وَأَصْحَـٰبُ ٱلْيَمِينِ مَآ أَصْحَـٰبُ ٱلْيَمِينِ 27
Translations
The companions of the right - what are the companions of the right?
Transliteration
Wa ashhaab al-yameen, maa ashhaab al-yameen
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah introduces the people of the right hand (Ashhaab al-Yameen), one of three groups mentioned in Surah Al-Waqi'ah, referring to the righteous believers who will enter Paradise. The phrase 'What are the people of the right hand?' is a rhetorical question expressing wonder and honor at their elevated status. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir explain that 'the right hand' is metaphorically associated with honor, virtue, and divine favor, contrasting with those of the left hand who face punishment.
Revelation Context
This ayah appears within the Meccan surah Al-Waqi'ah, which describes the Day of Judgment and the categorization of humanity into three groups based on their deeds and faith. The broader context emphasizes the certainty of the Day of Resurrection (al-Waqi'ah), with this verse beginning the detailed description of the blessed state of the righteous believers in the afterlife.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said regarding the right side: 'The best among you are those with the best character' (Jami' at-Tirmidhi). Additionally, hadith regarding actions: 'The best of deeds are those done consistently, even if small' (Sahih Bukhari), relating to the righteous conduct of Ashhaab al-Yameen.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah reminds believers that their ultimate status on the Day of Judgment depends on their faith and righteous deeds in this life, encouraging us to strive to be among those honored by Allah through sincere worship and moral excellence.