Surah Maryam — Verse 98

Word Meanings:

• Qarn (قرن): A generation or a nation that lived in a particular era.
• Tuhissu (تُحِسُّ): To perceive, sense, or see with one's own eyes.
• Rikzan (رِكْزًا): A faint, hidden sound or a barely audible whisper—indicating the complete absence of any trace of life.

Tafsir (Explanation):

O Messenger, how many nations before your people did We destroy! They were mighty in power, numerous in numbers, and firmly established on earth—yet when their time came, they vanished as if they had never existed. Now, do you see any one of them remaining? Do you hear even the faintest whisper from them? No! Nothing remains of them except the stories of their destruction and the lessons embedded in their ruins.

This verse serves as a powerful reminder and a stern warning. Just as those previous generations were wiped out for their arrogance and denial of the truth, so too will the stubborn disbelievers of your time face the same fate if they persist in their rejection. The One who destroyed them is fully capable of destroying those who come after them. Nothing escapes His power, and no one can stand against His decree.

A Call to Reflection and Faith:

Dear reader, pause and reflect on this profound truth: the world has witnessed countless civilizations that boasted of their strength, wealth, and achievements—yet all of them have perished. Their palaces have crumbled, their voices have fallen silent, and their names have faded into oblivion. This is the fate of those who turn away from their Creator and reject His messengers.

But there is a beautiful lesson here for the believer: the only thing that truly remains is the relationship with Allah. Those who submit to Him, follow His guidance, and live righteously are the ones who attain eternal success—not in this fleeting world alone, but in the everlasting life to come. So do not be deceived by the temporary glitter of this world, and do not be arrogant in your power, for the One who holds all power is Allah alone.

Let this verse inspire you to turn back to Allah with a sincere heart, to hold firmly to His Book, and to follow the example of His beloved Prophet ﷺ. For the nations that perished were not destroyed because they were strong or weak—they were destroyed because they rejected the truth when it came to them. And the truth has come to you today, so embrace it before it is too late. Indeed, Allah is Most Merciful to those who repent, and His mercy encompasses all things.