Surah An-Nahl — Verse 77

Word Meanings:

• Ghayb (غَيْبُ): The unseen, that which is hidden from human perception and knowledge.
• Lamh al-Basar (لَمْحِ الْبَصَرِ): The blink of an eye, a glance so quick it takes no measurable time.
• Amr (أَمْرُ): The matter, affair, or command concerning something.

Tafsir (Explanation):

To Allah alone belongs the knowledge of all that is hidden in the heavens and the earth. No creature—whether angel, prophet, or human—can access this unseen except what Allah reveals to them. He is the sole possessor of the keys to the unseen, and His knowledge encompasses every secret, every mystery, and every event that has occurred or will occur.

When the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was asked about the Hour—the Day of Judgment—Allah revealed this verse to clarify its nature. The coming of the Hour, despite being one of the greatest and most awe-inspiring events of creation, is for Allah as swift as the blinking of an eye—or even swifter. When Allah wills something to happen, He merely says "Be," and it is. There is no delay, no obstacle, and no process that can slow His command. The Hour will come suddenly, without warning, at the exact moment Allah has decreed.

This verse serves as a profound reminder of Allah's absolute power and sovereignty. If He can create the heavens and the earth, bring life from death, and manage the affairs of all existence, then bringing about the Hour is trivial for Him. The One who holds all power over everything cannot be hindered by time, space, or circumstance.

Da'wah Reflection:

Dear reader, reflect deeply on this verse. The Day of Judgment is closer to you than you imagine—closer than the blink of an eye in Allah's decree. Yet, how often do we live as if it is far away? How often do we postpone repentance, delay good deeds, and immerse ourselves in worldly distractions?

This verse is not meant to frighten you into despair, but to awaken you into action. The same Allah who can bring the Hour in an instant is the Allah who hears your prayers, forgives your sins, and rewards your smallest good deeds. He is Al-Qadeer—the All-Powerful—and His mercy is as vast as His power. Turn to Him now, before the blink of an eye passes and the Hour arrives. Seek His forgiveness, draw closer to Him through prayer and charity, and live each moment as if it may be your last. For indeed, Allah is capable of all things, and His promise is true.