ٱلرَّحْمَـٰنُ عَلَى ٱلْعَرْشِ ٱسْتَوَىٰ 5
Translations
The Most Merciful [who is] above the Throne established.
Transliteration
Ar-Rahman alá al-'arsh istawa
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah affirms that Ar-Rahman (The Most Merciful) has established Himself upon the Throne in a manner befitting His Majesty and Grandeur. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir explain that 'istawa' (استوى) conveys Allah's supreme dominion and perfect control over all creation, while maintaining that the exact nature of how Allah relates to the Throne is beyond human comprehension—we affirm it without asking 'how' (bila kayf). Al-Tabari notes this ayah emphasizes Allah's sovereignty and His transcendence above creation while simultaneously highlighting His attribute of mercy toward His servants.
Revelation Context
Surah Taha was revealed in Mecca during the early period of Prophet Muhammad's mission. This ayah appears in the opening section of the surah where Allah introduces His divine attributes and majesty to the Meccan disbelievers, establishing the foundation for monotheistic belief before addressing the story of Prophet Musa and the fundamental tenets of faith.
Related Hadiths
The hadith in Sahih Bukhari (4:54:414) where the Prophet ﷺ said, 'Verily, your Lord is not hidden from you,' relates to the knowledge and omniscience that accompanies Allah's throne. Additionally, the hadith about Allah creating the heavens and earth in six days and then establishing Himself upon the Throne (mentioned in multiple surahs) connects to this ayah's theme of divine sovereignty.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah teaches believers that while Allah is transcendent and beyond full human comprehension, He exercises perfect control and mercy over all existence. For modern readers, it provides comfort in knowing that a Merciful and All-Powerful God governs the universe with wisdom, inviting trust in His providence even amid life's uncertainties.