Surah At-Taubah – Ayah No. 28-33
A. TRANSLATION
(For keyword Vocabulary, scroll down to Section D – Footnotes)
٢٨ يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا إِنَّمَا الْمُشْرِكُونَ نَجَسٌ فَلَا يَقْرَبُوا الْمَسْجِدَ الْحَرَامَ بَعْدَ عَامِهِمْ هَٰذَا ۚ وَإِنْ خِفْتُمْ عَيْلَةً فَسَوْفَ يُغْنِيكُمُ اللَّهُ مِنْ فَضْلِهِ إِنْ شَاءَ ۚ إِنَّ اللَّهَ عَلِيمٌ حَكِيمٌ
[Quran 9:28] O you those who Amanu (آمَنُوا) indeed what the Mushrikuna (الْمُشْرِكُونَ) Najasun (نَجَسٌ) so not Yaqrabu (يَقْرَبُوا) the Masjid IL Haram (الْمَسْجِدَ الْحَرَامَ) after A’meihim (عَامِهِمْ) this. And if you Khiftum (خِفْتُمْ) upon them (عَيْلَةً) Fasoofa (فَسَوْفَ) Yughnikum (يُغْنِيكُمُ) you Allah from Fazlehi (فَضْلِهِ) if Sha’a (شَاءَ). Indeed, Allah A’leemun (عَلِيمٌ) Hakeemun (حَكِيمٌ).
٢٩ قَاتِلُوا الَّذِينَ لَا يُؤْمِنُونَ بِاللَّهِ وَلَا بِالْيَوْمِ الْآخِرِ وَلَا يُحَرِّمُونَ مَا حَرَّمَ اللَّهُ وَرَسُولُهُ وَلَا يَدِينُونَ دِينَ الْحَقِّ مِنَ الَّذِينَ أُوتُوا الْكِتَابَ حَتَّىٰ يُعْطُوا الْجِزْيَةَ عَنْ يَدٍ وَهُمْ صَاغِرُونَ
[Quran 9:29] Qaatilu (قَاتِلُوا) those who not Yuminun (يُؤْمِنُونَ) with Allah and with the Youme (بِالْيَوْمِ) Akhira (الْآخِرِ) and not they Yuharramuna (يُحَرِّمُونَ) what Harrama (حَرَّمَ) Allah and Rusooluhu (وَرَسُولُهُ) and not Yadinuna (يَدِينُونَ) Deena (دِينَ) the Haqq (الْحَقِّ) of those who Autu (أُوتُوا) the Kitaab (الْكِتَابَ) Hatta (حَتَّىٰ) Y’ut’u (يُعْطُوا) the Jizyata (الْجِزْيَةَ) A’n (عَنْ) Yadin (يَدٍ) and they S’agheruna (صَاغِرُونَ).
٣٠ وَقَالَتِ الْيَهُودُ عُزَيْرٌ ابْنُ اللَّهِ وَقَالَتِ النَّصَارَى الْمَسِيحُ ابْنُ اللَّهِ ۖ ذَٰلِكَ قَوْلُهُمْ بِأَفْوَاهِهِمْ ۖ يُضَاهِئُونَ قَوْلَ الَّذِينَ كَفَرُوا مِنْ قَبْلُ ۚ قَاتَلَهُمُ اللَّهُ ۚ أَنَّىٰ يُؤْفَكُونَ
[Quran 9:30] And Qalat (وَقَالَتِ) the Yahood (الْيَهُودُ) Uzairun (عُزَيْرٌ) Ibnu (ابْنُ) Allah and Qalat (وَقَالَتِ) the Nasaara (النَّصَارَى) the Maseh (الْمَسِيحُ) Ibnu (ابْنُ) Allah. That their Quoluhum (قَوْلُهُمْ) with Afwaerhim (بِأَفْوَاهِهِمْ). Yuzahiuna (يُضَاهِئُونَ) Quol (قَوْلَ) those who Kafaru (كَفَرُوا) from Qabal (قَبْلُ) Qatalahumu (قَاتَلَهُمُ) them Allah. Indeed, I – they Yufakuna (يُؤْفَكُونَ).
٣١ اتَّخَذُوا أَحْبَارَهُمْ وَرُهْبَانَهُمْ أَرْبَابًا مِنْ دُونِ وَالْمَسِيحَ ابْنَ مَرْيَمَ وَمَا أُمِرُوا إِلَّا لِيَعْبُدُوا إِلَٰهًا وَاحِدًا ۖ لَا إِلَٰهَ إِلَّا هُوَ ۚ سُبْحَانَهُ عَمَّا يُشْرِكُونَ
[Quran 9:31] Attakhizu (اتَّخَذُوا) their Ahbaarahum (أَحْبَارَهُمْ) and their Ruhbanahum (وَرُهْبَانَهُمْ) Arbaban (أَرْبَابًا) from Doune (دُونِ) Allah and the Maseh (وَالْمَسِيحَ) Ibna (ابْنَ) Maryam and what Ameru (أُمِرُوا) except to Ya’badu (لِيَعْبُدُوا) Ilahan (إِلَٰهًا) and Wahidan (وَاحِدًا). No Ilaha (إِلَٰهَ) except Allah. Subhaanahu (سُبْحَانَهُ) from what they Yashrikuna (يُشْرِكُونَ).
٣٢ يُرِيدُونَ أَنْ يُطْفِئُوا نُورَ اللَّهِ بِأَفْوَاهِهِمْ وَيَأْبَى إِلَّا أَنْ يُتِمَّ نُورَهُ وَلَوْ كَرِهَ الْكَافِرُونَ
[Quran 9:32] Yureeduna (يُرِيدُونَ) that Yut’fiu (يُطْفِئُوا) Noora (نُورَ) Allah with Afwaehim (بِأَفْوَاهِهِمْ) and Yaaby (وَيَأْبَى) Allah except that Yutemma (يُتِمَّ) Noorahu (نُورَهُ) and if Kariha (كَرِهَ) the Kaafiruna (الْكَافِرُونَ).
