Surah Al-Buruj 85:20
سُورَةُ البُرُوجِ · Meccan · Verse 20 of 22
وَٱللَّهُ مِن وَرَآئِهِم مُّحِيطٌۢ
Translation
God surrounds them all.
English translation: M.A.S. Abdel Haleem.
Meaning and reflection
Wording
This profound verse (Surah 85:20) arrives as a powerful continuation of Allah's address to the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, and by extension, to us. It follows a strong statement about those who disbelieve and persist in denying the truth, despite the clear lessons from past nations like Pharaoh and Thamud. Here, Allah Himself speaks directly, shifting our focus from the deniers to His own majestic presence and power over them.
Allah's Majestic Name
The verse begins with "وَٱللَّهُ" (And Allah), immediately grounding the statement in the ultimate divine authority. This "And" connects directly to the previous verse, where disbelievers are described as being steeped in denial. It implies: 'And despite their obstinacy, consider Allah.' It's a direct intervention, reminding us of the One who sees, knows, and holds ultimate power.
"From Behind Them"
The phrase "مِن وَرَآئِهِم" (min warā'ihim) is particularly striking. The Arabic word *warā'* can mean both "behind" and "in front," but here, scholars like Ibn Ashur emphasize the sense of "from behind." This paints a vivid picture: Allah encompasses them from a direction they are not looking, a threat they might not perceive or expect. It suggests an inescapable reality that is closing in on them, even if they remain oblivious. It's like an enemy silently surrounding someone from all sides, and when they finally try to flee, they find no escape. This imagery powerfully conveys that Allah's power and decree are at work, even when hidden from human sight, leaving no avenue for escape.
Fully Encompassing
Then comes the word "مُّحِيطٌۢ" (muhīṭun), meaning "encompasses" or "surrounds." Its root signifies being fully enclosed, leaving no way out. The commentaries clarify that this encompassing is not just about Allah's vast knowledge, but more critically, about His complete power and control over these disbelievers. As al-Jalalayn states, "la 'asim lahum minhu" (there is no protector for them from Him).
Ibn Ashur highlights that this encompassing is a direct threat, a strong warning of impending punishment that they cannot avoid. It’s a profound illustration (tamthīl) of their inability to escape Allah's wrath. Just as a physical object cannot escape what completely surrounds it, these disbelievers cannot escape the consequences of their actions. This ayah is a powerful message of divine justice, reassuring believers that Allah is fully in control, and warning those who persist in denial that they are utterly surrounded by His power and judgment. It invites us to ponder the all-encompassing nature of our Creator, a truth that should inspire both awe and sincere introspection.
Sources: al-Zamakhshari (al-Kashshaf), al-Jalalayn, al-Jadwal fi I'rab al-Quran (Mahmud Safi), Ibn Ashur (al-Tahrir wa al-Tanwir), al-Razi (Mafatih al-Ghayb)
Topics that discuss this verse
Surah Al-Buruj 85:20 is discussed in one study guide on Maani. Each guide gathers the key verses, Arabic words and lessons of one Quranic topic.
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