"Allah will keep firm those who believe, with the world that stands firm in this world, and in the Hereafter. This was revelated concerning the torment in the grave. It will be said to him (the deceased: 'Who is your Lord?' and he will say: 'My Lord is Allah and my Prophet is Muhammad. That is what is (the meaning of) His saying: Allah will keep firm those who believe, with the word that stands firm in this world, and in the Hereafter".
Commentary on the Verse of Firmness
This narration from Sunan an-Nasa'i 2057 in The Book of Funerals provides profound insight into the meaning of Allah's promise in Surah Ibrahim (14:27): "Allah keeps firm those who believe with the firm word in the worldly life and in the Hereafter."
The scholars explain that this refers to the test every soul will face in the grave. When the two angels question the deceased about their Lord, religion, and prophet, the believer who lived by the testimony of faith will be granted firmness to answer correctly: "My Lord is Allah, and my Prophet is Muhammad."
The Grave's Trial & Divine Assistance
This hadith reveals that the "firm word" mentioned in the Quran is none other than the kalimah of Tawhid: La ilaha illallah, Muhammadur Rasulullah. The believer who internalized this testimony in life will be granted divine assistance to affirm it in the grave.
Ibn Kathir and other classical commentators emphasize that this divine firmness is the reward for those who lived by this word in their worldly affairs. The grave becomes the first station of the Hereafter where this promise manifests.
Practical Implications for Believers
This teaching should motivate Muslims to frequently recite and reflect upon the shahadah, making it the foundation of their beliefs and actions. The firmness in the grave is directly connected to one's attachment to this testimony during earthly life.
Scholars advise that preparation for this moment begins now through sincere worship, seeking beneficial knowledge, and dying in a state of faith. The believer's ultimate hope is to be among those granted this divine firmness when it matters most.