Surah Ali 'Imran 3:18
سُورَةُ آلِ عِمۡرَانَ · Medinan · Verse 18 of 200
شَهِدَ ٱللَّهُ أَنَّهُۥ لَآ إِلَٰهَ إِلَّا هُوَ وَٱلْمَلَٰٓئِكَةُ وَأُو۟لُوا۟ ٱلْعِلْمِ قَآئِمًۢا بِٱلْقِسْطِ ۚ لَآ إِلَٰهَ إِلَّا هُوَ ٱلْعَزِيزُ ٱلْحَكِيمُ
Translation
God bears witness that there is no god but Him, as do the angels and those who have knowledge. He upholds justice. There is no god but Him, the Almighty, the All Wise.
English translation: M.A.S. Abdel Haleem.
Meaning and reflection
Wording
This profound verse (Surah 3:18) opens with a magnificent declaration: "Allah bears witness that there is no god but He." This isn't just a statement; it's a solemn testimony from the Creator Himself, affirming His absolute Oneness and supreme right to worship. The verse then immediately follows this with two other groups who bear witness: "and the angels and those of knowledge" (وَالْمَلَائِكَةُ وَأُولُوا الْعِلْمِ).
A Testimony to Truth
The word "شَهِدَ" (shahida), meaning "bore witness," is powerful here. As Imam al-Jalalayn explains, Allah "bears witness" by clarifying His Oneness to His creation through countless signs and proofs. Al-Zamakhshari likens Allah's demonstration of His Oneness through His unique actions and the verses He revealed (like Surah Al-Ikhlas) to the clear, undeniable testimony of a witness. Scholars like al-Razi and Ibn Ashur emphasize that Allah's "witnessing" is His creation of overwhelming evidence for His unity and His guidance for understanding it. The angels bear witness through their submission and relaying of divine messages, and "أُولُوا الْعِلْمِ" (those of knowledge) bear witness by understanding these proofs and upholding them with clear arguments, as Ibn Ashur notes. This verse elevates the status of those who truly seek knowledge, placing their testimony alongside that of angels, validating the pursuit of understanding as a path to recognizing Allah.
The Repetition of Oneness
The core statement, "لَا إِلَٰهَ إِلَّا هُوَ" (there is no god but He), is repeated in this single verse. This isn't mere redundancy; it's a deliberate emphasis that resonates deeply. Imam al-Razi offers several insights: it reinforces the absolute truth of Allah's Oneness, serves as an implicit command for us to constantly affirm this noble phrase, and crucially, it highlights different aspects of His divinity. The first mention establishes His sole right to worship, and the second, following the mention of justice, connects His Oneness with His attribute of justice.
Upholding Perfect Justice
Interwoven with the testimony of Oneness is the phrase "قَائِمًا بِالْقِسْطِ" (maintaining justice). This describes Allah's state of being. He is not merely a distant deity but one who actively maintains perfect justice in all affairs. Ibn Ashur explains "قَائِمًا" (qa'iman) here signifies diligence and persistence, like someone who constantly looks after the welfare of others. "ٱلْقِسْطِ" (al-qist) means absolute justice. Allah's justice, as al-Razi notes, is evident in the precise creation of the cosmos, the distribution of provisions, and the wisdom behind all creation and divine laws. Even the differences in human circumstances, though seemingly disparate, are part of His profound, overarching justice.
Power and Wisdom
The verse concludes by affirming Allah's Names, "الْعَزِيزُ الْحَكِيمُ" (The All-Mighty, The All-Wise). These are not simply descriptive; they are deeply tied to the preceding declarations. Al-Zamakhshari points out that Al-Aziz (The Mighty) means He is unchallenged in His dominion, and Al-Hakim (The Wise) means His actions are never devoid of perfect justice and wisdom. Al-Razi further explains that "Al-Aziz" highlights Allah's complete power, while "Al-Hakim" emphasizes His perfect knowledge. For Allah to maintain justice (qist), He must possess both: the knowledge to understand all needs and the power to fulfill them perfectly. This pairing reassures us that His Oneness and Justice are backed by ultimate might and profound wisdom, leaving no room for doubt or imperfection.
Sources: al-Zamakhshari (al-Kashshaf), al-Razi (Mafatih al-Ghayb), Ibn Ashur (al-Tahrir wa al-Tanwir), al-Jadwal fi I'rab al-Quran (Mahmud Safi), al-Jalalayn
Qur'anic Worlds
This powerful verse, Surah 3:18, opens a window into the foundational truth of Islam: the absolute Oneness of Allah. It presents a profound declaration, affirmed by the Divine, the celestial, and the learned, reminding us of the order and justice that define all existence.
