Surah Ad-Dukhan — Verse 37

Word Meanings:

• Tubba‘: A righteous king from the people of Himyar in Yemen, known for his justice and his people’s later deviation into disbelief.
• Those before them: Nations such as ‘Ad and Thamud, who were destroyed for their rejection of their prophets.
• Criminals (Mujrimūn): Those who persisted in disbelief, polytheism, and transgression against Allah’s commands.

Tafsir (Explanation):

Are these disbelievers of Makkah, O Messenger, better in strength, power, or status than the people of Tubba‘ and the nations who came before them—like ‘Ad and Thamud? We destroyed all of those earlier peoples completely, even though they were far mightier and more established than the Quraysh. They were destroyed because they were criminals—persisting in disbelief and wickedness. So how could these Makkan polytheists, who are weaker and fewer, imagine they would escape Our punishment? They are not better than those who came before, so We will not spare them while they reject the truth. This is a stern warning and a call to reflect: if the mighty nations of old could not withstand Allah’s wrath, then no one can. Let this be a lesson for every soul that turns away from guidance—repentance is the only shield against destruction, and mercy is near for those who return to their Lord before it is too late.