وَإِن كَانُوا۟ مِن قَبْلِ أَن يُنَزَّلَ عَلَيْهِم مِّن قَبْلِهِۦ لَمُبْلِسِينَ 49
Translations
Although they were, before it was sent down upon them - before that, in despair.
Transliteration
Wa-in kanu min qabli an yunazzala alayhim min qablihi lamubliseen
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah refers to the people's state of despair and hopelessness before rain was sent down to them. The word 'mubliseen' (despaired) indicates they had lost all hope for relief from drought and hardship. Classical scholars like Al-Tabari and Ibn Kathir explain that this verse illustrates how Allah's mercy manifests through provision (rain), demonstrating that even in the darkest circumstances of despair, divine assistance is near.
Revelation Context
This ayah is part of Surah Ar-Rum's discussion of divine signs in creation and nature. The broader context (ayahs 48-50) discusses the cycle of rain and its life-giving properties, serving as proof of Allah's power and mercy. It speaks to the Arabian context where rainfall was vital for survival, making the phenomenon of rain a clear sign of Allah's providence.
Related Hadiths
The concept relates to Hadith Qudsi: 'My mercy precedes My wrath' (Sahih Bukhari 3194), emphasizing Allah's merciful nature even when people are in despair. Also relevant is the hadith about seeking rain through prayer (Dua for Istisqa'), found in various collections including Sahih Bukhari and Muslim.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah teaches us that feelings of despair should not lead us to lose faith, as Allah's mercy and relief often come when circumstances seem most hopeless. It encourages us to maintain trust in Allah's providence and recognize His signs in the natural world around us.