قَالَ نَعَمْ وَإِنَّكُمْ إِذًا لَّمِنَ ٱلْمُقَرَّبِينَ 42
Translations
He said, "Yes, and indeed, you will then be of those near [to me]."
Transliteration
Qala na'am wa innakum idhan lamin al-muqarrabeen
Tafsir (Explanation)
Pharaoh responds affirmatively to his magicians' request for reward if they prevail against Moses, saying 'Yes, and you will indeed be among those brought near [to me in honor and position].' This statement reflects Pharaoh's arrogance and his attempt to motivate his magicians through promises of worldly status and proximity to his throne, demonstrating the deceptive nature of tyrannical leadership that relies on empty promises rather than truth.
Revelation Context
This ayah occurs within the narrative of Pharaoh's confrontation with Prophet Moses, specifically during the contest between Moses and Pharaoh's magicians. The broader context of Surah Ash-Shu'ara illustrates various prophetic confrontations with their peoples, emphasizing the recurring pattern of disbelievers rejecting divine truth. This particular incident demonstrates how those in power attempt to use material incentives to suppress the message of Allah.
Related Hadiths
While no hadith directly addresses this specific ayah, the theme relates to the general warnings against following tyrants. In Sahih Muslim, the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) warned against those who command people away from obedience to Allah, and in various accounts, the Prophet highlighted how Pharaoh's promises were ultimately worthless and his followers were destroyed.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah teaches that material rewards and promises of proximity to power are hollow incentives that cannot compete with the truth of Allah's message. Believers should recognize that true honor comes not from flattery or earthly status, but from submission to Allah and His guidance.