يُطَافُ عَلَيْهِم بِكَأْسٍ مِّن مَّعِينٍۭ 45
Translations
There will be circulated among them a cup [of wine] from a flowing spring,
Transliteration
Yutaafu alayhim bi-ka'sin min ma'een
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah describes the inhabitants of Paradise being served with cups of pure, flowing wine (or drink) as a sign of honor and comfort. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir and Al-Tabari explain that 'ma'een' (معين) refers to wine that flows continuously from springs in Paradise, emphasizing its pristine quality and abundance. The passive voice 'yutaafu' (they are served) highlights the effortless pleasure of the righteous, where service is rendered to them without hardship or toil.
Revelation Context
This ayah appears in Surah As-Saffat, a Meccan chapter that describes the scenes of the Hereafter, Paradise, and Hell as a means of encouragement and warning to the early Muslims. This particular verse is part of a broader description of the blessings and comforts prepared for the dwellers of Paradise, emphasizing the reward for those who were patient and righteous in the worldly life.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: 'In Paradise, there are things that no eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no human heart has imagined' (Sahih Bukhari 3244). Additionally, Surah Muhammad 47:15 complements this ayah by describing rivers of wine in Paradise for those who believe and do righteous deeds.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah reminds believers that the ultimate reward for patience, faith, and righteousness is not merely material comfort, but divine honor and ease—a state where one's needs are fulfilled effortlessly and abundantly. For modern readers, it emphasizes that temporary hardships in this life pale in comparison to the eternal blessings awaiting those who remain steadfast in their faith and obedience to Allah.