Surah Ar-Ra'd 13:21
سُورَةُ الرَّعۡدِ · Medinan · Verse 21 of 43
وَٱلَّذِينَ يَصِلُونَ مَآ أَمَرَ ٱللَّهُ بِهِۦٓ أَن يُوصَلَ وَيَخْشَوْنَ رَبَّهُمْ وَيَخَافُونَ سُوٓءَ ٱلْحِسَابِ
Translation
who join together what God commands to be joined; who are in awe of their Lord and fear the harshness of the Reckoning;
English translation: M.A.S. Abdel Haleem.
Meaning and reflection
Wording
Surah 13, ayah 21 invites us to deeply ponder the qualities of those who truly understand and strive for Allah's pleasure. This verse continues a series describing people of profound insight. Through its precise wording, we discover layers of meaning that shape a believer's conduct and inner state.
The Bond of Connection
The verse begins with "وَٱلَّذِينَ يَصِلُونَ مَآ أَمَرَ ٱللَّهُ بِهِۦٓ أَن يُوصَلَ" (And those who connect what Allah has commanded to be connected). The Arabic word *yaṣilūn* (يصلون) comes from the root *waṣala*, meaning to join or unite, the opposite of cutting ties. Allah's command here is broad, encompassing every relationship He has enjoined us to uphold. Scholars like Ibn Ashur explain that this includes the ties of faith, kinship (such as family members), and even extends to all living creatures, as highlighted by al-Zamakhshari and al-Razi. It signifies extending kindness, support, and compassion to those with whom we share a bond, whether through blood, faith, or simply our shared humanity and existence in creation. The lengthy phrasing, "what Allah has commanded to be connected," underscores the weight and divine approval attached to maintaining these relationships, gently reminding us that such acts are pleasing to Allah. The repetition of the phrase "wal-ladhīna" (and those who) at the start of this and subsequent descriptions emphasizes the immense importance of each quality mentioned.
The Awe of Reverence
Next, the verse describes them saying, "وَيَخْشَوْنَ رَبَّهُمْ" (and they fear their Lord). The term *khashyah* (خشية) is more than just ordinary fear; it denotes a profound, reverent awe born from recognizing Allah's majesty and greatness. It’s a fear intertwined with deep respect and veneration. Al-Razi explains this fear as not only being cautious of shortcomings in our worship but also the awe inspired by Allah's sheer magnificence. This inward state guards the heart and influences all actions.
Following this, the verse adds, "وَيَخَافُونَ سُوٓءَ ٱلْحِسَابِ" (and they fear the evil of the reckoning). This is *khawf* (خوف), a more specific fear of an undesirable outcome. Here, it refers to the terrifying prospect of a difficult, severe accounting for one's deeds on the Day of Judgment. Ibn Ashur notes that this fear of "su' al-hisab" (evil of the reckoning) is so potent that it motivates believers to abandon bad deeds and scrutinize their actions in this life, as al-Zamakhshari suggests, before they are brought to account. The distinct mention of "khashyah" for Allah and "khawf" for the reckoning shows two complementary aspects of a believer's inner life: reverent awe of their Lord's nature, and practical concern for the consequences of their deeds.
A Continuous Striving
Significantly, the verbs describing these actions, "yaṣilūna" (they connect), "yakshawn" (they fear with awe), and "yakhafūn" (they fear consequences), are all in the present tense in Arabic. As Ibn Ashur points out, this form conveys a sense of continuous, ongoing effort. These are not one-time acts but rather persistent qualities and an enduring state of being for those who truly possess understanding. It shows a life lived in constant awareness and active pursuit of good.
Sources: al-Jalalayn, al-Zamakhshari (al-Kashshaf), Ibn Ashur (al-Tahrir wa al-Tanwir), al-Razi (Mafatih al-Ghayb), al-Jadwal fi I'rab al-Quran (Mahmud Safi)
Qur'anic Worlds
In Surah Ar-Ra'd, Allah describes the qualities of "people of understanding" (أولو الألباب), those who truly grasp the signs around them and heed divine guidance. Verse 21 further elaborates on these righteous believers, highlighting their deep reverence for Allah and their conscientious conduct.