The World of Revelation
To truly grasp this verse, we step into the "World of Revelation," understanding its initial context. The verse, revealed in Madinah, arrived at a crucial time when the nascent Muslim community was interacting with various belief systems, particularly the People of the Book, Christians and Jews, and the polytheists of Makkah. It directly addresses the doubts and misconceptions prevalent then.
As recorded by scholars like al-Baghawi and Mufti Shafi, this verse was revealed in response to specific questions from Jewish scholars who came to the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him. They sought to know the greatest testimony in Allah's Book. This divine answer led to their immediate acceptance of Islam, showing the verse's direct impact on its first audience. Al-Tabari further clarifies that the verse refutes the Christian notion of Jesus's sonship to God and the polytheists' claims of partners, firmly asserting that Allah is unique in His divinity. Sayyid Qutb emphasizes that this truth of *Tawhid* (Divine Oneness) is the bedrock of Islam, a clear refutation of any challenges to it.
The Universal Witnesses
The verse states, "شَهِدَ ٱللَّهُ أَنَّهُۥ لَآ إِلَٰهَ إِلَّا هُوَ وَٱلْمَلَٰٓئِكَةُ وَأُو۟لُوا۟ ٱلْعِلْمِ" (Allah bears witness that there is no god but He, and the angels, and those endowed with knowledge). Here, *shahada* (witnessing or testifying) takes on different yet harmonious forms. Allah's witness is His self-declaration, evident in His very Being and through the countless signs (*āyāt*) in creation that point to His Oneness, as explained by al-Razi. The angels, pure and obedient beings, bear witness through their complete submission and knowledge of Allah. Then come *ulul ilm*, the people of knowledge and insight. Their witness is their understanding, affirmation, and adherence to this truth, whether through studying divine revelation or pondering the universe. Mufti Shafi highlights the immense honor for these scholars, whose testimony is mentioned alongside Allah's and the angels'.
The World of Creation and Justice
The verse continues, "قَآئِمًۢا بِٱلْقِسْطِ" (standing in justice). This introduces the "World of Creation." Allah's Oneness is intrinsically linked to His absolute justice. This isn't merely a static declaration, but a dynamic, active principle that governs all of existence. As Sayyid Qutb notes, the entire universe operates on principles of justice and balance established by Allah. From the intricate design of the human body to the vast celestial spheres, everything functions with precision and fairness. Al-Razi elaborates that this divine justice encompasses both worldly matters, like the creation and differing circumstances of humans, and religious matters, such as guidance and error.
This justice is upheld by Allah's ultimate attributes: "ٱلْعَزِيزُ ٱلْحَكِيمُ" (the All-Mighty, the All-Wise). He is *al-Aziz*, the All-Mighty, meaning nothing is beyond His power or will, and *al-Hakim*, the All-Wise, meaning all His actions and decrees are perfect and free from error. These attributes are essential for establishing and maintaining universal justice. The verse beautifully reiterates "لَآ إِلَٰهَ إِلَّا هُوَ" (there is no god but He), emphasizing this core truth again, serving as a call for constant remembrance and an anchor for our beliefs.
This verse thus weaves together the historical context of its revelation with profound truths about Allah's nature and the order of the cosmos, inviting us to reflect on the bedrock of our faith and how it manifests in the justice that permeates all worlds.
Sources: Sayyid Qutb (Fi Zilal al-Quran), Ma'arif al-Quran (Mufti Shafi), al-Razi (Mafatih al-Ghayb), al-Baghawi (Maalim al-Tanzil), Ibn Kathir, al-Tabari (Jami al-Bayan)
Worldly Mirror
This verse opens with a profound declaration from Allah Himself, establishing the fundamental truth of His absolute oneness and unique divinity. It's a statement that forms the bedrock of faith. Allah, the ultimate Speaker, is addressing all of humanity, setting forth an undeniable reality. The immediate tone is one of absolute authority and clarity, laying down a foundational principle that challenges all forms of polytheism and injustice.
The Core Declaration
Allah declares, "Indeed, there is no god except Him" (لَا إِلَٰهَ إِلَّا هُوَ). This isn't just a claim; it's a profound testimony that Allah Himself offers. But He doesn't stand alone in this witness. The verse then names two other groups: "and the angels, and those of knowledge" (وَالْمَلَٰٓئِكَةُ وَأُو۟لُوا۟ ٱلْعِلْمِ). The angels, by their very nature, are fully submissive to Allah, understanding His absolute power and uniqueness. Then come *ulul 'ilm*, those endowed with true knowledge and deep understanding. As Dr. Israr Ahmad explains, these are the people who use their intellect to reflect on the signs in the universe and recognize the divine hand behind everything, arriving at the truth of Allah's oneness. This highlights the immense value of knowledge and sincere intellectual pursuit in recognizing Allah. It speaks to our inner journey of seeking truth and aligning our understanding with this ultimate reality.
