Surah Al-Qalam 68:18
سُورَةُ القَلَمِ · Meccan · Verse 18 of 52
وَلَا يَسْتَثْنُونَ
Translation
and made no allowance [for the Will of God]:
English translation: M.A.S. Abdel Haleem.
Meaning and reflection
Wording
The verse وَلَا يَسْتَثْنُونَ (Wa lā yastathnūn) is a poignant detail within the parable of the owners of the garden. This story serves as a profound warning to the disbelievers of Mecca, illustrating the consequences of ingratitude and avarice, just as it warns anyone who forgets Allah in their blessings. Here, Allah is speaking directly, highlighting a critical flaw in the garden owners' plan.
The Overlooked Clause
The phrase "وَلَا يَسْتَثْنُونَ" literally means "and they did not make an exception." The primary understanding, supported by scholars like al-Jalalayn and al-Razi, is that they omitted saying "in sha' Allah" (if Allah wills) when they made their oath. They were so confident in their ability to harvest their garden stealthily and deprive the poor that they neglected to acknowledge Allah's ultimate control over their affairs. This omission, as al-Razi notes, stems from their certainty and presumption that nothing could prevent them. "Istithnā'" (exception) in this context refers to the spiritual exception or condition of Allah's will, a humble recognition that all plans depend on His decree.
A Layer of Meaning
Ibn Ashur and al-Razi also offer another layer of meaning for "وَلَا يَسْتَثْنُونَ": that the garden owners did not make an exception for the poor from their harvest. Their plan was to cut all the fruit without leaving anything for the needy, as their righteous father used to do. This interpretation emphasizes their intention to completely deny the rights of the poor. Thus, the phrase highlights their absolute stinginess and lack of compassion, leaving no portion of the blessings for those in need. This meaning resonates with the broader context of the parable, which condemns greed and the refusal to share wealth.
The Lingering Present Tense
It is noteworthy that the Quran uses the present tense, "يَسْتَثْنُونَ" (yastathnūn), rather than a past tense. As al-Jadwal points out, this stylistic choice in Arabic rhetoric can emphasize a continuous state or a surprising, vivid portrayal of their action. It captures the essence of their attitude and mindset, showcasing their persistent neglect of Allah's will and the poor's rights as an ongoing, characteristic flaw, even in their planning. It's as if their lack of humility and generosity was a deeply ingrained aspect of their character.
This concise phrase, therefore, subtly yet powerfully reveals the double failing of the garden owners: a spiritual arrogance that forgot Allah's power, and a heart hardened against the needy.
Sources: al-Jalalayn, al-Zamakhshari (al-Kashshaf), Ibn Ashur (al-Tahrir wa al-Tanwir), al-Jadwal fi I'rab al-Quran (Mahmud Safi), al-Razi (Mafatih al-Ghayb)
Topics that discuss this verse
Surah Al-Qalam 68:18 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
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