إِنَّ فِى ذَٰلِكَ لَعِبْرَةً لِّمَن يَخْشَىٰٓ 26
Translations
Indeed in that is a lesson [i.e., warning] for whoever would fear [Allāh].
Transliteration
Inna fi dhalika la-ibratun liman yakhsha
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah concludes the narrative of Pharaoh's destruction, affirming that within this account lies a profound lesson for those who fear Allah. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir and Al-Tabari emphasize that the destruction of Pharaoh and his army serves as a clear warning (ibrah) and admonition for believers—those possessing God-consciousness will extract guidance from historical examples of divine punishment. The ayah stresses that intellectual and spiritual receptivity depends on one's taqwa (fear/reverence of Allah), as only those with sincere hearts can derive benefit from such signs.
Revelation Context
This ayah appears near the end of Surah An-Nazi'at, following the detailed account of Prophet Musa's confrontation with Pharaoh and the latter's drowning in the sea. The surah was revealed in Mecca during the early Islamic period when the Quraysh rejected the Prophet's message. The context emphasizes that Pharaoh's fate is a timeless lesson for those who witness signs of Allah but choose to deny them.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet (ﷺ) said: 'The best of you are those who learn the Quran and teach it' (Sahih Bukhari 5027), relating to how believers should internalize Quranic lessons. Additionally, 'Take lessons from the lives of the nations that passed before you' is a principle encouraged throughout Islamic tradition (Tirmidhi and related works).
Themes
Key Lesson
Those who genuinely fear Allah will extract profound wisdom and guidance from historical accounts of divine justice, using them to strengthen their faith and avoid the pitfalls that led others to destruction. Modern believers should approach Quranic narratives not as mere stories but as living lessons that shape moral consciousness and devotion to God.