What is the meaning of 'enmity and hatred' in Quran 5:64?

In Quran 5:64, 'enmity and hatred' (al-'adawah wal-baghda') refers to a state of internal discord and animosity that Allah has placed among the Jews as a consequence of their blasphemous claims and rejection of divine guidance. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir explain that this manifests as a lack of unity and perpetual conflict among their various groups.

Why was enmity and hatred cast among the people mentioned in Surah Al-Ma'idah, verse 64?

According to the verse, enmity and hatred were cast among them due to their assertion that 'Allah's Hand is tied up' (a metaphor for stinginess), their subsequent curse for this statement, and their increase in rebellion and disbelief. Islamic commentators interpret this as a divine punishment for their theological transgressions and rejection of the truth.

Is the 'enmity and hatred' in Quran 5:64 a permanent state?

The verse states that the enmity and hatred among them will last 'till the Day of Resurrection,' indicating a long-term condition of discord. However, Islamic theology also emphasizes that sincere repentance and a return to the true path can lead to divine mercy and a change in condition.

Enmity and Hatred Among Them: A Quranic Perspective

↑Parent: and Christians

enmity and hatred among them

Explore Verses Related to enmity and hatred among them

🕌Al-Ma'idah5:64

At a Glance

The Quranic phrase 'enmity and hatred' (al-'adawah wal-baghda'), as highlighted in Surah Al-Ma'idah, verse 64, refers to a state of profound and lasting discord that is cast upon a community as a divine consequence for their transgressions. In the context of this verse, it is a punishment for the Jews who made blasphemous statements about Allah and persisted in their rebellion. Classical Islamic scholars, such as Ibn Kathir and Al-Tabari, interpret this as a catalyst for internal strife and a lack of unity among their different sects, a condition that the Quran states will persist until the Day of Resurrection. This concept serves as a stark warning against theological deviation and disobedience, illustrating how such actions can lead to social and political fragmentation.

📖 Quranic Context

This phrase is a significant indicator of communal discord and divine retribution for straying from God's path.

The casting of enmity and hatred is presented as a direct consequence of the actions and beliefs of certain groups.

References: 5:14, 5:64, 5:91, 24:22, 60:4

💭 Theological Perspective

While humans are capable of love and unity, enmity and hatred can arise from spiritual diseases and disobedience.

These negative emotions are seen as destructive forces that corrupt the heart and lead to societal decay.

The Quran warns against the causes of enmity and hatred and provides guidance for fostering unity and compassion.

Overcoming enmity and hatred is a crucial aspect of spiritual purification (tazkiyah).

📜 Hadith Perspective

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) warned against mutual hatred and emphasized the importance of brotherhood and love for the sake of Allah.

The prohibition of shunning and boycotting fellow Muslims.
The virtues of forgiveness and reconciliation.
The dangers of envy and malice.

Islamic scholars unanimously agree that fostering enmity and hatred among believers is a major sin.

💎 Deeper Insights

The verse presents a divine sociological principle: a community's internal cohesion is directly linked to its theological integrity. The 'enmity and hatred' are not just a punishment but a natural and divinely ordained outcome of their spiritual state.

— Ibn Kathir, Al-Tabari

Explore Verses Related to enmity and hatred among them

At a Glance

📖 Quranic Context

💭 Theological Perspective

📜 Hadith Perspective

💎 Deeper Insights

Related Topics

Parent Topic

Related Topics (6)