SURAH AL-A'LA : CHAPTER 87 - JUZZ 30

This blog is part of a series of blogs based on my research and compilation of all the Surahs of Holy Quran. An effort to make each of these Surahs understandable in an easy way. Today's effort is SURAH AL-A'LA - Chapter. 87, hope going through it will be a learning experience for each one of you. May Allah forgive any mistake, omission, or error on my part in its compilation (Aameen Summa Aameen).

1. Glorify the name of thy Guardian-Lord Most High,  2. Who hath created, and further, given order and proportion;   3. Who hath ordained laws. And granted guidance;  4. And Who bringeth out the (green and luscious) pasture,  5. And then doth make it (but) swarthy stubble.   6. By degrees shall We teach thee to declare (the Message), so thou shalt not forget,  7. Except as Allah wills: For He knoweth what is manifest and what is hidden.  8. And We will make it easy for thee (to follow) the simple (Path).  9. Therefore give admonition in case the admonition profits (the hearer).  10. The admonition will be received by those who fear ((Allah)):  11. But it will be avoided by those most unfortunate ones,  12. Who will enter the Great Fire,  13. In which they will then neither die nor live.   14. But those will prosper who purify themselves,  15. And glorify the name of their Guardian-Lord, and (lift their hearts) in prayer.  16. Day (behold), ye prefer the life of this world;  17. But the Hereafter is better and more enduring.  18. And this is in the Books of the earliest (Revelation), 19. The Books of Abraham and Moses.

Introduction:

Al-Aʻlā (Arabic: الأعلى, lit. 'The Most High, Glory To Your Lord In The Highest'). Surah Al-A'la is a Makkan Surah, meaning it was revealed in Makkah during the time of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). It is the 87th Surah in the order of the Quran and consists of 19 (nineteen) verses, (Ayats) with 72 words, 67 totasl unique words without repititon and 296 letters. This is a Makkan surah & was revealed in the holy city of Makkah i.e., before Prophet ﷺ migrated to the city of Medina, approaximately during 613 – 615 AD. The first 7 Āyāt (verses) were revealed during the first years of Makkan life. One of the companions of Ali said that he prayed twenty consecutive nights behind him and he did not recite any Surah, except Surah A'la. Surat Al-A'lā is among the most recited suras in the Jummah and Witr prayers.

Al-A'la describes the Islamic view of existence, the Oneness of Allah, and Divine revelation, additionally mentioning rewards and punishments. Mankind often hides things from each other and from themselves as well. The sura reminds its readers that Allah knows the things that are declared and things that lie hidden. The final verse of this Sura affirms that a similar message was also revealed to Abraham and Moses in the scriptures. It’s main theme is emphasis that Surah Al-A'la is a comprehensive chapter of the Quran which encompasses the fundamentals of faith and the conditions of monotheism. It presents evidence of Allah's power and His unique oneness. It also affirms the prophethood of Muhammad (PNUH) through the revelation settled in his heart.

Period of Revelation

This Surah is one of the earliest Surahs revealed at Makkah, and the words: "We shall enable you to recite, then you shall never forget" of verse 6 also indicates that it was sent down in the period when the Prophet (pbuh) was not yet fully accustomed to receiving Revelation and, at the times Revelation came down, he feared he might forget the words.

Main Message of Surah:

Al-A'la describes the Islamic view of existence, the Oneness of Allah, and Divine revelation, additionally mentioning rewards and punishments. Mankind often hides things from each other and from themselves as well.

Major Issues, Divine Laws and Guidance in Surah:

Ø  Tawhid: Allah is Almighty, always glorify Him.

Ø  Allah has taken the responsibility off of Holy Prophet's memorization of the Qur'an by assuring him that he will not forget any portion of it.

Ø  Those who heed Allah's reminders will be successful in the Hereafter.

Theme of Suarah:

In the first verse, the doctrine of Tawhid is compressed into a single sentence, saying that Allah's name should be glorified and exalted and He should not be remembered by any name which might reflect a deficiency, fault, weakness, or likeness with created beings.