٣٣ هُوَ الَّذِي أَرْسَلَ رَسُولَهُ بِالْهُدَىٰ وَدِينِ الْحَقِّ لِيُظْهِرَهُ عَلَى الدِّينِ كُلِّهِ وَلَوْ كَرِهَ الْمُشْرِكُونَ
[Quran 9:33] Allah is the one who Arsala (أَرْسَلَ) Rasoolahu (رَسُولَهُ) with Huda (بِالْهُدَىٰ) and Deene (وَدِينِ) the Haqq (الْحَقِّ) so that they Yazhiru (لِيُظْهِرَهُ) A’ala (عَلَى) the Deen (الدِّينِ) Kullihi (كُلِّهِ) and if Kariha (كَرِهَ) the Mushrikuna (الْمُشْرِكُونَ)
B. THE CONCEPT:
THE CONTEXT
These Ayahs connect to the earlier Ayahs of Surah At-Toubah (9:1-27) and the ending Ayahs of Surah Al-Anfal (8:70–75), emphasizing the importance of Hajaru and Jahaadu in defining the Momineen Haqqan, and in staying steadfast on Allah’s path by waging war against the system of Shirk and Mushrikeen. These earlier Ayahs highlight how systems of Shirk and Kufar have infiltrated the Masaajid of Allah through hollow rituals and surface-level religiosity. The Mushrikeen are architects of systems that replace divine wisdom in Allah’s Masaajid with Kufar, Shirk, arrogance, and blind obedience, while Momineen are tasked with fighting these systems and carrying out Jahaad and reform. After offering the Mushrikeen a path of Touba and reform by inviting them to spend time maturing in the Masaajid of Allah through acts of Amanu, using intellect, seeking knowledge, and reaching deep conviction in Allah, Allah’s Rasool, and Akhira- the concept of perfect accountability, the Quran poses a critical question. It challenges the assumption that tending to rituals of Hajj or Umra or performing any rituals in Masjid Al Haram under systems of Shirk and Kufar can be equated with Amanu and Jahaad. The earlier Ayahs make it clear that such rituals, when done under these systems, are not pillars of Deen, hold no nearness to Allah, and are instead acts of Zulm that legitimize man-made systems and rituals in opposition to Allah’s laws. Allah does not guide the Zwalimeen since the Mushrikeen are not merely individuals with misguided beliefs but active builders of a system that replaces truth with arrogance and blind obedience, driven by Qaloob filled with anger, jealousy, and animosity. Only those who embody Amanu and Jahaad are on the path of Hidayah since Allah’s system is the source of Nas’ar and Shifa for the Momieen as well as Azaab to the Mushrikeen in the form of consequences of their own actions.
These earlier Ayahs stress and restress that Momineen Haqqan are those who have made a complete migration (Haajaru) from their prior code of life towards Allah’s system, and strive (Jahaadu) with all their resources, time, and energy in the path of Allah. In return, they are promised Darajatin Azeem and Bashaarat of Rahmat, Rizwan, and Jannat, as an eternal and firm state of peace, growth, and unity. But alongside this promise comes a divine warning against aligning with Abaaukum, forefathers and elders who persist in Kufar, even if emotional bonds and human nature compel us to feel softness, respect and loyalty towards them. Taking them as Awliya leads to Tawalla, a disconnection from Allah’s path, and defines one as Zwalimonn. These Ayahs give deep insight into our natural desire for Masakin in and Rizwaan from our loved ones, cautioning us that choosing emotional comfort over divine alignment becomes a Tijaratun– trade leading to (Kasadaha) stagnation and decline. Allah challenges us to reflect whether we truly prefer familial comfort or Allah’s Rasool and the path of Jahadu. Further, the Ayahs explore another deeply human tendency through the lens of Youma Hunayn, exposing how success and abundance can lead to selfish spending on oneself while withholding generosity from the wider community and the planet. This behavior sets one up as a Waliy, role model, for Mudabbireen, those who act stingily and resist helping others. The earlier Ayahs conclude by reinforcing that Allah’s system is the sole source of Sakinat for the Momineen and Azaab for the Kaafireen, whose blessings/sufferings is a direct payback, Jaza, for their alignment/rejection of divine laws. Yet even for Kaafireen, Allah offers redemption through Touba and Is’lah, and for those who turn back to Allah’s system, Allah remains Ghafoor-o-Raheem, the source of protection from past wrongs and of constant care, growth, and blessings.
CONCEPT OF THESE AYAHS
Ayah 9:28, “O you those who Amanu (آمَنُوا) indeed what the Mushrikuna (الْمُشْرِكُونَ) Najasun (نَجَسٌ) so not Yaqrabu (يَقْرَبُوا) the Masjid IL Haram (الْمَسْجِدَ الْحَرَامَ) after A’meihim (عَامِهِمْ) this. And if you Khiftum (خِفْتُمْ) upon them (عَيْلَةً) Fasoofa (فَسَوْفَ) Yughnikum (يُغْنِيكُمُ) you Allah from Fazlehi (فَضْلِهِ) if Sha’a (شَاءَ). Indeed, Allah A’leemun (عَلِيمٌ) Hakeemun (حَكِيمٌ).”
O you those who are peaceful, and who use intellect to seek knowledge to be in utter conviction with Allah- Amanu (آمَنُوا) indeed what those who do shirk, who follow laws of and assign authority in Deen to other than Allah – Mushrikuna (الْمُشْرِكُونَ) all felt the pulse of, examined, got the idea about, and explored, in cooperation and support of one another – Najasun (نَجَسٌ) so they do not go near and considered important and significant for them – Yaqrabu (يَقْرَبُوا) the place, community, happening of doing Sajda- the submission to the laws of Allah in a strict sense – Masjid IL Haram (الْمَسْجِدَ الْحَرَامَ) after it become norm to them – A’meihim (عَامِهِمْ) this. And if you are concerned and worried – Khiftum (خِفْتُمْ) upon them, then you have the abilities and capabilities – Fasoofa (فَسَوْفَ) that Allah’s system gives you in abundance and generously – Yughnikum (يُغْنِيكُمُ) from Allah’s blessings, bounties and resources – Fazlehi (فَضْلِهِ) if you align yourself, by following the laws of Allah so that you are synchronized and supported by Allah’s system – Sha’a (شَاءَ). Indeed, Allah is All knowing and is the source of all knowledge – A’leemun (عَلِيمٌ) source of all wisdom, the wise, the judge and the lawmaker – Hakeemun (حَكِيمٌ).