A Foundation of Justice
Central to this testimony is Allah's attribute of being *qā'iman bil-qist* (maintaining justice). Sayyid Qutb emphasizes that this entire universe is upheld on principles of fairness and justice by Allah. This isn't just a theological concept; it's a profound mirror reflecting on our societal and political life. If the entire cosmos operates on divine justice, then human societies, to truly flourish and find balance, must also strive to establish justice in accordance with Allah's guidance. When human-made systems inevitably fall short due to human ignorance or self-interest, they lead to various forms of oppression, as Sayyid Qutb notes. The verse reminds us that true justice, from the grand cosmic scale to the intricacies of human interaction, originates from and is maintained by Allah. It calls us, as individuals and as an *ummah* (community), to champion justice in our lives, relationships, and governance, knowing that this aligns us with a fundamental divine attribute.
The Unwavering Truth
The declaration is reiterated: "There is no god except Him, the All-Mighty, the All-Wise" (لَا إِلَٰهَ إِلَّا هُوَ الْعَزِيزُ الْحَكِيمُ). This repetition is for emphasis, anchoring the truth in our hearts. Allah is *al-Aziz*, the All-Mighty, possessing ultimate power, meaning nothing can thwart His will or His justice. He is also *al-Hakim*, the All-Wise, meaning all His commands, actions, and the order of the universe are imbued with perfect wisdom. These names reassure us that His justice is not merely an ideal, but an unshakeable reality backed by infinite power and perfect wisdom. For us, reflecting on this means accepting this truth wholeheartedly, trusting in His justice when we see injustice, and striving to embody wisdom and strength in our own efforts to establish what is right.
Sources: Israr Ahmad (Bayan ul Quran), Sayyid Qutb (Fi Zilal al-Quran), al-Munir (Wahba al-Zuhayli), Tazkirul Quran, Ibn al-Jawzi (Zad al-Masir)
Connections
This profound verse (Surah Ali Imran, ayah 18) opens with a monumental declaration from Allah Himself, testifying to His absolute Oneness: "Allah bears witness that there is no god but He." This is a definitive statement, foundational to faith, delivered directly by Allah, establishing a central truth for all of humanity, particularly those being addressed in Surah Ali Imran, like the People of the Book (Ahl al-Kitab). It sets the tone for a discussion about the true path and the nature of belief.
Setting the Scene
This ayah arrives in Surah Ali Imran as a cornerstone, immediately following verses that praise those who affirm their faith and seek Allah's forgiveness. As Imam al-Sabuni highlights, it serves to demonstrate that the proofs of faith are clear and evident. It then flows into the assertion in the next verse that "Indeed, the religion in the sight of Allah is Islam," forming a coherent argument for pure monotheism before addressing the disputes of those who received earlier scriptures. Al-Biqa'i further observes that this verse powerfully reiterates the concept of Allah's Oneness, which was first introduced at the very beginning of the surah, confirming it in a grand and undeniable manner.
Threads of Oneness
The verse weaves itself into the larger fabric of the Quran, echoing other fundamental declarations of Allah's uniqueness. Al-Haralli, quoted by al-Biqa'i, links this ayah to "Ayat al-Qayyumiyyah," referring to other verses like Ayah al-Kursi (2:255). Both this verse and Ayah al-Kursi begin with the declaration "There is no god but He," connecting this testimony to Allah's essential nature as the Self-Sufficient, Ever-Living Sustainer of all existence. This connection reinforces that Allah's Oneness is not just a belief, but a reality inherent in His very being and demonstrated throughout creation.
A Prophetic Testimony
The significance of this verse is underscored by its historical context. Both al-Sabuni and al-Wasit mention that it was revealed in response to two rabbis from Syria who asked Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, about the greatest testimony in the Book of Allah. This event highlights the ayah's paramount importance as a declaration of faith. Furthermore, the Prophet himself was reported to recite this specific verse while standing at Arafat during his Farewell Pilgrimage, affirming his own testimony: "And I am among those who testify to that, O Lord" (al-Wasit). The spiritual reward for affirming this testimony is also immense; a hadith states that Allah will admit to Paradise the servant who covenants with Him through this declaration.
