يَـٰٓأَيُّهَا ٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُوٓا۟ إِنَّ مِنْ أَزْوَٰجِكُمْ وَأَوْلَـٰدِكُمْ عَدُوًّا لَّكُمْ فَٱحْذَرُوهُمْ ۚ وَإِن تَعْفُوا۟ وَتَصْفَحُوا۟ وَتَغْفِرُوا۟ فَإِنَّ ٱللَّهَ غَفُورٌ رَّحِيمٌ 14
Translations
O you who have believed, indeed, among your spouses and your children are enemies to you, so beware of them. But if you pardon and overlook and forgive - then indeed, Allāh is Forgiving and Merciful.
Transliteration
Ya ayyuha alladhina amanu inna min azwajikum wa awladikum aduwan lakum faihtharuhum wa in ta'fu wa tasfahu wa taghfiru fa inna allaha ghafurun rahimun
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah warns believers that some spouses and children may become obstacles to faith and obedience to Allah, either through active hostility or by diverting one's focus from religious obligations. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir explain this refers to those family members who oppose Islam or hinder believers from practicing their faith. However, the ayah concludes with divine encouragement toward mercy and forgiveness, emphasizing that believers should exercise caution without abandoning compassion, trusting in Allah's mercy to guide both themselves and their loved ones.
Revelation Context
Surah At-Taghabun is a Medinan surah addressing the believing community during a period when some converts faced family opposition and persecution. This ayah occurs within the broader context of testing and trial, where the surah emphasizes the reality that worldly attachments—including family ties—may sometimes conflict with religious commitment. The ayah reflects historical situations where new Muslim converts faced resistance from disbelieving family members.
Related Hadiths
Sahih Bukhari (5186): The Prophet ﷺ said, 'The best of you are those who are best to their families, and I am the best among you to my family,' emphasizing the balance between caution and maintaining familial kindness. Also relevant: Tirmidhi (3895) regarding patience with family members who oppose faith.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah teaches believers to prioritize their religious commitment while maintaining wisdom and mercy toward family members, recognizing that vigilance against negative influences need not mean harshness or abandonment of familial bonds. It reminds us that Allah's guidance and mercy extend to all, and that patience combined with good character may ultimately benefit those closest to us.