Keeping in consideration the earlier ayahs stressing the Characteristics of Momineen Haqqan and asking the Momineen to wage war and opposition against Mushrikeen and the system of Shirk, this ayah continues the discussion by addressing those who Amanu, that is those who are peaceful, and who use intellect to seek knowledge to be in utter conviction with Allah- Amanu. These ayahs give us the divine wisdom behind the scenes of what’s happening in that system of Shirk, and amongst the Mushrikeen by telling us that those who do shirk, who follow laws of and assign authority in Deen to other than Allah, they have felt the pulse of the Masjid Al Haram– they have examined it, and they have a fairly good idea about it, which they have got in cooperation and support of one another (Najasun). Keeping in consideration the concept of Masjid AL Haram as any place, community, happening, event, gathering etc. where Sajda, the submission to the divine laws of Allah in a strict sense is being done. When the Masjid Al Haram, is made A’meihim, i.e. has become norm for them, since the Masjid Al Haram is established and those who are Momineen are all around them doing Sajda, humbly submitting to the divine laws, but because of their understanding and examining of the Masjid, they would never go near it or considered it important and significant for them (Yaqrabu). Thus, this Ayah is telling us about what has happened at the end of the Mushrikeen, whereby even if the Masjid Al Haram is established as a norm (A’mehim) all around them, but because of their examining it, and feeling the pulse of it, they have a fairly good idea about it (Najas), they will never go near it and will never consider it important and significant for them. After giving us the Divine wisdom about the Mushrikeen, Allah then addresses Momineen, to give us a sneak peak into our own psychology, by saying that, ‘If you are concerned and worried (Khiftum) upon them, then you have the abilities and capabilities (Fasoofa) that Allah’s system has given you in abundance and generously (Yughnikum) from Allah’s Fazal- blessings, bounties and resources that you can do anything. The only criteria is that you need to align yourself, by following the laws of Allah so that you are synchronized and supported by Allah’s system (Sha’a Allah). It’s then and only then, that Allah’s system becomes the source of all knowledge (A’leemun) and the source of all wisdom, the wise, the judge and the lawmaker (Hakeemun) for you. This Ayah is highlighting our natural human tendency for us to be concerned about those all around us, who may be Mushrikeen, but since they are our near and dear ones, obviously we would be concerned and worried about them. This Ayah assures us that as those who Amanu, we have all the required capabilities and resources and are blessed and supported by Allah’s Fazal, the only thing that we need to do is to follow the laws of Allah, by aligning ourselves with and synchronizing with the system of Allah. That’s how we would have Allah in our lives as A’leemun Hakeemun.
Ayah 9:29, “Qaatilu (قَاتِلُوا) those who not Yuminun (يُؤْمِنُونَ) with Allah and with the Youme (بِالْيَوْمِ) Akhira (الْآخِرِ) and not they Yuharramuna (يُحَرِّمُونَ) what Harrama (حَرَّمَ) Allah and Rusooluhu (وَرَسُولُهُ) and not Yadinuna (يَدِينُونَ) Deena (دِينَ) the Haqq (الْحَقِّ) of those who Autu (أُوتُوا) the Kitaab (الْكِتَابَ) Hatta (حَتَّىٰ) Y’ut’u (يُعْطُوا) the Jizyata (الْجِزْيَةَ) A’n (عَنْ) Yadin (يَدٍ) and they S’agheruna (صَاغِرُونَ).”
Fight and wage war against – Qaatilu (قَاتِلُوا) those who are not peaceful, and who do not use intellect to seek knowledge to be in utter conviction – Yuminun (يُؤْمِنُونَ) with Allah and with the well-known aspects on which there cannot be any change – Youme (بِالْيَوْمِ) of the law of requital and the concept of accountability – Akhira (الْآخِرِ) and not they considered the boundaries, by prohibiting – Yuharramuna (يُحَرِّمُونَ) what Allah has prohibited – Harrama (حَرَّمَ) Allah and Allah’s messenger i.e. via the Message – Rusooluhu (وَرَسُولُهُ) and not they abide by the laws, regulations and boundaries – Yadinuna (يَدِينُونَ) of the code of life with laws and regulations that are – Deena (دِينَ) the absolute truth and justice, responsibility and the due right – Haqq (الْحَقِّ) of those who were given – Autu (أُوتُوا) the laws of Allah, the nature, the book of scripture and the record of deeds – Kitaab (الْكِتَابَ) until – Hatta (حَتَّىٰ) until they have been paid back, are given, offered – Y’ut’u (يُعْطُوا) the payback, they have faced the consequences of their actions – Jizyata (الْجِزْيَةَ) that is near and significant – A’n (عَنْ) in accordance of their efforts and resources – Yadin (يَدٍ) and are brought down to the ground and they have been made small and insignificant – S’agheruna (صَاغِرُونَ).
After talking about when the Masjid Al Haram, is made A’meihim, i.e. has become norm for the Mushrikeen, but because of their examining it, and feeling the pulse of it, they have a fairly good idea about it, they will never go near it and will never consider it important and significant for them. The earlier Ayah also highlighted our natural human tendency for us to be concerned about those all around us, who may be Mushrikeen, but since they are our near and dear ones, obviously we would be concerned and worried about them. Allah assures us, as those who Amanu, that we have all the required capabilities and resources and are blessed and supported by Allah’s Fazal, the only thing that we need to do is to follow the laws of Allah, by aligning ourselves with and synchronizing with the system of Allah. That’s how we would have Allah in our lives as A’leemun Hakeemun. Keeping in considerations the earlier Ayahs, Allah has stressed and restressed the Qatal of the Mushrikeen, i.e. fighting and waging war against the system of system, this Ayah now addresses a much broader group, a part of which is the system of shirk, that is those who do not Amanu. The divine guidance in this Ayah is that of a direct divine instructions to fight and wage war (Qaatilu) those who do not Amanu– are not peaceful, and who do not use intellect to seek knowledge to be in utter conviction (Yuminun) with Allah’s system, and with the well-known aspects on which there cannot be any change of the law of requital and the concept of accountability (Youme Akhira). Thus, the idea here is to wage war and go into opposition with anyone, anything, any law, any system, any leadership, etc. that promotes the lack of or prohibits the concept of Amanu Bi-with Allah and the Youme-Akhira, i.e. utilization of intellect, seeking of knowledge, being peaceful, and being at utter conviction with the system of Allah and the concept of accountability. Since anything or anyone who do not Amanu with Allah and with youme-Akhira, is going to be a victim of blind following and is going to disregard the law of requital by completely oblivious of facing any consequences of their actions. Thus such people will not be considering and respecting Allah’s boundaries implemented and communicated via Allah’s Message (Rusooluhu), by not prohibiting (Yuharramuna) what Allah has prohibited (Harrama) and by not abiding by the laws, regulations and boundaries (Yadinuna) of the Deen-ul Haqq– that is the code of life with laws and regulations that are based on absolute truth and justice, the due right of Allah and their responsibility. This is the Deen Ul Haqq which was given to them (Autu) as the Kitaab- the laws of Allah, the nature, the book of scripture and the record of deeds – (Kitaab). The instructions to us as those who Amanu, to fight and wage war against such people, systems, laws, leaders who do not Amanu with Allah and the Youme Akhira until, they have been paid back, (Y’ut’u), the perfect payback. Thus, we need to fight until they have faced the consequences of their actions (Jizyata) in such a manner that significant (A’n) and in accordance of their efforts and resources (Yadin). Once this happens, then those who do not Amanu with Allah and the Youme Akhira will be brought down to the ground, and they have been made small and insignificant (S’agheruna).
