وَإِنَّ لَنَا لَلْـَٔاخِرَةَ وَٱلْأُولَىٰ 13
Translations
And indeed, to us belongs the Hereafter and the first [life].
Transliteration
Wa-inna lana lal-akhirata wal-ula
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah affirms that both the afterlife and the present life belong to Allah and are under His dominion and control. The verse emphasizes divine sovereignty over all temporal and eternal matters, suggesting that a believer's ultimate concern and hope should be directed toward the Hereafter while fulfilling obligations in this life. Classical scholars like Al-Tabari and Ibn Kathir interpret this as a declaration that Allah alone possesses authority over both worlds, and that true prosperity lies in obedience to Him in preparation for the eternal life to come.
Revelation Context
Surah Al-Layl is a Meccan surah addressing the early believers during the difficult period of early Islamic preaching in Mecca. This ayah appears in the context of the surah's theme of divine justice and the contrast between the righteous and the wicked, reminding believers that despite worldly hardships, Allah's dominion encompasses both this life and the next, providing reassurance and perspective.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: 'The best of you are those who are best to their families, and I am the best among you to my family' (Jami' at-Tirmidhi 3895), relating to prioritizing life obligations while maintaining focus on the Hereafter. Also relevant: 'The worldly life compared to the Hereafter is like when one of you puts his finger in the ocean—let him see what returns with it' (Sahih Muslim 2858), emphasizing the insignificance of this world compared to the eternal life.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah teaches believers to maintain perspective by recognizing that all matters—both temporal and spiritual—are under Allah's control, encouraging them to live righteously in this world while keeping their ultimate hope and focus on the eternal success of the Hereafter. It serves as a powerful reminder that true wealth and security come not from worldly accumulation but from submission to Allah's will and preparation for the life to come.