Surah As-Saffat — Verse 136

Word Meanings:

• Dammarnā (دَمَّرْنَا): We utterly destroyed and annihilated, leaving nothing remaining.
• Ākharīn (الْآخَرِينَ): The others — meaning those who remained behind after the believers had departed, i.e., the disbelieving people of Prophet Lot (peace be upon him).

Explanation of the Verse:

After Allah Almighty had saved Prophet Lot (peace be upon him) and his family — except his wife, who was among the destroyed — He then brought down His severe punishment upon the remaining disbelievers who had persisted in their denial and rejected the message of their prophet. They did not believe in what he brought them, nor did they heed his warnings. So Allah destroyed them completely, wiping them out entirely, leaving no trace of them behind. Their destruction was total and absolute — a punishment for their stubborn arrogance and their shameless persistence in sin and corruption.

This verse is a powerful reminder of the fate that awaits those who reject the messengers of Allah and persist in transgression. Just as the people of Lot were utterly destroyed for their wickedness, so too will every nation that turns away from the truth face the consequences of its choices — unless it repents and returns to its Lord.

A Call to Reflection:

Dear reader, reflect on this profound truth: Allah's mercy is vast and His forgiveness is boundless for those who turn to Him in sincerity. But His justice is equally certain for those who persist in defiance. The story of Prophet Lot is not merely history — it is a living lesson for every generation. It teaches us that no matter how powerful, wealthy, or numerous a people may be, they cannot escape the decree of Allah when they cross His limits.

Let this verse inspire you to examine your own life. Are there areas where you are ignoring the truth? Are there sins you are clinging to despite knowing better? The door of repentance is open — Allah loves those who turn back to Him. Do not wait until destruction comes, as it came to those before you. Seize this moment, return to your Creator, and be among those who are saved, not among those who are destroyed. For Allah's mercy is greater than His wrath, and His love for those who repent is immense.