Surah al-Qasas (The Stories) 28 : 78

Explanatory Note

Such was the honest advice given to Qārūn by his people. Yet in one sentence his reply carried every meaning of corruption - I have got this wealth and amassed it through the knowledge I have; all by my own endeavour. So, why are you trying to tell me how to use what is my private property?

This is the attitude of one who chooses to be oblivious to the source of the blessings he has been given. He has been blinded by his wealth. Such people are common, seen in all societies. Many a rich person believes that his knowledge and effort are the only means by which he has amassed his wealth. Hence, he is not to be questioned about the way he uses his wealth, what he spends or for what purpose, whether it be for good or foul. No thought does he entertain of God or earning His pleasure.

Qārūn, however, did not listen to his people, nor did he appreciate the blessings granted by his Lord. He did not abide by the divine method, but instead turned away arrogantly. Therefore, a warning was issued to him for his insolence and arrogance: “Did he not know that God had destroyed many a generation that preceded him, and who were far more powerful and greater in wealth than he? The guilty are not questioned about their sins.”

If he believed himself to be powerful and rich, God had in the past destroyed communities that were far more powerful and wealthy. He should have known this, because it is such knowledge that saves man from destruction. Let him know, then, that he and all guilty people like him are worth nothing in God’s sight. They are not even worth questioning about their sins. They are neither the arbiters nor the witnesses.