The Extent of Punishment for the Disbelievers: Surah Al-Haqqah

The Noble Qur'an often uses language that is accessible to a child, yet contains layers of terrifying precision for those who study its linguistic roots.

A clear example of this is found in Surah Al-Haqqah:

ثُمَّ فِي سِلْسِلَةٍ ذَرْعُهَا سَبْعُونَ ذِرَاعًا فَاسْلُكُوهُ

"Then fasten him with a chain whereof the length is seventy cubits!" (Qur'an 69:32)

The Linguistic Nuance

While common translations use the word "fasten," the Arabic verb used is سَلَكَ (salaka). In a linguistic context, this verb means:

• To insert

• To string (like threading a needle)

• To enter something into something else

When we pair this with the preposition فِي (fi), the meaning deepens. In Arabic, فِي implies more than just being "with" something; it suggests immersion—being surrounded on all sides and contained within.

Therefore, the Arabic language reveals a more severe reality: the disbeliever is not merely tied with a chain, but is inserted into and threaded through the chain itself.

The Explanation of the Salaf

The noble companion and master of Tafsir, Abdullah ibn Abbas (رضي الله عنه), provided a vivid description of how this occurs. As recorded by Ibn Kathir (رحمه الله) in his Tafsir of Surah Al-Haqqah:

Ibn Jurayj reported that Ibn Abbas said:

"It will be entered into his buttocks and pulled out of his mouth. Then they will be arranged on this (chain) just like locusts are arranged on a stick that is being roasted."

Al-Awfi also reported from Ibn Abbas:

"It will be ran into his behind until it is brought out of his two nostrils so he will not be able to stand on his two feet."

We ask Allah The Allmighty to protect us from the punishment of the Fire.