وَمَا نَتَنَزَّلُ إِلَّا بِأَمْرِ رَبِّكَ ۖ لَهُۥ مَا بَيْنَ أَيْدِينَا وَمَا خَلْفَنَا وَمَا بَيْنَ ذَٰلِكَ ۚ وَمَا كَانَ رَبُّكَ نَسِيًّا 64
Translations
[Gabriel said], "And we [angels] descend not except by the order of your Lord. To Him belongs that before us and that behind us and what is in between. And never is your Lord forgetful -
Transliteration
Wa mā natarazzzalu illā bi-amri Rabbika, lahū mā bayna aydīnā wa mā khalfanā wa mā bayna dhālik, wa mā kāna Rabbuka nasiyya.
Tafsir (Explanation)
Gabriel (Jibril) affirms that the angels descend only by the command of Allah, emphasizing divine sovereignty and order in the celestial realm. This ayah conveys that Allah encompasses all of time and existence—past, present, and future—and never forgets His creation or promises. Classical scholars like Al-Tabari emphasize that this statement reinforces Allah's perfect knowledge and control over all affairs, and serves to comfort the Prophet (peace be upon him) that divine assistance comes only through Allah's will and timing.
Revelation Context
This ayah appears in the context of Gabriel's reassurance to Mary (Maryam) regarding the miraculous conception of Jesus. The angel is explaining the nature of his visitation and establishing that all heavenly actions occur under divine command, not by angelic initiative. This reinforces the monotheistic theme of Surah Maryam, which celebrates divine power and mercy.
Related Hadiths
Hadith in Sahih Bukhari and Sahih Muslim relates that the Prophet said, 'The angels take turns in visiting you by night and day, and they all gather at the time of Fajr and Asr prayers.' This demonstrates the organization and commandment-based nature of angelic duties mentioned in this ayah.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah reassures believers that every blessing, guidance, and assistance in their lives arrives through Allah's deliberate command and infinite wisdom, not by chance or angelic whim; therefore, we should place our complete trust in Allah's plan and never doubt His vigilance over our affairs.