فَإِنْ عَصَوْكَ فَقُلْ إِنِّى بَرِىٓءٌ مِّمَّا تَعْمَلُونَ 216
Translations
And if they disobey you, then say, "Indeed, I am disassociated from what you are doing."
Transliteration
Fa-in 'asawka faqul inni baree'um mimma ta'malun
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah instructs Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) to declare his disassociation from the idolatrous deeds of those who reject his message, should they persist in disobedience. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir explain this as a directive to the Prophet to make clear the distinction between his righteous path and their sinful practices, emphasizing that he bears no responsibility for their choices. Al-Qurtubi notes this demonstrates the Prophet's duty to convey the message clearly while absolving him of accountability for those who refuse guidance.
Revelation Context
This ayah appears within Surah Ash-Shu'ara, a Meccan chapter revealed during the early period of intense Meccan opposition to the Prophet's mission. The surah addresses the mockery and rejection the Prophet faced from the Quraysh and their continued idolatrous practices. This specific verse forms part of the divine instruction regarding how to respond when people persistently reject the message despite its clear presentation.
Related Hadiths
The principle aligns with Surah Al-Kahf 18:29 and the hadith in Sahih Bukhari where the Prophet said, 'The best jihad is to speak a word of truth before a tyrannical ruler.' Additionally, the concept is reinforced in Surah An-Nahl 16:82 regarding the Prophet's responsibility being only to convey the message.
Themes
Key Lesson
Believers are reminded that while we must convey Islamic truth with wisdom and clarity, we cannot force others to accept guidance—each person bears responsibility for their own choices. This provides comfort and relief from the burden of trying to change hearts that are unwilling, allowing us to focus on sincere effort while entrusting final outcomes to Allah.