Surah At-Tariq 86:16
سُورَةُ الطَّارِقِ · Meccan · Verse 16 of 17
وَأَكِيدُ كَيْدًۭا
Translation
but so do I:
English translation: M.A.S. Abdel Haleem.
Meaning and reflection
Wording
This powerful verse, "وَأَكِيدُ كَيْدًۭا" (Wa akeedu kaydan), meaning "And I (Allah) also plan a plan," comes as Allah's divine response to the schemes of those who denied His Messenger, peace be upon him, and His revelation. While the disbelievers plotted to extinguish the light of truth, Allah declares that He too is planning, with ultimate power and wisdom, to ensure the truth prevails.
Understanding "Kayd"
The Arabic word "كَيْد" (kayd) refers to a strategic plan or scheme, often one that is subtle or concealed. When humans scheme, it often carries a connotation of trickery or malice. However, when this word is attributed to Allah, its meaning is understood in a way that befits His perfection and justice. As scholars like Ibn Ashur explain, Allah's "kayd" is not deception in a negative sense. Instead, it is His wise and subtle management of affairs. It means He grants respite to the disbelievers, allowing them to continue their ways, while subtly orchestrating events towards their eventual, just consequence. Al-Jalalayn clarifies that Allah's "kayd" means He "leads them on from where they do not know," gradually moving them towards their predetermined end.
A Plan of Immense Power
The repetition of the word "كَيْدًۭا" (kaydan) in the verse acts as an intensifier, emphasizing the profound reality and power of Allah's plan. It’s not just *a* plan, but a plan in the most comprehensive and decisive sense. Furthermore, the indefinite form of "كَيْدًۭا" (kaydan) suggests an immense and magnificent plan, far beyond human comprehension. Their schemes are limited and ultimately destined for failure, but Allah's plan is all-encompassing, subtle, and absolutely certain to achieve its objective. This divine planning assures the Prophet, peace be upon him, that even amidst the plots of his adversaries, Allah’s supreme wisdom is at work, subtly orchestrating events to manifest His truth and secure ultimate victory.
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 At-Tariq 86:16 is discussed in one study guide on Maani. Each guide gathers the key verses, Arabic words and lessons of one Quranic topic.
Reflect on this verse
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