وَكُنُوزٍ وَمَقَامٍ كَرِيمٍ 58
Translations
And treasures and honorable station -
Transliteration
wakunūzin wa maqāmin karīm
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah refers to the treasures and honorable station that Pharaoh possessed, mentioned in the context of Musa's (Moses) message to him. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir and Al-Tabari explain that despite Pharaoh's immense wealth and elevated position, these worldly possessions and status could not save him from Allah's punishment when he rejected the divine message. The ayah serves as a reminder that material riches and earthly rank are insignificant compared to obedience to Allah and acceptance of His guidance.
Revelation Context
This ayah appears in Surah Ash-Shu'ara, a Meccan chapter that recounts the stories of various prophets and their struggles against their people's disbelief. Verse 58 specifically occurs within the narrative of Prophet Musa's confrontation with Pharaoh, illustrating how even the most powerful and wealthy rulers are ultimately powerless against Allah's will when they persist in denial.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: 'Wealth and children are adornments of life, but the everlasting good deeds are better' (Surah Al-Kahf 18:46, thematically related). Also relevant is the hadith in Sahih Bukhari where the Prophet warned against being deceived by worldly possessions and status.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah teaches us that no amount of material wealth, treasures, or prestigious position can grant protection or honor without submitting to Allah's guidance. True dignity and security come from faith and obedience to the Divine, not from accumulating worldly possessions.