Surah Al-Hijr — Verse 63

Word Meanings:

• "يمترون" (yamtarūn): They doubt, dispute, or harbor skepticism about something. It conveys the sense of being in a state of uncertainty and disbelief regarding a matter.

Explanation of the Verse:

The angels, who had come to Prophet Lot (peace be upon him) in the form of handsome young men, addressed his fears directly. When Lot expressed his distress and anxiety about his people's intentions toward his guests, they reassured him with these words: "Rather, we have come to you with that which they were doubting."

They meant: Do not fear, O Lot. We have not come for the purpose you suspect, but rather we have come to bring upon your people the very punishment they used to deny and mock. You had warned them repeatedly about Allah's wrath and the coming torment for their abominable sins—sins never committed before in all of creation—but they dismissed your warnings as empty threats. They would say, "When will this punishment come, if you are truthful?" Now, that promised punishment has arrived with us, and it is inevitable. We have come with the truth from Allah, and we are indeed truthful in what we tell you. So prepare yourself, for the time of reckoning has come.

A Da'wah Reflection:

This verse carries a profound lesson for every believer: Allah's promise is true, and His justice is certain. The people of Lot were given ample time to repent, yet they persisted in their arrogance and mockery of the truth. They doubted the warnings, but the punishment came when they least expected it. As believers, we must never be swayed by the ridicule of those who deny the truth. The Qur'an and the teachings of Islam are not mere stories—they are a living reality. Allah's help for His righteous servants is guaranteed, just as His punishment for the transgressors is certain. Let this verse strengthen your faith: no matter how long the night of trial seems, the dawn of Allah's victory is near. Hold firm to your trust in Allah, for He never fails His promise, and He is always with those who are patient and steadfast.