Tafsir of Al-Qamar 54:53

Surah Al-Qamar (The Moon): Verse 53

53. And every small and great thing is recorded.

Translation and Exegesis:

This phrase signifies a generalization of the ruling: the recording is not limited to what they (the disbelievers) have done, but everything done by others is also inscribed.

Nothing, whether small or large, escapes being written down.

We have previously discussed in the exegesis of the verse:

{Nothing escapes Him, not even the weight of an atom in the heavens or on earth, nor anything smaller than that or greater, except that it is in a clear Record.} (Saba: 3)

The inclusion of {nor anything greater} carries a profound significance. When a person records the accounts of another, it is usually done out of fear of forgetting. If a very large sum or matter arises, which one is secure from forgetting, they might neglect to write it down and focus instead on recording what they fear forgetting.

By stating {nor anything greater}, Allah indicates that even the great matters, which one is secure from forgetting, are recorded. This shows that Our recording is not like human recording, where the purpose is primarily to guard against forgetfulness.

We apply the same principle here, and in the verse:

{What is this Book that leaves nothing small or great except that it has enumerated it!} (Al-Kahf: 49), and in all similar passages.

In all these instances, the small thing is mentioned first because it is more prone to being carefully noted down during writing. People usually start with the small things to preserve them from being forgotten. Allah mentions them according to the common practice of creation. This supports what we previously mentioned: that kull (every), even though indefinite (nakirah), is suitable to begin with because it conveys generality without ambiguity.

[Then Allah, the Exalted, said]:

54. Indeed, the righteous will be in Gardens and rivers (of Paradise).