وَٱمْرَأَتُهُۥ حَمَّالَةَ ٱلْحَطَبِ 4
Translations
And his wife [as well] - the carrier of firewood.
Transliteration
Wa-imra'atuhu hammālat al-hatab
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah refers to Umm Jamīl, the wife of Abū Lahab, who was known for her hostility toward the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and actively spread malicious gossip against him and his message. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathīr and Al-Tabari explain that 'carrying firewood' is a metaphorical expression denoting her role as a spreader of discord and slander, as if she were fueling the fire of enmity against Islam. The ayah emphasizes both her active participation in opposing the Prophet and her shared fate with her husband in divine punishment.
Revelation Context
Surah Al-Masad was revealed in Mecca during the early period of Islamic da'wah, specifically regarding Abū Lahab (the Prophet's uncle) and his wife, who were among the most vehement opponents of the Prophet and the message of Islam. The surah directly addresses their rejection and mockery, with this ayah highlighting how even family members of the Prophet actively worked against him and the spread of Islam.
Related Hadiths
Narrated by Ibn 'Abbās in Tafsīr al-Tabarī: Umm Jamīl would place thorns in the Prophet's path and scatter them around his house to harm him. Additionally, 'Ā'ishah reported that Umm Jamīl would publicly curse the Prophet, demonstrating her active hostility mentioned in this ayah.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah teaches that spreading discord, slander, and malicious propaganda against truth and righteousness has serious spiritual consequences, and that individuals are accountable for their own choices regardless of family ties or social status. It reminds believers to guard their tongues and actions from becoming instruments of harm against others and the divine message.