Tafsir & Commentary
Ta-Ha (طه) · Meccan
قُلْ كُلٌّ مُّتَرَبِّصٌ فَتَرَبَّصُوا۟ ۖ فَسَتَعْلَمُونَ مَنْ أَصْحَـٰبُ ٱلصِّرَٰطِ ٱلسَّوِىِّ وَمَنِ ٱهْتَدَىٰ135
20:135
Translation — Sahih International
Say, "Each [of us] is waiting; so wait. For you will know who are the companions of the sound path and who is guided."
Transliteration
Qul kullun mutarabbis fatarabbasoo fasataAAlamoon man ashaab assiraat assawiyy wamani ihtada
Tafsir (Explanation)
Allah commands the Prophet (peace be upon him) to tell the disbelievers that everyone is waiting and observing the outcome, so let them continue to wait—they will soon know who follows the straight path and who is truly guided. Ibn Kathir and Al-Tabari interpret this as a challenge and warning to the Meccans that the truth will ultimately become manifest, and the consequences of following or rejecting guidance will be evident in both this life and the afterlife. This ayah emphasizes that truth cannot remain hidden indefinitely, and the righteous will be distinguished from the misguided.
Revelation Context (Asbab al-Nuzul)
This ayah concludes Surah Ta-Ha, which was revealed in Mecca during the early period of Islamic revelation when the Prophet faced intense opposition and rejection from the Quraysh. The broader context of the surah addresses the mockery and disbelief the Prophet encountered, and this closing verse serves as a reassurance and challenge: time will vindicate the truth and expose falsehood.
Related Hadiths
The concept relates to Surah Al-Anfal 8:32 and the hadith in Sahih Bukhari where the Prophet said disputes will continue until the Day of Judgment, but Allah's guidance will ultimately prevail. Additionally, the principle is reflected in various ahadith about the victory of Islam and the manifest nature of truth over falsehood.
Themes
Key Lessons
In times of opposition or uncertainty, believers should remain confident that truth will ultimately prevail and be recognized by all. This ayah teaches patience and faith that Allah's guidance is clear and unmistakable, and the righteous path will be distinguished from falsehood, whether in this world or the next.