Surah An-Naml — Verse 70

Word Meanings:

• "Wa lā taḥzan" — Do not grieve or be sorrowful.
• "ʿAlayhim" — Over them; i.e., over their rejection and turning away.
• "Ḍīq" — Constriction, distress, or tightness of the chest; a state of anxiety and unease.
• "Mimmā yamkurūn" — From what they plot and scheme against you.

Explanation of the Verse:

In this noble verse, Allah addresses His Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) with words of profound comfort and reassurance, and through him, every believer who carries the call to truth. Allah says: "Do not grieve over them" — meaning, do not let sorrow fill your heart because of the disbelievers' rejection of your message, their stubbornness in falsehood, and their turning away from the truth you have brought. Their rejection is not a failure on your part; you have conveyed the message with utmost clarity and sincerity.

Then Allah adds: "And do not be in distress over what they plot" — meaning, do not let your chest become tight or your heart become anxious because of the schemes and conspiracies they devise against you. They may plan, they may plot, they may try to harm you with their words and actions, but their plots are weak and futile against the will of Allah. Indeed, Allah is your Protector, your Helper, and your Defender. He has promised you victory over them, and His promise is true and certain.

This verse carries a timeless lesson: the believer who calls to Allah must not be disheartened by opposition, nor should they allow the machinations of enemies to disturb their peace of mind. Success is not measured by immediate acceptance, but by steadfastness in conveying the truth. The Prophet (peace be upon him) faced immense hostility — mockery, slander, and persecution — yet Allah commanded him to remain tranquil, for the outcome belongs to Allah alone.

A Call to Reflection and Action:

Dear reader, this divine instruction is a source of strength for every Muslim who strives for goodness in this world. When you face rejection, ridicule, or conspiracy in your path of righteousness, remember that your Lord sees all and knows all. He is with you, and His support is greater than any scheme of His creation. So be patient, be steadfast, and place your trust entirely in Allah. Do not let the arrows of others' malice pierce your heart, for the One who has sent you with the truth will never abandon you. And know that every difficulty you endure for His sake is a means of elevation in this life and a treasure for the Hereafter. Take comfort in His words, and let your heart find rest in His promise: victory belongs to the believers, and the plots of the wicked always return upon themselves.