SURAH AL-LAHAB (Surah Al-Masad) Chapter 111

This blog is part of a series of blogs based on my research and compilation of Surahs of Quran, in an effort to understand these surahs in an easy way. Today's effort is on SURAH AL-LAHAB/Al-MASAD Chapter: 111, 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-Masad (Arabic: المسد, (meaning: "Twisted Strands" "the flame" or "The Palm Fiber") is the 111th chapter (surah) of the Quran located in Juzz Thirty (30). It has 5 Ayat or verses and recounts the punishments that Abū Lahab and his wife will suffer in Hell. Surah al-Masad, also known as Surah al-Lahab, is an early Makkan Surah focused on the topic of the fate in the Afterlife of Abū Lahab and his wife. This Sūrah is very short and powerful and was revealed early in Islamic History after an incident in which Abū Lahab insulted the Prophet (peace be upon him).

Background:

Surah Al-Lahab / Al-Masad was revealed in response to the plot of Abu Lahab and his wife, who were fierce enemies of the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, and were subjected to abuse, insults and insults. It has 5 Ayat or verses and recounts the punishments that Abū Lahab and his wife will suffer in Hell. This is the only place in the Qur'an where a person from among the enemies of Islam has been condemned by name, even though in Makkah, as well as in Madinah after the migration, there were many people who were in no way less inimical to Islam and the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) than Abu Lahab.

Before the proclamation of Prophet hood, two of the Prophet's daughters were married to two of Abu Lahab's sons, Utbah and Utaibah. When the Prophet began to invite people to Islam, Abu Lahab said to both his sons: "I would forbid myself seeing and meeting you until you divorce the daughters of Muhammad (pbuh)." Both of them subsequently divorced their wives. Whenever the Prophet went to preach the message of Islam, this man followed him and forbade the people to listen to him.

On account of his misdeeds Abu Lahab was condemned in this Surah by name. It was against the established traditions of Arabia that an uncle would oppose his nephew without a reason or pelt stones and bring false accusations against him publicly. Therefore, people were influenced by what Abu Lahab said and were in doubt about the Prophet (pbuh). But when this Surah was revealed, Abu Lahab filled with rage started uttering nonsense, the people realized that what he said in opposition to the Prophet was not at all reliable and was out of hostility to his nephew. When the Prophet's own uncle was taken to task publicly. The people understood that there was no room for preference or partiality in their faith.

Message of the Surah:

Main message of Surah Al-Masad is supporting Muhammad (PBIH) & deterring those who harm him & confirming the miracle of the Quran. Supporting the Prophet by acknowledging Allah stands by him & responds to is enemies. It is deterring those who cause him harm by threatening them with the worst punishment.

Lesson learned from Surah Al-Masad:

Never cause grief to someone involved in the work of Allah. Wealth and power are worthless if your actions do not please Allah. Assisting someone in opposing the people of Allah is also blameworthy.

Benefits associated with this surah:

1.      Protection from evil: Some narrations suggest that reciting Surah Al-Masad can serve as a means of protection from harm, including protection from the plots and mischief of enemies.

2.      Warding off calamities: It is mentioned in certain narrations that reciting Surah Al-Masad can help in averting calamities and difficulties.

3.      Increased blessings: Reciting this surah with sincerity and understanding is believed to bring an increase in blessings from Allah and enhance one's spiritual connection.

4.      Dwelling in Heaven: The Prophet of Islam (SAWW) has been quoted saying that those who not only recite but also live by the verses of Surah Masad (also known as Surah Lahab) will be safeguarded from joining Abu Lahab in the afterlife. Adhering to the guidance provided in Surah Masad is seen as a pathway to securing a place in heaven.

5.      Getting Rid of Pain: Surah Masad is considered a source of healing, especially for those experiencing pain. As cited in Tafsir al-Burhan (vol. 5, p. 787), the recitation of this Surah can bring relief from pain.

6.      Infatuation Benefits: For those struggling with unrequited love or infatuation, reciting Surah Lahab 71 times between the Maghreb (evening) and Isha (night) prayers is recommended. The recitation serves as a spiritual remedy, helping individuals gain clarity, peace of mind, and emotional relief from the struggles of love that is not reciprocated.

7.      Health Benefits: Surah Lahab is often turned to for its perceived health benefits. Believers who recite this Surah seek relief from chronic pain and various ailments. The Surah is not seen as a replacement for medical treatment but as a spiritual supplement that provides comfort and strength to the ailing.

8.      Preventing Unwanted Job Transfer: For individuals anticipating an unwanted job transfer, the recitation of Surah Lahab is seen as a spiritual intervention. By reciting the Surah 17 times after the Maghreb prayer, believers seek divine assistance to prevent undesired relocation or job changes.

9.      Controlling Violent Behavior: Surah Lahab is also recited as a means to curb violent or aggressive behavior. Individuals struggling with anger and aggression may find solace and control through the regular recitation of this Surah.

10.  Warning of Hellish Risk: he Surah serves as a stark reminder of the transient nature of worldly pleasures and the potential spiritual risks associated with indulgence. By reflecting on the verses, believers are encouraged to lead a life of simplicity, humility, and piety, avoiding actions that may lead to spiritual downfall and eternal punishment.

Researched & Compiled by:   Ovais Asad Khan