Surah Yusuf — Verse 57

Word Meanings:

• Wa la-ajru al-ākhirah — And the reward of the Hereafter (the eternal recompense prepared by Allah for His righteous servants).
• Khayr — Better, greater, and more excellent in value and permanence.
• Āmanū — Those who believed (with sincere faith in Allah, His messengers, and His revelations).
• Yattaqūn — Those who are mindful of Allah, guarding themselves against disobedience by following His commands and avoiding His prohibitions — and, as one interpretation clarifies, specifically guarding against *shirk* (associating partners with Allah).

Explanation of the Verse:

After Prophet Yusuf (Joseph, peace be upon him) was raised to a position of great authority and honor in Egypt — entrusted with the treasures of the land and reunited with his family — Allah reminds us of a profound truth: the worldly reward, no matter how magnificent, is fleeting and limited. But the reward of the Hereafter is infinitely greater, more enduring, and more valuable for those who combine two essential qualities: faith (īmān) and God-consciousness (taqwā).

Faith alone is not enough; it must be accompanied by taqwā — a living, active awareness of Allah that translates into obedience to His commands and avoidance of His prohibitions. The believer who possesses both qualities has secured the best of both worlds: success in this life through Allah's blessings, and eternal bliss in the life to come.

This verse carries a beautiful and uplifting message for every believer. It tells us that no matter how much good we achieve in this world — whether wealth, status, knowledge, or comfort — the true and lasting treasure lies with Allah. The pleasures of this world are like a drop in the ocean compared to what Allah has prepared for His righteous servants: gardens of everlasting delight, peace that never ends, and the greatest reward of all — the pleasure and nearness of Allah Himself.

So let this verse inspire you, dear reader: strive in this life, work hard, and seek lawful provision — but never let the glitter of this world distract you from the eternal prize. Keep your faith firm, guard your heart against sin, and live every moment with the awareness that Allah sees you. For indeed, the reward of the Hereafter is better — and it is the ultimate success that never fades.