Surah Al-Maaida 5:55 - Tafsir & Translation
Read the Arabic text, translation, and detailed commentary for Surah Al-Maaida, Ayah 55
Arabic Text
اِنَّمَا وَلِيُّكُمُ اللّٰهُ وَرَسُوۡلُهٗ وَالَّذِيۡنَ اٰمَنُوۡا الَّذِيۡنَ يُقِيۡمُوۡنَ الصَّلٰوةَ وَيُؤۡتُوۡنَ الزَّكٰوةَ وَهُمۡ رٰكِعُوۡنَ
Transliteration
Innama waliyyukumu Allahuwarasooluhu wallatheena amanoo allatheenayuqeemoona assalata wayu/toona azzakatawahum rakiAAoon
Verse Definition & Meaning
Meaning & Definition
Al-Ma'idah 5:55 establishes the fundamental Islamic principle of true friendship and loyalty, declaring 'Your ally is none but Allah and His Messenger and those who believe - those who establish prayer and give zakah, and they bow [in worship]' (Innama waliyyukum Allahu wa rasuluhu wa alladhina amanu alladhina yuqimuna as-salata wa yu'tuna az-zakata wa hum raki'un). According to authentic Islamic scholarship, this verse was revealed to clarify that Muslims should not take intimate friendship with disbelievers who oppose Islam, but rather align themselves exclusively with Allah, Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, and true believers. The verse identifies three essential qualities of authentic believers: (1) establishing prayer (yuqimuna as-salata) with proper observance of all conditions and etiquettes, (2) paying zakah as both worship and social obligation, and (3) being humble and modest (raki'un) - not proud or arrogant over their good deeds. Classical commentators explain that 'raki'un' (those who bow) refers not just to the physical ruku' in prayer, but to the spiritual attitude of humility and submission before Allah. The verse concludes with the promise that those who take Allah, His Messenger, and believing community as their allies will belong to 'Hizb Allah' (the party of Allah), which shall ultimately be victorious. This establishes the Islamic concept that spiritual brotherhood transcends all other loyalties, creating an unbreakable bond among the global Muslim ummah based on shared faith, worship, and righteous character.
This definition is based on classical Islamic scholarship and authentic interpretations from recognized scholars.
Tafsir & Context
Detailed tafsir and context for Surah Al-Maaida Ayah 55 will be available soon.
Verse Wallpapers & Visual Content
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions: Surah Al-Maaida Ayah 55
Find answers to common questions about the meaning, interpretation, and significance of this verse in Islamic teachings and daily life.
❓Who are the true allies and friends of Muslims according to the Quran?
According to Al-Ma'idah 5:55, the true allies of Muslims are exclusively Allah, His Messenger, and the believers who establish prayer, pay zakah, and bow in worship. The verse states 'Your ally is none but Allah and His Messenger and those who believe.' This establishes that Muslims should not take intimate friendship with those who oppose Islam, but rather align themselves with the believing community.
❓What are the three essential qualities of true believers mentioned in this verse?
The verse identifies three essential qualities of authentic believers: (1) They establish prayer (yuqimuna as-salata) with proper observance of all conditions and etiquettes, (2) They pay zakah (yu'tuna az-zakata) as both worship and social obligation, fulfilling Allah's command and helping the needy, and (3) They are humble and modest (wa hum raki'un) - those who bow down, meaning they maintain humility and never become proud or arrogant over their good deeds.
❓What is the meaning of 'raki'un' (those who bow) in this verse?
According to classical commentators, 'raki'un' (those who bow) has both literal and spiritual meanings. While it can refer to the physical ruku' (bowing position) in prayer that distinguishes Islamic worship, the majority of scholars interpret it as describing the spiritual attitude of humility and modesty. It means believers who are humble before Allah and never feel proud or arrogant about their good deeds, maintaining a disposition of reverence and submission in all their affairs.
❓What is the significance of 'Hizb Allah' (Party of Allah) being victorious?
The verse promises that those who take Allah, His Messenger, and the believing community as their allies will belong to 'Hizb Allah' (the Party of Allah), which shall ultimately be victorious. This refers to the spiritual and ultimate triumph of those who align themselves with divine guidance and the righteous community. As stated in Quran 58:22, Allah has decreed that He and His messengers will prevail, and those who side with Allah's cause will achieve success in this world and the hereafter.
❓Why does the Quran emphasize establishing prayer and paying zakah together?
Prayer (salah) and zakah are mentioned together because they represent the two fundamental dimensions of Islamic worship - the spiritual relationship with Allah and the social responsibility toward humanity. Prayer establishes direct connection with Allah through worship, while zakah fulfills the rights of fellow human beings and purifies wealth. Together, they demonstrate complete submission to Allah's commands and create a balanced Muslim who serves both Creator and creation, forming the foundation of authentic Islamic character.
❓How does this verse address the issue of loyalty and friendship in Islam?
This verse establishes clear guidance on Islamic loyalty by using the word 'innama' (only/exclusively), which indicates restriction and exclusivity. It teaches that Muslims should not take intimate friendship or alliance with those who oppose Islam or seek to harm the Muslim community. Instead, true loyalty belongs to Allah first, then His Messenger, and finally the community of authentic believers. This creates a hierarchy of allegiance based on faith and righteousness rather than tribal, ethnic, or worldly considerations.
❓What is the difference between true believers and nominal Muslims according to this verse?
The verse distinguishes between nominal Muslims and true believers by identifying specific qualities: authentic believers are 'those who establish prayer and pay zakah and bow down.' This means they are not just Muslims by name or birth, but actively practice their faith through consistent worship, fulfill their social obligations through zakah, and maintain humility in their character. True believers demonstrate their faith through righteous actions and proper spiritual attitude, not merely verbal profession or cultural identity.
❓How should Muslims apply this verse's guidance in choosing friends and allies today?
Muslims should prioritize building close relationships with those who share their Islamic values and support their spiritual growth. While maintaining respectful relations with all people, intimate friendship and trust should be reserved for those who practice their faith sincerely, demonstrate good character, and support Islamic principles. This doesn't mean isolation from non-Muslims, but rather being wise about who receives deep trust and influence in one's life. The verse encourages Muslims to form a supportive community based on shared faith, mutual righteousness, and common spiritual goals.
Translations & Commentary
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