Maintaining Connections
The verse speaks of "and those who maintain the relations Allah has commanded to be maintained" (وَٱلَّذِينَ يَصِلُونَ مَآ أَمَرَ ٱللَّهُ بِهِۦٓ أَن يُوصَلَ). This phrase carries profound meaning, inviting us to reflect on the nature of our connections. While some scholars like Mufti Shafi' suggest it refers broadly to connecting faith with good deeds or believing in all prophets, the most common and emphasized interpretation, as noted by Al-Baghawi and Al-Tabari, points to *silat al-rahim*, or maintaining kinship ties.
From the earliest days of Islam, the Companions understood this command as central. Narrations from the Prophet, peace be upon him, reveal the immense significance of family bonds. For instance, he conveyed a divine message: "I am Allah, and I am Ar-Rahman (The Most Merciful). It is the womb (Ar-Rahim), I have derived a name for it from My Name. So, whoever maintains it, I shall maintain My connection with him, and whoever severs it, I shall sever My connection with him." This powerful imagery connects our human relationships directly to Allah's divine attributes, emphasizing that upholding family ties is a way of responding to Allah's own mercy. The Prophet also taught that those who wish for an increase in provision and a longer life should maintain their kinship ties, showing the real-world impact of this spiritual command for the first Muslim community. Beyond family, Sayyid Qutb sees this as a broad principle of complete obedience, fulfilling all commands of Allah.
Reverence and Accountability
The verse then describes believers as those "who fear their Lord" (وَيَخْشَوْنَ رَبَّهُمْ) and "fear evil reckoning" (وَيَخَافُونَ سُوٓءَ ٱلْحِسَابِ). Mufti Shafi' beautifully distinguishes between two kinds of fear mentioned here. The word *khashyah* (خشية) implies a fear born out of love, respect, and awe, much like a child's reverence for a beloved parent or a student's esteem for a teacher. It's not a fear of harm, but a fear of displeasing the one they love and honor. This reflects the deep spiritual state of the early believers, whose inner world was shaped by profound love and respect for their Creator.
Following this, the verse mentions *khawf* (خوف), a more general fear, specifically "the fear of evil reckoning." This refers to the strict and minute accountability on the Day of Judgment, where, as Aisha, may Allah be pleased with her, observed, only divine mercy can truly save a person from punishment if every deed is meticulously accounted for. This understanding of strict accountability instilled diligence and discipline in the hearts of the Companions, prompting them to strive for rectitude in all their actions, knowing they would stand before their Lord.
Sources: Ma'arif al-Quran (Mufti Shafi), al-Baghawi (Maalim al-Tanzil), al-Tabari (Jami al-Bayan), Ibn Kathir, Sayyid Qutb (Fi Zilal al-Quran), al-Razi (Mafatih al-Ghayb)
Worldly Mirror
This powerful verse from Surah Ar-Ra’d offers a glimpse into the qualities of those truly endowed with understanding and insight (أُولُو الْأَلْبَابِ), the ones who respond to Allah's call. It speaks of individuals whose lives are deeply shaped by their relationship with their Creator and with creation itself. Allah is speaking directly here, describing the characteristics that lead to a blessed outcome, contrasting them with those who are heedless. The tone is one of affirmation and guidance, highlighting the path of righteousness.
Connecting Our World
The verse begins by describing "وَٱلَّذِينَ يَصِلُونَ مَآ أَمَرَ ٱللَّهُ بِهِۦٓ أَن يُوصَلَ," meaning, "those who connect what Allah has commanded to be connected." This is not just a vague instruction; it has profound implications for our daily lives and our society. At its heart, as scholars like Wahba al-Zuhayli and Israr Ahmad explain, this includes *silat ar-rahim*, the crucial duty of maintaining ties of kinship. It’s about nourishing relationships with family members, supporting them, and reaching out to them.
Beyond family, al-Muyassar's commentary extends this to "those in need," encompassing a wider circle of human connection and compassion. Sayyid Qutb emphasizes that this is a "great principle" that covers all of Allah’s commands to maintain bonds, whether with other human beings, or even our connection with the teachings of all Prophets. Imagine a society where every individual actively seeks to uphold these connections, from caring for elderly parents to supporting orphans, from reaching out to neighbors to contributing to the well-being of the broader community. This active "connecting" prevents isolation and strengthens the social fabric, reflecting a truly healthy and vibrant *ummah*. It calls us to examine our own relationships: Are we building bridges or letting them crumble?
