Power and humility are both in the hands of Allah — He raises and lowers whom He wills.
Introduction: A Verse That Touches the Soul
There are certain verses in the Quran that immediately strike the heart — reminding us of who is truly in control. One such powerful phrase is:
“Watu Izzu Mantasha Watu Zillu Mantasha.”
This short yet profound part of a longer verse speaks volumes about Allah’s absolute authority, divine wisdom, and how He grants dignity or disgrace as He wills. Whether you’re seeking success, honor, or understanding your purpose, this verse gives both clarity and comfort.
Let’s explore the full verse, break it down word-by-word, and reflect on its deeper meanings.
Full Arabic Verse with Transliteration and Translation
Surah Aal-e-Imran (3:26) – Complete Verse
Arabic:
قُلِ اللَّهُمَّ مَالِكَ الْمُلْكِ تُؤْتِي الْمُلْكَ مَن تَشَاءُ ۖ وَتَنزِعُ الْمُلْكَ مِمَّن تَشَاءُ ۖ وَتُعِزُّ مَن تَشَاءُ وَتُذِلُّ مَن تَشَاءُ ۖ بِيَدِكَ الْخَيْرُ ۖ إِنَّكَ عَلَىٰ كُلِّ شَيْءٍ قَدِيرٌ
Transliteration:
Qulillāhumma Mālika al-Mulki Tuʾtī al-Mulka Man Tashāʾ, Wa Tanziʿu al-Mulka Mimman Tashāʾ, Wa Tuʿizzu Man Tashāʾ, Wa Tudhillu Man Tashāʾ, Biyadika al-Khayr, Innaka ʿAlā Kulli Shayʾin Qadīr.
English Translation:
Say: O Allah, Owner of the Kingdom! You give kingdom to whom You will and You take kingdom away from whom You will. You honor whom You will, and You humble whom You will. In Your hand is all good. Truly, You have power over all things.
Breakdown of the Keywords:
🌟 Watu Izzu Mantasha – You honor whom You will
This phrase reflects Allah’s power to bestow ‘Izzah’ (honor, dignity, respect) on whomever He chooses. It could be a prophet, a poor person, or someone unknown — yet Allah can raise them in the eyes of others and give them respect beyond status or wealth.
Examples from Islamic history:
- Bilal (RA) – A former slave, but honored by Allah. Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said, “I heard your footsteps in Jannah.” (Sahih Bukhari)
- Yusuf (AS) – Thrown into a well, yet became a minister of Egypt.
🌙 Watu Zillu Mantasha – You disgrace whom You will
Just as He honors, Allah also removes honor from those who become arrogant, unjust, or corrupt.
This part of the verse is a reminder that status, fame, and position can vanish overnight if Allah wills — just like the fall of Pharaoh (Fir’awn) or Nimrod.
3. Comparison: Honor vs. Disgrace in Islam
| Aspect | Watu Izzu Mantasha (Honorable People) | Watu Zillu Mantasha (Disgraced People) |
|---|---|---|
| Source of Power | Trust in Allah’s strength. | Reliance on worldly power. |
| Attitude | Humble and righteous. | Arrogant and disobedient. |
| Result | Victory in this life & Hereafter. | Temporary gains, eternal loss. |
Spiritual Lessons from This Verse
1. True Power Lies with Allah
No matter how powerful a person becomes, they remain under Allah’s control. Kings, presidents, scholars, and even the richest individuals are just tools in His divine plan.
2. Success is Not Always a Blessing, and Failure is Not Always a Punishment
Sometimes we grow through humiliation and learn through trials. What seems like disgrace may be elevation in disguise.
3. Stay Humble No Matter What
When Allah grants you honor — whether in wealth, status, or knowledge — never become arrogant. The one who gave it can take it back.
Tafsir Insights: What Scholars Say
According to Tafsir Ibn Kathir, this verse teaches that all sovereignty, honor, and disgrace belong to Allah alone. He gives as He wills and tests whom He wills.
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ himself would often recite this verse in the night prayers (Qiyam-ul-Lail), especially during hardship, reminding his Ummah that hope and help should always be directed toward Allah.
Practical Application in Our Lives
✔️ When You Feel Overlooked:
Remember, Allah can raise your mention and honor you in ways people can’t imagine.
✔️ When You Feel Defeated:
It might just be a phase of spiritual cleansing or preparation for something greater.
✔️ When You’re Blessed:
Be grateful. Use your blessings to serve others — and never take credit for something Allah gifted.
Powerful Duas Inspired by This Verse
You can personalize this verse in your duas:
🕋 “Ya Allah, Tu izzat dene wala hai, mujhe apni rahmat se izzat ata farma, aur har zaleel karne wale se meri hifazat farma.”
(O Allah, You are the One who grants honor — honor me with Your mercy and protect me from every form of disgrace.)
Conclusion: Your Status is in Allah’s Hands
We live in a time where social media, fame, and public image define “honor.” But this verse reminds us:
Only Allah gives true izzat (honor) and removes it as He wills.
Whether you are struggling or succeeding, your real strength lies in turning to the One who controls both — Allah Al-Aziz, the Most Mighty.
So the next time you feel forgotten, just whisper this verse from your heart:
“Watu Izzu Mantasha Watu Zillu Mantasha”
“You honor whom You will, and You disgrace whom You will.”
And let your heart find peace in His plan.