Then, the Prophet (pbuh) is told: "You are not responsible to bring everyone on to the right path; your only duty is to convey the message, and the simplest way of conveying the message is to admonish him who is inclined to listen to the admonition and accept it, and the one who is not inclined to it, should not be pursued. The one who fears the evil consequences of deviation and falsehood, will listen to the truth and accept it, and the wretched one who avoids listening to and accepting it, will himself see his evil end."

In conclusion, it is said that success is only for those who adopt purity of belief, morals and deed, and remember the name of their Lord and perform the Prayer. On the contrary however, most people are wholly lost in seeking the ease, benefits and pleasures of this worldly life, instead of endeavoring for their well being in the hereafter. The world is transitory and the Hereafter everlasting, and the blessings of the Hereafter are far better than the blessings of this world. This truth has not been expressed only in the Qur'an, but also in the books of the Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) and Musa (Moses).

Lessons of Surah:

Ø  Glorify Allāh frequently (Tasbīḥ). 

Ø  Allāh knows what is apparent and what is concealed. 

Ø  Remind people when the reminder will be beneficial. 

Ø  Successful is that person who has purified his heart, remembered Allāh and established ṣalāh. 

Ø  The Hereafter is better and more lasting than this temporary world, so working for it would be more logical.

Benefits of Surah:

Surah Al-Ala, describes the Islamic view of existence, the Oneness of Allah, and Divine revelation, mentioning rewards and punishments. The sura highlights that Allah knows both declared and hidden things. It is often recited in Jummah and Witr prayers and begins with the glorification of Allah. It’s benefits includes:

1. Spiritual Enlightenment

Surah Al-Ala is a profound source of spiritual enlightenment. It emphasizes:

a)      Recognition of Allah’s Greatness:

b) Appreciation of Creation: It draws attention to the intricacies of the world around us, urging believers to reflect upon the wonders of creation.

2. Reminder of the Hereafter

The Surah provides vivid imagery of the Day of Judgment:

Accountability: It reminds believers that they will be held accountable for their deeds, both good and bad.

Eternal Consequences: The Surah underscores the eternal nature of the Hereafter, where souls will either find eternal peace or face repercussions.

3. Psychological Peace

The rhythmic verses of Surah Al-Ala have therapeutic effects:

Alleviating Stress: The profound meanings embedded within the Surah can help dispel anxieties and worries.

Connection with the Divine: Reciting the Surah fosters a deeper connection with Allah.

4. Benefits of Regular Recitation

Engaging with Surah Al-Ala on a regular basis offers:

Protection: Many scholars believe that regular recitation serves as a shield against evil forces and harm.

Strengthened Faith: The Surah’s teachings can bolster one’s iman (faith), drawing the reciter closer to Allah.

5. Understanding the Creation

Surah Al-Ala offers insights into the marvels of creation:

Celestial Bodies: The Surah alludes to the heavens, stars, and other celestial entities, emphasizing their role in the grand scheme of creation.

Earthly Wonders: It also touches upon the wonders of the earth, from mountains to rivers, highlighting their significance and purpose.“And the earth and Him Who spread it.” – [Surah Al-Ala, Verse 12]

Summary of Surah Al Ala:

Al-A'la describes the Islamic view of existence, the Oneness of Allah, and Divine revelation, additionally mentioning rewards and punishments. Mankind often hides things from each other and from themselves as well. The sura reminds its readers that Allah knows the things that are declared and things that lie hidden. Surah A‘la starts by a discussion regarding the Glorification of God and what it means as well as a couple of attributes of God. The verses then go on to give examples of manifestations of the attribute of Lordship in this chapter. The verses then go on to discuss the Quran and its preservation and how God helps the Prophet (peace be on him and his household) to do this, some of the Prophet’s duties of Prophet-hood and the Quran being a reminder. This is followed by a short look into the fate of the evil-doers in the Hereafter and the position of it in comparison to the world.

Supplication

Ø  Lord! Clear our hearts from 'the love of the world’, the source of all vice.

Ø  O Lord! Always guide us on all routes to the path of development.

Ø  O Lord! You know the manifest and what is hidden, forgive us of our apparent and hidden sins with your Grace.

