فَإِنَّمَا هِىَ زَجْرَةٌ وَٰحِدَةٌ فَإِذَا هُمْ يَنظُرُونَ 19
Translations
It will be only one shout, and at once they will be observing.
Transliteration
Fa-inna-maa hiya zajratun waahidatun fa-izaa hum yanzuroon
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah describes the Day of Resurrection, stating that the resurrection will occur through a single blast of the trumpet (Israfil's trumpet), after which people will immediately be resurrected and able to see. Ibn Kathir and Al-Tabari explain that 'zajratun waahidah' (a single cry/blast) refers to the second trumpet blast that brings about resurrection, contrasting with the first blast that causes destruction. The sudden transition from 'zajratun' (a shout/cry) to their ability to perceive indicates the instantaneous nature of resurrection and the swift realization of accountability.
Revelation Context
This ayah appears within Surah As-Saffat, a Meccan surah that comprehensively addresses the reality of the Hereafter and resurrection—a primary concern of the Meccan message. The surah uses vivid imagery to convince the polytheists of Mecca of inevitable resurrection, responding to their denial and mockery of the Day of Judgment mentioned throughout the surah.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet (ﷺ) said: 'The trumpet will be blown twice: the first blast will cause everything to perish except Allah, and the second blast will resurrect all creation.' (Sunan Ibn Majah and others). Additionally, Aisha reported that the Prophet mentioned the resurrection occurs in the blink of an eye, emphasizing the sudden nature described in this ayah.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah reminds believers of the certainty and suddenness of the Day of Judgment, encouraging mindfulness of accountability and the need to prepare spiritually in this life. The instantaneous nature of resurrection demonstrates Allah's absolute power and should inspire awe, humility, and commitment to righteous deeds.