Surah Al-Nur, Ayah 21

Reflection

This verse warns against following Satan's "footsteps" - the gradual path of temptation that leads from small compromises to major sins. Satan doesn't usually lead people to major sins immediately but guides them step by step toward immorality and wrongdoing. The verse emphasizes that without Allah's favor and mercy, no one could achieve spiritual purity - it's a divine gift, not merely human achievement. However, Allah grants this purification to those who sincerely seek it and strive against Satan's influence. The mention of Allah being "Hearing and Knowing" reminds believers that He hears their struggles and knows their sincere efforts. This teaches that spiritual corruption often begins with small steps away from righteousness, that resisting Satan requires constant vigilance, that spiritual purity is ultimately a gift from Allah, and that sincere effort combined with divine grace leads to purification.