Surah Al-Inshiqaq — Verse 20

Word Meanings:

• Fa mā lahum (فما لهم): What is the matter with them? An expression of astonishment and rebuke.
• Lā yu'minūn (لا يؤمنون): They do not believe — i.e., they refuse to accept faith in Allah and the Last Day.

Tafsir (Explanation):

After all the clear signs have been presented — the splitting of the sky, the stretching of the earth, the deeds being weighed, and the certainty of meeting one’s Lord — what is wrong with these people that they still refuse to believe? What obstacle stands between them and faith? The question is one of wonder and reproach, as if to say: There is no excuse left for them. The truth has been made manifest, the proofs are undeniable, and yet they turn away.

This verse highlights a profound reality: disbelief is not born from a lack of evidence, but from a hardened heart and a stubborn will. When the Qur’an is recited to them, they do not prostrate, nor do they submit to what it contains. Their habit is denial and opposition to the truth, even while knowing deep down that what has come is true. Allah knows perfectly what they conceal in their chests — the arrogance and defiance they hide despite their inner conviction.

So the Prophet (peace be upon him) is told to give them tidings of a painful punishment — a consequence of their persistent rejection. But for those who believe in Allah and His Messenger, and who fulfill what Allah has made obligatory upon them, there is a reward in the Hereafter that is never cut off and never diminished.

A Da'wah Reflection:

Dear reader, pause and ask yourself: What is it that keeps a person from faith when the truth is so clear? The sun rises and sets by His command; the heavens and earth bear witness to His majesty; your very heartbeat is a sign you did not create. The Qur’an calls you, the creation invites you, and your own nature — the fitrah — whispers to you of your Lord. So what is stopping you? Do not let pride, habit, or worldly attachments veil your heart. The door of repentance is open, and the reward for those who believe and do good is everlasting and never-ending. Come to faith today, before the sky splits and the earth stretches out, and every soul meets what it has earned. Allah is Most Merciful, and He loves for you to return to Him.