Surah Al-Anbiya — Verse 38

Word Meanings:

• Matā (مَتَىٰ): When? – a question seeking the time of an event, often used here in a mocking and impatient tone.
• Hādhā al-Waʿd (هَٰذَا الْوَعْدُ): This promise – referring to the promised punishment, resurrection, and the Day of Judgment that the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and the believers warned them about.
• In kuntum Ṣādiqīn (إِن كُنتُمْ صَادِقِينَ): If you are truthful – a conditional challenge, implying doubt and derision toward the truthfulness of the Prophet and his followers.

Tafsir (Explanation):

The disbelievers, in their arrogance and haste, repeatedly asked the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and his companions: "When will this promise of punishment and resurrection come to pass? If you are truly truthful in what you claim, then bring it upon us now!" They said this not out of sincere inquiry, but out of mockery and disbelief, challenging the very truth of the Hereafter. They thought that because the punishment was delayed, it would never come, and they used this delay as an excuse to ridicule the believers and doubt the divine promise.

This verse reflects a timeless attitude of those who reject the truth: they demand immediate proof of what they deny, while ignoring the countless signs around them and the wisdom of Allah’s timing. The promise of Allah is certain, but His wisdom determines its appointed time—whether in this world or the Hereafter—and no one can hasten what Allah has decreed.

Daʿwah Message:

Dear reader, this verse teaches us a profound lesson about patience and certainty in Allah’s promise. The disbelievers of Makkah mocked the idea of resurrection, yet history has shown that Allah’s word always prevails. For the believer, this is a call to strengthen our faith: Allah never breaks His promise, and every trial we face is temporary. Do not be shaken by the mockery of those who doubt—for their ridicule only reveals their own blindness. Instead, hold firm to the truth, for the Hereafter is nearer to the believer than they think, and the justice of Allah will surely manifest, whether in this life or the next. Let this verse inspire you to reflect: are you among those who rush to mock, or among those who patiently trust in Allah’s perfect plan? Choose faith, for it is the path to eternal success.