Dr. Karim AbuZaid's Maqasidic Tafsir Surat Ar-Rad ----The Thunder Before the Storm: Understanding the Mockery of Resurrection

The disbelievers of Makkah were not ignorant about the Creator. When asked about the origins of the heavens and the earth, they acknowledged that Allah (swt) alone brought everything into existence. Yet, they persistently denied and mocked the idea of resurrection. This denial was not due to a lack of belief in creation or prophethood, but rather to the belief that accepting resurrection entailed accountability. It meant surrendering to the reality that every action would be judged and justice would be served. Their mockery of resurrection reveals deep lessons about human nature, belief, and divine mercy. Dr. Karim AbuZaid Beautifully Explains this in his Maqasidic Tafsir of Surat Ar-Rad, and Ustadah Laila Nasheeba offers insightful views.

The Disbelievers’ Recognition of Creation

The people of Makkah clearly understood that the universe had a Creator. When questioned about the origin of the heavens and the earth, they did not deny that Allāh (swt) was responsible for their existence. This acknowledgment indicates that their rejection was not due to ignorance of God’s power or existence.

They accepted that the world was created by a higher power, which means they recognized:

• The complexity and order in the universe required a Creator.

• Prophets were sent as messengers from this Creator.

• The signs of creation were evident and undeniable.

  
  

This acceptance makes their rejection of resurrection more striking. It was not a denial of God’s ability but a refusal to accept the consequences of His judgment.

Why Resurrection Was Mocked

Resurrection means that after death, all humans will be brought back to life for judgment. This concept implies accountability for every deed, good or bad. The disbelievers of Makkah mocked this idea because:

• Accountability is challenging: Accepting resurrection means accepting that every action will be judged fairly. This reality demands responsibility and moral behavior.

• Fear of punishment: They feared the consequences of their actions being exposed and judged.

• Denial as defense: Mockery served as a defense mechanism to avoid facing the truth of their deeds.

• Delay in punishment: They expected immediate punishment and ridiculed Allah for the delay, failing to understand the underlying rationale.

  
  

Their mockery served to reject the uncomfortable truth that life has consequences beyond this world.

The Wisdom Behind the Delay of Judgment

The disbelievers failed to understand why the Day of Judgment was delayed. They saw the delay as a sign of weakness or inability on Allah’s part. In reality, the delay is a sign of mercy and a chance for repentance.

• Time for repentance: Allah gives people time to turn back, seek forgiveness, and change their ways.

• Justice will be served: The delay does not mean justice will be denied; it means justice will be delivered perfectly and fairly.

• Mercy over punishment: Allah’s mercy is greater than His punishment, and the delay reflects His desire for people to be saved.

  
  

This delay is a reminder that divine justice is not rushed but measured and compassionate.

!Eye-level view of t

The ancient city of Makkah with the Kaaba in the center

The Importance of Accepting Resurrection Today

Understanding the disbelievers’ attitude toward resurrection helps us reflect on our own beliefs and actions. Accepting resurrection means:

• Recognizing accountability: Every action has consequences beyond this life.

• Living with purpose: Knowing there is a final judgment encourages ethical and moral behavior.

• Embracing mercy: Understanding that Allah’s delay in judgment is an opportunity for mercy and repentance.

• Rejecting mockery: Avoiding dismissive attitudes toward serious spiritual truths.

  
  

This acceptance shapes how we live, treat others, and prepare for the hereafter.

Lessons from the Disbelievers’ Mockery

The story of Makkah’s disbelievers teaches us several key lessons:

• Knowledge alone is not enough: They knew about creation but rejected resurrection because it challenged their comfort.

• Fear can lead to denial: Fear of accountability can cause people to mock or deny truth.

• Mercy is a chance, not a weakness: Divine mercy gives time to repent, not a free pass to ignore responsibility.

• Faith requires courage: Accepting resurrection means facing the reality of judgment with honesty and humility.

  
  

These lessons encourage self-reflection and a sincere approach to faith.

Practical Reflections for Today

To apply these lessons in daily life:

• Reflect on your beliefs: Do you accept accountability for your actions?

• Use the time wisely: Repent and improve your behavior while there is still time.

• Avoid dismissing spiritual truths: Take resurrection seriously as a foundation of faith.

• Encourage others: Share the message of mercy and accountability with kindness.

  
  

By doing so, we align ourselves with the truth and prepare for the life to come.