Transliteration:( Wa anta hillum bihaazal balad )
Temporary Residence in Makkah
The word "Hil" is interpreted as derived from Hulool (temporary stay) or Halaal (permissible). It conveys that the Holy Prophet صَلَّى اللّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ's stay in the sacred city of Makkah was temporary. This indicates either his eventual migration to Madina Munawwarah or his return to Makkah on the day of its conquest, where he would re-enter with regal glory and divine splendor.
Transition to Madina Munawwarah
While Makkah is honored as the Prophet's initial abode, Madina Munawwarah is revered as his permanent residence. This city has gained unmatched sanctity as the eternal resting place of the Beloved Prophet صَلَّى اللّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ, making it a spiritual center for believers.
Hearts as Markets of Faith and Love
The great Sufi sages liken hearts to markets, each hosting different qualities:
The presence of the Beloved Prophet صَلَّى اللّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ manifests in the hearts of devotees, where his love illuminates like sunlight entering countless bottles.
Connection to Divine Light
Just as the sun’s light reflects in many forms, the light of the Holy Prophet صَلَّى اللّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ shines in hearts, guiding believers. Where his light exists, Allah’s light is present; where it does not, there is darkness.
Belovedness of the Prophet and His Followers
The Holy Prophet صَلَّى اللّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ is the greatest Beloved of Allah Almighty. Anything associated with him—whether places like Madina Munawwarah or the hearts of saints—becomes beloved to Allah. This is why an oath is taken upon such hearts and the Prophet’s presence, underscoring their exalted status.
The tafsir of Surah Balad verse 2 by Ibn Kathir is unavailable here.
Please refer to Surah Balad ayat 1 which provides the complete commentary from verse 1 through 10.
(90:2) – this city wherein you have been rendered violable–[3]
3. Three meanings of the words in the text have been given by the commentators:
(1) That you are a resident of this city and your residence here has further enhanced the glory of this city.
(2) That although this city is a sanctuary; a time will come when for some time it will become lawful for you to fight and kill the enemies of the true faith here.
(3) That in this city where even killing of animals and cutting of trees is forbidden for the people of Arabia, and where everyone is living in perfect peace, you, O Prophet, have no peace, and persecuting you and devising plans to kill you has been made lawful.
Although the words are comprehensive enough to cover all the three meanings, yet when the theme that follows is considered, one feels that the first two meanings bear no relevance to it, and only the third meaning seems to be correct.
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