Researched & compiled by: 

OVAIS ASAD KHAN

SURAH AL GHASHIYAH: Chapter: 88

This blog is part of a series of blogs based on my research and compilation of all the Surahs of Holy Quran. An effort to make each of these Surahs understandable in an easy way. Today's effort is SURAH AL GHASHIYAH - Chapter. 88, hope going through it will be a learning experience for each one of you. May Allah forgive any mistake, omission, or error on my part in its compilation (Aameen Summa Aameen).

English Translation:

1. Has the news of the Calamity overwhelming (everything) reached you? 2. Many faces on that Day will be humiliated and degraded, 3. (Forgetting Allah,) toiling (for worldly gains), sustaining (strenuous) rigorous (for a fleeting luxury), 4. Will plunge into the Blazing Fire. 5. (They will be) offered to drink (water) from a boiling spring. 6. They will have no food except thorny and dry venomous herbage 7. (This food) will neither nourish nor gratify hunger. 8. (On the contrary) that Day a number of faces will be (pleasing to the eye,) glowing with joy and freshness, 9. Delighted and rejoicing over their (righteous) travail, 10. (Abiding) in a magnificent Paradise, 11. Where they will not hear anything absurd (as the disbelievers used to say to them in the world). 12. In it there will be flowing springs, 13. And raised-up couches (laid), 14. And goblets (decently) set in place, 15. And silken cushions orderly lined up, 16. And soft and refined carpets and rugs (richly) spread. 17. (The disbelievers wonder how all that would be arranged in Paradise. So) do they not see how the camel has been created (in an unusual form)? 18. And (do they not observe) how the heaven is raised so high (with its vast expanse)? 19. And (do they not see) how the mountains have been created (raised out of the earth)? 20. (Nor do they consider) how the earth has been spread out (besides its round shape)? 21. So, continuously admonish them, for you are but an admonisher, 22. You are not imposed upon them (as) an oppressor and persecutor. 23. But anyone who turns away and becomes a disbeliever, 24. Allah will torment him with the greatest punishment. 25. Indeed, it is to Us that they will return (in the end); 26. Then, surely, it is Our concern to call them to account.

Introduction:

Surah Al Ghasiyah is the 88th Surah and found in the 30^th JUZZ (Parah) of the Holy Quran. This Surah contains 26 verses (Ayats), 92 words with 76 unique words without repetition and 382 letters, and it is revealed in “Makka” approximately between 618 – 621 AD, so referred as the “Makki” Surah. And this surah is called The Overwhelming. This is one of the earliest Surahs revealed at Makkah revealed during the period when the Prophet (PBUH) had started preaching his message publicly, and the people of Makkah were hearing it and ignoring it carelessly and thoughtlessly. Al-Ghasiyah is one of the names of the Day of Judgement.

The first subject is the 'Resurrection' and the contrast between the destinies of the Good and the Evil in the 'Hereafter'.

The second subject is 'Monotheism' with reference to the creation of the sky, the earth, and the mountains. Man should consider these wonderful matters as admonishments.

The third subject is ‘Prophecy' and some of the duties that the holy Prophet (S) was required to perform. On the whole, the Surah strengthens the idea for the basis of religion and faith, as well as all Meccan Surahs do.

The Surah begins by describing the state of people on the Day of Judgment when their faces will be humbled and their hearts filled with fear and anxiety. It emphasizes that no one will be able to escape the consequences of their actions and that every individual will be held accountable for their deeds. The Surah also highlights the rewards and punishments that await individuals based on their faith and actions.

Background:

This Surah is one of the Meccan Surahs which contains mainly the following three themes: The first subject is the 'Resurrection' and the contrast between the destinies of the Good and the Evil in the 'Hereafter'. The second subject is 'Monotheism' with reference to the creation of the sky, the earth, and the mountains.

The Message given in surah al-Ghasiyah:

This surah refers to three broad-ranging topics. First, God describes the difference between good and evil paths that an individual can take and the consequence of each path. God then clarifies their destiny and describes what hell would be like for the non-believers. Surah Al-Ghasiyah describes the conditions of creatures on the Day of Resurrection. The conditions of people on this great Day are divided into two sections: those of Hell and those of Paradise.

