كِتَـٰبٌ مَّرْقُومٌ 9
Translations
It is [their destination recorded in] a register inscribed.
Transliteration
Kitābun marqūm
Tafsir (Explanation)
This phrase refers to the divine record of deeds (the Book of Deeds) that is inscribed and preserved with absolute precision. According to classical scholars like Ibn Kathir and Al-Tabari, this ayah emphasizes that all actions of the righteous are meticulously recorded by the angels and preserved in the Preserved Tablet (Al-Lawh Al-Mahfuz), indicating the certainty of divine accountability and reward.
Revelation Context
This ayah appears in the context of Surah Al-Mutaffifin, which was revealed in Mecca to condemn commercial fraud and dishonesty. Verse 9 specifically describes the fate of the righteous whose deeds are recorded; it contrasts with the preceding verses about those who defraud in measurements, emphasizing that God overlooks nothing and keeps perfect records of all actions.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: 'The pen has been lifted and the ink has dried' (Jami' at-Tirmidhi 2516), referring to the finality of divine decree and recording. Additionally, Surah At-Talaq 12 states 'Allah knows what you do,' connecting to the theme of divine knowledge and recording of all deeds.
Themes
Key Lesson
Every action, no matter how small, is witnessed and recorded by Allah with perfect precision, which should inspire believers to maintain integrity and righteousness in all dealings. This knowledge serves as a powerful deterrent from dishonesty and an encouragement toward virtue in both public and private life.