Surah al-Nahl (The Bee)

Meccan, comprising 128 verses (1), except for the words of Allah Most High: “And if you retaliate, then retaliate in proportion to the injury done to you,” through to the end of the surah. (2)

In the Name of Allah, the Most Merciful, the Bestower of Mercy.

“Allah’s command has come, so do not seek to hasten it. Exalted is He, and far above whatever they associate with Him.” (1)

“Has come,” that is, it has arrived, drawn near, and approached. Concerning “Allah’s command,” Ibn Arafah said: The Arabs say, “The matter has come to you,” even though it is still expected to occur. That is, Allah’s command has come as a promise, so do not seek to hasten its actual occurrence.

Regarding “Allah’s command,” al-Kalbi and others said: What is meant by it is the Day of Resurrection.

Ibn Abbas said: When the words of Allah Most High, “The Hour has drawn near” (al-Qamar 54:1), were revealed, the disbelievers said to one another: “This man claims that the Day of Resurrection has drawn near, so refrain from some of what you have been doing until you see what comes to pass.” When nothing happened, [they said: “We do not see anything.” Then the words, “The people’s reckoning has drawn near” (al-Anbiya 21:1), were revealed, and they became fearful. But when the days went on, they said: “O Muhammad, we do not see anything of what you threaten us with.”] (3) So Allah Most High revealed: “Allah’s command has come.” Then sprang up