Surah Sad — Verse 38

Word Meanings:

• Ākharīna (وَآخَرِينَ): "And others" — referring to another group of the jinn and devils.
• Muqarranīna (مُقَرَّنِينَ): "Bound together" — chained or fettered, with their hands tied to their necks.
• Al-Aṣfād (الْأَصْفَادِ): "Fetters" or "iron chains/shackles" used to restrain prisoners firmly.

Tafsir (Explanation):

In this verse, Allah continues to describe the extraordinary favors He bestowed upon His Prophet and servant, Sulaymān (peace be upon him). After mentioning the builders and divers among the devils who worked for him, Allah now mentions another category: the rebellious and defiant devils — the most stubborn and insolent among them. These were not given free rein like the others; rather, they were bound tightly in iron chains and fetters, with their hands tied to their necks, unable to move or cause any harm. They were completely subdued and rendered powerless, serving as a testament to Sulaymān's unparalleled authority granted by Allah.

This was part of the magnificent kingdom Allah gave Sulaymān — a kingdom so vast that even the most unruly of creation were brought under his command, either as willing workers or as captives in chains. It was a sign of Allah's absolute power, for He alone can subdue the mightiest of His creatures to whomever He wills among His righteous servants.

A Da'wah Reflection:

This verse is a powerful reminder of Allah's absolute sovereignty and His ability to grant dominion and control to whomsoever He pleases. Just as He subjected the rebellious devils to Sulaymān, He is fully capable of protecting His believing servants from the whispers and plots of Shayṭān. When you feel overwhelmed by the trials of life or the temptations of the enemy within and without, remember that the same Allah who bound the defiant jinn in iron chains is your Guardian and Protector. Turn to Him with sincere faith, and He will grant you strength, peace, and victory over every obstacle — for nothing is impossible for the Lord of the heavens and the earth. Indeed, in the story of Sulaymān lies a profound lesson: true power belongs to Allah alone, and He bestows it upon those who are steadfast in obedience and pure in devotion. So strive to be among His righteous servants, and you will find His support in ways you never imagined.