أَفَنَجْعَلُ ٱلْمُسْلِمِينَ كَٱلْمُجْرِمِينَ 35
Translations
Then will We treat the Muslims like the criminals?
Transliteration
Afanajʿalu al-muslimīna ka-al-mujrimīn
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah poses a rhetorical question condemning the absurdity of equating Muslims (those who submit to Allah) with criminals and wrongdoers. The verse emphasizes that believers and disbelievers, the righteous and the wicked, cannot and should not be treated or judged as equivalent. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir note this highlights the fundamental distinction between obedience to Allah and rebellion against Him, making it impossible for these two groups to have equal status or reward.
Revelation Context
This ayah appears in the context of Surah Al-Qalam, which addresses the opposition the Prophet Muhammad faced from the Quraysh. The broader passage (verses 34-35) discusses how the righteous and the wicked will receive different rewards, serving to console the Prophet and reassure believers that their submission to Allah distinguishes them from those who reject faith and commit crimes.
Related Hadiths
The principle reflected here relates to Sahih Muslim 2299, where the Prophet said: 'The believer's shade on the Day of Resurrection will be his charity,' emphasizing the distinction in reward between believers and wrongdoers. Additionally, Surah Al-Qalam 68:34-35 itself sets up the distinction that precedes this ayah about the gardens (paradise) prepared for the righteous.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah teaches believers that submission to Allah fundamentally transforms one's identity and destiny, and that true honor comes from faith and obedience rather than worldly power or status. It reassures Muslims that their commitment to righteousness is recognized by Allah and cannot be equated with the deeds of those who reject Him.