إِنَّ سَعْيَكُمْ لَشَتَّىٰ 4
Translations
Indeed, your efforts are diverse.
Transliteration
Inna sa'yakum la-shatta
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah affirms that the efforts and deeds of humanity are diverse and varied in nature, direction, and outcome. According to Ibn Kathir and Al-Tabari, 'shatta' (scattered/diverse) indicates that people's actions differ greatly—some strive towards righteousness and Paradise, while others pursue worldly gains or misguidance. The ayah sets the stage for the subsequent division of humanity into two distinct groups based on their chosen paths.
Revelation Context
This ayah appears in Surah Al-Layl, which was revealed in Mecca and addresses the fundamental human condition of choice and moral responsibility. It introduces the theme that follows in verses 5-10, which categorically divides humanity into those who give in charity and fear Allah, and those who withhold and deny the signs. The context emphasizes that differences in human effort and striving are inevitable and divinely acknowledged.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: 'Each soul knows what it has sent forward and kept back' (Quran 82:5), which is thematically related to this ayah's emphasis on individual responsibility for one's deeds. Additionally, in Sahih Muslim, the Prophet emphasized that 'deeds are by intentions,' highlighting that the diversity of human efforts stems from differing intentions and goals.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah reminds us that Allah acknowledges the reality of human diversity in effort and intention, making each person accountable for their chosen path. The lesson encourages believers to consciously direct their efforts toward righteous goals, knowing that their varied strivings are observed and will be judged accordingly.