Tafsir of Al-Jathiyah 45:25

[Linguistic Note] It is read as ḥujjatahum (accusative) and ḥujjatuhum (nominative), based on whether the predicate of kāna is placed first or last.

[Question] If you ask: Why is their statement called a "proof" (ḥujja) when it is not a proof?

[Answer] I say: Because they presented it just as one who argues presents their proof, and they drove it in the manner of a proof; thus, it is called a "proof" by way of mockery. Or, it is because, in their estimation and calculation, it is a proof. Or, it is in the style of the poet’s saying: "Their greeting among them was a painful blow." It is as if it were said: "Their proof was nothing but that which is not a proof." The intent is to negate that they have any proof whatsoever.

[Question] If you ask: How does His saying, "Say: Allah gives you life," serve as a response to their saying, "Bring back our forefathers if you are truthful"?

[Answer] I say: When they denied the Resurrection and belied the Messengers, and imagined that what they said was a silencing argument, they were compelled to acknowledge what they already admit: that it is Allah—Mighty and Majestic is He—who gives them life and then causes them to die. To this admission, He added the obligation of acknowledging that which is necessary if they were fair and listened to the caller of Truth: namely, that He will gather them on the Day of Resurrection. Whoever is capable of that is capable of bringing back their forefathers, and it would be the easiest thing for Him.

[27] And to Allah belongs the dominion of the heavens and the earth. And on the Day the Hour appears - that Day the falsifiers will lose.

[28] And you will see every nation kneeling; every nation will be called to its record, [and it will be said], "Today you will be recompensed for what you used to do."

[29] "This, Our record, speaks about you in truth. Indeed, We were having transcribed whatever you used to do."

[30] So as for those who believed and did righteous deeds, their Lord will admit them into His mercy. That is the clear attainment.

[31] But as for those who disbelieved, [it will be said], "Were My verses not recited to you? But you were arrogant and became a criminal people."