Surah Ya Sin (Ya Sin) 36 : 11

Explanatory Note

“You can truly warn only such a one as follows this reminder and who stands in awe of the Lord of Grace although He is beyond the reach of human perception. To such, then, give the happy news of God’s forthcoming forgiveness and a generous reward.” (Verse 11)

Most probably, the ‘reminder’ in this instance refers to the Qur’ān. A person who follows the Qur’ān and fears God despite not seeing Him is the one who benefits by the warning. It is as if the warning has been given to such people only and the Prophet directed it to them alone, even though he addressed it to all people. Since the others are prevented from receiving the warning, it looks as if it is given only to those who follow the Qur’ān and fear God. Such people deserve to be given good news. Hence the Prophet is told to give them ‘the happy news of Gods forthcoming forgiveness and a generous reward.’ (Verse 11) They need the forgiveness of any sin they commit providing they do not persist in doing it, and they deserve the generous reward for fearing God and following what He has revealed. These two aspects go hand in hand: when a person truly fears God, he or she is certain to follow His guidance and implement the system He has laid down.