Ayah 9:30, “And Qalat (وَقَالَتِ) the Yahood (الْيَهُودُ) Uzairun (عُزَيْرٌ) Ibnu (ابْنُ) Allah and Qalat (وَقَالَتِ) the Nasaara (النَّصَارَى) the Maseh (الْمَسِيحُ) Ibnu (ابْنُ) Allah. That their Quoluhum (قَوْلُهُمْ) with Afwaerhim (بِأَفْوَاهِهِمْ). Yuzahiuna (يُضَاهِئُونَ) Quol (قَوْلَ) those who Kafaru (كَفَرُوا) from Qabal (قَبْلُ) Qatalahumu (قَاتَلَهُمُ) them Allah. Indeed, I – they Yufakuna (يُؤْفَكُونَ).”
And reflected from conducts and speech – Qalat (وَقَالَتِ) those who present themselves as leaders, guide towards the Hidayah- the religious leaders, preachers – Yahood (الْيَهُودُ) that reprimand, anger, scold, admonish and discipline – Uzairun (عُزَيْرٌ) are the whole foundations, the bench mark, the basis (Ibnu) (ابْنُ) of Allah’s system’ and reflected from conducts and speech – Qalat (وَقَالَتِ) those who are the helpers and supporters – Nasaara (النَّصَارَى), that ‘the characteristics and acts of Ibn of Rusul i.e., laying the foundations and building the groundwork, working for Allah’s Risalaat and message, doing of Abd, following laws of, only Allah, and never of any of Allah’s Malaik and never being proud or arrogant- Maseh (الْمَسِيحُ) are the foundations, the benchmarks and the basis – Ibnu (ابْنُ) of Allah’s system.’ That their reflections, conducts and speech – Quoluhum (قَوْلُهُمْ) with what they project, pretend and spread as hearsay – Afwaerhim (بِأَفْوَاهِهِمْ). Similarly, on the same patterns – Yuzahiuna (يُضَاهِئُونَ) are done through their conducts and speech – Quol (قَوْلَ) of those who are blind followers and who conceal and hide their intellect and Allah’s Ayaat by being arrogant and proud – Kafaru (كَفَرُوا) from before – Qabal (قَبْلُ). Allah fights them, wages war against them, and goes into opposition – Qatalahumu (قَاتَلَهُمُ) against them. Indeed, I – they tell lies, give untrue or false information, break open, detach, disentangle, dissemble or dismantle – Yufakuna (يُؤْفَكُونَ).
The earlier Ayah gives us the divine instructions to wage war and go into opposition with anyone, anything, any law, any system, any leadership, etc. that promotes the lack of or prohibits the concept of Amanu Bi-with Allah and the Youme-Akhira, i.e. anything that promotes the lack of or prohibits the utilization of intellect, seeking of knowledge, being peaceful, and being at utter conviction with the system of Allah and the concept of accountability, needs to be opposed since those who do not Amanu with Allah and with youme-Akhira, are victims of blind following and disregard the law of requital by being completely oblivious of facing any consequences of their actions. Thus, they do not consider, and respect Allah’s boundaries and Deen as communicated to humanity via Allah’s Message. They do not prohibit what Allah has prohibited, and they do not abide by the laws, regulations and boundaries of the Deen-ul Haqq. The Deen ul Haqq is the code of life that was given to us as Kitaab, the laws of Allah, the laws of nature, the books of scripture and the record of deeds with laws and regulations that are based on absolute truth and justice, the due right of Allah and our responsibility. The instructions to us as those who Amanu, is to fight and wage war against such people, systems, laws, leaders who do not Amanu with Allah and the Youme Akhira until, they have been paid back the perfect payback, until they have faced the consequences of their actions in such a manner that is significant and in accordance of their efforts and resources and they have been brought down to the ground making them small and insignificant.
After telling us about the characteristics of those who do not Amanu and asking us to wage war against them, Allah continues the discussions about describing them in more detail by telling us about the conducts and speech of the two sets of people who do not Amanu, i.e. who do Kufar. One of these sets are those who are Yahood – the religious leaders and preachers who present themselves as guides towards the Hidayah and the other set is those of the Nasaara- those who are their helpers and supporters of the leaders. The reflections, the conducts and speeches of those who are Yahood is to establish the whole foundations, the bench mark, the basis (Ibnu) towards reprimand, anger, scold, admonish and discipline (Uzairun) whereas those of the Nasaara is to towards characteristics and acts of Ibn of Rusul i.e., laying the foundations and building the groundwork, working for Allah’s Risalaat (Maseh). Allah gives us the divine warning that both of their reflections, conducts and speech is their Afwaehim- what they project, pretend and spread as hearsay with no truth behind it- it’s just a lip service and the pretense by both of these sets of people. Allah also warns us that it’s on the similar pattern (Yuzahiuna) are the conducts and speech (Quol) of those, who, from before (Qabal), did Kufar – are blind followers and who conceal and hide their intellect and Allah’s Ayaat by being arrogant and proud. The whole system of Allah fights them, wages war against them and goes into opposition against them (Qatalahumu) since the harsh reality is that they tell lies, give untrue and false information, break open, detach, disentangle, dissemble and dismantle (Yufakuna) Allah’s system (Inniy- Indeed I).
