Surah Al-Baqarah, the second chapter of the Holy Quran, holds a significant place in the hearts of Muslims around the world. It is the longest chapter in the Quran, consisting of 286 verses, and covers a wide array of themes including guidance for personal development, community organization, legal regulations, and spirituality. Among its many verses, the last two verses, 285 and 286, are particularly noteworthy. These verses encapsulate core Islamic beliefs and convey profound messages regarding faith, divine mercy, and human responsibility.
The last two verses of Surah Al-Baqarah are often memorized and recited by Muslims for their spiritual and protective benefits. The transliteration of these verses is as follows:
**Verse 285:**
Amanar Rasoolu bima unzila ilayhi min Rabbihi wal mu’minoon kullun amana billahi wa malaa’ikatihee wa kutubihi wa rusulihi la nufarriqu bayna ahadim min rusulihi wa qaloo sami’na wa at’ana ghufranaka Rabbana wa ilayka al-maseer
**Verse 286:**
La yukallifullahu nafsan illa wus’aha laha ma kasabat wa alayha ma اكتسبت Rabbana la tu’akhidhna in naseena aw akhta’na Rabbana wala tahmil alayna isran kama hamaltahu ala allatheena min qablina Rabbana wala tuhamilna ma la taqata lana bih wa’fu anna wa ighfir lana warhamna anta maulana fa ansurna ala al-qawmi al-kafireen
The translation of these verses affirms the basic tenets of faith in Islam, including belief in Allah, His angels, His books, and His messengers. The verse emphasizes that a true believer accepts all of the messengers sent by Allah without distinction among them. This is a reflection of Islamic unity, encouraging believers to recognize the shared messages of good and guidance brought forth through different prophets.
The phrase “sami’na wa at’ana” translates to “we hear and we obey,” highlighting a fundamental aspect of Islamic submission to the will of Allah. This embodies the spirit of obedience and commitment that Muslims are encouraged to adopt in their lives. The plea “ghufranaka Rabbana” translates to “Your forgiveness, our Lord,” indicating a humble acknowledgment of human fallibility and the continuous need for Allah’s mercy.
The subsequent verse, 286, acknowledges human limitations and the burdens that they bear. “La yukallifullahu nafsan illa wus’aha” conveys that Allah does not burden a soul beyond its capacity. This declaration serves as a source of comfort for believers, assuring them that the challenges and trials they face are designed to be manageable according to their individual strengths and circumstances. It emphasizes that every individual is unique and will only be held accountable for their own actions and moral choices.
The verse continues with a profound supplication, where believers ask for forgiveness and mercy. “Rabbana la tu’akhidhna in naseena aw akhta’na” translates as “Our Lord, do not impose blame upon us if we have forgotten or made a mistake.” This part signifies the understanding that humans are inherently prone to errors and forgetfulness, and it reflects an essential aspect of mercy that believers hope to receive from their Creator.
Following this, the believers implore Allah not to place a burden upon them akin to those borne by previous peoples. This reflects an awareness of historical struggles and a desire to relate their own burdens to those of earlier communities while pleading for gentleness in the difficulties they might encounter. Asking Allah to not hold them accountable for actions beyond their ability acknowledges the importance of divine compassion and understanding.
The closing supplication of the verse encapsulates a plea for forgiveness, mercy, and assistance against those who reject faith. “fa ansurna ala al-qawmi al-kafireen” translates to “so give us victory over the disbelieving people.” This calls for divine support in striving against disbelief and adversity, underscoring a broader struggle that believers engage in, both individually and collectively, in their quest for truth.
The significance of these last verses of Surah Al-Baqarah extends beyond their immediate meanings. They serve as a reminder of the essence of faith in Islam, which is intertwined with humility, obedience, mercy, and the acknowledgment of divine wisdom. These verses encapsulate a comprehensive understanding of the relationship between Allah and His creation, emphasizing both the personal connection that Muslims strive to maintain with their Lord and the communal aspect of faith that binds the Ummah together.
Reciting these verses is not merely an act of devotion but also a source of strength and reassurance for believers. They are often recommended for recitation before sleep, as it is believed that doing so can provide protection and peace of mind. The rhythmic beauty of the Arabic language coupled with the deep meaning encapsulated in these verses resonates with believers and encourages them to reflect upon their lives and commitments to faith.
Overall, the last two verses of Surah Al-Baqarah embody profound principles that guide a Muslim’s faith and actions. They remind believers of their obligations to uphold the tenets of Islam, seek forgiveness and mercy, and strive towards righteousness within the framework of compassion and understanding. These verses remind Muslims that they are part of a larger narrative of faith that has persisted through time, inspiring generations to live with purpose, integrity, and devotion to Allah.