Transliteration:( Wa izaa tutlaa 'alayhi Aayaatunaa wallaa mustakbiran ka al lam yasma'haa ka anna feee uzunaihi waqran fabash shiru bi'azaabin aleem )
"And when Our Verses are recited to him, he turns proudly away, as though he did not hear them, and as if there was heaviness [10] in his ears. Therefore give the news of a painful punishment."
This verse highlights the arrogant response of disbelievers when the verses of the Qur’an are recited to them. Instead of reflecting or listening with humility, they turn away with pride, behaving as though they cannot hear, as if there were heaviness in their ears—a metaphor for their deliberate spiritual deafness.
This attitude reflects not just disbelief, but contempt and disregard for divine guidance, which leads to the warning of a painful punishment.
From this, it is understood that every Qur’anic recitation should be heard with reverence and eagerness. To remain occupied in worldly matters during its recitation shows indifference, a quality associated with the disbelievers.
It is important to note that listening attentively to the Qur’an is Fard-e-Kifaya—a communal obligation. If even some in a group fulfill it, the rest are not sinful; but if none listen attentively, the group shares in the sin.
Where people are unable to give full attention, such as in busy marketplaces or during work, the Qur’an should not be recited aloud. This is out of respect for its sanctity. Also, one must distinguish between rules for reciting the Qur’an and the rules for teaching or instructing it—each has its own appropriate setting and manner.
The tafsir of Surah Luqman verse 7 by Ibn Kathir is unavailable here.
Please refer to Surah Luqman ayat 1 which provides the complete commentary from verse 1 through 7.
(31:7) When Our verses are recited to such a person, he arrogantly turns away, as though he had not heard them, or as though there was a deafness in his ears. So announce to him the tidings of a grievous chastisement.
There is no commentary by Abul Maududi available for this verse.
For a faster and smoother experience,
install our mobile app now.
Related Ayat(Verses)/Topics