Al-Kahf, a Meccan chapter. The context addresses the Prophet's uncertainty about their story and provides divine reassurance of the truth. The surah emphasizes lessons about faith, perseverance, and divine protection during the Meccan period when believers faced persecution.
Related Hadiths
The hadith in Sahih Muslim reports that reciting Surah Al-Kahf, particularly on Fridays, protects one from the trials (fitna) of the Dajjal. Additionally, the Prophet (peace be upon him) emphasized seeking guidance and closeness to Allah, as mentioned in numerous hadiths about increasing one's iman (faith) through righteous deeds.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah teaches that sincere belief in Allah is the foundation for spiritual elevation, and that those who truly believe are blessed with increasing guidance and wisdom. It encourages young believers especially to stand firm in their faith during trials, knowing that Allah rewards genuine conviction with further enlightenment and protection.