وَجَعَلْتُ لَهُۥ مَالًا مَّمْدُودًا 12
Translations
And to whom I granted extensive wealth
Transliteration
Wa ja'altu lahu malan mamduda
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah refers to Allah's bestowal of abundant and continuous wealth upon a disbelieving individual (commonly understood to be Al-Walid ibn Al-Mughirah). Ibn Kathir explains that 'mamdudan' (مَمْدُودًا) means wealth that is extended and prolonged, flowing continuously like a stream. The verse emphasizes that material abundance alone does not guarantee guidance or righteousness; rather, those who reject Allah's signs despite worldly blessings will face severe punishment, as the subsequent verses detail.
Revelation Context
This ayah is part of Surah Al-Muddaththir's discourse on those who reject the Quran and the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). The context specifically addresses a wealthy Meccan disbeliever who, despite receiving abundant provision from Allah, turned away from the message. This reflects the broader Meccan period challenge where material wealth often led to arrogance and rejection of faith.
Related Hadiths
The concept relates to the hadith in Sahih Bukhari where the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: 'Richness is not in having many possessions, but richness is the richness of the soul.' Additionally, Jami' at-Tirmidhi records traditions about how wealth can be a trial (fitnah) and a test from Allah.
Themes
Key Lesson
Material abundance is a test from Allah and does not excuse one from accountability or obedience; true success lies in combining provision with gratitude and faith, not in using wealth as justification for rejecting divine guidance.