وَٱلسَّـٰبِقُونَ ٱلسَّـٰبِقُونَ 10
Translations
And the forerunners, the forerunners -
Transliteration
Wa al-sabiqun al-sabiqun
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah refers to 'the foremost' or 'those who hastened' to faith and righteous deeds, mentioned as the first group of the three categories of people on the Day of Judgment in Surah Al-Waqi'ah. According to Ibn Kathir and Al-Tabari, these are the believers who preceded others in embracing Islam, performing good deeds, and obeying Allah's commands. They represent the highest rank among the saved, closest to Allah in proximity and reward.
Revelation Context
This ayah is part of Surah Al-Waqi'ah's description of the three groups of souls on the Day of Resurrection. The surah, revealed in Mecca, categorizes humanity based on their spiritual status: al-sabiqun (the foremost), ashab al-yameen (the people of the right), and ashab al-shimal (the people of the left). This context emphasizes the Meccan theme of accountability and the hierarchical nature of divine reward.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: 'The best of you are those who are best to their families, and I am the best among you to my family' (Tirmidhi 3895), reflecting the practical manifestation of being among al-sabiqun. Additionally, 'The foremost in this ummah will be foremost in the Hereafter' relates to the concept of precedence in faith and deeds.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah encourages believers to strive to be among al-sabiqun by hastening to good deeds, strengthening their faith, and prioritizing obedience to Allah—reminding us that our position in the afterlife is determined by our spiritual commitment in this life.