The Power of Repetition
The verse powerfully repeats the phrase "لَآ إِلَٰهَ إِلَّا هُوَ" (there is no god but He). Al-Biqa'i explains that the first instance is a "knowledge-based testimony" (الشهادة العلمية), confirming the truth intellectually. The second instance, which immediately follows "قَآئِمًۢا بِٱلْقِسْطِ" (maintaining justice) and is coupled with "ٱلْعَزِيزُ ٱلْحَكِيمُ" (the All-Mighty, the All-Wise), signifies a "practical, action-based justice" (القسط الفعلي). This shows that Allah's Oneness is not just an idea, but it is intrinsically linked to His perfect, unwavering justice in all His affairs. His attributes of Al-Aziz (the All-Mighty) mean nothing can stop His will, and Al-Hakim (the All-Wise) means His every action is perfect and without flaw. It is His absolute power and wisdom that make injustice impossible for Him. These attributes are presented here to counter the misconceptions of disbelievers and solidify the believer's understanding of Allah's magnificent power and wisdom.
Sources: al-Biqa'i (Nazm al-Durar), al-Sabuni (Safwat al-Tafasir), al-Wasit (Tantawi)
Wisdom
This profound verse begins with a majestic declaration from Allah, the Most High, establishing the fundamental truth of His Oneness (Tawhid). It is a direct and powerful statement from the Creator, leaving no room for doubt or misinterpretation. The tone is one of absolute certainty and divine authority, serving as a bedrock principle for all belief.
The Ultimate Testimony
The verse opens with "شَهِدَ ٱللَّهُ أَنَّهُۥ لَآ إِلَٰهَ إِلَّا هُوَ" (Allah bears witness that there is no deity except Him). This is not just a statement, but a testimony, a solemn declaration. As al-Saadi explains, Allah's witness is evident in the countless proofs within the universe and our very selves, from the order of creation to the blessings we receive and the harms He alone averts. The miraculous design of existence itself testifies to His singular being.
This divine testimony is then affirmed by "وَٱلْمَلَٰٓئِكَةُ" (and the angels), who, being closest to Allah, carry out His commands and bear witness to His absolute singularity. They see and know Him without doubt.
Then, Allah elevates "وَأُو۟لُوا۟ ٱلْعِلْمِ" (and those with knowledge), placing their testimony alongside His own and that of the angels. This is an immense honor, as Mufti Shafi and al-Qurtubi point out. It signifies the lofty status of those who sincerely seek and understand true knowledge, particularly concerning Allah's oneness and attributes. These are not merely scholars in a narrow sense, but anyone whose inquiry, whether through revelation or reflection on the universe, leads them to this foundational truth.
Upholding Justice
The verse continues, "قَآئِمًۢا بِٱلْقِسْطِ" (maintaining justice). This describes Allah as the One who consistently upholds justice in all His actions, decrees, and management of creation. He is perfectly balanced and fair, whether in His commands, prohibitions, or in the intricate design of the cosmos and human society, as al-Munir highlights. Justice, or *qist*, is an intrinsic aspect of His being. The repetition of "لَآ إِلَٰهَ إِلَّا هُوَ" (there is no deity except Him) afterwards, followed by "ٱلْعَزِيزُ ٱلْحَكِيمُ" (the All-Mighty, the All-Wise), serves to re-emphasize and seal this foundational truth, underlining His unchallenged power and perfect wisdom.
Lessons for Reflection
This verse offers profound lessons for our lives today. Firstly, it calls us to constantly reflect on Allah's signs around us, seeing in them the powerful evidence for His Oneness. Every sunrise, every breath, every act of creation is a testament. Secondly, it elevates the pursuit of true knowledge. If we aspire to be among "أُولُوا۟ ٱلْعِلْمِ," we must dedicate ourselves to understanding our Creator, His commands, and His creation. This knowledge, as al-Saadi explains, should lead to sincere worship.
Finally, the verse reminds us of Allah's perfect justice. This should instill both awe and trust. It assures us that ultimate fairness prevails in the universe and that any injustice we experience or witness will ultimately be rectified by the All-Just. This prompts us to strive for justice in our own lives, reflecting a divine attribute. There is also a beautiful practical application mentioned by scholars: if one recites this verse and then says, "وَأَنَا عَلَى ذَلِكَ مِنَ الشَّاهِدِينَ يَا رَبِّ" (And I, O my Lord, am among those who bear witness to that), Allah promises great reward, including entry into Paradise, as narrated by Mufti Shafi. It's a personal affirmation of the grand truth declared in the verse.
Sources: Ma'arif al-Quran (Mufti Shafi), al-Saadi (Taysir al-Karim), al-Munir (Wahba al-Zuhayli), al-Qurtubi (al-Jami li-Ahkam), Ibn al-Jawzi (Zad al-Masir)
Topics that discuss this verse
Surah Ali 'Imran 3:18 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 Ali 'Imran 3:18 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.