إِنَّا بَلَوْنَـٰهُمْ كَمَا بَلَوْنَآ أَصْحَـٰبَ ٱلْجَنَّةِ إِذْ أَقْسَمُوا۟ لَيَصْرِمُنَّهَا مُصْبِحِينَ 17
Translations
Indeed, We have tried them as We tried the companions of the garden, when they swore to cut its fruit in the [early] morning
Transliteration
Inna balawanahum kamā balawna asḥāba al-jannati idh aqsamū layasrimunnaha musbihīn
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah introduces the parable of the owners of the garden, wherein Allah tests them as He tested the companions of a lush garden who made an oath to harvest it in the morning without making exception for Allah's will. According to Ibn Kathir and Al-Tabari, this ayah sets up a lesson about arrogance and the importance of relying upon Allah's decree (qadr) rather than displaying overconfidence in one's wealth and plans. The word 'balawanahum' (We tested them) emphasizes that trials and afflictions are means through which Allah refines His servants and exposes the state of their hearts.
Revelation Context
This surah is Meccan and addresses the disbelievers of Quraysh who rejected the Prophet Muhammad's message. This ayah begins a detailed parable (68:17-33) that illustrates the consequences of ingratitude, arrogance, and neglecting to acknowledge Allah's sovereignty over worldly blessings. The parable serves as a warning to those who boast in their wealth and forget their dependence on Allah.
Related Hadiths
While no hadith directly quotes this ayah, Sahih Bukhari and Sahih Muslim contain numerous hadiths about the importance of saying 'Insha'Allah' (If Allah wills) when making plans, reflecting the lesson of this parable. One relevant hadith is the account of Sulayman (AS) in Sahih Bukhari where he forgot to say 'Insha'Allah' regarding his horses.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah reminds us that worldly blessings are tests from Allah, and true wisdom lies in acknowledging His sovereignty over our plans and possessions by consistently saying 'Insha'Allah' and remaining humble before Him. Arrogance and overconfidence in our own abilities or resources can lead to humiliation and loss, whereas gratitude and reliance on Allah's will safeguard our blessings.