Transliteration:( Farrat min qaswarah )
“Which flee from a lion.”
This verse illustrates the stupidity and foolishness of the disbelievers who, like donkeys fleeing from a lion, run away from the Holy Qur'aan and the Messenger of Allah ﷺ. Their fear and rejection of the truth are compared to a donkey fleeing from a lion out of fear. The verse highlights how their stubbornness and ignorance prevent them from recognizing the truth.
Human Nature vs. Appearances
Although all human beings may look alike, their nature varies greatly. Some are like donkeys in their foolishness, while others are like lions in their strength, and some even possess a nature that is superior to angels. The verse suggests that intelligence is not measured by worldly status or appearances, but by the ability to recognize and follow the truth of Allah (اللَّهُ ) and His Prophet ﷺ. The stones and animals, which distinguish between Abu Jahl and the Holy Prophet ﷺ, are wiser than those who refuse the truth.
Misguided Intelligence
The verse condemns those who possess worldly intelligence but fail to recognize the truth of Allah and His Messenger ﷺ. Such intelligence, which leads to rejection and arrogance, is not true intelligence but stupidity. The honor and respect these individuals receive are ultimately disgraceful, as they are disconnected from the truth of Islam.
The tafsir of Surah Muddaththir verse 51 by Ibn Kathir is unavailable here.
Please refer to Surah Muddaththir ayat 38 which provides the complete commentary from verse 38 through 56.
(74:51) fleeing from a lion?[37]
37. This is an idiomatic expression in Arabic which depicts the character of wild donkeys who flee stupefied and stunned as soon as they smell a lion or hear a hunter.
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