Surah Al-Hashr — Verse 6

Word Meanings:

• Afā'a (أَفَاءَ): To return or restore; in Islamic terminology, it refers to wealth or property that comes to Muslims from non-Muslims without warfare or military expedition.
• Awjaftum (أَوْجَفْتُمْ): To urge or spur on (horses or camels) at a fast pace; to hasten with effort and exertion.
• Rikāb (رِكَاب): Camels, specifically those used for riding and travel.
• Fay’ (فَيْء): Property or wealth acquired from non-Muslims peacefully, without engaging in battle or military force.

Tafsir (Explanation):

This verse addresses the wealth that Allah returned to His Messenger (peace be upon him) from the Jewish tribe of Banu an-Nadir. When they broke their covenant and conspired against the Prophet, Allah cast fear into their hearts, and they surrendered without a fight, leaving behind their lands, homes, and possessions. The Muslims did not have to ride out on horses or camels to seize this wealth—no military expedition was needed, no hardship or exhaustion was endured, and no blood was shed. Rather, Allah, in His infinite power and wisdom, granted this victory to His Messenger as a special favor, demonstrating that He alone controls the hearts of His servants and the outcomes of all affairs.

The verse then establishes a profound principle: Allah grants authority and victory to His messengers over whomever He wills. He may empower them through warfare, as in the case of Khaybar, or through peaceful surrender, as with Banu an-Nadir—both are manifestations of His absolute power. This wealth, known as *fay’*, was therefore designated for the Messenger (peace be upon him) to distribute as Allah directed, since it was acquired without the effort of the Muslim army. The verse concludes with a powerful reminder: "And Allah is over all things competent"—nothing is beyond His ability, and He does whatever He wills, with perfect wisdom and justice.

Da'wah Reflection:

This verse is a beautiful lesson in placing our trust in Allah alone. The believers did not plan, prepare, or exhaust themselves for this victory—yet Allah delivered it to them with ease, proving that when Allah wills something, no obstacle can stand in its way. It teaches us that our efforts are important, but the true source of success is Allah’s decree. As Muslims, we should internalize this: whether we strive through hardship or receive ease, our hearts must remain attached to Allah, knowing that He is Al-Qadir (The All-Powerful). This also highlights the mercy of Islam—how Allah spared the believers from battle and hardship, showing that the religion of Islam is one of ease and wisdom, not unnecessary burden. Let this verse inspire you to trust Allah in every matter, for He is capable of granting you victory and provision from avenues you could never imagine.