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Surah Al-Waqi‘ah: When the Inevitable Event Occurs
Day 2: The Foremost
Theme: Nearness to Allah and the qualities of those who excel in faith
Quran Verses
Lesson & Reflection
After describing the certainty of the resurrection, Surah Al-Waqi'ah turns to the outcome awaiting humanity on that Day. Every person will belong to one of three groups: the people of the right, the people of the left, and the foremost.
The people of the right are the successful believers. The people of the left are those destined for punishment because of their disbelief and rebellion against Allah. Yet before describing either group in detail, Allah draws special attention to a select group: “The foremost ˹in faith˺ will be the foremost ˹in Paradise˺.”
The repetition highlights their distinction and honor. They are known as As-Sabiqun - those who race ahead in obedience, sincerity, and devotion to Allah.
Classical scholars explain that this description includes those who responded quickly to the truth and consistently pursued what pleases Allah. While the earliest examples include the righteous believers from the first generations of Islam, the meaning is not limited to them. In every generation, there are believers who strive to excel in worship, repentance, generosity, and good character. Imam Ibn Kathir comments on the verse, saying, “Whoever hastens in this worldly life and takes the lead in doing good will, in the Hereafter, be among those who are foremost in receiving honour. For indeed, the recompense is of the same nature as the deed, and as you act, so shall you be treated.” (Tafsir Ibn Kathir)
Their defining quality is eagerness to obey Allah. They do not postpone acts of worship when opportunities arise. They seek Allah's pleasure and compete in righteousness, knowing that every moment of life is an opportunity to draw closer to Him.
Allah describes these believers as those who are brought near. This nearness is a special honor granted by Allah to His most devoted servants. It reflects their elevated status and the tremendous reward prepared for them in the Hereafter.
The verses then paint a picture of the blessings awaiting them in Paradise: comfort without hardship, joy without sorrow, and provisions without limitation. Every reward described reflects the perfection of the Hereafter, where nothing fades, spoils, or disappoints.
The mention of a multitude from earlier generations and a few from later generations should motivate us rather than discourage us. These verses remind us that true excellence is rare, but the door to striving remains open. The path of the foremost has never been restricted to a particular time or people. It remains open to every believer who sincerely seeks Allah's pleasure.
Takeaway:
The path of the foremost is built upon sincere faith, consistent obedience, and a readiness to respond when Allah opens a door to good. Every act done sincerely for His sake is a step toward becoming among those brought near to Him.
Hadith
The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said:
“We are the last, yet we will be the first on the Day of Resurrection…”
(Sahih Muslim 855)
Practical Activity
Today, choose one opportunity for obedience and act upon it immediately. Whether it is giving charity, praying an extra prayer, helping someone in need, or making sincere repentance, do not delay. Make the intention to be from the Sabiqun.
How it helps:
Trains the heart to respond quickly to opportunities for good.
Strengthens the connection between intention and action.
Cultivates the qualities of those who strive to excel in faith.
Dua
Reflection Question
What opportunity for obedience do you most often delay, and what would change if you responded to it immediately for the sake of Allah?