Surah Al-Kahf (18) — Ayah 17
Translation by Dr. Muhammad Muhsin Khan & Dr. Taqi-ud-Din al-Hilali
Word by Word — Arabic, Transliteration & Meaning
Tafsir al-Quran al-Karim — Hafiz Abdus Salam Bin Muhammad Bhutvi
Tafsir al-Quran al-Karim is a 4-volume Quran commentary by Hafiz Abdus Salam bin Muhammad Bhutvi, a renowned Salafi (Ahl al-Hadith) scholar and Sheikh ul-Hadith from Pakistan. Based on over 45 years of teaching and research, this tafsir follows the methodology of Tafsir bil-Ma'thur — interpreting the Quran through authentic Hadith, statements of the Companions, and the understanding of the early generations (Salaf). It is distinguished by its complete avoidance of Israeliyyat (Judeo-Christian narratives) and unverified reports. The tafsir is originally written in Urdu, translated to English by tohed.com.
➋ { مَنْ يَّهْدِ اللّٰهُ فَهُوَ الْمُهْتَدِ : ’’هُوَ‘‘} After the definite noun, the predicate {’’ الْمُهْتَدِ ‘‘} is also definite, which gives the meaning of exclusivity, that is, whomever Allah guides to the straight path, only he is the one who attains the straight path. Just as the Companions of the Cave were granted the blessing of faith, then the courage to proclaim the truth, then the ability to migrate, and the way to enter the cave, where the required amount of sunlight and air for survival was present, and they remained protected from the eyes of people and the reach of the enemy.
Tafsir Ahsan al-Bayan — Hafiz Salahuddin Yusuf
Tafsir Ahsan al-Bayan is a well-known Quran commentary by Hafiz Salahuddin Yusuf, a renowned Salafi (Ahl al-Hadith) scholar from Pakistan. This tafsir explains the meanings of the Quran in accordance with the methodology of the Salaf (early righteous generations), relying on authentic sources and straightforward language. Due to its reliability and adherence to sound Islamic scholarship, the Saudi government publishes and distributes this tafsir among the Hujjaj (pilgrims) visiting the Haramain. The tafsir is originally written in Urdu, translated to English by tohed.com.
17. 2. That is, the sun's passing in such a way that, despite the place being open, sunlight would not fall there, is among the signs of Allah.
17. 3. Just as King Daqyanus and his followers were deprived of guidance, no one could guide them.
Tafsir Taiseer ul-Quran — Maulana Abdul Rahman Kilani
Tafsir Taiseer ul-Quran (Facilitation of the Quran) is a comprehensive Quran commentary by Maulana Abdul Rahman Kilani, a renowned Salafi (Ahl al-Hadith) scholar from Pakistan. Known for his eloquent and accessible writing style, Kilani authored this tafsir with a focus on clarity — making Quranic meanings understandable to the common reader. The tafsir provides detailed historical context for verses related to battles and expeditions, and firmly refutes modernist ideologies using strong scriptural evidence. It is widely regarded as an invaluable resource for understanding the Quran and countering deviant interpretations. The tafsir is originally written in Urdu, translated to English by tohed.com.
[15]
The Location of the Cave and the Circulation of Air:
The mouth of this cave was towards the north, and on the other side there were some small holes, but they were so narrow that a person could not pass through them. In this way, there was also circulation of air in the cave, and from time to time sunlight and sunshine would also reach inside. However, since its entrance was towards the north, they were completely protected from the intensity and heat of the sun. The amount of fresh air or oxygen needed for breathing was also being provided to them, and as much sunlight as was necessary for health would also reach inside through the small holes.
[16] That is, Allah Almighty guiding these monotheists to such a cave and then making them sleep for centuries—these matters are related to the perfect power of Allah Almighty. In this way, Allah kept them steadfast on the path of guidance. No doubt, whoever resolves to remain firm on the path of guidance, Allah creates a way for him by which his difficulty is made easy.
