Surah Az-Zukhruf — Verse 61

Word Meanings:

• "Wa innahu" (وَإِنَّهُ): "And indeed, it" — referring to the descent of Jesus (Isa), peace be upon him.
• "La 'ilmun lis-sa'ah" (لَعِلْمٌ لِّلسَّاعَةِ): "is a sign/knowledge for the Hour" — meaning a major portent or indicator of the approaching Day of Judgment.
• "Fala tamtarunna biha" (فَلَا تَمْتَرُنَّ بِهَا): "So do not doubt it" — i.e., do not be skeptical or uncertain about the coming of the Hour.
• "Wa attabi'oon" (وَاتَّبِعُونِ): "And follow me" — meaning follow the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ in what he has brought from Allah.
• "Siratun mustaqeem" (صِرَاطٌ مُّسْتَقِيمٌ): "A straight path" — a clear, upright way with no deviation or crookedness.

Explanation of the Verse:

This noble verse declares that the descent of Jesus (Isa), peace be upon him, at the end of time is one of the major signs of the Hour — a clear proof that the Day of Judgment is near and inevitable. Just as the sun rising from the west or the appearance of Gog and Magog signal the approaching end, so too does the coming of Jesus serve as a definitive marker that the Hereafter is drawing close. The verse then commands humanity: "Do not doubt the Hour" — for it is certain to occur, and no one knows its exact timing except Allah. The Prophet ﷺ is instructed to say: "And follow me" — meaning, adhere to the message of monotheism (Tawheed), the worship of Allah alone, and the teachings brought by the revelation. This path — the path of faith, righteousness, and submission to Allah — is the straight path that leads to eternal success in Paradise, with no crookedness or deviation in it. Whoever walks upon it will never be led astray, and whoever abandons it will find only ruin.

Da'wah Reflection:

This verse is a beautiful reminder that Allah, in His infinite mercy, has given us clear signs to strengthen our faith and dispel any doubt. The descent of Jesus, peace be upon him, is not merely a future event — it is a living proof of Allah's power and the truth of His promises. How fortunate are those who respond to the call of the Prophet ﷺ, who follow the straight path with certainty and hope! Let this verse inspire you to examine your own heart: Do you truly believe in the Hour, and are you preparing for it? The path of Islam is not a burden — it is the key to peace in this life and eternal bliss in the next. Embrace it with sincerity, and let your life be a journey toward the pleasure of Allah, for the straight path is open to all who seek it with a truthful heart.