Surah Al-Baqarah 2:272
سُورَةُ البَقَرَةِ · Medinan · Verse 272 of 286
۞ لَّيْسَ عَلَيْكَ هُدَىٰهُمْ وَلَٰكِنَّ ٱللَّهَ يَهْدِى مَن يَشَآءُ ۗ وَمَا تُنفِقُوا۟ مِنْ خَيْرٍۢ فَلِأَنفُسِكُمْ ۚ وَمَا تُنفِقُونَ إِلَّا ٱبْتِغَآءَ وَجْهِ ٱللَّهِ ۚ وَمَا تُنفِقُوا۟ مِنْ خَيْرٍۢ يُوَفَّ إِلَيْكُمْ وَأَنتُمْ لَا تُظْلَمُونَ
Translation
It is not for you [Prophet] to guide them; it is God who guides whoever He will. Whatever charity you give benefits your own soul, provided you do it for the sake of God: whatever you give will be repaid to you in full, and you will not be wronged.
English translation: M.A.S. Abdel Haleem.
Meaning and reflection
Wording
Maani AI is here to help you ponder deeply. Let us approach this verse with humility, reverence, and openness.
Guidance is His Alone
The verse opens with a profound statement directed at the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, but with a universal lesson: "لَّيْسَ عَلَيْكَ هُدَىٰهُمْ وَلَٰكِنَّ ٱللَّهَ يَهْدِى مَن يَشَآءُ" (It is not your responsibility to guide them, but Allah guides whom He wills). The phrase "عَلَيْكَ" (upon you) signals a duty or obligation. By negating it, Allah reassures the Prophet that the ultimate outcome of guidance, the actual acceptance and transformation in people's hearts (referred to as "هُدَىٰهُمْ" or 'their guidance'), is not his burden. As Ibn Ashur explains, this offers solace to the Prophet, who deeply yearned for people to believe. His role was to convey the message, but the power to place guidance in hearts belongs to Allah alone. The word "وَلَٰكِنَّ" (but) then clarifies this divine prerogative, emphasizing that Allah, by His will, bestows guidance. This highlights a crucial distinction between conveying truth and compelling belief.
For Your Own Souls
The verse then shifts focus to the nature and reward of charity: "وَمَا تُنفِقُوا۟ مِنْ خَيْرٍۢ فَلِأَنفُسِكُمْ" (Whatever good you spend, it is for your own souls). Here, "مِنْ خَيْرٍ" (of good) is a general term encompassing any beneficial spending. The concise phrase "فَلِأَنفُسِكُمْ" (then it is for yourselves) powerfully reminds us that the primary beneficiary of our generosity is not the recipient, but ourselves. This is a profound encouragement to give, revealing the circular nature of good deeds.
Pure Intention
Next, the Quran describes the true motive for spending: "وَمَا تُنفِقُونَ إِلَّا ٱبْتِغَاءَ وَجْهِ ٱللَّهِ" (And you do not spend except seeking the Face of Allah). Ibn Ashur notes that this is a statement presented as a command or prohibition, making it a very strong instruction: "Do not spend except seeking the Face of Allah." This unique grammatical form emphasizes the essential condition for accepted charity: sincerity. As al-Razi explains, "وَجْهِ ٱللَّهِ" (the Face of Allah) signifies acting purely for Allah, seeking His pleasure and reward above all else, with no partner in one's intention.
Full Reward Awaits
The verse concludes with an assurance of divine justice and reward: "وَمَا تُنفِقُوا۟ مِنْ خَيْرٍۢ يُوَفَّ إِلَيْكُمْ وَأَنتُمْ لَا تُظْلَمُونَ" (And whatever good you spend will be repaid to you in full, and you will not be wronged). The repetition of "وَمَا تُنفِقُوا۟ مِنْ خَيْرٍۢ" (whatever good you spend) from earlier in the verse, as Ibn Ashur points out, is for increased emphasis, underscoring the importance of this act. The promise "يُوَفَّ إِلَيْكُمْ" (will be repaid to you in full) guarantees that Allah will give complete recompense, and "وَأَنتُمْ لَا تُظْلَمُونَ" (and you will not be wronged) firmly reassures that not even the smallest portion of one's good deed will be diminished. The phrasing "أَنتُمْ" (you) placed before the negation "لَا تُظْلَمُونَ" (will not be wronged) emphasizes this personal guarantee of justice to the givers.
