Surah An-Nur — Verse 10

Word Meanings:

• Fadl (فضل): Grace, bounty, and favor.
• Tawwāb (توّاب): The One Who repeatedly accepts repentance, constantly turning to His servants with forgiveness.
• Ḥakīm (حكيم): All-Wise, Perfect in wisdom in all His decrees and legislation.

Explanation of the Verse:

O believers, were it not for the abundant grace of Allah upon you and His mercy—by which He has legislated the ruling of mutual cursing (liʿān) between spouses to protect honor and establish justice—and were it not that He is Tawwāb, accepting the repentance of those who turn back to Him from their sins, and Ḥakīm, wise in His commands and His divine decree, He would have hastened punishment upon you for your transgressions and exposed your hidden faults. But His mercy veils your shortcomings, His wisdom legislates what suits your condition, and His acceptance of repentance opens the door for every sinner to return to Him. The implied answer to "were it not" (lawlā) is that He would have swiftly punished you and disgraced you—yet He chose to conceal, forgive, and guide you to what rectifies your affairs.

A Call to Reflection and Faith:

This verse is a profound reminder of Allah's boundless mercy that envelops His servants in every moment. When you sin, His door of repentance is open—He does not rush to punish but waits for you to turn back. When you err, His wisdom guides you to a better path. When you are tested, His grace shields you from humiliation. So never despair of His mercy, and never underestimate His favor upon you. Let this knowledge fill your heart with hope and gratitude, drawing you closer to Him in sincere obedience. For the One Who is Tawwāb and Ḥakīm has promised that whoever returns to Him, He will welcome with open forgiveness and guide with perfect wisdom. Embrace this divine mercy, and let it transform your life into a journey of constant repentance and steadfast faith.