Surah An-Naba' (The Tidings): Verse 31

{Indeed, for the righteous is a place of attainment (Mafāzan)}

As for the meaning of "the righteous" (al-muttaqīn), its explanation has preceded in many places.

The word {mafāzan} (a place of attainment/success) can be interpreted in several ways:

1. As a verbal noun (maṣdar): Meaning success (fawzan) and achieving the desired goal.
2. As a place (mawḍiʿ) of success (fawz):
   • The success (fawz) intended could be achieving what is desired (gain).
   • Or, it could mean success in being saved from punishment (deliverance).
   • Or, it could mean the combination of both.

In my view, interpreting it as achieving what is desired (gain) is more appropriate than interpreting it as deliverance from punishment, or as the combination of both (deliverance from destruction and reaching the desired goal).

This is because the Almighty explained Mafāzan with what follows it, which is: {Gardens and grapes} (ḥadā’iqa wa a‘nāban). Therefore, Mafāzan must refer to this specific extent (i.e., the attainment of gardens and grapes).

Objection: Deliverance from destruction is more important than obtaining pleasure. Why would the text mention the less important aspect while omitting the more important one?

Answer: Deliverance from destruction does not necessarily imply the attainment of pleasure and good. However, the attainment of pleasure and good necessarily implies deliverance from destruction. Therefore, mentioning the latter was more appropriate.

{Gardens and grapes}

This refers to His saying, the Almighty: {Gardens and grapes} (ḥadā’iqa wa a‘nāban).