Surah At-Tariq — Verse 16

Word Meanings:

• Wa akīdu kaydā — "And I am planning a plan." The word *kayd* (كيد) refers to a scheme, plan, or strategy designed to achieve a goal, often in a covert or powerful manner. When attributed to Allah, it signifies His perfect, decisive, and just response to the plots of the disbelievers.

Tafsir (Explanation):

The verse continues the discourse about those who reject the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) and the Qur’an. They devise their schemes and plots, striving with all their might to extinguish the light of truth and to elevate falsehood. They think their cunning is formidable and that their plans will succeed. But Allah, the Exalted, responds to their scheming with His own perfect plan — a plan that no one can thwart or overcome.

Allah’s *kayd* here is not like the flawed, desperate scheming of humans. It is the plan of the Almighty, the All-Wise, who is fully aware of every hidden intention and every secret move. His plan involves granting them respite and delay, not because He is unaware or weak, but because His wisdom requires patience. Then, at the appointed time, His punishment descends upon them in a manner that leaves them utterly helpless and humiliated. This is a form of recompense — a just and fitting response to their evil plots.

The Prophet (peace be upon him) is being consoled here: do not be distressed by their conspiracies, and do not hasten their punishment. Their end is sealed, and the victory of truth is guaranteed, no matter how much they hate it. The believers are likewise reassured that no matter how powerful the enemies of Islam may seem, their schemes are nothing before the might and wisdom of Allah. He is the Best of Planners, and His promise of support for His righteous servants is certain.

A Da’wah Reflection:

This verse fills the heart of every believer with profound tranquility and hope. It teaches us that we are never alone in the face of hostility or deception. The enemies of truth may gather their forces, sharpen their tongues, and weave their webs of lies — but Allah is above all of them. His plan is superior, His justice is inevitable, and His help for the believers is near. So hold firm to your faith, trust in your Lord, and never despair. The Qur’an is the truth, and the truth shall always prevail, even if the whole world stands against it. Let this certainty be your strength, and let your reliance on Allah be your shield. Indeed, the end of the righteous is beautiful, and the plot of the wicked will only return upon their own heads.