وَأَعُوذُ بِكَ رَبِّ أَن يَحْضُرُونِ 98
Translations
And I seek refuge in You, my Lord, lest they be present with me."
Transliteration
Wa a'udhu bika rabbi an yahdurun
Tafsir (Explanation)
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) seeks refuge in Allah from the presence of the devils and evil companions who would lead him astray. This ayah reflects the constant vigilance required against spiritual corruption and negative influences. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir emphasize that this supplication demonstrates the Prophet's humility and dependence on Allah's protection, serving as a model for believers to seek divine refuge from all forms of evil.
Revelation Context
This ayah appears in the Meccan surah Al-Mu'minun which discusses the characteristics of true believers and warnings against disbelief. It is situated within the Prophet's personal invocations and serves as an example of appropriate du'a (supplication) that believers should emulate, particularly when surrounded by those who oppose faith.
Related Hadiths
The hadith in Sahih Bukhari (3591) discusses the Prophet's practice of seeking refuge in Allah from various harms: 'Allahumma inni a'udhu bika min al-kufr wa'l-faqr' (O Allah, I seek refuge in You from disbelief and poverty). Additionally, the hadith on morning and evening invocations emphasizes the importance of daily protection-seeking supplications.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah teaches believers that seeking Allah's protection from evil influences and negative companions is not a sign of weakness but of spiritual wisdom and faith. Modern readers should proactively surround themselves with righteous influences and regularly invoke Allah's protection through authentic du'a against spiritual and moral corruption.