Overview (Verses 25 - 27)

Long Was Their Sleep
 
With all that has been said and told, we have still not been informed of the duration of the sleepers’ stay in their cave. Now we are told for certain: So they stayed in their cave three hundred years, and [some] add nine years more. Say: ‘God knows best how long they remained there. His alone is the knowledge of the secrets of the heavens and earth. How well does He see and hear!’ (Verses 25-26) This is the truth of the length of their stay in the cave, given to us by the One who knows all secrets in the heavens and the earth. Well indeed He sees and hears. Perfect is His knowledge. His statement puts an end to the matter, leaving no room for dispute.
 
A final comment is added about the whole story in which we see faith in God’s oneness clearly apparent in all its details: “No guardian have they apart from Him; nor does He allot to anyone a share in His rule.” (Verse 26) A further comment is added in the form of a directive to the Prophet to recite what God has revealed to him, as it represents the final word, and the truth that admits no falsehood whatsoever. He should seek refuge with Him, for no one can provide any shelter other than He. When the young men of the cave sought His protection, He spread His grace over them and provided them with His guidance: Recite whatever has been revealed to you of your Lords book. There is nothing that could alter His words. You shall find no refuge other than with Him. (Verse 27) Thus ends the story of the people of the cave. It was preceded and intermingled with directives. Indeed stories are given in the Qur’ān to add emphasis to such directives. The Qur’ān maintains perfect harmony between its directives and the way they are presented in the context of the story.