Tafsir from Tafsir Ibn Kathir
Surah An-Nas is also a Madani surah. It teaches the believer to seek protection with Allah from the whispers of Shaytan that enter the hearts of people.
The Three Attributes of Allah (Verses 1–3)
Allah says:
“Say: I seek refuge with the Lord of An-Nas,
The King of An-Nas,
The God of An-Nas.”
(Qur’an 114:1–3)
Explanation
Ibn Kathir explains that these verses mention three attributes of Allah:
• Lordship: Allah is the Lord and Creator of everything.
• Kingship: Allah is the King who owns and controls everything.
• Divinity: Allah is the God of everything; everything is created by Him, owned by Him, and subservient to Him.
Since Allah has these attributes, He is the One who can protect people from evil.
The Whisperer Who Withdraws (Verse 4)
Allah says:
“From the evil of the whisperer who withdraws.”
(Qur’an 114:4)
Explanation
The whisperer refers to Shaytan. He whispers evil thoughts and temptations into the hearts of people.
However, when a person remembers Allah, Shaytan withdraws and moves away.
The Whispering in the Hearts (Verse 5)
Allah says:
“Who whispers in the breasts of An-Nas.
(Qur’an 114:5)
Explanation
Shaytan whispers into the hearts of people. He makes wicked deeds appear attractive to them and confuses them.
The believer is therefore commanded to seek protection with Allah from these whispers.
From Jinn and Mankind (Verse 6)
Allah says:
“Of Jinn and An-Nas.”
(Qur’an 114:6)
Explanation
The whispers that lead people astray can come from two sources:
• The devils among the jinn
• The devils among humans
Both may encourage people toward wrongdoing. Therefore, the believer seeks refuge with Allah from the evil influences of both.
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References
Tafsir Ibn Kathir (Abridged), English translation, Surah An-Nas (114).
Verified on 2026-10-21 against: Tafsir Ibn Kathir (Abridged), Surah An-Nas.