The case of the infidels who denied God and did not worship Him and denied the resurrection. Their faces will be humiliated on that day and tired. They will be given water from a boiling spring. There is no food for the people of Hell except a poisonous plant with thorns that does not benefit them.

The faces of the believers on the Day of Resurrection will be blessed. They are pleased with their efforts in this world through acts of worship. These believers will be in an elevated garden, in which they will not hear an idle talk, in which there is a spring with waters flow, in which there are lofty couches, and cups prepared for the drinkers, and cushions lined up, one next to the other, and many rugs furnished.

Then the verses are mentioned to reflect on the universe and its creatures and how they were created.

Allah Almighty then says to the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah upon him): Remind and preach those who deny the Resurrection and do not grieve (O Messenger) over their denial, but you are just a reminder. And you do not have to force them to believe.

At the end of the verses, God says those who refused to believe and continued to disbelieve will be severely punished. To Us is their return after death, and then We have to hold them accountable.

Major Issues, Divine Laws and Guidance

Ø  The condition of the disbelievers and the believers on the Day of Judgement.

Ø  The wonders of nature, admonition and accountability.

Theme f the Surah:

Surah Ghasiyah is one of the chapters of the 30th juz’ of the Quran and like many chapters of this part of the Quran, talks of the Day of Judgment. In this chapter the happy and sad, weary and humiliated faces of the good and evil doers according to their deeds, have been spoken about. It also describes some of the blessings and punishments that await them in Heaven and Hell and finally ends with a discussion about the Prophet’s role as a reminder for the people.

To understand the subject matter of this Surah one should keep in view the fact that in the initial stage the preaching of the Prophet (pbuh) mostly centered around two points which he wanted to instill in the peoples' minds:

Ø  Tawhid, and

Ø  The Life after death.

Guidance is provided through questions inviting people to think, such as: do these people not observe the common things which they experience daily in their lives? Do they not consider how the camels, on whom their whole life's activity in the Arabian desert depends, came into being? How they were endowed precisely with the same characteristics required to live the desert life? When they go on their journeys, they see the sky, the mountains, and the earth. Let them ponder over these three phenomena and consider as to how the sky was stretched above them, how the mountains were erected and how the earth was spread beneath them? Has all this come about without the skill and craftsmanship of an All-Powerful, All Wise Designer? If they acknowledge that a Creator has created all this with great wisdom and power and that no one else is an associate with Him in their creation, why then do they refuse to accept Him Alone as their Sustainer? And if they acknowledge that Allah (God) had the power to create all this, then on what rational ground do they hesitate to acknowledge that Allah also has the power to bring about resurrection, to recreate man, and to make hell and heaven?

Benefits Of Reciting Surah Al Ghasiyah

Ø  It provides solace and comfort to believers, reminding them that Allah is aware of their actions and will reward or punish them accordingly.

Ø  It instills a sense of accountability and responsibility in believers, reminding them that their actions have consequences.

Ø  Reciting Surah Al-Ghasiyah can bring about a deeper understanding of the Day of Judgment and motivate believers to seek Allah’s guidance and forgiveness.

Ø  Reciting Surah Ghasiyah near a baby removes fright from him and stops his crying.

Ø  Our Beloved Imam Ali Ibn Abu Talib (radi allahu tala anhu) has said that if Surat Ghasiyah is recited over a part of the body which is paining, the pain will go away and if recited over food items, it removes any bad effects of that food.

Ø  If Surah Al-Ghasiyah s recited for a child (human or animal) who screams very much, he would get rid of this habit and have an ordinary life of a child. If a person is suffering pain in a molar tooth or in the teeth recite this surah to remove pain, uneasiness.

Ø  The reciter of Surah Al-​Ghasiyah will have an easy accounting in Qiyamah.

Ø  If Surah Ghasiyah is recited for a man who is straying he would come back on the right path.

Ø   The virtues of Surah Ghasiyah:

It is narrated from the Holy Prophet (S) that the one who recites this Surah will not face difficulty in the accounting of deeds on the Day of Judgement and Allah (S.W.T.) will show Mercy to him and save him from Jahannam. Reciting this Surah near a baby removes fright from him and stops his crying.

