[78] This verse affirms the principle of personal responsibility in faith and conduct: every believer is accountable for his own guidance and sincerity. Once a person fulfills his duty of advising others, calling to the truth, and forbidding evil, the persistence of others in error will not harm him—so long as he remains firm upon right guidance. The Prophet ﷺ said: “When people see wrong and do not stop it, it is likely that Allāh will encompass them all with punishment.”
79] “If you doubt their testimony”
This clause refers to any suspicion or uncertainty regarding the honesty or accuracy of the witnesses.
The verse recognizes that even upright individuals may be suspected of error, bias, or pressure, especially in matters of inheritance and wills, which can involve family disputes or wealth-related conflicts.
In such cases, the procedure is not to punish, but to verify the testimony, ensuring justice for the deceased and fairness among heirs.
The verse emphasizes that doubt should be resolved through solemn oaths and accountability to Allāh, reinforcing the moral and spiritual weight of testimony.
[80] “Detain them both after the prayer”
The witnesses are “detained” temporarily after a congregational prayer (typically the ʿAsr prayer) to administer the oath in a formal, solemn setting.
This serves multiple purposes:
1. Public and ritual solemnity — the oath is made in a context of heightened piety and communal awareness.
2. Prevent haste or coercion — witnesses are given time to reflect and swear truthfully.
3. Moral accountability — tying the oath to prayer underscores that testimony is ultimately before Allāh, not merely a human formality.
The phrase reflects Islamic legal prudence, combining spiritual, ethical, and procedural dimensions to safeguard justice.
Witnesses must be truthful, doubts must be addressed systematically, and the process is grounded in God-consciousness and communal integrity.
[81]. The two original witnesses.