Tafsir of Al-Ahzab 33:41

Al-Ahzab (The Confederates): Verse 41

The connection of this verse to what preceded it is that the foundation and structure of this Surah are based on disciplining the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him).

We have previously mentioned that Allah the Exalted began by mentioning what the Prophet (peace be upon him) ought to be like in relation to Allah, which is piety (Taqwa), and mentioned what the Prophet (peace be upon him) ought to be like in relation to his family and relatives by saying: $\text{{O Prophet, say to your wives...}} (Al-Ahzab: 28).

Allah the Exalted commands His believing servants with what He commands His Messengers. Thus, He guided His servants just as He disciplined His Prophet. He began with what pertains to His own aspect of glorification by saying: \text{{O you who have believed, remember Allah with frequent remembrance.}} just as He said to His Prophet: \text{{O Prophet, fear Allah...}} (Al-Ahzab: 1).

There is a subtle point here: A believer might forget the remembrance of Allah, so he is commanded to make remembrance continuous. However, the Prophet, due to his proximity to the Divine Presence (being among the Muqarrabūn), does not forget. Yet, the one close to the King might become complacent due to his closeness and his fear might lessen. Therefore, He said: \text{{Fear Allah.}} This is because the sincere one (Mukhliṣ) is in great peril, and the good deed of the Saints (Awliyā') is considered a bad deed for the Prophets.

As for the statement \text{{with frequent remembrance}}$, we have mentioned in many places that Allah described remembrance with abundance, as there is no restriction on the remembrance, as we have explained.

< {And exalt Him morning and evening.} >