عُرُبًا أَتْرَابًا 37
Translations
Devoted [to their husbands] and of equal age,
Transliteration
'Uruban atrab
Tafsir (Explanation)
This phrase describes the maidens of Paradise as 'urub (full of love and affection toward their spouses) and atrab (equal in age and compatibility with one another). Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir and Al-Qurtubi explain that 'urub refers to women who are devoted and tender with their husbands, while atrab emphasizes that the houris in Paradise will be perfectly matched in age, beauty, and temperament, creating ideal companionship. This ayah is part of the description of the rewards awaiting the righteous in Jannah.
Revelation Context
Surah Al-Waqi'ah is a Meccan surah revealed to emphasize the reality of the Day of Judgment and provide comfort to believers facing persecution. This particular ayah appears within the broader description of Paradise's blessings, designed to encourage steadfastness in faith and righteous deeds during the early Islamic period when believers faced hardship.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said regarding the people of Paradise: 'Each man from the people of Paradise will have two wives from the houris' (Jami' at-Tirmidhi). Additionally, the general theme of eternal companionship in Paradise is referenced in multiple ahadith describing the superior nature of Paradise's inhabitants.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah reminds believers that God has prepared incomparable blessings and perfect relationships for those who remain steadfast in faith and righteousness. The emphasis on perfect compatibility and affection in Paradise encourages us to value good character, devotion, and harmonious relationships in this life as well.