The holy Prophet (S) that says: “He who recites this Surah will be reckoned with an easy Reckoning by Allah.”

The Prophet would recite this Surah in the second Rakah of Eid and Jummah prayer. [Sahih Muslim]

And another narration from Imam Sadiq (as) says: "He who continues reciting this Surah in his obligatory or voluntary prayers, Allah will put him in His Grace both in this world and the Next, and will keep him safe from fire in the Hereafter.”

Summary of Surah Ghasiyah

Surah Ghasiyah is one of the chapters of the 30th juz’ of the Quran and as with many chapters of this juz’, deals with Qiyamah.

It starts by talking about the states of the people on that Day; some of the faces are happy because of their deeds in the world and some are humiliated, abject, weary due to their evil deeds in the world.

It then goes on to describe to describe some of the punishments and rewards that await the doers of good in Hell and Heaven. It also presents proof of Qiyamah and of God’s Lordship and finally indicates the role of the Prophet as a reminder for the people.

 

Researched & Compiled by:

Ovais Asad Khan

 

 

SURAH AL-FAJR - Chapter: 89 Juzz: 30

This blog is part of a series of blogs based on my research and compilation of all the Surahs of Holy Quran. An effort to make each of these Surahs understandable in an easy way. Today's effort is SURAH AL-FAJR Chapter. 89, hope going through it will be a learning experience for each one of you. May Allah forgive any mistake, omission, or error on my part in its compilation (Aameen Summa Aameen).

English Translation:

In the name of Allah, the Entirely Merciful, the Especially Merciful.

1.By the dawn 2. And [by] ten nights 3. And [by] the even [number] and the odd 4. And [by] the night when it passes, 5. Is there [not] in [all] that an oath [sufficient] for one of perception? 6. Have you not considered how your Lord dealt with ‘Aad – 7.  [With] Iram – who had lofty pillars, 8. The likes of whom had never been created in the land? 9. And [with] Thamud, who carved out the rocks in the valley? 10.And [with] Pharaoh, owner of the stakes? – 11.  [All of] whom oppressed within the lands 12. And increased therein the corruption. 13.So your Lord poured upon them a scourge of punishment. 14. Indeed, your Lord is in observation. 15.And as for man, when his Lord tries him and [thus] is generous to him and favors him, he says, “My Lord has honored me.” 16. But when He tries him and restricts his provision, he says, “My Lord has humiliated me.” 17. No! But you do not honor the orphan 18. And you do not encourage one another to feed the poor. 19. And you consume inheritance, devouring [it] altogether, 20. And you love wealth with immense love. 21. No! When the earth has been leveled – pounded and crushed – 22. And your Lord has come and the angels, rank upon rank, 23. And brought [within view], that Day, is Hell – that Day, man will remember, but what good to him will be the remembrance? 24. He will say, “Oh, I wish I had sent ahead [some good] for my life.” 25. So on that Day, none will punish [as severely] as His punishment, 26. And none will bind [as severely] as His binding [of the evildoers]. 27. [To the righteous it will be said], “O reassured soul, 28. Return to your Lord, well-pleased and pleasing [to Him], 29. And enter among My [righteous] servants 30. And enter My Paradise.”

Introduction:

Al-Fajr (Arabic: الفجر, "The Dawn", "Daybreak") is the eighty-ninth chapter (surah) of the Quran, with 30 verses (Ayats), 584 letters, 139 words with 114 unique words without any repetition, The Surah was revealed between the period of 615-618 AD in Mecca. The surah describes destruction of disbelieving peoples: The Ancient Egyptians, the people of Iram of the Pillars, and Mada'in Saleh. Allah takes an oath by the time of Fajr which is particularly interesting. Fajr time signals the start of a new day. It signifies the time when birds and animals wake up, and so do those who want to seek the pleasure of their Lord. Some scholars have said that this oath refers to Islam. Allah then continues to take three more oaths, 2. by the Ten Nights 3. by the even and the odd, 4. by the passing night.

