Surah Al-Waqi'ah — Verse 36

Word Meanings:

• Abkāran (أَبْكَارًا): Plural of *bikr*, meaning virgins who have never been touched or married.

Explanation of the Verse:

In this verse, Allah describes one of the exquisite blessings He has prepared for the people of Paradise—specifically for the companions of the right hand (the righteous believers). He says: "Then We made them virgins."

The meaning is that the women of Paradise—whether they were young or old in this worldly life—will be recreated by Allah in a new, perfect form that is free from all defects and the effects of aging. They will be made pure virgins, untouched by any man before, as a sign of their honor and the perfection of their creation. This transformation is a divine gift, showing that Allah’s power knows no limits: He can turn the aged into the youthful, the worn into the pristine, and the ordinary into the extraordinary.

This verse follows the description of the companions of the right hand, who are promised beautiful companions (Hoor al-‘Ayn) as a reward for their faith and good deeds. The emphasis on virginity here highlights the purity, freshness, and eternal youth of these companions, and it serves as a reminder that Paradise is a place of complete joy, free from the sorrows and limitations of this world.

A Da'wah Reflection:

Imagine the boundless mercy of Allah: a woman who lived a long, difficult life in this world, bearing the trials of age and hardship, will be raised in the Hereafter as a young, radiant virgin, full of vitality and beauty. This is not merely a physical transformation—it is a symbol of Allah’s ability to renew and perfect everything. For the believer, this is a source of immense hope: no matter how we age, how we falter, or how this world wears us down, Allah’s promise is one of renewal and eternal bliss. Paradise is not just a reward; it is a complete restoration of what was lost, and a gift beyond our imagination. So let this verse inspire you to strive for that eternal home, where every tear is wiped away, and every sorrow is replaced with everlasting joy. Allah’s generosity is limitless, and His promise is true.