ثُمَّ ٱجْتَبَـٰهُ رَبُّهُۥ فَتَابَ عَلَيْهِ وَهَدَىٰ 122
Translations
Then his Lord chose him and turned to him in forgiveness and guided [him].
Transliteration
Thumma ijtabahu rabbuhu fataba alayhi wa hada
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah describes Allah's choice of Adam and His acceptance of Adam's repentance after his mistake of eating from the forbidden tree. According to classical scholars like Ibn Kathir and Al-Tabari, the word 'ijtaba' (chose/selected) indicates that despite Adam's slip, Allah selected him for honor and prophethood, while 'taba alayhi' (turned to him in mercy) shows Allah's forgiveness. This ayah emphasizes that even the greatest of Allah's servants are not infallible, but those whom Allah chooses receive His guidance and mercy when they repent sincerely.
Revelation Context
This ayah concludes the account of Adam's creation, his time in Paradise, his error, and his repentance (Surah Taha, verses 117-122). It occurs within the Meccan period and contextualizes the broader Islamic teaching that prophethood and divine selection are compatible with human fallibility, serving as consolation to the Prophet Muhammad during early Meccan persecution.
Related Hadiths
The hadith in Sahih Muslim where the Prophet Muhammad said: 'All children of Adam commit sins, and the best of those who commit sins are those who repent' (Hadith of Great Sins) relates thematically to Allah's acceptance of repentance. Additionally, Tirmidhi records that the Prophet said Adam is one of the five greatest messengers (along with Noah, Abraham, Moses, and Jesus).
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah teaches believers that sincere repentance and seeking Allah's forgiveness can restore one's spiritual station and divine favor, regardless of past mistakes. It demonstrates that Allah's mercy and guidance are always available to those who turn back to Him with genuine hearts, offering hope and encouragement to all who struggle with their faith journey.