3 Preface وَشاهِدٍ وَمَشهودٍYusuf AliBy one that witnesses, and the subject of the witness;—1The literal meaning is clear, but its metaphorical application has been explained in a variety of ways by different Commentators. The words are fairly comprehensive, and should, I think, be understood in connection with Judgment. There the Witnesses may be: (1) the Prophets (3:81); God Himself (3:81. and 10:61); the Recording Angels (50:21); the Sinner’s own misused limbs (24:24); his record of deeds (17:14); or the Sinner himself (17:14). The subject of the witness may be the deed or crime, or the Sinner against whom the testimony cries out. The appeal to these things means that the Sinner cannot possibly escape the consequences of his crime. He should repent, seek God’s Mercy, and amend his life.