Sources: Ibn Ashur (al-Tahrir wa al-Tanwir), al-Zamakhshari (al-Kashshaf), al-Jadwal fi I'rab al-Quran (Mahmud Safi), al-Razi (Mafatih al-Ghayb), al-Jalalayn
Qur'anic Worlds
This profound verse from Surah Al-Baqarah opens by addressing the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, offering him immense comfort and clarifying his sacred mission. Then, it turns to the believers, guiding their hearts in the spirit of giving.
The Burden of Guidance
The ayah begins, "لَّيْسَ عَلَيْكَ هُدَىٰهُمْ وَلَٰكِنَّ ٱللَّهَ يَهْدِى مَن يَشَآءُ" (It is not for you their guidance; rather, Allah guides whom He wills). In the *World of Revelation*, the Prophet ﷺ was deeply concerned for the salvation of all people, especially his own relatives and those who resisted his message. The early Muslim community, too, felt the weight of seeing their loved ones and neighbors cling to disbelief, even struggling economically. As al-Baghawi and al-Tabari note, some Companions hesitated to give charity to their non-Muslim relatives or the poor among the People of the Book (known as *dhimmis*), hoping that poverty might compel them to embrace Islam.
This verse came as a divine clarification and reassurance. It distinguishes between two types of guidance: the Prophet's role was *hidayat al-bayan wal-da'wah* (to clarify the truth and invite people to it) but not *hidayat al-tawfiq* (the actual granting of faith and opening of hearts). The latter is solely Allah's prerogative, as Sayyid Qutb explains. This relieved the Prophet ﷺ of an impossible burden, reminding him and the believers that while they must convey the message, the ultimate decision of faith rests with Allah alone.
The Heart of Giving
Moving to the believers, the verse continues, "وَمَا تُنفِقُوا۟ مِنْ خَيْرٍۢ فَلِأَنفُسِكُمْ ۚ وَمَا تُنفِقُونَ إِلَّا ٱبْتِغَاءَ وَجْهِ ٱللَّهِ" (Whatever good you spend is for yourselves, and you do not spend except seeking the Face of Allah). This part profoundly reshapes the believer's perspective on charity. Mufti Shafi and al-Razi highlight that this refers to *sadaqah nafl*, or voluntary charity, distinct from obligatory *Zakah*. The Companions were now being told that their generosity, even towards those not of their faith, was not wasted.
This reflects a beautiful aspect of the *World of Revelation*: it teaches sincere intention. "ابتغاء وجه الله" (seeking the Face of Allah) means giving purely for Allah's pleasure, not for human praise, recognition, or even to manipulate someone into Islam. Ibn Kathir mentions a Prophetic narration where charity was given to a harlot, a rich man, and a thief, yet still accepted due to the giver's pure intention. The act of giving itself purifies the heart and elevates the soul, regardless of the recipient's response, making the act beneficial *for the giver* first and foremost.
The Guaranteed Reward
Finally, the ayah concludes, "وَمَا تُنفِقُوا۟ مِنْ خَيْرٍۢ يُوَفَّ إِلَيْكُمْ وَأَنتُمْ لَا تُظْلَمُونَ" (And whatever good you spend will be repaid to you in full, and you will not be wronged). This is a divine guarantee. Allah assures the believers that every act of sincere charity, given purely for His sake, will be fully rewarded. Not a single good deed will be diminished or unacknowledged. This promise encourages believers to be expansive in their generosity, knowing that their spiritual investment is secure and will yield abundant returns in the Hereafter.
