فَمَنِ ٱبْتَغَىٰ وَرَآءَ ذَٰلِكَ فَأُو۟لَـٰٓئِكَ هُمُ ٱلْعَادُونَ 7
Translations
But whoever seeks beyond that, then those are the transgressors -
Transliteration
Fa-mani ibtagha wara'a dhalika fa-ula'ika hum al-'adun
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah concludes the discussion about lawful sexual relations, stating that whoever seeks beyond what is permissible (i.e., beyond one's spouse or slave woman) are the transgressors. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir and Al-Qurtubi interpret this as a clear prohibition against fornication, adultery, and homosexuality, emphasizing that such actions constitute 'udwan (transgression) against the boundaries set by Allah. The ayah establishes that violating these limits is not merely a sin, but a categorical violation of divine law.
Revelation Context
This ayah appears in the context of Surah Al-Mu'minun (The Believers), a Meccan surah that outlines the characteristics of true believers. Verses 23:1-11 describe the qualities of the Mu'minun, and 23:5-7 specifically address the believers' restraint regarding sexual desires, placing chastity and fidelity as essential markers of faith. This passage establishes moral boundaries for the Muslim community.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: 'The greatest sins are to associate partners with Allah and to be disobedient to parents, and false witness.' (Sahih Bukhari 2654). Additionally, the Prophet warned against zina (fornication/adultery), saying: 'No one commits zina at the moment he is a believer.' (Jami' at-Tirmidhi 3881)
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah teaches that true belief requires self-restraint and adherence to Allah's moral boundaries, not merely outward religious practice. For modern readers, it emphasizes that protecting one's chastity and respecting divinely-ordained limits on intimate relationships is a core aspect of spiritual development and obedience to Allah.