Surah Al-Muddaththir — Verse 5

Word Meanings:

• Al-Rujz (الرُجز): This refers to impurity, filth, and specifically in this context, idols and all forms of polytheism (shirk) and sinful deeds. It is also read as "Al-Rijz," meaning abomination and punishment-inducing sin.
• Fahjur (فاهجر): Abandon, leave, and distance yourself completely from it.

Explanation of the Verse:

In this noble verse, Allah commands His Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) — and by extension, every believer — to completely abandon and distance himself from all forms of idolatry, polytheism, and every deed that invites Allah's wrath. The command is emphatic: not merely to avoid these things, but to actively and persistently shun them, leaving no room for compromise or hesitation.

The word "Al-Rujz" here primarily signifies idols and their worship, as well as all impurities of belief and action. This includes every form of associating partners with Allah, every act of disobedience, and every behavior that tarnishes the soul. The command to "hijr" (abandonment) implies a complete and decisive break — turning away entirely, with no lingering attachment, no looking back, and no tolerance for these evils in one's life.

This verse beautifully complements the preceding commands: just as the Prophet was told to arise and warn, to magnify his Lord, and to purify his garments, he is now told to abandon all that is impure. The outward purification of garments is paired with the inward purification of the heart and soul from all forms of spiritual filth. A believer's life must be characterized by both — cleanliness in appearance and purity in creed and conduct.

A Da'wah Reflection:

This verse carries a timeless and universal message for every Muslim. It teaches us that true faith requires a decisive break from everything that displeases Allah. The command is not to merely dislike sin, but to actively distance ourselves from it — its places, its people, its influences, and its temptations. Just as a traveler on a dangerous road must avoid every harmful path, the believer on the journey to Allah must abandon every obstacle that stands between them and their Lord.

The beauty of Islam lies in this clarity: we know exactly what to embrace and what to leave behind. By abandoning the "rujz" — whether it be idols of stone, or the modern idols of unchecked desires, greed, and arrogance — we free our hearts to worship Allah alone with sincerity. This abandonment is not a loss; it is a liberation. It opens the door to true peace, contentment, and success in this life and the Hereafter. Let every believer take this command to heart, and make a firm resolve today to leave behind every form of spiritual impurity, drawing closer to Allah with a pure heart and a clean soul.