Surah Ya Sin (Ya Sin) 36 : 45

Explanatory Note

The Prophet who delivers to them what God has chosen, and shows them by practical example how to implement the laws God has enacted for them, is here given an outline of his own role. His position in relation o the believers is also explained.

Prophet! We have sent you as a witness, a bearer of good news and a warner; one who calls people to God by His leave and a light-giving beacon. Give to the believers the good news that a great bounty from God awaits them. Do not yield to the unbelievers and the hypocrites, and disregard their hurting actions. Place your trust in God; for God alone is worthy of all trust. (Verses 45-48).

The Prophet’s position among them is that of a witness. They should, then, work o improve the testimony he gives, as it will state the facts, changing nothing and containing nothing that is false. He is also the ‘bearer of good news, explaining what awaits those who work hard and well of God’s grace, forgiveness of sins, honour and reward. Moreover, he is ‘a warner’ to those who overlook their duties, telling them of what awaits the wrongdoers of punishment and suffering. Thus, they are not taken unawares. Furthermore, he is one who Calls people to God, not to worldly glory, national pride, personal gain or position. He only calls to God in a consistent way that leads to Him ‘by His leave’. He does not invent anything, nor does he say anything of his own volition. He fulfils his task by God’s leave, as He has commanded him. He is indeed ‘light-giving beacon’. He dispels darkness, removes doubts and enlightens the way. He is a beacon that gives light to guide people aright, like a lamp that dispels darkness on the road.

The messengers’ role is to alert people’s hearts so that they can see why they should be God- fearing, and to warn them against incurring God’s displeasure, pointing out its causes and teaching them how to avoid it. Signs are constantly given them in their lives, time after time, in addition to the signs that are available in the universe around them, but they choose to remain blind: “When they are told: Beware of that which lies before you and behind you, so that you may be graced with His mercy, [they pay no heed]. Every single sign that comes to them from their Lord do they ignore.” (Verses 45-46) If they are urged to be charitable and to give to the poor a portion of what God has provided for them, they say in ridicule