وَبَنِينَ شُهُودًا 13
Translations
And children present [with him]
Transliteration
wa-banīna shuhadā
Tafsir (Explanation)
This phrase refers to children (sons) who are present or witnesses, part of the description of worldly wealth and blessings that people are tested with in this surah. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir and Al-Tabari interpret this as referring to children as a blessing from Allah, but also as a trial—they are mentioned alongside material possessions that can distract people from remembrance of Allah. The word 'shuhadā' (witnesses/present) emphasizes that these children are visibly present in one's life, making them a tangible test of one's priorities and character.
Revelation Context
Surah Al-Muddaththir is an early Meccan revelation addressing the trials and distractions of worldly life. This ayah appears in the section (74:12-15) describing the false nobility some wealthy Meccans took pride in—their wealth, sons, and abundant possessions—while they rejected the message of monotheism. The surah contextualizes these blessings as tests of faith rather than sources of honor.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet (ﷺ) said: 'The best of you are those who are best to their families, and I am the best among you to my family' (Tirmidhi 3895). Additionally, 'Wealth and children are adornments of this worldly life, but the everlasting good deeds are better' (Quran 18:46), which complements the theme of children as blessings yet potential distractions.
Themes
Key Lesson
Children and family are precious gifts from Allah meant to strengthen our faith and character, not to become idols that distance us from His remembrance. This ayah reminds believers that true honor lies not in the number of children or possessions, but in obedience to Allah and righteous conduct.