إِلَّا مَنْ أَتَى ٱللَّهَ بِقَلْبٍ سَلِيمٍ 89
Translations
But only one who comes to Allāh with a sound heart."
Transliteration
Illa man ata Allaha biqalbin salim
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah means 'except for one who comes to Allah with a sound heart' (Qalb Salim). According to Ibn Kathir and Al-Tabari, the 'sound heart' refers to a heart free from shirk (polytheism), hypocrisy, doubt, and worldly attachments—a heart devoted solely to Allah's worship and obedience. This ayah emphasizes that on the Day of Judgment, wealth, children, and good deeds will be of no avail except for those whose hearts are spiritually pure and sincere in their faith.
Revelation Context
This ayah appears in Surah Ash-Shu'ara, which addresses the Meccan polytheists' rejection of the Quran and the Prophet. The broader context (verses 84-89) references Prophet Ibrahim's warning to his people about the Day of Judgment, where material possessions and family will not benefit anyone—only a sound, God-fearing heart will save a person.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said: 'Verily, in the body there is a piece of flesh. If it is sound, the whole body is sound; and if it is corrupt, the whole body is corrupt. Verily, it is the heart.' (Sahih Bukhari 52). Additionally, the Prophet emphasized: 'The most beloved deed to Allah is the most sincere, even if it is little.' (Sunan An-Nasa'i)
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah reminds believers that true success lies not in accumulating worldly wealth or status, but in cultivating a heart that is pure, sincere, and devoted to Allah. In modern times, it calls us to examine our intentions and ensure our hearts are free from hypocrisy, greed, and spiritual negligence.