سَيَصْلَىٰ نَارًا ذَاتَ لَهَبٍ 3
Translations
He will [enter to] burn in a Fire of [blazing] flame
Transliteration
Sayaslaa naran dhata lahab
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah warns that Abu Lahab will enter a fire full of flames on the Day of Judgment. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir and Al-Tabari explain that 'lahab' (flame) emphasizes the intensity and severity of the punishment, which is specific to Abu Lahab due to his relentless opposition to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and his message. The certainty of the verb 'sayaslaa' (he will enter) reflects the divine decree regarding his fate, as mentioned in multiple ahadith confirming that Abu Lahab died upon disbelief.
Revelation Context
Surah Al-Masad was revealed in Mecca to condemn Abu Lahab (Abdullah ibn Abdul-Muttalib), the Prophet's uncle, and his wife Umm Jamil for their fierce hostility toward Islam and relentless mockery of the Prophet. The entire surah serves as a direct denunciation of their opposition and a clear warning of their punishment in the Hereafter.
Related Hadiths
In Sahih Bukhari, it is narrated that Abu Lahab died disbelieving in Islam, confirming the truth of this Quranic prediction. Additionally, hadith collections mention that the Prophet's family members, despite their proximity to him, were not granted guidance—illustrating that lineage provides no protection from divine punishment without faith.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah teaches believers that no amount of wealth, status, or family connection to the Prophet can save one from punishment if they reject the truth and oppose Allah's message. It serves as a sobering reminder of the certainty of divine justice and the eternal consequences of sustained disbelief and hostility toward Islam.