Ayah 9:31, “Attakhizu (اتَّخَذُوا) their Ahbaarahum (أَحْبَارَهُمْ) and their Ruhbanahum (وَرُهْبَانَهُمْ) Arbaban (أَرْبَابًا) from Doune (دُونِ) Allah and the Maseh (وَالْمَسِيحَ) Ibna (ابْنَ) Maryam and what Ameru (أُمِرُوا) except to Ya’badu (لِيَعْبُدُوا) Ilahan (إِلَٰهًا) and Wahidan (وَاحِدًا). No Ilaha (إِلَٰهَ) except Allah. Subhaanahu (سُبْحَانَهُ) from what they Yashrikuna (يُشْرِكُونَ).”
They seize and grab hold strongly -Attakhizu- (اتَّخَذُوا) their religious scholars, leaders and clergymen who cause joy, put cosmetics on, in order to change the form so as to look and feel pleasant and acceptable, and who present themselves as the only connection, the only ones who can understand and preach the religious methods as if ONLY they have the direct connection with Allah- Ahbaarahum (أَحْبَارَهُمْ) and those of their leaders who cause fear, terror, anxiety and intimidation – Ruhbanahum (وَرُهْبَانَهُمْ) those who are taken as their Rabb, whose laws they follow- Arbaban (أَرْبَابًا) from besides, and in addition to – Doune (دُونِ) Allah and the characteristics and acts of Ibn of Rusul i.e., laying the foundations and building the groundwork, working for Allah’s Risalaat and message, doing of Abd, following laws of, only Allah, and never of any of Allah’s Malaik and never being proud or arrogant – Maseh (وَالْمَسِيحَ) as a benchmark, foundation and basis – Ibna (ابْنَ) Maryam and what order, command, give laws (أُمِرُوا) except to do A’bd, follow laws- Ya’badu (لِيَعْبُدُوا) of being towards whom the Haqq of A’bd, Subhana and Shahada are established where Abd is to follow the laws in humble submission; Subhana is to strive towards with one’s whole being in terms of making persistent efforts day in day out; and Shahada is to uphold, stand up for justice, in whatever capacity and ability one can afford to, in order to ensure that the justice is upheld and laws are abided by – Ilahan (إِلَٰهًا) the one, the whole, the same, and all-encompassing – Wahidan (وَاحِدًا). No being towards whom the Haqq of A’bd, Subhana and Shahada are established – Ilaha (إِلَٰهَ) except Allah. Strive towards with whole being in terms of making persistent efforts day in day out towards Allah- Subhaanahu (سُبْحَانَهُ) from what they do shirk, and follow laws of and assign authority in Deen to other than Allah (يُشْرِكُونَ).
The previous Ayah talks about two sets of people who do not Amanu, i.e. who do Kufar, which are Yahood – the religious leaders and preachers who present themselves as guides towards the Hidayah and Nasaara- those who are their helpers and supporters of the leaders. The reflections, the conducts and speeches of those who are Yahood is to establish the whole foundations, the benchmark, the basis of Deen towards reprimand, anger, scold, admonish and discipline whereas those of the Nasaara is towards characteristics and acts of Ibn of Rusul i.e., laying the foundations and building the groundwork, working for Allah’s Risalaat. However, Allah has given us the divine warning that both of their reflections, conducts and speech are in fact only on the service, since it’s based on what they project, pretend and spread as hearsay with no truth behind it. Allah has also warned us that the conducts and speeches of those who did Kufar from before are also on the similar pattern. The whole system of Allah fights those who do Kufar- are blind followers and who conceal and hide their intellect and Allah’s Ayaat by being arrogant and proud, since the harsh reality is that they tell lies, give untrue and false information, with the aim to break open, detach, disentangle, dissemble and dismantle Allah’s Deen.
This Ayah now gives us the reasons behind their actions of Kufar and the divine instructions to us to wage war against them. The reasons why Allah has asked us to wage war against the system of Kufar and Shirk, is that they have seized and grabbed hold strongly (Attakhizu) their Ahbaarahum o Ruhbanahum as Arbaban- as their Rabb, whose laws they follow- from besides Allah in matters of Deen. Ahbaarahum are such religious scholars, leaders and clergymen who cause joy, put cosmetics on, to change the form so as to look and feel pleasant and acceptable, and who present themselves as the only connection, the only ones who can understand and preach the religious methods as if ONLY they have the direct connection with Allah. Whereas the Ruhbanahum are those leaders who cause fear, terror, anxiety and intimidation. Additionally, they have taken Maseh Ibna Maryam as their Arbab- that is characteristics and acts of Ibn of Rusul. They blindly follow the laws, commands, order, and instructions (Amaru) of these religious leaders and their Rasool’s actions as communicated to them and they follow everything except the doing of A’bd, and following of the laws (Ya’badu) of the Ilahan Wahidan i.e. the being towards whom the Haqq of A’bd, Subhana and Shahada are established where Abd is to follow the laws in humble submission; Subhana is to strive towards with one’s whole being in terms of making persistent efforts day in day out; and Shahada is to uphold, stand up for justice, in whatever capacity and ability one can afford to, in order to ensure that the justice is upheld and laws are abided by (Ilahan) who is the one, the whole, the same, and all-encompassing (Wahidan). Allah then reiterates that there is no being towards whom the Haqq of A’bd, Subhana and Shahada are established (Ilaha) except Allah. The instructions to us as the addressee of the Quran is to do Subahanahu that to strive towards our whole being in terms of making persistent efforts day in day out towards Allah as Illahin Wahidan by going in opposition to and waging war against what they Yashrekun- what they do shirk, and follow laws of and assign authority in Deen to other than Allah (يُشْرِكُونَ).
Ayah 9:32, “Yureeduna (يُرِيدُونَ) that Yut’fiu (يُطْفِئُوا) Noora (نُورَ) Allah with Afwaehim (بِأَفْوَاهِهِمْ) and Yaaby (وَيَأْبَى) Allah except that Yutemma (يُتِمَّ) Noorahu (نُورَهُ) and if Kariha (كَرِهَ) the Kaafiruna (الْكَافِرُونَ).”