The Prophet ( ﷺ ) is reassured in this Meccan surah that the Arab pagans are not immune to the torments that befell 'Âd, Thamûd, and Pharaoh. A reference is made to the wicked who fail to be grateful in prosperity and patient in adversity. The evildoers will be regretful on Judgment Day, whereas the righteous will be honoured. Those who withhold Allah’s bounties are criticized in this Surah (verses 17-20)

Why was Surah Al Fajr revealed?

This Surah was revealed during the period when persecution of the new converts to Islam had begun in Makkah. The admonition for social welfare through the examples of prior nations. What should be avoided to do real social welfare? The Day of Judgement will be too late to heed the admonition. It condemns those who love wealth and look with disdain upon the poor and orphans. Righteous people are promised Paradise – the final verse says "And enter you My Paradise!".

Surah Al-Fajr Main Theme:

The theme of this Surah is to affirm the rewards and punishments in the Hereafter through swearing oaths by the dawn, the ten nights, the even and the odd, and the departing night, the disbelievers are told that these things are a symbol of the regularity that exists in the night and day, and swearing oaths by these the question has been asked: "Even after witnessing this wise system established by God, do you still need any other evidence to show that it is not beyond the power of that God Who has brought about this system to establish the Hereafter?" Reasoning is then given from man's own history. The evil end of 'Ad, Thamud and Pharaoh are cited as examples showing that when they transgressed and spread corruption in the land, Allah laid upon them the scourge of His chastisement. This is proof of the fact that the system of the universe is not being run by deaf and blind forces, but by a Wise Ruler, the demand of Whose wisdom and justice is continuously visible in man's own history.

After this, an appraisal of human society is made criticizing the materialistic attitude of people; they overlook the morality of good and evil; they regard only the achievement of worldly wealth, rank and position, or the absence of it, as the criterion of honor or disgrace; and have forgotten that neither riches are a reward nor poverty a punishment, but that Allah is trying man in both conditions to see what attitude he adopts when blessed with wealth and how he behaves when afflicted by poverty. This discourse is concluded with the assertion that accountability shall certainly be held and it will be held on the Day when the Divine Court will be established. At that time, the deniers of the judgement will be regretful, but their regrets will not save them from Allah's punishment. As for the people who have accepted the truth, which the Heavenly books and the Prophets are presenting to the world, Allah will be pleased with them and they will be well pleased with the rewards bestowed by Allah. They will be called upon to join the righteous and enter paradise.

In short it’s theme revolves around following important points

·         Faith and Gratitude

·         Warning against Arrogance and Disbelief

·         Transience of Worldly Affairs

·         Divine Justice and Retribution

·         Patience and Perseverance

·         Hope and Optimism

·         Trust in Divine Decree

·         Reflection on the Signs of Allah

Major Issues, Divine Laws and Guidance of the Surah:

Ø  The admonition for social welfare through the examples of prior nations

Ø  What should be avoided to do real social welfare?

Ø  The Day of Judgement will be too late to heed the admonition.

Benefits and Virtues & Teaching of Reciting Surah Al-Fajr

Surah Al-Fajr holds immense spiritual significance in Islam, and its regular recitation is accompanied by numerous blessings and virtues. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized the importance of reciting this chapter and highlighted its benefits for believers. Here are some of the virtues associated with reciting Surah Al-Fajr:

1.      Blessings and Barakah: Reciting Surah Al-Fajr brings blessings and barakah (divine blessings) into one’s life. It is believed that the dawn is a time of divine mercy and blessing, and reciting this chapter during this time amplifies its spiritual benefits.

2.      Protection from Evil: Surah Al-Fajr is said to offer protection from evil forces and negative influences. Its verses serve as a shield against spiritual and worldly harm, providing believers with divine protection and guidance.

3.      Spiritual Elevation: Regular recitation quran of Surah Al-Fajr elevates one’s spiritual state and strengthens their connection with Allah. Its profound messages inspire humility, gratitude, and piety, leading to spiritual growth and enlightenment.

4.      Forgiveness of Sins: Surah Al-Fajr serves as a means of seeking forgiveness for past sins and shortcomings. By reciting this chapter with sincerity and humility, believers can seek Allah’s mercy and forgiveness, purifying their hearts and souls.

