Surah Al-Jinn — Verse 25

Word Meanings:

• "In adree" — I do not know.
• "Ma too'adoon" — That which you are promised (of punishment and the Hour).
• "Amadan" — An appointed term, a prolonged period of time.

Tafsir (Explanation):

O Messenger, say to those who deny the resurrection and mock the promise of punishment: "I do not know whether the punishment you have been warned of is near at hand, or whether my Lord has appointed for it a distant term." This is not a matter of knowledge that belongs to the Prophet ﷺ or to any created being; rather, it lies solely within the knowledge of Allah, the All-Knowing of the unseen. He alone knows when the Hour will strike and when His justice will descend upon the wrongdoers. The Prophet ﷺ was commanded to declare his ignorance of this matter to affirm that he does not speak from his own desire, but only reveals what Allah has taught him. This teaches us a profound lesson in humility and trust: the believer submits fully to Allah’s timing, knowing that His decree is perfect, whether it comes soon or late. And in this very uncertainty lies a mercy — for the door of repentance remains open until the promised hour arrives. So hasten to your Lord before the inevitable comes, and know that His promise is true, His justice is certain, and His mercy encompasses all who turn to Him in sincerity.