ٱلَّذِىٓ أَطْعَمَهُم مِّن جُوعٍ وَءَامَنَهُم مِّنْ خَوْفٍۭ 4
Translations
Who has fed them, [saving them] from hunger and made them safe, [saving them] from fear.
Transliteration
Al-ladhi at'amahum min ju'in wa ammanahum min khawf
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah refers to Allah's blessings upon the Quraysh, specifically how He provided them with food when they were hungry and granted them security when they were fearful. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir explain that this refers to Allah's provision during times of hardship and His protection of the Quraysh, particularly their safe passage through the Arabian Peninsula for trade. The ayah emphasizes divine benevolence and establishes the foundation for gratitude, which is the central theme of Surah Quraysh.
Revelation Context
Surah Quraysh was revealed to remind the Quraysh of Allah's favors upon them, particularly the blessings of the Kaaba and the safe trade routes that brought them prosperity. This ayah specifically references Allah's historical protection and provision of the tribe, serving as a reminder that their well-being stemmed from divine grace rather than their own efforts, thereby calling them to acknowledge Allah's oneness and reject idolatry.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, 'The best of charity is when one gives charity during times of hardship' (Tirmidhi). Additionally, the hadith 'Whoever is saved from the Fire and admitted to Paradise has succeeded' (Sahih Muslim) relates thematically to the security mentioned in this ayah.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah teaches us that all provisions and security ultimately come from Allah alone, and we should respond to His blessings with gratitude and sincere worship rather than ingratitude and shirk. For modern readers, it serves as a reminder to recognize Allah's daily provisions—food, safety, and stability—and to cultivate a heart of thankfulness and dependence upon Him.