وَلَوْلَا كَلِمَةٌ سَبَقَتْ مِن رَّبِّكَ لَكَانَ لِزَامًا وَأَجَلٌ مُّسَمًّى 129
Translations
And if not for a word that preceded from your Lord, it [i.e., punishment] would have been an obligation [due immediately], and [if not for] a specified term [decreed].
Transliteration
Wa-law-lā kalimah sabaqat min rabbika la-kāna li-zāman wa-ajalun musammā
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah refers to Allah's decree that if not for His prior Word of mercy and postponement, punishment would have been inevitable and swift upon the people. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir explain this in the context of Pharaoh and his people—Allah's prior decree gave them respite and a fixed term of life before their destruction, demonstrating that all punishments are subject to Allah's predetermined will and mercy. Al-Qurtubi notes this reflects the divine wisdom in delaying consequences, allowing opportunity for repentance.
Revelation Context
This verse appears in Surah Taha within the narrative of Prophet Moses and Pharaoh's disbelief. It emphasizes that despite Pharaoh's persistent rejection and arrogance, Allah's established Word of mercy and justice determines the timeline of events. The broader context illustrates how Allah grants respite to nations to test their faith and provide opportunity for guidance.
Related Hadiths
The concept relates to the hadith in Sahih Muslim where the Prophet (ﷺ) said: 'Every soul will taste death, and We test you with evil and good as trial, and to Us you will be returned.' This reflects the predetermined nature of lifespans and trials. Additionally, Tirmidhi records that the Prophet taught about Allah's decree preceding all actions.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah teaches that delays in facing consequences are not signs of immunity from accountability, but rather expressions of Divine mercy and wisdom—opportunities for reflection and repentance. It reminds believers that all timings and outcomes are in Allah's hands, encouraging patience, humility, and constant vigilance in faith.