5.      Increased Provision and Blessings: Reciting Surah Al-Fajr is believed to attract Allah’s blessings and increase one’s provision (rizq). It fosters a sense of gratitude and contentment, leading to abundance and prosperity in both spiritual and worldly matters.

6.      Reward in the Hereafter: The rewards for reciting Surah Al-Fajr extend beyond this worldly life. Believers who recite this chapter with sincerity and devotion will be rewarded abundantly in the Hereafter, with eternal blessings and paradise awaiting them.

7.      The last third of the night is the time for prayers to be answered. One should take advantage of this opportunity and pray Tahajjud and supplicate to God Almighty for whatever good he wants in this world and the hereafter; perhaps Allah Almighty will respond to him.

8.      When believers learn of God’s punishment of previous nations that disobeyed Him, they are committed to obeying God. Allah also punishes sinners in this life before punishing them in the afterlife.

9.      The believer must be patient when afflicted. He should be thankful to God Almighty in times of prosperity.

10.  Verses 17 and 18 urge us to honor the orphan and help those in need.

11.  Verse 24 encourages us to do good deeds and abstain from sins in worldly life so that we do not regret our actions in the afterlife.

12.  The verses teach us that God is severe in punishment for those who disobey Him and that He is the Most Merciful of those who obey Him and are patient in worshiping Him.

13.  Enhanced Mindfulness and Self-Reflection:

14.  Moral and Ethical Reinforcement: It reinforces and underscores the critical importance of maintaining good character and ethical behavior in all circumstances and situations.

15.  Stress Reduction: Surah Al-Fajr induce and promote a state of relaxation and calmness in readers.

16.  Cognitive Enhancement: Regular and consistent recitation of Surah Al-Fajr can positively influence and enhance cognitive functions in individuals.

Researched & Compiled By: 

OVAIS ASAD KHAN

SURAH AL-BALAD Chapter-90- Juzz - 30

This blog is part of a series of blogs based on my research and compilation of all the Surahs of Holy Quran. An effort to make each of these Surahs understandable in an easy way. Today's effort is SURAH AL-BALAD Chapter. 90, hope going through it will be a learning experience for each one of you. May Allah forgive any mistake, omission, or error on my part in its compilation (Aameen Summa Aameen).

English Translation:

In the name of Allah, the Entirely Merciful, the Especially Merciful.

1: I swear by this city, Makkah, 2. And you, [O Muhammad], are free of restriction in this city, 3. And [by] the father and that which was born [of him], 4. We have certainly created man into hardship. 5. Does he think that never will anyone overcome him? 6. He says, “I have spent wealth in abundance.”7. Does he think that no one has seen him? 8. Have We not made for him two eyes? 9.And a tongue and two lips? 10. And have shown him the two ways? 11. But he has not broken through the difficult pass.12. And what can make you know what is [breaking through] the difficult pass? 13.It is the freeing of a slave 14. Or feeding on a day of severe hunger 15. An orphan of near relationship 16. Or a needy person in misery 17. And then being among those who believed and advised one another to patience and advised one another to compassion. 18. Those are the companions of the right. 19. But they who disbelieved in Our signs – those are the companions of the left. 20. Over them will be fire closed in.

Introduction:

Surah Balad (the city), revealed in Mecca, is the 90th surah of the Quran in Juzz’ 30, with 20 verses (ayats) with 342 letters, 82 words with 70unique words without repetition. It was revealed approximately between 617 – 619 AD. It is a brief but powerful chapter with lessons ranging from guidance on dealing with difficulty and adversity to reminders about the importance of faith and patience. It gets its name from the first verse, whereupon God swears to the honored city of Mecca, as it is the residing place of the prophet of mercy (S). In the first part of the Surah, after mentioning some meaningful oaths, this fact is pointed out that Man's life, in this world, is always full of toil and struggle which prepares him to be able to face troubles and difficulties and therefore, he should not expect absolute tranquility and comfort in the present world. Surah Balad narrates the story of all mankind in this world and the variables in man’s equations in life; how it mentions the divine blessings showered upon him including his ability of distinguishing evil from good; his choices when put at a crossroad, to go uphill or downhill, and doing such acts of virtue like helping the needy and feeding the hungry and the orphans.

