لَّا ظَلِيلٍ وَلَا يُغْنِى مِنَ ٱللَّهَبِ 31
Translations
[But having] no cool shade and availing not against the flame."
Transliteration
Laa zalīl wa lā yughnī min al-lahab
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah describes the state of the disbelievers in the Hellfire, indicating that they will have no shade (zalīl) to protect them from the intense heat and flames, nor will anything avail them against the scorching fire. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir and Al-Qurtubi explain that this emphasizes the complete helplessness and vulnerability of those in punishment—there is no refuge, no comfort, and no means of escape from Allah's severe torment.
Revelation Context
This ayah appears in the context of Surah Al-Mursalat, a Meccan chapter that vividly describes the Day of Judgment and the fate of disbelievers and believers. The surah repeatedly emphasizes the certainty of the Day of Judgment with the refrain 'Woe to the deniers' (waylan lil-mukadhdhibin), and this particular verse is part of a passage detailing the torment awaiting those who rejected faith.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet (ﷺ) said: 'On the Day of Judgment, there will be no shade except the shade of Allah's Throne' (Sahih Bukhari 3437). This hadith relates directly to the ayah's mention of the absence of shade (zalīl) in the Hellfire, highlighting that only Allah's mercy provides protection.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah serves as a powerful reminder that rejecting Allah's guidance leads to complete abandonment and suffering, with no one to help or provide comfort. It should motivate believers to seek Allah's mercy, maintain faith, and appreciate the protection that comes through obedience to the Divine.