SURAH AL-ASR Chapter: 103

This blog is part of a series of blogs based on my research and compilation of surahs of the Quran, in an effort to understand these surahs in an easy way. Today's effort is on SURAH AL-ASR Chapter: 103, hope going through it will be a learning journey for all of you. May Allah forgive any mistake, omission, or error on my part in its compilation (Aameen Summa Aameen).

Introduction:

Al-Asr (Arabic: العصر, Romanized: al-ʻAṣr, The Declining Day, Eventide, The Epoch, Time) is the 103rd chapter (surah) of the Qur'ān. The correct translation of Arabic Word Asr (that is a time reference) is 'second afternoon time'. First afternoon time is Zohar that begins just after Noon and it is ordered that establish contact/prayer at DALUK ASH SHAMS, means when sun starts to decline, it is first afternoon time. It is the 103rd chapter (surah) of the Qur'ān, the Muslim holy book. It contains three ayats or verses.

In the Name of Allah, the All-Merciful, the All-Compassionate,

“By time,

Most certainly, human is in loss,

Except those who believe and do good, righteous deeds, and exhort one another to truth, and exhort one another to steadfast patience.”

Surah al-Asr was revealed in Mecca and comprises of three verses. This surah is not only short and concise, but it is also a compilation which summarizes all the advice and warnings of the past surahs. In the surah, it emphasizes that all of the people are in a state of detriment and that faith is the only means of salvation and happiness. It was reported that Imam Shafi said: “If Allah had revealed this surah alone, even this short surah would have been sufficient for the guidance and success of mankind in life. It summarizes what the Qur’an taught.”

Story behind Surah ASR?

This surah opens with admonition to humankind. Allah takes an oath by “time” and declares that humankind is in a state of loss. Every single human being, man or woman, is in a state of loss except those who strive and do four things; believe, do righteous deeds The major themes of the surah are enigma of recognition, transitory of life, disillusionment, reward of patience and good deeds. and recommend one another to truth, and to sabr. This verse highlights the importance of faith, good deeds, & community in the life of a Muslim. The final verse then concludes with a reminder that success in the Hereafter is only granted to those who embody these qualities.

Why Surah AL-ASR Revealed:

This Surah was revealed in Mecca most probably during the early days of Muhammad's proclamation of his Prophet hood between 610-15 AD. There is a difference of opinion as some commentators of the Quran say that this Surah was revealed in Madina. The theme of the Surah is that Man/Human being is in Loss

The revelation of this surah occurred during difficult times. The early Muslims had to contend with the oppression and surah Al-Asr gave them strength and confidence in the face of their trials and tribulations. Ibn Kathir, a traditional exegete, holds that this surah is a warning to believers not to waste time or they could be humiliated or even ruined. Imam Shafi, a jurist and traditional scholar of Islam, held that if God had only revealed this surah it would have been sufficient for the guidance of all humankind.

Lessons We Can Learn from Surah Al Asr Surah

 Surah Al Asr teaches us several important lessons that we can apply to our daily lives. Firstly, it reminds us of the importance of faith and the role it plays in our lives. Without faith, we are in a state of loss. Secondly, it emphasizes the importance of good deeds and the positive impact they can have on our lives and the lives of others. Thirdly, it encourages us to enjoin one another to the truth and to be patient in our pursuit of it. These lessons are timeless and can be applied to any era or generation.

Benefits of Reciting Surah Al-Asr.

1.      Motivation for good deeds: It motivates the reciter to save to do good deeds in this life.

2.      Increase Patience level: When you recite this surah, then automatically your patience level will be increased. Additionally, your Iman will be strong.

3.      To get a shiny face: If you want to get a shiny face with joyful features and enter paradise on judgment day. Then recite this surah every day after all the prayers.

4.      Solve health issues: If you have a stomach issue and you are sick then recite surah 11 times with strong faith. And blow on water and give the patient.

5.      Importance of time: The main benefit of surah Asr is that it will remind you of the importance of time. Also, remind yourself that it is not too late, so do good deeds and save yourself from hell.

6.      Sabr and shukr: This surah is all about patience and thanks to Allah

7.      The Allah is only God: Reciting this surah also reminds us that God is the only one. And He is the only creator who is most merciful and kind.

8.      Solution of daily life problems: If you face any difficulty in your life, then recite this surah and then make a prayer from Allah.

In brief, this Surah tells us that all of humanity is at loss, except for those who follow or adhere to four basic tenets:

Ø  Iman — Have faith in Allah,

Ø  Salih — Perform righteous deeds,

Ø  Haqq — Remind others of truth and reality,

Ø  Sabr — Encourage others to be patient.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Surah Al Asr is a powerful reminder of the value of time in the life of a Muslim. Its message is as relevant today as it was when it was first revealed over 1400 years ago. It emphasizes the importance of faith, good deeds, and community, and encourages Muslims to make the most of their time in this life in preparation for the Hereafter. As Muslims, we should strive to embody the teachings of Surah Al Asr and use our time. Nowadays when a person finds himself in loss, his position can be turned around by following the succinct advice Allah gave to us in surah Al-Asr.

Quoting the words of Imam Shafi’i (RA), about Surah al-Asr:

If the people only considered this Surah well, it alone would suffice them for their guidance.

Researched & Compiled by: 

OVAIS ASAD KHAN