Surah Al-Anbiya Ayat 17 in Arabic Text
English Translation
Here you can read various translations of verse 17
Had We intended to take a diversion, We could have taken it from [what is] with Us – if [indeed] We were to do so.
If it had been Our wish to take (just) a pastime, We should surely have taken it from the things nearest to Us, if We would do (such a thing)!
Had it been Our will to find a pastime, We would have found one near at hand; if at all We were inclined to do so.
Had We intended to take a pastime (i.e. a wife or a son, etc.), We could surely have taken it from Us, if We were going to do (that).
If We had wished to find a pastime, We could have found it in Our presence – if We ever did.
If We had taken to Us a diversion, We would indeed have taken it to Us from very close to Us, in case We are performing (that).
If We had wished for a pastime, We could have found it within Us- if We had wished for any such thing.
اگر ہم یوں ہی کھیل تماشے کا اراده کرتے تو اسے اپنے پاس سے ہی بنا لیتے، اگر ہم کرنے والے ہی ہوتے
Quran 21 Verse 17 Explanation
For those looking for commentary to help with the understanding of Surah Al-Anbiya ayat 17, we’ve provided two Tafseer works below. The first is the tafseer of Abul Ala Maududi, the second is of Ibn Kathir.
Ala-Maududi
(21:17) Had it been Our will to find a pastime, We would have found one near at hand; if at all We were inclined to do so.[16]
16. That is, this world has been created with a definite purpose and not as a plaything. For, if We had wanted to enjoy a sport, We would have done so without creating a sentient, rational and responsible creature like you. Far be it from Us to put man to trial and conflict for the sake of mere fun.
Ibn-Kathir
The tafsir of Surah Anbiya verse 17 by Ibn Kathir is unavailable here.
Please refer to Surah Anbiya ayat 16 which provides the complete commentary from verse 16 through 20.
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