فَمَالِ ٱلَّذِينَ كَفَرُوا۟ قِبَلَكَ مُهْطِعِينَ 36
Translations
So what is [the matter] with those who disbelieve, hastening [from] before you, [O Muḥammad],
Transliteration
Famali alladhina kafaroo qibalaka muhti'in
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah expresses Allah's rhetorical question to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), asking what is wrong with the disbelievers that they rush toward him with haste and hostility. According to Ibn Kathir and Al-Tabari, the word 'muhti'in' (hastening/rushing) describes the eager movement of the disbelievers, possibly referring to their hurried approach to mock, argue with, or physically confront the Prophet. This conveys both the absurdity of their disbelief and the intensity of their opposition to the message of truth.
Revelation Context
This ayah appears in the latter portion of Surah Al-Ma'arij, which was revealed in Mecca during a period of intense persecution of the Prophet and believers. The surah addresses the reality of the Day of Judgment and the contrasting states of believers and disbelievers, with this particular ayah highlighting the aggressive rejection and mockery the Prophet faced from Meccan disbelievers.
Related Hadiths
Sahih Bukhari: The Prophet (peace be upon him) was mocked and opposed by the Quraysh, yet he remained patient. Related thematically to hadiths about the Prophet's forbearance despite persecution, such as those in the chapter on the Prophet's character (Adab).
Themes
Key Lesson
Despite the world's opposition and mockery toward those conveying Allah's message, the believer should remain steadfast, knowing that Allah is fully aware of the disbelievers' condition and will hold them accountable. This ayah teaches patience in the face of antagonism and trust that Allah's truth will ultimately prevail.