What is meant by the word "shanāʾan" in the noble verse (and let not the hatred of a people prevent you from being just), and the word "shāniʾuka" in the verse (Indeed, your enemy is the one cut off)?
The Almighty's saying: "O you who have believed, be persistently Qawwameen (firm upholders) for Allah, witnesses in justice, and let not the hatred of a people prevent you from being just. Be just; that is nearer to righteousness." (Qur'an 5:8) This means to be just in testimony and let not your hatred of a people drive you to abandon justice with them. So, Ash-Shanaan (الشنآن) is hatred.
And the Almighty's saying: "Indeed, your enemy is the one cut off." (Qur'an 108:3) This means that the one who hates you, O Muhammad, and hates your guidance and your religion, is the one whose ذكر (remembrance/legacy) is cut off. This verse was revealed in response to the polytheists who said that Muhammad was cut off (abtar) after the death of his male children.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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