Surah Al-Baqarah — Verse 167

Word Meanings:

• Karratan (كَرَّةً): A return, a second chance to go back to the worldly life.
• Natabarra’ (نَتَبَرَّأ): We declare ourselves free from them, disowning them and their ways.
• Tabarra’ū (تَبَرَّءُوا): They disowned us, declared their innocence of us.
• Ḥasarāt (حَسَرَاتٍ): Regrets, deep sorrows, and grief over missed opportunities and lost chances.

Explanation of the Verse:

On the Day of Judgment, when the truth becomes crystal clear and all falsehood is exposed, the followers—those who were led astray by their leaders, chiefs, and idols—will cry out in utter despair: "If only we could have one more chance to return to the world! Then we would disown them just as they have disowned us today." They will see their former leaders and masters openly disowning them, denying any responsibility for their misguidance, and washing their hands of them. In that moment, the followers realize the terrible deception they fell into, and they wish they could go back to undo their blind obedience.

And just as Allah shows them the severity of His punishment on that Day, He also shows them their deeds—every act they performed in the world while following their misguided leaders—turned into nothing but regrets and sorrows. Their good deeds were wasted because their intentions were corrupted, and their evil deeds now stand as witnesses against them. They will be overwhelmed with grief, realizing that they traded eternal bliss for temporary pleasures, and true guidance for hollow falsehood.

But their wish will never be granted. They will not be brought back to the world, nor will they ever escape the Fire. Their destiny is sealed, and they will remain in the torment forever. This is the ultimate consequence of turning away from Allah’s guidance and blindly following those who lead others away from the Straight Path.

A Call to Reflection:

Dear reader, this scene is not merely a story of the past—it is a vivid warning for you and me today. How many of us follow the crowd without questioning, without seeking the truth for ourselves? How many of us imitate the ways of society, celebrities, or so-called "role models" who are themselves lost? The regret of that Day will be unbearable, and no wish for a second chance will be granted.

Let this verse awaken your heart. Do not wait until the veil is lifted and the truth becomes undeniable—for then, it will be too late. Seek Allah’s guidance now, hold firmly to His Book and the authentic teachings of His Messenger ﷺ, and never let anyone lead you away from the path of righteousness. The doors of repentance are open today, but they will be sealed tomorrow. Be among those who say, "Our Lord, guide us to the straight path," and act upon it with sincerity, so that on that Day you will not be among those who cry out in regret, but among those who rejoice in Allah’s mercy and eternal reward.