The purpose of their acts, the aim and their desired end result – Yureeduna (يُرِيدُونَ) is they encircle, surround in order to create deception, fraud, causing imperfections, errors, incompatibility, resulting in fake or counterfeit outcomes – Yut’fiu (يُطْفِئُوا) the light from Allah that is the basis of Allah’s Hidayah and guidance – Noora (نُورَ) Allah with their pretense, projection and spreading of rumors and hearsay – Afwaehim (بِأَفْوَاهِهِمْ) and they are unable – Yaaby (وَيَأْبَى) to impact Allah except that completed, bring to fruition, reach its destination Yutemma (يُتِمَّ) the light from Allah that is the basis of Allah’s Hidayah and guidance – Noorahu (نُورَهُ) and if unwilling, hate, despise, (كَرِهَ) those who are blind followers and who conceal and hide their intellect and Allah’s Ayaat by being arrogant and proud (الْكَافِرُونَ).
The earlier Ayah gave us the reasons behind people’s actions of Kufar and the divine instructions to us to wage war against them is that they have seized and grabbed hold strongly their Ahbaarahum and Ruhbanahum as Arbaban- as their Rabb, whose laws they follow- from besides Allah in matters of Deen. Ahbaarahum are such religious scholars, leaders and clergymen who cause joy, put cosmetics on, to change the form so as to look and feel pleasant and acceptable, and who present themselves as the only connection, the only ones who can understand and preach the religious methods as if ONLY they have the direct connection with Allah. Whereas the Ruhbanahum are those leaders who cause fear, terror, anxiety and intimidation. Additionally, they have taken Maseh Ibna Maryam- characteristics and acts of Ibn of Rusul, as their Arbab. They blindly follow the laws, commands, order, and instructions of these religious leaders and their Rasool’s actions as communicated to them, and they follow everything except following the laws of the Ilahan Wahidan i.e. the one, the whole, the same, and all-encompassing being towards whom the Haqq of A’bd, Subhana and Shahada are established where Abd is to follow the laws in humble submission; Subhana is to strive towards with one’s whole being in terms of making persistent efforts day in day out; and Shahada is to uphold, stand up for justice, in whatever capacity and ability one can afford to, in order to ensure that the justice is upheld and laws are abided by. In the previous Ayah, Allah also reiterated that there is Ilaha- no being towards whom the Haqq of A’bd, Subhana and Shahada are established except Allah. The instructions to us as the addressee of the Quran is to strive with our whole being in terms of making persistent efforts day in day out towards Allah as Illahin Wahidan by going in opposition to and waging war against the actions of Shirk and what they Yashrekun- what they do shirk, and follow laws of and assign authority in Deen to other than Allah.
This Ayah continues the discussions of those who do Kufar by telling us that the main purpose of their acts, the aim and their desired end result (Yureeduna) behind their actions is that they encircle, surround in order to create deception, fraud, causing imperfections, errors, incompatibility, resulting in fake and counterfeit outcomes (Yut’fiu) Allah’s Noor- the light from Allah that is the basis of Allah’s Hidayah and guidance. And they do with their pretense, projection and spreading of rumors and hearsay (Afwaehim). However the reality is that they are unable (Yaaby) to impact Allah except that Allah’s system always completes, brings to fruition, and reaches its destination (Yutemma) of Allah’s Noorahu- the light from Allah that is the basis of Allah’s Hidayah and guidance even if those who commits acts of Kufar-the kaffirun- those who are blind followers and who conceal and hide their intellect and Allah’s Ayaat by being arrogant and proud, remain unwilling, or they hate and despise Allah’s Noor (Karaha).
Ayah 9:33, “Allah is the one who Arsala (أَرْسَلَ) Rasoolahu (رَسُولَهُ) with Huda (بِالْهُدَىٰ) and Deene (وَدِينِ) the Haqq (الْحَقِّ) so that they Yazhiru (لِيُظْهِرَهُ) A’ala (عَلَى) the Deen (الدِّينِ) Kullihi (كُلِّهِ) and if Kariha (كَرِهَ) the Mushrikuna (الْمُشْرِكُونَ).”
Allah is the one who delivers, sent – Arsala (أَرْسَلَ) Allah’s message and messenger – Rasoolahu (رَسُولَهُ) with guidance – Huda (بِالْهُدَىٰ) and code of life, the laws and regulations, the criteria of accountability – Deene (وَدِينِ) the absolute truth, justice, the due right and the responsibility – Haqq (الْحَقِّ) so that they present, make it obvious- Yazhiru (لِيُظْهِرَهُ) at its epitome, peak and maximum – A’ala (عَلَى) the code of life, the laws and regulations, the criteria of accountability – Deen (الدِّينِ) of all and everything – Kullihi (كُلِّهِ) and if unwilling, hate, despise – Kariha (كَرِهَ) those who do shirk, who follow laws of and assign authority in Deen to other than Allah (الْمُشْرِكُونَ).
The earlier Ayahs discussed characteristics of those who do Kufar by telling us that the main purpose of their acts, the aim and their desired end result behind their actions is that they encircle, surround in order to create deception, fraud, causing imperfections, errors, incompatibility, resulting in fake and counterfeit outcomes Allah’s Noor- the light from Allah that is the basis of Allah’s Hidayah and guidance. And they do with their pretense, projection and spreading of rumors and hearsay. However, the reality is that they are unable to impact Allah except that Allah’s system always completes, brings to fruition, and reaches its desired destination of Allah’s Noorahu. This is even though the Kaafirun, remain unwilling, or they hate and despise Allah’s Noor (Karaha).
This Ayah now describes how Allah brings to fruition, completes in all respects Allah’s Noor- the light that is the basis of Allah’s Hidayah and guidance by telling us that Allah is the one who delivers, sends and communicates (Arsala) Allah’s message and messenger (Rasoolahu) with guidance and Hidayah (Huda) and the Deen-e-Haqq- such code of life, the laws and regulations, the criteria of accountability which is the absolute truth, the absolute justice, the due right of Allah and our responsibility. This is how Allah’s system presents and makes it obvious (Yazhiru) at its epitome, peak and maximum (A’ala) this Deen-e-Haqq as the code of life, the laws and regulations, the criteria of accountability (Deen) above all and every other code of life (Kullihi). This is done even though those who commites act of Shirk- Mushrikun, remain unwilling, and they hate and despise Allah’s system and Noor.
