Surah As-Saffat — Verse 65

Word Meanings:

• طَلْعُهَا (Tal'uha): Its fruit or produce — specifically referring to the fruit of the Zaqqum tree mentioned in the preceding verses.
• رُءُوسُ الشَّيَاطِينِ (Ru'us al-Shayateen): The heads of devils — a description of extreme ugliness and repulsiveness.

Tafsir (Explanation):

This verse paints a vivid and terrifying picture of the Zaqqum tree, which grows from the very depths of Hellfire. Its fruit is described as being like the heads of devils — a metaphor for sheer hideousness and repulsive appearance. The comparison to the heads of devils serves to emphasize that this fruit is beyond any earthly measure of ugliness; it is the very embodiment of horror and disgust. Some scholars have noted that this could refer to actual devils, while others interpret it as a description of venomous, ugly serpents — either way, the imagery is unmistakably dreadful.

The outward appearance of the fruit is a clear indicator of its inner reality: if its sight is this horrifying, then its taste is infinitely worse. The Qur'an uses this powerful imagery to warn humanity of the consequences of disbelief and disobedience. When the appearance of something is so foul, one can only imagine the bitterness, foulness, and torment that awaits those who consume it.

This verse serves as a profound reminder of the justice of Allah. Just as the righteous are promised gardens with fruits that are delicious, beautiful, and ever-pleasing, the wicked are given fruits that are the exact opposite — ugly, foul, and agonizing. The contrast is deliberate and complete, reflecting the perfect balance of divine justice.

A Da'wah Reflection:

Dear reader, let this verse awaken your heart. Allah, in His infinite mercy, has warned us clearly about the consequences of our choices. He does not wish to punish us — rather, He has sent His messengers, revealed His books, and given us countless opportunities to turn back to Him. The description of Zaqqum is not meant to frighten us into despair, but to guide us into action. Every breath you take is an opportunity to repent, to draw closer to your Creator, and to choose the path that leads to gardens of eternal bliss. The door of repentance is open until the moment your soul leaves your body. Do not delay — for none of us knows when that moment will come. Choose the fruit of Paradise over the fruit of Hell, and let the love of Allah fill your heart today.