Title: What is the Meaning of Surah Al-Zukhruf 43: 36? Question: I wanted to know what the meaning of the following verse is: "If anyone withdraws himself from remembrance of [God] Most Gracious, We appoint for him an evil one, to be an intimate companion to him." (43:36) The Surah goes on to state that such people become hindered from the Straight Path by these demons, yet mistakenly think that they are guided aright. What exactly does "withdrawal from God's remembrance" entail? I know there are times that I am not thinking about God, such as when I am trying to solve a difficult calculus problem or when I am talking with my friends about the latest movie. Does God appoint an evil one for me whenever I am not thinking about Him? Or does this verse refer only to those people who have permanently and knowingly shut out God from their minds and have thus incurred His wrath? I await your explanation, sir. Thank you, Omar Sarwar Answer: In my opinion, a more accurate translation of the verse should be: Whoever turns away from remembering the Merciful... As should be clear from the context of the verse, it refers to those, who, intoxicated by their riches and social standing, were turning a deaf ear to the call of God's representative on earth. It is, in fact, such of their behavior which is condemned by the referred verse. Being involved in one's trade or studies or even in decent entertainment, is not considered condemnable by the Shari`ah . In fact, such activities are condoned by it and are a requirement of a balanced and a healthy life. I hope this helps. Regards, Moiz Amjad November 4, 2001