Surah Sad — Verse 39

Word Meanings:

• "Fam-nun" (فامنن): Give freely and generously to whomever you wish.
• "Aw amsik" (أو أمسك): Or withhold and refrain from giving to whomever you wish.
• "Bighayri hisab" (بغير حساب): Without being called to account or held responsible for your choice.

Explanation of the Verse:

This noble verse is part of the address to Prophet Sulayman (Solomon), peace be upon him, after Allah had granted him an unparalleled kingdom—one that no one after him would ever possess. Allah had subdued for him the winds, the jinn, and the birds, and had made the mountains glorify His praise with him. Among the jinn were builders, divers, and even rebellious ones bound in chains, all serving his command.

In this verse, Allah says: "This is Our gift"—meaning this immense dominion, this unique power, and this subjugation of creation—is a special grant from Us to you, O Sulayman, in response to your supplication. Then comes the divine permission: "So give freely or withhold without account." That is, you may bestow upon whomever you wish from this wealth and authority, and you may withhold from whomever you wish—you will not be questioned or held accountable for your decision, for it is a privilege granted solely to you.

This was a unique honor bestowed upon Prophet Sulayman, peace be upon him, as a sign of Allah's immense favor and as a test of his gratitude and justice. He was given absolute freedom in dispensing wealth and favors, yet he remained a just and grateful servant of Allah, using this authority in ways that pleased his Lord.

A Da'wah Reflection for the Believers:

This verse carries profound lessons for us as believers. It reminds us that all wealth, power, and blessings come from Allah alone, and He grants them to whom He wills. When Allah bestows His favors upon us, He tests us: will we use them with generosity, justice, and gratitude, or will we fall into arrogance and selfishness?

Prophet Sulayman's example teaches us that true greatness lies not in possessing much, but in using what we have for the sake of Allah and His creation. When we give, let us give with a smiling face and an open heart, seeking Allah's pleasure. When we withhold, let us do so with wisdom and fairness, never out of stinginess or pride.

Moreover, this verse instills in us the beautiful concept that Allah's generosity knows no bounds. Just as He gave Sulayman without account, He opens His doors of mercy and provision to His servants in ways beyond our imagination. So turn to Allah with a sincere heart, ask Him from His bounty, and trust that He is the Best of Providers. And remember: the more you give for Allah's sake, the more He gives you in return—both in this world and in the Hereafter.