Surah Al-Baqarah 2:277
سُورَةُ البَقَرَةِ · Medinan · Verse 277 of 286
إِنَّ ٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُوا۟ وَعَمِلُوا۟ ٱلصَّـٰلِحَـٰتِ وَأَقَامُوا۟ ٱلصَّلَوٰةَ وَءَاتَوُا۟ ٱلزَّكَوٰةَ لَهُمْ أَجْرُهُمْ عِندَ رَبِّهِمْ وَلَا خَوْفٌ عَلَيْهِمْ وَلَا هُمْ يَحْزَنُونَ
Translation
Those who believe, do good deeds, keep up the prayer, and pay the prescribed alms will have their reward with their Lord: no fear for them, nor will they grieve.
English translation: M.A.S. Abdel Haleem.
Meaning and reflection
Wording
Surah al-Baqarah, verse 277, comes as a beautiful promise of reward and peace, following stern warnings against dealing in interest (riba). It highlights the path to true success and tranquility, speaking directly to those who choose faith and righteous actions.
The Foundation of Faith
The verse begins by identifying `إن الذين آمنوا` (Indeed, those who believed). This isn't just a fleeting thought or an intellectual acknowledgment; it's a deep-seated conviction. Immediately coupled with this belief are `وعملوا الصالحات` (and did righteous deeds). Imam al-Razi points out that while righteous deeds are a natural outgrowth of belief, their separate mention emphasizes that faith without action is incomplete. The Quran then specifies two of the most fundamental righteous deeds: `وأقاموا الصلاة` (and established prayer) and `وآتوا الزكاة` (and gave charity). Ibn Ashur notes this specific mention, particularly `آتوا الزكاة`, creates a profound contrast with the earlier verses about usury. While usury involves taking from others unjustly, charity means giving to those in need, purifying one's wealth and soul. This specific wording shows us the core pillars of a believer's life: sincere faith, purposeful actions, dedicated prayer, and compassionate giving.
A Secure Reward
For these individuals, Allah promises `لهم أجرهم عند ربهم` (their reward is with their Lord). Al-Razi thoughtfully explains the significance of `عند ربهم` (with their Lord), indicating a reward that is not merely *due from* their Lord, but *present with* Him. It’s like a guaranteed, immediate payment rather than a future debt. The choice of `ربهم` (their Lord) emphasizes Allah's role as their Nurturer, Provider, and Protector, implying that this reward comes from a deeply personal relationship of care and guardianship. It assures them that their efforts are not lost but are held securely and intimately by their Master.
Complete Tranquility
The verse culminates with the most comforting promise: `ولا خوف عليهم ولا هم يحزنون` (No fear upon them, nor will they grieve). Al-Razi elaborates on this, explaining that `لا خوف عليهم` means they will have no fear regarding the future, especially the momentous events of the Hereafter. And `ولا هم يحزنون` assures them that they will not grieve over anything they left behind in the world, nor will they regret not having done *more* good deeds. This comprehensive peace frees them from all anxiety about what is to come and all sorrow about what has passed, signifying a state of perfect contentment and security in Allah's presence.
The specific wording of this verse paints a clear picture of the believer’s journey and destiny: a life of sincere faith and dedicated service, leading to a secure, personal reward and a complete, everlasting peace bestowed by their caring Lord.
Sources: al-Zamakhshari (al-Kashshaf), al-Razi (Mafatih al-Ghayb), al-Jadwal fi I'rab al-Quran (Mahmud Safi), Ibn Ashur (al-Tahrir wa al-Tanwir), al-Jalalayn
Topics that discuss this verse
Surah Al-Baqarah 2:277 is discussed in 8 study guides on Maani. Each guide gathers the key verses, Arabic words and lessons of one Quranic topic.
Reflect on this verse
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