Salamun 'alaikum Br. Joseph,
I have a question regarding Surah An-Nazi'at. In my opinion, I don't think the term An-Nazi'at is talking about "Those Who Pull Out" (the souls), especially when we come to the verse 2 of that surah "Wan-nashitati nashta" which is interpreted as "By those who gently draw out (the souls of the blessed)", while in indonesian-arabic dictionary the word "nashta" means giat (active/energetic) or rajin (diligent). For me it is too far from its literal meaning.
However, the root "nun-za-ayn" has been used in Quran for several different context, for example in 4:59. Here Allah talks about "people in different oppinion / dispute". And in my opinion, this render of meaning is closer to the context given in surah An-Nazi'at.
Is my opinion correct? I'm waiting forward for your explanation and hopefully you could share your understanding in this matter.
Thank you.
Salam,
Wa alaikum assalam Erwin,
Albeit the same root, the Arabic word 'nazi'ah' (in verse 79:1) comes from the form of the verb 'naza'a' (form 1) which means to pluck, to draw, tear out or strip. The meaning to wrangle or dispute comes from a completely different verb form (3) 'nAza'a' or the verb form 6 (tanaza'a). If you look at the meanings of words in the Quran from the verb form 1 such as in verses 7:43, 7:108, 15:47, 3:26, 7:27 or 19:69, you'll see the meaning of strip, pluck or to draw out evidently apparent.
I hope that clarifies, God willing
Regards,
Joseph
Thank you for your clarification.. :)