Meaning & Explanation
Al-Mu'akhkhir is the One who delays and puts back whom or what He wills. He postpones punishment, delays rewards, and holds back in rank those who deserve it. His delay is always with wisdom, whether as mercy or as justice.
Quran References
2 versesContext: Allah's delay of punishment for the wrongdoers
وَلَا تَحْسَبَنَّ اللَّهَ غَافِلًا عَمَّا يَعْمَلُ الظَّالِمُونَ إِنَّمَا يُؤَخِّرُهُمْ لِيَوْمٍ تَشْخَصُ فِيهِ الْأَبْصَارُ
“And never think that Allah is unaware of what the wrongdoers do. He only delays them for a Day when eyes will stare in horror”
Context: Allah's delay of death as mercy
يَغْفِرْ لَكُم مِّن ذُنُوبِكُمْ وَيُؤَخِّرْكُمْ إِلَىٰ أَجَلٍ مُّسَمًّى
“He will forgive you of your sins and delay you for a specified term”
Exemplifying Story
quranThe Delay of Quraysh's Punishment
Reference: Surah Al-Anfal 8:33
Allah revealed: "But Allah would not punish them while you, [O Muhammad], are among them, and Allah would not punish them while they seek forgiveness." Al-Mu'akhkhir delayed the total destruction of Quraysh for two reasons: the Prophet's presence among them and the possibility of their repentance. This delay allowed many to eventually accept Islam, including former enemies who became great companions. Had punishment not been delayed, these future believers would have been destroyed with the disbelievers.
Al-Mu'akhkhir's delay is mercy. What seems like God's inaction against evil is often time for repentance. Use any delay in consequences as an opportunity to return to Him.