Al-Baqara - The Cow
Arabic Name: الْبَقَرَة
Urdu Name: گائے
Type: Madani
Serial Number: 2
Revelation Order: 87
Total Verses: 286
Parah: 1,2,3
Rukus: 40
Sajda: None
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Quick Facts about this Verse
Surah
Al-Baqara
Revealed
Madani
Position
Juz 1,2,3
Explore this Verse
Verse Meaning
According to the classical exegete Imam Al-Tabari, Quran 2:227, 'And if they resolve on divorce, then indeed, Allah is Hearing and Knowing,' serves as the decisive conclusion to the ruling of 'Ila' (a husband's vow to abstain from marital relations). While the preceding verse offers a four-month window for reconciliation, this verse addresses the alternative. Ibn Kathir clarifies that the phrase 'resolve on divorce' signifies that the divorce is not automatic upon the expiry of the four months; rather, it is a deliberate choice the husband must make. This interpretation, held by the majority of scholars including Imam Malik and Imam Al-Shafi'i, establishes that the husband is compelled to either reconcile or formally issue a divorce, thereby protecting the wife from being left in a state of marital limbo. The synthesis of scholarly opinions reveals a profound legal principle: Islam prevents a husband from using an oath to harm his wife indefinitely. The divine attributes 'Sami'un 'Alim' (All-Hearing, All-Knowing) serve as a solemn warning, reminding the husband that his words, intentions, and the resolution of his oath are all witnessed by Allah, who will hold him accountable for his justice or injustice.
Questions for Reflection
Textual
The verse shifts from the action of 'fā'ū' (returning) in 2:226 to the intention of 'azamu' (resolving) here. Contemplate why Allah emphasizes the internal resolution ('azm) for divorce. How does this focus on intention highlight the gravity of the decision and the husband's accountability before Allah, the 'All-Knowing' ('Alim)?
Personal
The attributes 'All-Hearing, All-Knowing' conclude this verse about resolving to divorce. Reflect on a time you made a difficult, firm decision. How would knowing that every word ('Sami') and every hidden intention ('Alim) behind that decision was being witnessed by Allah have changed your process or your resolve?
Relational
This ruling prevents a husband from leaving his wife in an unresolved state. Contemplate the justice and mercy in demanding a clear resolution (reconciliation or divorce) rather than allowing ambiguity. How does this principle of clarity and decisiveness apply to other relationships and responsibilities in your life?
Practical Applications
Acknowledge that marital disputes require clear resolution and cannot be left in indefinite suspension.
In cases of prolonged separation or 'ghosting' within a marriage, this principle compels the responsible party to provide clarity and closure.
If you have taken an oath impacting your spouse, understand that divine justice demands you either honor your marital duties or grant a respectful release.
This applies to any solemn promise or refusal that harms a spouse, reminding individuals that they are accountable to God for their commitments and their consequences.
Hidden Gem
The synthesis of scholarly opinions reveals that this verse isn't merely about divorce; it's a divine prohibition against using religious vows as a tool for emotional abuse. By mandating a final step, Allah closes a loophole that existed in pre-Islamic practice, thereby legislating compassion and justice directly into the marital contract.
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