Translation:
Is one who worships devoutly during the hour of the night 4258 prostrating himself or standing (in adoration), who takes heed of the Hereafter, and who places his hope in the Mercy of his Lord - (like one who does not)? Say: "Are those equal, those who know and those who do not know? It is those who are endued with understanding that receive admonition. 4259
Is one who worships devoutly during the hour of the night 4258 prostrating himself or standing (in adoration), who takes heed of the Hereafter, and who places his hope in the Mercy of his Lord - (like one who does not)? Say: "Are those equal, those who know and those who do not know? It is those who are endued with understanding that receive admonition. 4259
Translation:
Or [dost thou deem thyself equal to] one who devoutly worships [God] throughout the night, prostrating himself or standing [in prayer], ever- mindful of the life to come, and hoping for his Sustainer’s grace?” 15 Say: “Can they who know and they who do not know be deemed equal?” [But] only they who are endowed with insight keep this in mind!
Or [dost thou deem thyself equal to] one who devoutly worships [God] throughout the night, prostrating himself or standing [in prayer], ever- mindful of the life to come, and hoping for his Sustainer’s grace?” 15 Say: “Can they who know and they who do not know be deemed equal?” [But] only they who are endowed with insight keep this in mind!
Commentary:
15 Alternatively, the above verse could be rendered thus: "Is, perchance, he who worships hoping for his Sustainer’s grace, [equal to one who denies the truth]?"
15 Alternatively, the above verse could be rendered thus: "Is, perchance, he who worships hoping for his Sustainer’s grace, [equal to one who denies the truth]?"
4258 Cf. 3:113-117. It is a great thing when a man gets into the attitude of humble devotion to Allah. To him the Hereafter is a real thing, and he prepares for it with good works. He does not build his hopes on the vanities of this world, but on Allah's Grace and Mercy. Such a man is "endued with understanding" and receives Allah's Message with fervour and alacrity. He is not to be compared with the cynic or the unbeliever, who knows nothing of the real value of the inner life.
4259 Cf. 13:19 .