Tafsir & Commentary
Those who drag forth (النازعات) · Meccan
فَأَخَذَهُ ٱللَّهُ نَكَالَ ٱلْـَٔاخِرَةِ وَٱلْأُولَىٰٓ25
79:25
Translation — Sahih International
So Allāh seized him in exemplary punishment for the last and the first [transgression]..
Transliteration
Fa-akhdhahu allahu nakala al-akhirati wa-al-ula
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah refers to Allah's punishment of Pharaoh, who was seized by divine retribution in both this life and the next. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir explain that 'nakala' (punishment/example) encompasses Pharaoh's drowning in the sea as a punishment in this world and the eternal punishment awaiting him in the Hereafter. The dual punishment demonstrates Allah's justice toward those who arrogantly reject His signs and oppress His people.
Revelation Context (Asbab al-Nuzul)
This ayah appears in the context of Surah An-Nazi'at's narrative of Musa and Pharaoh, describing the climactic moment when Allah seized Pharaoh as punishment for his persistent rejection of the message and his tyranny. It follows the account of the ten plagues and culminates in Pharaoh's drowning, illustrating the inevitable consequences of defying Allah's messengers.
Related Hadiths
The concept of punishment in both worlds is referenced in various hadiths about the fate of disbelievers. Tirmidhi and Ibn Majah record hadiths about the punishment of the grave (al-adhab al-qabr) and the Hereafter for those who reject faith, thematically related to this ayah's mention of dual punishment.
Themes
Key Lessons
This ayah reminds believers that defying Allah's guidance inevitably leads to severe consequences, both in this life and the next, while also assuring the believers of Allah's protection and justice against oppressors. It serves as a warning that no one, regardless of power or position, is immune from Allah's punishment.