C. LESSONS AS PER THESE AYAHS:
These Ayahs of Surah At-Toubah give us the following guidance that we can apply in our daily lives
MUSHRIKEEN NEVER AQRABA THE MASJID AL HARAM EVEN IF IT’S A’AAM FOR THEM: These Ayahs unveil the divine insight into what goes on among those who commit shirk, people who hand over matters of Deen to authorities other than Allah. They have looked closely at the Masjid Al Haram, grasped its essence, and gained a certain familiarity with it through collective effort. But despite this awareness, they remain disconnected from it. The Masjid Al Haram here refers not to a physical place, but to any space, community, or setting where complete submission to Allah’s laws is taking place. It is a system rooted in divine alignment, humility, and collective Sajda. When the Masjid Al Haram becomes part of their environment, surrounded by those who submit fully to Allah’s laws, it may even feel normal to them. Yet they still refuse to go near it, not physically, but in terms of value and alignment. Even though they’ve examined it and know what it stands for, they don’t treat it as important or worthy of engagement. This shows a deeper issue: their rejection doesn’t come from ignorance, but from conscious disregard. They know enough to approach but choose to stay away. These Ayahs explain that no matter how widespread or normalized divine submission becomes around them, they will not treat it as significant or make it part of their path. It’s not lack of access or knowledge that holds them back, it’s their own deliberate turning away from something they’ve already understood
OUR NATURAL HUMAN INSTINCTS AND HOW ALLAH GIVES FAZAL TO THOSE WHO SHA’A ALLAH: After exposing the reality of those who do shirk, and assign authority in Deen to others, these Ayahs now turn to us, those who Amanu, to uncover something deep within us. It’s only natural that we feel unease or worry when those close to us, who may be caught in that system, remain important to us. But instead of staying stuck in that concern, we’re reminded that we’ve already been gifted with everything we need. Allah’s system has poured into us the strength, capacity, and access to all forms of help, an overflowing supply of Allah’s Fazal. That means we’re not lacking in what’s needed to move forward, build, or respond. But there’s a condition: these gifts only become real for us when we live in line with Allah’s laws, as Sha’a of Allah, when our path matches the rhythm of the divine system. If we walk that path, then we begin to experience Allah not just as a concept, but as the source of insight, of sound decisions, of what’s right and just. These Ayahs help us face that inner tug of care and attachment, while grounding us in a powerful truth: we are fully equipped. What matters is how closely we align ourselves with the system that already surrounds and sustains us. When we do that, when we actively choose to live in harmony with Allah’s system, that’s when Allah becomes our guide in knowledge, wisdom, and sound judgment. These Ayahs help us understand that while concern for others is natural, we’re not meant to carry that worry helplessly. Instead, we are equipped and supported, and it is our alignment with Allah’s laws that turns this potential into lasting strength and clarity
DIVINE INSTRUCTIONS TO QATAL THOSE WHO DO NOT AMANU WITH ALLAH & YOUM-E-AKHIRA- These Ayahs are clear divine instructions to Qatal, fight and wage war, against all that stands in opposition to Amanu with Allah and Youm-e-Akhira. This includes anyone, any system, any leadership, any law that promotes or protects the absence of Amanu. That is, anything that disconnects from using intellect, seeking knowledge, living peacefully, and being in utter conviction with the divine system and the certainty of accountability. Those who do not Amanu with Allah and Youm-e-Akhira become blind followers, careless about consequences, ignoring the law of requital entirely. They refuse to accept or uphold what Allah has set as boundaries, as communicated through Allah’s Message. They do not prohibit what Allah has prohibited, nor do they work towards, abide by or follow the Deen-ul-Haqq, which is the complete and truthful code of life based on justice, given to us as Kitaab, the laws of Allah, the system of nature, the scripture, and the record of deeds. The command to us, those who Amanu, is to fight them until these deniers Yut’u the Jizyata, i.e., until they are given their due, the consequence, paid in full and in exact measure, making them S’agheruna, insignificant and humbled. The opposition must continue until truth stands firm and falsehood collapses under its own weight.
QUOL OF YAHOOD, NASARA AND THOSE WHO DID KUFAR FROM BEFORE & WHY ALLAH QATAL THEM: These Ayahs further describe those who do not Amanu by focusing on two specific groups who do Kufar, Yahood O Nasaara. The Yahood are those who act as religious guides, positioning themselves as sources of Hidayah, while the Nasaara are their helpers and supporters, backing their words and work. The Yahood establish the foundation of Deen around scolding, blame, discipline, and reprimand (Uzairun), setting harsh benchmarks. In contrast, the Nasaara reflect the foundation of working on Allah’s Risalaat, acting as if they are following the footsteps of Rusul (Maseh). But Allah makes it clear that what both groups present is only surface level. Their speech and behavior are pretense, projection, and baseless hearsay, not rooted in truth. Allah then warns that this same pattern was followed by those before them who also did Kufar. These were people who blindly followed without thinking, who hid and suppressed their intellect and the clear signs from Allah, out of arrogance. Because of this, Allah’s entire system goes into direct opposition against them. Why? Because they lie, spread falsehood, and actively dismantle and disconnect the system of Allah. These Ayahs expose the hollow nature of their speech and the deeper damage it causes to the structure of Deen as well as the divine wisdom behind the instruction to fight and wage war against them.
AHBAAR, RUHBAAN & MASEH IBN-E-MARYAM AS THEIR ARBAAB: These Ayahs reveal the deeper reasons behind the actions of those who do Kufar and give us the divine command to oppose and fight them. The root cause lies in their strong grip on their religious authorities, Ahbaarahum O Ruhbanahum, whom they have treated as their Rabb in matters of Deen, instead of aligning with the system of Allah. The Ahbaar are those leaders and scholars who package religion in a pleasant and appealing way, dressing it up with feel-good interpretations. They present themselves as the sole gatekeepers of divine understanding, acting as though they alone hold the direct link to Allah. The Ruhban, on the other hand, rule through fear, using anxiety and intimidation to control and manipulate people. Alongside this, they have also taken Maseh Ibn-e-Maryam, referring to the traits and legacy of the Rasool, as another Arbab, following the actions of the Rasool, as communicated to them via their religious authorities, blindly, not as guidance but as absolute commands. Instead of following the laws of the Ilahan Wahidan, they obey the orders and directives, of these human figures. These Ayahs explain that this blind following of people in authority, whether through joy or fear, is what pulls them away from the real essence of Deen. Hence, Allah instructs us to wage war against such systems and behaviors.