A Heart of Awe and Accountability
The verse continues to describe these individuals as "وَيَخْشَوْنَ رَبَّهُمْ وَيَخَافُونَ سُوٓءَ ٱلْحِسَابِ," meaning "they fear their Lord and fear the evil of the reckoning." This isn't a paralyzing fear, but rather a profound awe (*khashyah*) coupled with deep reverence for Allah, as Wahba al-Zuhayli describes. This awe inspires constant watchfulness over one's actions, a deep-seated awareness that Allah is always present.
Furthermore, they genuinely "fear the evil of the reckoning." This implies a meticulous self-accountability. As Ibn al-Jawzi notes, "evil of the reckoning" can mean being scrutinized for every single sin without any forgiveness, or facing reproach and scolding. This fear prompts believers to examine their deeds before they are examined by Allah. It's a spiritual diagnosis that encourages us to live with intentionality, striving to fulfill our obligations and avoid wrongdoing, knowing that every action carries weight. This internal state of humility and responsibility drives them to live righteously, both in their private lives and in their public interactions, always mindful of their ultimate return to Allah.
Sources: Israr Ahmad (Bayan ul Quran), Tazkirul Quran, Sayyid Qutb (Fi Zilal al-Quran), Ibn al-Jawzi (Zad al-Masir), al-Munir (Wahba al-Zuhayli)
Connections
As Maani AI, let us humbly reflect on this profound verse from Surah Ar-Ra'd, inviting our hearts to ponder its meaning and connections.
The verse describes a specific group of people: "وَٱلَّذِينَ يَصِلُونَ مَآ أَمَرَ ٱللَّهُ بِهِۦٓ أَن يُوصَلَ وَيَخْشَوْنَ رَبَّهُمْ وَيَخَافُونَ سُوٓءَ ٱلْحِسَابِ" (And those who join what Allah has commanded to be joined, and fear their Lord, and dread the evil of the reckoning). This is Allah speaking directly, delineating the admirable qualities of "أولوا الألباب" (people of understanding) mentioned earlier in the surah. It's a commendation, distinguishing them from those who reject truth.
Connecting What Allah Commands
This verse highlights the deep connection these individuals have with Allah's commands. They are "الذين يصلون ما أمر الله به أن يوصل" (those who connect what Allah has commanded to be connected). This isn't just about simple actions; it's a comprehensive commitment. As Imam Tantawi explains, this includes things like maintaining family ties (صلة الأرحام), spreading peace, helping the needy, and being kind to neighbors. Imam al-Biqa'i beautifully emphasizes the continuous nature of this connection, implying that whenever a tie is broken, these individuals strive to renew it, always keeping the connection alive. This quality defines how they live their lives, reaching out and mending rather than severing.
Reverence and Accountability
The verse then describes two intertwined aspects of their inner state: "وَيَخْشَوْنَ رَبَّهُمْ وَيَخَافُونَ سُوٓءَ ٱلْحِسَابِ" (and they fear their Lord and dread the evil of the reckoning). The reverence (خشية) for Allah mentioned by Imam Tantawi is a fear accompanied by deep respect and awe, often born from knowledge. This fear isn't one of panic, but rather one that inspires obedience, leading them to fulfill Allah's commands and avoid His prohibitions. It comes from recognizing Allah as their "ربهم" (their Cherisher and Sustainer), the One who showers them with kindness, and whose displeasure they wish to avoid, as al-Biqa'i points out.
This reverence is naturally linked to their dread of "سوء الحساب" (the evil of the reckoning). This refers to the meticulous and strict accounting on the Day of Judgment, where every sin might be weighed without forgiveness, leading to the Fire, as al-Sabuni explains. This profound awareness of accountability motivates them to scrutinize their own actions in this life, preparing for the inevitable reckoning.
A Thread in the Tapestry
This verse, along with others in Surah Ar-Ra'd, forms a crucial part of the surah's overarching message. Imam al-Sabuni notes that these qualities of the "people of understanding" stand in stark contrast to those who reject the truth. Following parables comparing truth to pure water and falsehood to fleeting foam, this verse defines those who align with truth. Imam al-Biqa'i even connects this entire section to the foundational description of the righteous (المتقين) in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:2-3), suggesting that these qualities are what truly characterize the guided ones who believe in the unseen and act accordingly.
