Surah Sad — Verse 80

Word Meanings:

• مِنَ الْمُنظَرِينَ (mina al-munthareen): From those who are granted a respite or delay — meaning, given extra time and not immediately punished or destroyed.

Explanation of the Verse:

In this verse, Allah — the Most High — responds to Iblis (Satan) after his arrogant request to be given respite until the Day of Resurrection. Allah says: "He said, 'Then indeed, you are of those who are granted respite.'"

This is a direct and decisive answer from Allah to Satan's plea. The respite granted here is not a sign of honor or respect for Satan, but rather a divine wisdom and a test for humanity. Allah granted Satan this delay until a specified, known time — which, according to the scholars, is the Day of the first blast of the Trumpet (the trumpet blast that will cause all creatures to die), not the Day of Resurrection itself. This means Satan will die along with all other creatures before the final resurrection.

This verse carries a profound lesson for every believer: Allah's justice is absolute, and His wisdom is beyond our comprehension. He granted Satan this temporary respite as part of His divine plan — to test mankind, to distinguish the truthful from the false, and to elevate the ranks of those who strive against their own desires and against the whispers of Satan.

A Call to Reflection and Action:

Dear believer, reflect upon this moment — the Creator of the heavens and the earth, the Lord of all worlds, responding to the request of His enemy. This shows us that Allah is the ultimate authority, and nothing happens except by His will and permission. Satan was given time, but that time is limited and will inevitably come to an end. His respite is a temporary lease that will expire, and then he will face the punishment he deserves.

Let this verse remind you that your own life is also a temporary respite. Every breath you take is a gift from Allah, and every moment is an opportunity to draw closer to Him. Do not let Satan deceive you as he was given time — for his time is running out, and so is yours. Use your time wisely in obedience to Allah, in seeking His forgiveness, and in doing good deeds that will benefit you on the Day when no respite will be granted.

The doors of repentance are open, and Allah's mercy is vast. Do not delay your return to Him, for you do not know when your own respite will come to an end. Turn to Allah now, before the appointed time arrives, and you will find Him ever-forgiving, ever-merciful.