وَمَآ أَدْرَىٰكَ مَا سَقَرُ 27
Translations
And what can make you know what is Saqar?
Transliteration
Wa mā adrāka mā saqar
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah is the beginning of Allah's description of Hellfire (Jahannam), specifically the level called Saqar. The phrase 'And what will make you know what Saqar is?' is a rhetorical device (istifhām) used to emphasize the magnitude and severity of this punishment, which is beyond human comprehension. Classical scholars like Al-Tabari and Ibn Kathir note that this expression conveys both the difficulty in describing Saqar's true nature and the gravity of its torment, preparing the reader for the detailed descriptions that follow in the subsequent verses.
Revelation Context
Surah Al-Muddaththir is a Meccan surah revealed in the early period of Islamic revelation. This ayah is part of a powerful section describing the horrors of Hellfire, serving as a strong warning to the disbelievers of Mecca. The context emphasizes divine accountability and the consequences of rejecting the message of the Prophet (peace be upon him).
Related Hadiths
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said regarding Saqar: 'The least tormented person in the Fire will be one who has two coals placed under his feet, by which his brain will boil' (Sahih Bukhari). Additionally, the Prophet described Saqar as 'a part of the Fire that has been set aside for those who deny the resurrection' (related to Surah Al-Muddaththir's themes).
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah reminds believers of the serious consequences of rejecting faith and warns against complacency in spiritual matters. Understanding the reality of divine justice should motivate sincere repentance and steadfastness in obedience to Allah.