CONCEPT OF ILLAHAN WAHIDA: These Ayahs give us a deep and clear understanding of Illahan Wahidan, the one, the whole, the same, the all-encompassing being towards whom the Haqq of A’bd, Subhana, and Shahada are established. A’bd means to follow the laws in humble submission, Subhana is to direct our entire being with relentless daily effort, and Shahada means to uphold and stand firm for justice in every possible way to ensure the laws are followed. Allah makes it absolutely clear that no other being qualifies as Ilaha, no one else holds this rightful place, except Allah. The concept of Illahan Wahidan reminds us that there can be no division, no partners, no shared authority in Deen. The divine instruction to us is to strive completely and consistently, with our whole selves, towards Allah as Illahan Wahidan. At the same time, we are told to go into direct opposition with anything or anyone they Yashrekun, that is, any laws they follow, or any authority they assign in Deen, other than Allah. These Ayahs guide us not just to understand but to act: to resist any form of Shirk by upholding the oneness, wholeness, and all-encompassing authority of Allah as the only true Ilaha.
THEIR YUREDU IS THAT THEY YUT’FIU NOOR-E-ALLAH WITH THEIR AFWAAH: These Ayahs reveal the core drive behind the actions of those who do Kufar. Their Yureedu, their intention and purpose, is to Yut’fiu Noor-e-Allah, to try and surround, distort, and dim the light of Allah, which is the very essence of Hidayah and guidance. Their aim is to create deception, to mask the truth with errors and fakeness, to produce outcomes that are counterfeit and incompatible with the system of Allah. And how do they attempt this? Through their Afwaehim, by what they project, pretend, and spread through rumors and hearsay. Their entire effort is a campaign of distortion, meant to chip away at the truth by clouding it with illusions. But these Ayahs make us see that behind every such act of Kufar and Shirk, there is a deliberate attempt to cover, deceive, and replace the Noor of Allah with a false narrative. Their actions are rooted in a desire to replace the real with the fake, and the just with the unjust, by targeting the very Noor that is the source of all clarity and Hidayah.
INSPITE OF KARHA OF THE KAFIRUN & MUSHRIKUN, ALLAH YUTEMA ALLAH’S NOOR: These Ayahs also confirm that, in spite of the Karha of the Kafirun and Mushrikun, those who detest, oppose, and hate Allah’s system, Allah Yutemma Noorahu. That is, Allah always brings to fruition, completes, and ensures the full realization of Allah’s Noor: the light that is the basis of Hidayah and guidance. No matter how much the Kafirun, those who conceal, blindly follow, and arrogantly reject intellect and Allah’s Ayaat, despise it, and no matter how much the Mushrikun, those who assign authority in Deen to others beside Allah, oppose it, they are Yaaby, unable to stop or impact Allah’s plan. Allah’s system prevails. Allah Arsala the Rasoolahu, with Huda and Deen-e-Haqq: the absolute code of life, the system of truth and justice, and the criteria for accountability. This is how Allah makes dominant and manifest, the Deen-e-Haqq, putting it at its A’ala, its pinnacle and above all other systems, codes, or man-made laws. This occurs, decisively and inevitably, even in the face of rejection, unwillingness and hatred by those who do Kufar and Shirk.
CONCLUSION: These Ayahs collectively reveal a comprehensive picture of divine alignment, human choices, and the unwavering completion of Allah’s system. Those who commit Shirk, who assign authority in Deen to others beside Allah, never Aqraba, go near or consider important, the Masjid Al Haram. Though they have examined it, understood its meaning, and even felt familiar with the setting where Allah’s laws are upheld, they still refuse to treat it as significant. Their disconnection is not due to ignorance but deliberate disregard. The Masjid Al Haram symbolizes any environment where collective Sajda and full submission to Allah’s laws are upheld, and even if this becomes normalized around them, they remain distant in value and action. On the other hand, those who Amanu are reminded that their natural concern for loved ones entangled in such systems must not paralyze them. Instead, they are already equipped with Allah’s Fazal, overflowing strength and capacity, so long as they live as Sha’a Allah, walking the divine path in alignment. This alignment transforms their inner potential into real strength and judgment. In sharp contrast, Allah instructs Qatal, wage war and go into opposition against all forces, people, or systems that do not Amanu with Allah and Youm-e-Akhira. These opponents, blind to the system of truth and justice, reject what Allah has made clear through the Kitaab and refuse to uphold Deen-ul-Haqq. The command to fight continues until they Yut’u the Jizyata, receive their due right and payback in exact measure, and become S’agheruna– small and insignificant. This applies specifically to Yahood O Nasaara as well, people who do Kufar, present blind obedience while being engulfed in arrogance and pretense. Yahood set rigid frameworks of blame and control, while Nasaara support these systems under the guise of following Maseh, Allah’s Messengers. But both are likened to earlier Kaafirs, those who hide and conceal Allah’s Ayaat. Their Afwaah– pretense, hearsay and false words aim to dismantle the structure of Deen, which is why Allah’s system directly opposes them. The root cause lies in taking their Ahbaar O Ruhban (religious leaders) and Maseh Ibn-e-Maryam as their Arbaab- those whose laws they follow instead of Allah’s. Ahbaar dress religion attractively to assert authority, while Ruhban instill fear to control. These leaders are obeyed as if they are Rabb, replacing the Ilahan Wahidan. But Allah reminds us: the Haqq of A’bd, Subhana, and Shahada is established for Allah alone. No one else can be Ilaha. Though those who do Kufar attempt to Yut’fiu Allah’s Noor through their Afwah, deception, hearsay, and projection. Despite the Karha- unwillingness, hate and despise of the Kafirun and Mushrikun, Allah’s system reaches its A’ala, becoming manifest and dominant over all, through Huda and Deen-e-Haqq.ols
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