Surah Al-Ma'arij 70:33
سُورَةُ المَعَارِجِ · Meccan · Verse 33 of 44
وَٱلَّذِينَ هُم بِشَهَٰدَٰتِهِمْ قَآئِمُونَ
Translation
who give honest testimony
English translation: M.A.S. Abdel Haleem.
Meaning and reflection
Wording
This verse, a beautiful descriptor of the believers, speaks about their commitment to truth: "And those who are steadfast in their testimonies." (Surah 70:33, وَٱلَّذِينَ هُم بِشَهَٰدَٰتِهِمْ قَآئِمُونَ). It comes as part of a list of noble qualities that distinguish true believers, those who will be honored in Paradise. Allah is speaking directly, affirming these virtues as essential characteristics.
The Essence of Testimony
The word *shahadat* (شَهَٰدَٰتِهِمْ), or "testimonies," refers to bearing witness to the truth. The plain meaning clarifies that it means delivering one's testimony truthfully, without changing or hiding anything. Scholars like al-Zamakhshari and al-Razi emphasize that testimony is a crucial form of *amanah*, a trust. The right of the person being testified for is like a deposit held by the witness. When a witness fulfills their testimony, they are essentially returning this trust to its rightful owner.
Upholding Truth with Steadfastness
The word *qaimun* (قَآئِمُونَ) means "steadfast" or "upholding." It comes from the root for "to stand." Ibn Ashur explains this is a metaphorical "standing," much like "establishing prayer." It means taking great care of the testimony and preserving it until it is delivered. It's not just about giving a testimony once, but about being consistently committed to this truth. The structure of the verse, using the nominal sentence "those who *they are* steadfast," highlights that this isn't an occasional act, but a firm and constant characteristic of the believer, a quality deeply ingrained within them.
Why This Matters So Much
Scholars highlight the profound importance of *shahadah* by noting that establishing truth through testimony "revives rights" and "validates them," while neglecting it can "nullify and lose them." Imagine the impact on justice and fairness in society when people are truly steadfast in bearing witness. Ibn Ashur points out that this particular trait is emphasized because it can often be challenging. Giving honest testimony might mean testifying against a friend or relative, or facing enmity from those affected. Yet, despite these difficulties, the believer stands firm. This unwavering commitment to truth, even when costly, is a hallmark of their faith and a key to securing justice in the world.
Sources: al-Zamakhshari (al-Kashshaf), al-Razi (Mafatih al-Ghayb), al-Jalalayn, Ibn Ashur (al-Tahrir wa al-Tanwir), al-Jadwal fi I'rab al-Quran (Mahmud Safi)
Topics that discuss this verse
Surah Al-Ma'arij 70:33 is discussed in 5 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-Ma'arij 70:33 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.