إِذَا زُلْزِلَتِ ٱلْأَرْضُ زِلْزَالَهَا 1
Translations
When the earth is shaken with its [final] earthquake
Transliteration
Idha zulzilatil ardu zilzalaha
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah depicts the moment when the earth will be violently shaken on the Day of Judgment with a tremendous earthquake. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir and Al-Tabari explain that 'zilzalaha' (its earthquake) refers to the most severe and violent shaking, emphasizing the cosmic upheaval that will occur as a prelude to the events of the Last Day. This opening statement sets the tone for the entire surah, which describes the eschatological signs accompanying the resurrection.
Revelation Context
Surah Az-Zalzalah is a Medinan surah that focuses entirely on the events of the Day of Judgment and the consequences of human deeds. The surah was revealed to remind the believers of accountability and the certainty of the resurrection, providing context for moral responsibility in this life.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: 'The Hour will not be established until... the earth is shaken with a violent quaking' (Sahih Bukhari 3176). Additionally, related to the Day of Judgment signs, the Prophet mentioned various earthquakes as among the minor signs preceding the Hour (Jami' at-Tirmidhi).
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah serves as a powerful reminder that the present world is temporary and will be destroyed, encouraging believers to prioritize righteous deeds and preparation for the Hereafter rather than attachment to worldly pursuits. It awakens consciousness of accountability before Allah on a day when all earthly structures and certainties will be shaken.