Tafsir of Al-Balad 90:5

Surah Al-Balad (The City) - Verse 5

Ayah: أَيَحْسَبُ أَن لَّن يَقْدِرَ عَلَيْهِ أَحَدٌ

Translation & Exegesis:

Does he think that no one has power over him?

Know that if we interpret kabada (in the preceding verse, referring to the difficult path) as intensity in strength, then the meaning is: Does that strong person think that because of his strength, no one can overcome him?

If we interpret al-mihnah wa al-balā’ (tribulation and trial) as the meaning, then the meaning is that this difficulty is made easy for the heart (i.e., the trial is lightened). It is as if the verse says: Suppose the person is in a state of blessing and power; does he then imagine that in that state, no one has power over him?

There is a difference of opinion regarding the object of "no one has power over him":

1. Some scholars said: No one will be able to resurrect him and hold him accountable. This interpretation addresses one who denies the Resurrection.
2. Others said: What is meant is that no one will be able to change his circumstances, because he presumes he is powerful over all matters and cannot be resisted in achieving his desires.

The phrase "A-yaḥsabu" (Does he think?) is an interrogative used for denial and rebuke.

Ayah: يَقُولُ أَهْلَكْتُ مَالًا لُّبَدًا

Translation & Exegesis:

He says, "I have destroyed wealth in abundance!"