Transliteration:( Allazeena yastami'oonal qawla fayattabi'oona ahsanah; ulaaa'ikal lazeena hadaahumul laahu wa ulaaa'ika hum ulul albaab )
"Who listen to the word attentively and follow the best [50] thereof. It is they who Allah has guided [51], and it is they who possess wisdom [52]."
The “word” mentioned here refers to the sayings and teachings of the Holy Prophet ﷺ.
All his sayings are noble, divinely inspired, and full of excellence.
The phrase “follow the best thereof” does not suggest that some sayings are lesser—it reflects practical application, where each person follows what suits his condition best.
For instance, the wealthy act on the command of Zakat, the strong engage in Jihad, and the knowledgeable focus on teaching.
Thus, every instruction has its relevance, and there is no contradiction or objection in this classification.
These verses were revealed regarding Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddiq (may Allah be pleased with him).
After embracing Islam, he invited Hazrat Uthman, Abdur Rahman bin Auf, Talha, Zubair, Sa'd bin Abi Waqqas, and Saeed bin Zaid (may Allah be pleased with them) to accept Islam.
All of them responded positively and entered the fold of faith.
Indeed, how fortunate is that tree which bears such noble fruit—a sign of Abu Bakr’s sincerity, wisdom, and blessed company.
This verse teaches that true wisdom (ʿaql) lies in recognizing, accepting, and practicing the truth.
Intelligence that is used only for worldly gain is incomplete and shallow.
Real intellect is that which leads one to the path of religion, to submit to divine guidance, and to embrace the light of Revelation.
Those who combine sound intellect with sincere action are indeed those whom Allah has guided.
The tafsir of Surah Az-Zumar verse 18 by Ibn Kathir is unavailable here.
Please refer to Surah Zumar ayat 17 which provides the complete commentary from verse 17 through 18.
(39:18) to those who pay heed to what is said and follow the best of it.[36] They are the ones whom Allah has guided to the Right Way; they are the ones endowed with understanding.
36. This verse can have two meanings:
(1) That they do not follow every voice but ponder over what every man says and accept only what is right and true.
(2) That they do not try to give a false meaning to what they hear but adopt its good and righteous aspects.
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