The Correct Meaning of the Verse: “And Allah protects you from the people.”

The Shaykh : It does not mean that He protects you from making any mistake. Therefore, this verse has no connection to the previous topic. However, it is appropriate to briefly explain the intended meaning of this verse on this occasion. After establishing that the verse does not mean the Messenger is protected from making any mistake, however small, we clarify what is actually intended. This is clear from the occasion of the verse’s revelation. When the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) would enter into battle with the polytheists and the disbelievers, they would build a shelter for him in a place away from the battlefield. He would sit there, and some of his Companions would guard him, especially at night, fearing that a man from among those disbelievers might assassinate him. One night, while the Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him) was in his shelter or tent, Sa'd ibn Abi Waqqas (may Allah be pleased with him) was guarding him. The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) put his head out of the tent and said to him and the others who were with him in his guard: “Go away, for Allah has revealed to me ” — meaning, Allah protects you from the people so that they do not assassinate you or gain the ability to kill you before you deliver the message and fulfill the trust. Allah protects you from this, so do not worry about fearing for your life being taken before you fulfill this duty He has charged you with. This is an interjected statement regarding this verse, to clarify first that it has no connection to the previous revelation, and second, to clarify its concise meaning.