Quran 37:12 Khalaf and Hafs Version Difference
The difference between the Hafs and Khalaf versions of Quran 37:12 (Surah As-Saffat) lies in a single vowel on the verb عجبت (‘ajibta / ‘ajibtu), which changes the subject of the sentence (who is doing the “wondering”).
Here is the breakdown of the difference:
1. Hafs Reading (Most Common)
- Arabic: بَلْ عَجِبْتَ1
- Transliteration: Bal ‘ajibta (with a Fatha on the ‘ta’)2
- Meaning: “Nay, you wonder, while they mock.”3
- Explanation: The “ta” has an “a” sound (ta), which grammatically indicates the second person singular (“You”).
- Who is wondering? The Prophet Muhammad.4
- Context: The verse is comforting the Prophet, saying that he is amazed/astonished at the disbelievers’ rejection of the truth, while they are busy mocking it.5
2. Khalaf Reading (Also Hamza and Al-Kisa’i)
- Arabic: بَلْ عَجِبْتُ
- Transliteration: Bal ‘ajibtu (with a Damma on the ‘ta’)
- Meaning: “Nay, I wonder, while they mock.”
- Explanation: The “ta” has an “u” sound (tu), which grammatically indicates the first person singular (“I”).
- Who is wondering? Allah (God).
- Context: Allah Himself speaks, saying that He wonders at their audacity and mockery.
Summary Table
| Version | Word | Vowel | Meaning | Subject |
| Hafs | عَجِبْتَ | Fatha (-ta) | “You wonder” | The Prophet Muhammad |
| Khalaf | عَجِبْتُ | Damma (-tu) | “I wonder” | Allah (God) |
Theological Note on the Khalaf Reading
You might ask: How can God “wonder” or be “amazed” if He is All-Knowing?
Scholars of Tafsir (exegesis) explain that when “wonder” (‘ajab) is attributed to Allah in the Khalaf reading, it does not imply surprise due to a lack of knowledge (which is impossible for God). Instead, it is interpreted as:
- Disapproval: Allah finding their actions grave and strange given the clear signs sent to them.
- Negation: Highlighting how irrational their mockery is.