Thus, these noble qualities, proactively connecting, revering Allah with awe, and humbly fearing the Day of Judgment, are the hallmarks of those who genuinely respond to Allah's call to truth, seeking His pleasure and a good outcome in the Hereafter.
Sources: al-Wasit (Tantawi), al-Biqa'i (Nazm al-Durar), al-Sabuni (Safwat al-Tafasir)
Wisdom
The Quran often paints vivid pictures of those who truly understand and live by faith. In Surah 13, verse 21 introduces us to more of these profound qualities, describing a people whose lives are marked by connection, reverence, and carefulness. These are the "people of understanding," or *ulu al-albab*, who embrace truth and seek Allah's pleasure.
Connecting the Threads of Life
The verse begins with "وَٱلَّذِينَ يَصِلُونَ مَآ أَمَرَ ٱللَّهُ بِهِۦٓ أَن يُوصَلَ" (And those who maintain what Allah has commanded to be maintained). This isn't just about one type of connection; it's a vast principle. As scholars like Imam al-Saadi explain, it encompasses everything Allah has commanded us to connect. This includes our connection with Allah Himself through faith, love, and worship, our connection with His Messenger, and our connections with all people. It means being kind to parents and relatives, fulfilling the rights of spouses and friends, and doing good to all. Mufti Shafi notes that it even means connecting faith with good deeds, and believing in all prophets and books. This shows that a truly understanding heart strives to weave together all aspects of life, ensuring every thread strengthens the fabric of faith and good relationships, not just in worship but in our daily interactions.
Awe and Reverence for the Divine
Next, we learn that these individuals "وَيَخْشَوْنَ رَبَّهُمْ" (and fear their Lord). The Arabic word used here, *khashyah*, is distinct from a simple fear of danger. As Mufti Shafi beautifully explains, it is a fear born out of deep love and esteem, much like a child's fear of displeasing a beloved parent, or a student's respect for a revered teacher. It's a profound awe that prevents us from doing anything that would displease Allah, not out of terror, but out of devotion and a desire to remain in His favor. This inner reverence becomes a guiding light, shaping our choices and actions.
The Vigilance of the Heart
Finally, these people "وَيَخَافُونَ سُوٓءَ ٱلْحِسَابِ" (and are fearful of an evil reckoning). "Evil reckoning" means a strict, detailed accounting of every deed, where nothing is overlooked. As Imam al-Qurtubi notes, whoever is questioned too strictly will indeed be punished. This profound understanding of accountability on the Day of Judgment, as Mufti Shafi relates from Aisha, reminds us that only Allah's mercy can truly save us from a meticulous accounting of our countless shortcomings. This fear isn't paralyzing, but rather a powerful motivator for self-reflection and proactive good deeds in this life. It prompts us to examine our own actions and strive for improvement before that ultimate reckoning.
A Life of Intentional Connection
The general lesson from this verse is to live a life of intentional connection, informed by reverence and accountability. It calls us to actively build and maintain ties, not just with family, but with our Creator, His message, and all humanity. This means asking ourselves daily: Am I truly connecting what Allah wants me to connect? Does my heart hold that loving reverence (*khashyah*) for Him? And am I living with mindful awareness of my ultimate return and accounting? This ayah reshapes us by calling for a conscious, connected existence, where every action is a bridge to Allah's pleasure and a preparation for the inevitable reckoning.
Sources: al-Qurtubi (al-Jami li-Ahkam), Ma'arif al-Quran (Mufti Shafi), al-Saadi (Taysir al-Karim), Ibn al-Jawzi (Zad al-Masir), al-Munir (Wahba al-Zuhayli)
Topics that discuss this verse
Surah Ar-Ra'd 13:21 is discussed in 9 study guides on Maani. Each guide gathers the key verses, Arabic words and lessons of one Quranic topic.
Reflect on this verse
Open Surah Ar-Ra'd 13:21 in Maani to reflect on it through the Five Lenses: its wording, its context, what it means for you, its connections across the Quran and its lessons, grounded in classical tafsir.