Believers are reminded to utilize their time, wealth, and abilities for righteousness before the arrival of the Day when nothing can be changed. Generosity and spending for Allah’s pleasure are acts of faith that protect against loss in the eternal life.
Arabic Text:
يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا أَنْفِقُوا مِمَّا رَزَقْنَاكُمْ مِنْ قَبْلِ أَنْ يَأْتِيَ يَوْمٌ لَا بَيْعٌ فِيهِ وَلَا خُلَّةٌ وَلَا شَفَاعَةٌ ۗ وَالْكَافِرُونَ هُمُ الظَّالِمُونَ
Translation:
“O ye who believe, spend out of what We have bestowed upon you before the Day comes when there will be no bargaining, nor friendship, nor intercession. It is those who reject Faith that do wrong.”
(Translated by Syed Abul Ala Maududi)
Tafseer (Explanation) from Tafheem-ul-Quran:
This verse is a continuation of the theme of spending in the way of Allah, urging believers to use their wealth for righteous purposes before it is too late.
Key Points from Tafheem-ul-Quran:
- Call to Believers:
Allah addresses the believers directly, emphasizing that the blessings they possess are from Him. They are commanded to spend in His cause—whether in charity, helping others, or supporting good deeds—as a test of their faith and sincerity. - Urgency Before the Day of Judgment:
The verse warns of a Day (Day of Judgment) when:
· “No bargaining” — worldly wealth and transactions will be useless.
· “No friendship” — personal connections and loyalties will not benefit anyone.
· “No intercession” — no one will be able to intercede for another except by Allah’s permission.
This highlights that the opportunity for good deeds is only in this life. - Spending as Preparation for the Hereafter:
True success in the Hereafter depends on actions in this world. Spending in the way of Allah purifies wealth and soul, increases faith, and earns divine reward. - Condemnation of Disbelievers:
The verse ends by stating that disbelievers are the wrongdoers because they deny the truth, reject Allah’s commands, and fail to prepare for the Hereafter, thus wronging their own souls.
Practical Implication (Lesson):
Believers are reminded to utilize their time, wealth, and abilities for righteousness before the arrival of the Day when nothing can be changed. Generosity and spending for Allah’s pleasure are acts of faith that protect against loss in the eternal life.