Ar-Room (The Romans)

59. “Thus does Allah set a seal on the hearts of those who do not know.”

This is the verse which states clearly the reason of this group’s opposition. It clearly implies that this impenetrability and limitless enmity against any reality is for the sake that they have lost their sense of recognition and comprehension as the result of multiplicity of sin and obstinacy and understand nothing at all.

Yes, the verse says:

“Thus does Allah set a seal on the hearts of those who do not know.”

The Arabic word /yatba‘u/ is derived from /tab‘/ in the sense of ‘to seal’.

It refers to the action that both in the past and present time it has been common that, in order that something can remain intact and that no one absolutely interferes in it, its door is firmly fastened and, after putting some material on it, the lock or tie on its door is sealed.

It is evident that opening its door is impossible except by breaking that seal, and this is an action which will be divulged soon.

The Qur’an uses this clear meaning ironically pointing to the impenetrable hearts and those who have entirely lost their conscience, awareness, and safe and sound intellect so that there is no hope for their guidance.

It is noteworthy that in the former verses knowledge was introduced as the foundation of Faith, and in this holy verse ignorance is the foundation of disbelief (and the lack of submission before the truth).