Surah Al-Waqi'ah — Verse 13

Word Meanings:

• Thullah (ثُلَّةٌ): A large group or multitude, numerous beyond counting.
• Min al-Awwalin (مِّنَ الْأَوَّلِينَ): From the earlier generations — meaning the nations that came before, from the time of Prophet Adam (peace be upon him) up to the era of Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him).

Explanation of the Verse:

This verse describes the blessed inhabitants of Paradise, telling us that a great multitude — countless in number — will enter Paradise from the earlier nations. These are the believers among the peoples who came before the final Messenger, from the time of Adam (peace be upon him) through all the prophets who were sent to their respective communities. They are the ones who responded to the call of truth, worshipped Allah alone, and followed the messengers sent to them. Alongside them, as the following verses will clarify, a smaller number will come from the later generations — the followers of Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him). This does not diminish the honour of this final nation; rather, it highlights the vastness of Allah’s mercy, which encompasses all who sincerely believed and did righteous deeds across the ages.

A Da'wah Reflection:

This verse fills the heart with hope and longing. Imagine the scene: generations upon generations of believers — from the very beginning of humanity — all gathered together in the gardens of eternal bliss, reclining on golden couches, facing one another with love and joy. This is the reward of those who held fast to faith, even when it was difficult. It reminds us that Allah’s mercy is not limited to one people or one time; it embraces every soul that turns to Him with sincerity. And you, dear reader, are invited to be among them. The door of repentance and good deeds is open until your last breath. Do not let this opportunity slip away — strive to be among those who will be greeted with the words, "Peace be upon you for what you patiently endured. How excellent is the final home!" (Ar-Ra'd 13:24). May Allah make us among the thullah of the righteous, in the company of the prophets, the truthful, and the martyrs.