Surah An-Nisa — Verse 94

Word Meanings:

• ضَرَبْتُمْ – You set out / traveled (in this context, for jihad or military expedition).
• فَتَبَيَّنُوا – So verify, ascertain, and be certain (before acting).
• أَلْقَىٰ إِلَيْكُمُ السَّلَامَ – Offered you the greeting of peace/salam, i.e., indicated his submission to Islam.
• عَرَضَ الْحَيَاةِ الدُّنْيَا – The fleeting goods and gains of this worldly life (such as spoils of war).
• مَغَانِمُ – Spoils, bounties, and abundant rewards.

Tafsir (Explanation):

O you who have truly believed in Allah and followed His Messenger! When you go out in the land striving in the cause of Allah — whether for jihad or any expedition — then be meticulous and do not rush to judgments. Do not say to someone who offers you the greeting of peace, indicating his Islam, “You are not a believer,” and then proceed to kill him. Such a hasty accusation often stems from a desire to seize the fleeting spoils of this world — his wealth, his belongings, or the spoils of war. But know that with Allah are abundant spoils and immense bounties far greater than anything you could gain from his possessions.

Remember your own beginning: there was a time when you too concealed your faith out of fear of the polytheists, and you would have been in exactly the same position as that person. It was Allah who bestowed His favour upon you, granting you strength, honour, and the ability to practice your religion openly. So, verify and be certain before you act — do not let your eagerness for worldly gain lead you to shed the blood of a believer. Indeed, Allah is fully Aware of all that you do; nothing escapes His knowledge, and He will call you to account for every action, no matter how small or hidden.

Da'wah Reflection:

This noble verse is a profound lesson in mercy, justice, and the sanctity of human life. It teaches us that a single word of faith — “La ilaha illa Allah” — carries immense weight and must never be taken lightly. The Prophet ﷺ himself was deeply distressed when he learned of this incident, and he repeated, “Did you split his heart open to know what was truly inside?”

As Muslims, we are called to be people of reflection and caution, not of hasty assumptions. Our religion elevates the value of every soul, and it trains us to see the good in others rather than to seek excuses to harm them. This verse also reminds us that the treasures of this world are worthless compared to the rewards Allah has prepared for those who act with sincerity and restraint. So let us purify our intentions, guard our tongues and our hands, and always choose the path of verification and compassion — for Allah sees everything, and His reward is far greater than anything this fleeting world can offer.