Sources: Ma'arif al-Quran (Mufti Shafi), al-Baghawi (Maalim al-Tanzil), Sayyid Qutb (Fi Zilal al-Quran), al-Tabari (Jami al-Bayan), al-Razi (Mafatih al-Ghayb), Ibn Kathir
Worldly Mirror
This profound verse speaks to us on two fundamental levels: the divine nature of guidance and the sincere essence of giving. It begins by addressing the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), but its wisdom extends to every believer, reshaping our understanding of responsibility and intention.
Guidance is From Allah
The verse starts by declaring, "لَّيْسَ عَلَيْكَ هُدَىٰهُمْ وَلَٰكِنَّ ٱللَّهَ يَهْدِى مَن يَشَآءُ" (It is not your responsibility, O Prophet, to ensure their guidance, but Allah guides whom He wills). This clarifies that while the Prophet's duty was to convey the message and invite people to truth, the power to open hearts and grant true guidance rests solely with Allah. This was revealed when some Muslims were hesitant to give charity to non-Muslim relatives, perhaps hoping it might lead them to Islam. The verse establishes that their guidance is not dependent on our actions or charity, nor is it a burden on our shoulders.
For us, this is a deep reflection on our interactions and efforts in calling to good. Whether we are parents, teachers, leaders, or friends, we often feel the weight of wanting others to embrace what we believe is right. This ayah teaches us humility and patience. Our role is to lovingly share the truth, embody good character, and show compassion. We should not harbor anger or distress if people do not respond as we wish, as Sayyid Qutb highlights. The ultimate turning of hearts is Allah's domain, and we must trust in His wisdom and timing. This frees us from the anxiety of outcomes and allows us to focus on the sincerity of our effort.
The Heart of Giving
The verse continues, "وَمَا تُنفِقُوا۟ مِنْ خَيْرٍۢ فَلِأَنفُسِكُمْ ۚ وَمَا تُنفِقُونَ إِلَّا ٱبْتِغَآءَ وَجْهِ ٱللَّهِ" (Whatever good you spend is for your own souls, and you do not spend except seeking the Face of Allah). Here, the focus shifts to the essence of charity. When we give, the reward and benefit return to us, as Israr Ahmad points out. More importantly, it clarifies the *motivation* behind our giving. True charity, the kind that earns divine acceptance, is that which is done purely for "ibtighaa'a Wajh Allah," seeking Allah's pleasure alone.
Sayyid Qutb beautifully explains that a true believer does not give for worldly praise, to exert dominance over others, or to gain favor from powerful individuals. Their heart is tranquil, knowing that Allah will accept their sincere offering and bless their wealth. This principle opens the door for charity to anyone in need, regardless of their faith, as long as they are not at war with the Muslim community. Wahba al-Zuhayli explains that the original context allowed for giving to non-Muslim relatives or those in need, fostering a spirit of universal compassion and economic cooperation. This tells us that our generosity should stem from a place of pure devotion to Allah, extending goodness to humanity without discrimination, and letting go of expectations of worldly recognition.
Undiminished Reward
The ayah concludes with a powerful assurance: "وَمَا تُنفِقُوا۟ مِنْ خَيْرٍۢ يُوَفَّ إِلَيْكُمْ وَأَنتُمْ لَا تُظْلَمُونَ" (And whatever good you spend will be repaid to you in full, and you will not be wronged). This final phrase reassures the giver that not even the slightest bit of their sincere effort will be lost. Every act of kindness, every penny given with pure intention, is meticulously recorded and will be returned completely.
This offers immense comfort and motivation. In a world where efforts often go unnoticed or unappreciated, this promise reminds us that Allah is the ultimate Appreciator and Rewarder. It encourages us to continue giving, knowing that our true recompense is with Him, unblemished by human judgment or oversight. This instills hope and reinforces the inner peace derived from sincere, selfless giving, fostering a character rooted in humility and generosity.
