Surah Ad-Duha — Verse 10

Key Words and Phrases:

• السائل (As-Sa'il): The one who asks — this includes the one who asks for material help (a beggar or needy person) and the one who asks for knowledge or guidance.
• تنهر (Tanhar): To scold, repel harshly, or drive away with stern words and a frown.

Explanation of the Verse:

"And as for the one who asks, do not repel him."

This noble verse completes the beautiful guidance given to the Prophet ﷺ in the previous verses, where Allah reminded him of His immense blessings — how He found him an orphan and gave him shelter, and found him lost and guided him. Now, Allah instructs him on how to treat others in light of these blessings.

The command here is clear and profound: when someone comes to you seeking help — whether they ask for food, money, or knowledge — do not push them away with harshness, anger, or contempt. Do not scold them or make them feel humiliated for their need. Instead, treat them with gentleness and dignity.

The verse teaches us that the one who asks has already humbled themselves by making their need known. To respond with harshness would be to add insult to injury. Rather, if you are able to help, then give generously and with a smiling face. If you cannot help, then refuse with kind words and a gentle excuse, as the Prophet ﷺ said: "A kind word is charity."

This instruction is not limited to the Prophet ﷺ alone — it is a timeless lesson for every believer. The one who asks may be poor, or may be seeking knowledge, or may be in desperate need of assistance. In every case, our response should reflect the mercy and compassion that Allah has shown us.

A Call to Reflection and Action:

Dear believer, imagine the honor of being chosen by Allah to be a source of relief for another human being. When someone knocks on your door — whether literally or figuratively — they are giving you an opportunity to earn immense reward. Allah loves those who are gentle with His creation. The Prophet ﷺ said: "Whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day, let him honor his guest" — and the one who asks is a guest in need of your kindness.

Let this verse transform your heart. Replace harshness with softness, and rejection with generosity. Even a gentle word and a warm smile can heal a wounded soul. And remember — you too are a "sa'il" before Allah, asking for His mercy, His forgiveness, and His provision. So treat others the way you wish your Lord to treat you. Be the reason someone feels hope today, and Allah will be the reason you find hope on the Day you need it most.