Surah Luqman (Luqman ) 31 : 21

Explanatory Note

“When it is said to them, ‘Follow what God has revealed’, they say, ‘No; but we will follow only what we found our forefathers believing in.’“ This is their only basis and evidence! It is nothing other than blindly following traditions which lack knowledge and intelligent thinking. Islam wants to free them from such blind imitation, so as to set their minds free. It wants them to be able to think, reflect and benefit by the light, but they adamantly hold on to the chains of their deviant past.

Islam means freedom of conscience, active feelings, aspiration for enlightenment and a new way of life that is free of blind tradition. Yet such people turn their backs on it, rejecting its light and guidance. They argue about God without knowledge or guidance. Hence, the sūrah looks upon them with ridicule, making a subtle reference to the end such attitudes lead to: “Why, even if Satan is beckoning them to the suffering of the blazing fire.” Indeed their attitude is nothing less than an invitation by Satan leading them to God’s punishment. Will they persist with this despite the end which they will be certain to have? This last remark should at least alert them to the difficulty of their position.