مَا يُبَدَّلُ ٱلْقَوْلُ لَدَىَّ وَمَآ أَنَا۠ بِظَلَّـٰمٍ لِّلْعَبِيدِ 29
Translations
The word [i.e., decree] will not be changed with Me, and never will I be unjust to the servants."
Transliteration
Ma yubaddalu al-qawlu ladayya wa ma ana bi-dhallamin lil-abid
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah affirms Allah's absolute justice and the immutability of His decree, stated in the context of the Day of Judgment. Allah declares that His word cannot be changed or altered, and He is not unjust to His servants—meaning every soul will receive exactly what it deserves based on its deeds. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir emphasize that this reassurance comes as Allah addresses those who will enter Paradise and those who will enter Hell, assuring all of His perfect fairness in judgment.
Revelation Context
This ayah appears in the context of Surah Qaf's description of the Day of Resurrection and the final judgment. It comes after the detailed account of how souls are recorded and brought forth on the Day of Judgment, serving to reassure believers of Allah's justice and the certainty of His divine decree in matters of accountability and reward/punishment.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet (ﷺ) said: 'The most merciful of you in judgment among your people will be those who fear Allah most.' (Tirmidhi) - This relates to the theme of divine justice. Also relevant: 'Verily, Allah has prescribed excellence (ihsan) in all things.' (Sahih Muslim 1955) - emphasizing Allah's perfect justice in all His dealings.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah should instill confidence in believers that Allah's judgment is absolutely just and no one will be wronged on the Day of Resurrection, encouraging righteous conduct and trust in Divine wisdom. For modern readers, it serves as a reminder that ultimate fairness exists with Allah alone, and therefore we should strive for justice in our dealings while surrendering our ultimate concerns to His perfect judgment.