Tafsir from Tafsir Ibn Kathir
Surah Az-Zalzalah is a Makkan surah that describes the violent earthquake that will occur at the end of the world and the events of the Day of Judgment. Allah explains how the earth will shake, reveal what is inside it, and testify about what people did upon it. The surah ends by reminding people that every deed, even the smallest one, will be seen on that Day.
The Great Earthquake (Verses 1–2)
Allah says:
“When the earth quakes with its Zilzal.
And when the earth throws out its burdens.”
(Qur’an 99:1–2)
Explanation
Ibn Kathir explains that the earthquake mentioned here refers to the shaking that will happen on the Day of Judgment. The earth will move violently from beneath the people.
The phrase “its burdens” refers to what is inside the earth. The earth will throw out the dead who were buried in it, bringing forth all people from the first generations to the last.
This is similar to other verses in the Qur’an where Allah describes the earth casting out what is inside it when the Hour begins.
The Shock of Humanity (Verse 3)
Allah says:
“And man will say: ‘What is the matter with it?’”
(Qur’an 99:3)
Explanation
Ibn Kathir explains that people will be shocked and confused when they see the earth shaking and changing from the stable state they were used to. The earth had always been firm and settled, so when it begins to move violently, people will be terrified and amazed by what is happening.
This will occur when the earth and the heavens are changed and all people are gathered to stand before Allah.
The Earth Will Testify (Verses 4–5)
Allah says:
“That Day it will declare its information.
Because your Lord will inspire it.”
(Qur’an 99:4–5)
Explanation
Ibn Kathir explains that the earth will speak and testify about what people did upon it. It will inform about the deeds that took place on its surface.
The Prophet explained this meaning when he asked the companions:
“Do you know what its information is?”
They replied that Allah and His Messenger know best. The Prophet then said that the earth will testify about every servant and every deed that was done on it. It will say that a person did such-and-such on a certain day.
This will happen because Allah will command the earth to speak.
People Will Be Divided (Verse 6)
Allah says:
“That Day mankind will proceed in scattered groups that they may be shown their deeds.”
(Qur’an 99:6)
Explanation
Ibn Kathir explains that people will return from the place of judgment in separate groups. Some will be among the successful people who are sent to Paradise, while others will be among the miserable people who are sent to the Hellfire.
They will be separated according to their deeds and their faith.
Every Deed Will Be Seen (Verses 7–8)
Allah says:
“So, whosoever does good equal to the weight of a speck of dust shall see it.
And whosoever does evil equal to the weight of a speck of dust shall see it.”
(Qur’an 99:7–8)
Explanation
Ibn Kathir explains that these verses show the complete justice of Allah on the Day of Judgment. Even the smallest deed will be accounted for. No action will be lost or ignored.
Because of this, the Prophet encouraged people not to belittle any good action. He said that even giving a small amount in charity or saying a good word can protect a person from the Fire.
At the same time, he warned against small sins. When small sins are ignored and repeated, they gather together until they destroy a person.
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References
Tafsir Ibn Kathir (Abridged), English translation, Surah az-Zalzalah (99).
Verified on 2026-10-21 against: Tafsir Ibn Kathir (Abridged), Surah az-Zalzalah.