Question
I was wondering, what is the tafsir of the verse “An-nabiyyu Awlaa bi’l Mu’mineena min Anfusihim” (Surah Ahzab, Ayah 6)? Is the verse saying that the Prophet’s “Welayah/Walayah” over the believers is greater than their own? Also what type of Walayah/welayah? Is it referring to the Prophet’s political authority, or spiritual authority? Or both?
Answer
The Prophet (pbuh) is the spiritual father, the leader and the ultimate guide for every Muslim. Each individual Muslim is personally attached with the Prophet (pbuh) and holds the Prophet dearer than everything else in this world.
The verse is referring to all kinds of priority that the believers give to the Prophet (pbuh) over themselves. This is from all aspects of life and is not restricted to any one or the other aspect only.
I hope this helps.
Moiz Amjad
April 7, 2006