Surah At-Tawbah — Verse 50

Key Words and Phrases:

• "Hasannah" (حَسَنَةٌ): A good event, such as victory, spoils of war, or any blessing that brings joy and success.
• "Tasu'hum" (تَسُؤْهُمْ): It grieves them, causes them distress and sorrow.
• "Musibah" (مُصِيبَةٌ): A calamity, hardship, defeat, or any adverse event.
• "Akhadhna amrana" (أَخَذْنَا أَمْرَنَا): We took our matter with caution and prudence; we secured our own safety by making a wise decision.
• "Yatawallaw" (يَتَوَلَّوْا): They turn away, depart, or withdraw.
• "Farihoon" (فَرِحُونَ): Rejoicing, feeling delighted and triumphant.

Tafsir (Explanation):

O Prophet, observe the condition of the hypocrites and how their hearts are filled with malice towards you and the believers. If you are blessed with a good fortune—such as a victory in battle, abundant spoils, or any sign of success—it deeply grieves them. They cannot bear to see you and your companions prosper, for their envy consumes them. However, if a calamity befalls you—such as a defeat, a loss, or a hardship—they seize the opportunity to justify their own cowardice and negligence. They say, "We have already taken our precautions and made the right decision by staying behind and not joining the fight." They believe that their withdrawal was a sign of wisdom and foresight, and they turn away from you, leaving the scene of hardship, while their hearts are filled with joy and satisfaction. They rejoice not only in their own safety but also in the misfortune that has touched you and the believers. This is the hallmark of hypocrisy: a heart that takes pleasure in the suffering of others and finds no bond of brotherhood or faith.

Da'wah Reflection:

This verse unveils the true nature of hypocrisy, which is rooted in a diseased heart that lacks sincere faith. It teaches us a profound lesson about the purity of the believer's soul. A true believer, as taught by the Quran and the Sunnah, is one who shares in the joys and sorrows of his fellow Muslims. He is pleased when they are pleased, and he grieves when they grieve. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: "The example of the believers in their mutual love, mercy, and compassion is like one body; if one part of it complains, the rest of the body responds with sleeplessness and fever." (Al-Bukhari and Muslim). So, let us purify our hearts from envy, malice, and selfishness. Let us be a source of support and happiness for one another, and let us never find joy in the misfortune of others. Indeed, the one who rejoices at the calamity of a Muslim will not be safe from a similar trial. Turn to Allah with a sincere heart, and He will bless you with the sweetness of faith and the love of His righteous servants.