Surah Ash-Shu'ara — Verse 112

Word Meanings:

• ʿIlmī (عِلْمِي): My knowledge or awareness.
• Kānū yaʿmalūn (كَانُوا يَعْمَلُونَ): What they used to do — referring to their deeds, whether outward or inward.

Tafsir (Explanation):

Prophet Nūḥ (peace be upon him) responded to his people’s objection, in which they had demanded that he drive away the poor and humble believers who had accepted his call. He said: *“And what knowledge do I have of what they used to do?”* — meaning, I am not tasked with inspecting their hearts or scrutinizing their hidden intentions. I have not been made a keeper of their records, nor am I responsible for judging their inner sincerity. My duty is only to call them to faith and to judge by what is apparent — and their apparent faith and acceptance of the message is sufficient for me to treat them as brothers in belief.

The verse teaches that a caller to Allah is not required to know the unseen or to verify the purity of every person’s heart. That knowledge belongs solely to Allah, who is aware of all secrets and what is hidden in the breasts. What matters is the declaration of faith and the visible commitment to the truth. Social status, wealth, lineage, or profession are irrelevant in the sight of Allah; what counts is faith and righteousness.

This is a profound lesson in humility and justice: we must not reject or look down upon anyone who embraces the truth, regardless of their worldly standing. The Prophet Nūḥ’s answer also reflects his complete submission to Allah’s command — he did not exceed the limits of his responsibility, nor did he claim any authority over people’s inner lives. He simply fulfilled his mission with sincerity and entrusted the hidden matters to Allah, the All-Knowing.

Beloved reader, let this verse inspire you to treat every believer with respect and warmth, and to remember that only Allah knows the true state of hearts. Do not judge others by their appearance or wealth, but by their faith and character. And know that the call to Allah is a call of mercy and love — it opens its doors to all who seek the truth, regardless of who they are.