ٱلَّذِى يُوَسْوِسُ فِى صُدُورِ ٱلنَّاسِ 5
Translations
Who whispers [evil] into the breasts of mankind -
Transliteration
Al-ladhi yuwaswisu fi suduri an-nas
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah describes Satan (the whisperer) who instigates evil thoughts and temptations within the hearts of people. According to Ibn Kathir and Al-Tabari, the 'waswasa' (whisper) refers to Satan's subtle method of casting doubts and evil suggestions into human hearts, exploiting human weakness and desire. This is Satan's primary tactic against mankind—not overt coercion, but psychological and spiritual manipulation through whispered temptations.
Revelation Context
Surah Al-Nas is the final chapter of the Qur'an and was revealed in Mecca during the early Islamic period. This ayah continues the description of the enemy (Satan/Iblis) introduced in the previous verse, establishing the nature of his assault on humanity. The surah addresses the fundamental human need for protection against Satan's schemes, particularly his method of infiltrating the human conscience.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: 'Verily Satan runs through the son of Adam like blood runs through his veins' (Sahih Bukhari 3282), illustrating how deeply Satan's whispers penetrate human consciousness. Additionally, 'The best among you are those who learn the Qur'an and teach it' (Sahih Bukhari 5027) relates to the protection Qur'anic knowledge provides against such whispers.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah teaches us that the greatest threat to our spiritual well-being comes not from external forces but from internal whispers that exploit our desires and doubts. Understanding Satan's subtle methods—rather than fearing his power—empowers believers to seek refuge in Allah and strengthen their hearts through remembrance (dhikr) and Qur'anic recitation.