Sources: Israr Ahmad (Bayan ul Quran), Sayyid Qutb (Fi Zilal al-Quran), Ibn al-Jawzi (Zad al-Masir), Tazkirul Quran, al-Munir (Wahba al-Zuhayli)
Wisdom
This profound verse from Surah Al-Baqarah offers essential lessons on our role in guiding others and the true nature of charity. It was revealed at a time when early Muslims were hesitant to give charity to their non-Muslim relatives, hoping that withholding help might encourage them to accept Islam. Allah clarifies these matters with timeless wisdom.
Our Role in Guidance
The verse begins with the powerful statement: `لَّيْسَ عَلَيْكَ هُدَىٰهُمْ وَلَٰكِنَّ ٱللَّهَ يَهْدِى مَن يَشَآءُ` (It is not for you their guidance, but Allah guides whom He wills). This was initially addressed to the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, and carries a crucial lesson for all of us. It teaches us that while we are responsible for conveying truth and sincerely inviting others to goodness, the ultimate power to open hearts to faith and guide someone rests solely with Allah. As Al-Saadi explains, the Prophet's duty was clear conveyance, not forcing faith. This principle brings a sense of humility and relief, reminding us not to despair if our efforts to guide loved ones don't immediately yield results. Our job is to plant the seed, but growth is in Allah's hands.
The Selfless Act's Reward
The verse then turns to the act of giving: `وَمَا تُنفِقُوا۟ مِنْ خَيْرٍۢ فَلِأَنفُسِكُمْ` (And whatever good you spend is for yourselves). This is a beautiful Quranic maxim. Any generosity, any good deed you perform, is not a loss or a favor to others, but an investment that ultimately benefits you. Its positive effects return to you in this life and the Hereafter. Mufti Shafi emphasizes this point, noting that the reward for charity, even to a non-Muslim in need, is for the giver.
The Power of Intention
Allah further clarifies the essence of true giving: `وَمَا تُنفِقُونَ إِلَّا ٱبْتِغَآءَ وَجْهِ ٱللَّهِ` (And you do not spend except seeking the Face of Allah). This means that for our charity and good deeds to be truly accepted and rewarded, our intention must be pure, solely seeking Allah's pleasure and reward. We should not seek worldly praise, recognition, or any other ulterior motive. This statement, as Al-Saadi points out, is an affirmation of the believers' sincerity, driven by their faith. It sets a high standard for all our actions, reminding us that inner sincerity is the heart of every outward good deed.
Guaranteed Full Recompense
Finally, Allah reassures us: `وَمَا تُنفِقُوا۟ مِنْ خَيْرٍۢ يُوَفَّ إِلَيْكُمْ وَأَنتُمْ لَا تُظْلَمُونَ` (And whatever good you spend, it will be repaid to you in full, and you will not be wronged). This is a promise of divine justice and generosity. Every act of kindness, every moment of sincere spending, no matter how small, is preserved and will be returned to us completely. We will receive our full reward, without any diminishment, for Allah is the Most Just. This encourages us to give generously and with certainty, knowing that our efforts are never in vain.
In essence, this verse teaches us to focus on our own sincerity and effort, leaving the results of guidance to Allah. It reminds us that our good deeds are ultimately for our own benefit, and that Allah, in His perfect justice, will fully reward every act of sincere giving.
Sources: Ma'arif al-Quran (Mufti Shafi), Ibn al-Jawzi (Zad al-Masir), al-Saadi (Taysir al-Karim), al-Qurtubi (al-Jami li-Ahkam), al-Munir (Wahba al-Zuhayli)
Topics that discuss this verse
Surah Al-Baqarah 2:272 is discussed in 10 study guides on Maani. Each guide gathers the key verses, Arabic words and lessons of one Quranic topic.
Reflect on this verse
Open Surah Al-Baqarah 2:272 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.