Background of Surah Balad:

This Surah was revealed in the period when the disbelievers of Makkah started to oppose the Prophet (pbuh) committing tyranny and excesses against him. An admonition to the disbelievers. Allah has given you two eyes, one tongue and two lips to control your tongue. The subject matter and style of Qur'anic chapter al Balad resemble those of the earliest Surahs revealed at Mecca, but it contains a pointer which indicates that it was sent down in the period when the disbelievers of Makkah had resolved to oppose Muhammad, and made it lawful for themselves to commit tyranny and excess.

Man Theme of the Surah Al Balad:

One of the main themes addressed in this surah is patience and perseverance. Allah encourages believers not to feel overwhelmed by their difficulties. Instead remain patient and trust that Allah will come to their aid if they are sincere in their faith.

Ø  The Surah Al Balad reminds us that if we trust Allah. He will provide us with what we need—even if it may not come when we expect it. ALLAH also warns us against worshipping false gods or idols while praising those who remain obedient to Allah despite being surrounded by temptation.

Ø  These verses of Surah Balad remind us not to get caught up in worldly concerns. Instead, focus on strengthening our relationship with Allah through prayer and worship, helping others, especially orphans and the poor.

Ø  Characteristics of the true believers

Ø  Rewards for the true believers in the next life

Ø  Punishments for those who are not true believers

Reasons for Revelation:

Highlight Human Struggle: The Surah was revealed to highlight the inherent struggles and hardships of human life. It acknowledges that every individual undergoes various tests and challenges, emphasizing the transient and testing nature of life.

Moral Guidance: Surah Al-Balad provides moral guidance to the believers, urging them to engage in righteous deeds. It encourages freeing slaves, feeding the needy during times of hunger, supporting orphans, and aiding those in misery, emphasizing the importance of compassion and charitable acts.

Call to Faith and Patience: The Surah calls believers to have faith, practice patience, and show compassion towards others. It encourages Muslims to embody these virtues and advise one another to do the same, fostering a supportive and empathetic community.

Warning to Disbelievers: It concludes with a stern warning to those who disbelieve and reject the signs of Allah, stating that they will face consequences in the Hereafter for their disbelief and moral failures.

The lesson of the Surah Balad:

In this surah, god says that the human life in this world is intermingled with pains and hardships. It also enumerates some of God's blessings to human beings & then refers to human ingratitude towards these blessings

Rewards and benefits of reciting Surah Balad:

·         The holy Prophet (S) says in a narration regarding surah Balad:

“Allah will make him who studies this Surah safe from His wrath on the Day of Judgement.”

·         A tradition from Imam Sadiq (as) says: “The one who recites Surah Balad in his obligatory prayers will be known as a good-doer in this world, and in the Next World he will be included among those of rank and privilege with Allah, and he will be of the friends and companions of the prophets, martyrs, and the pious.”

·         Other benefits have also been mentioned for reciting surah Balad such as a remedy for illnesses of the respiratory system and making newborns immune from certain sicknesses.

·         The benefits of reciting Surah Al-Balad extend to the Afterlife. Consistent reciters of this Surah will be granted a special position before Allah. This elevated status signifies closeness to Allah in the Hereafter, allowing the individual to be counted among the companions of prophets, martyrs, and righteous people

·         Reputation of Righteousness: Reciting Surah Al-Balad in obligatory prayers can earn you a reputation for righteousness in this world.

·         Special Position in the Afterlife: The benefits of reciting Surah Al-Balad extend to the Afterlife. Consistent reciters of this Surah will be granted a special position before Allah. This elevated status signifies closeness to Allah in the Hereafter, allowing the individual to be counted among the companions of prophets, martyrs, and righteous people.

·         Personal Growth and Development: Surah Al-Balad emphasizes gratitude for Allah’s blessings and the significance of our actions. Regular recitation of this Surah reminds us of our responsibilities towards fellow human beings and the importance of utilizing our resources and abilities for societal betterment.

·         Source of Guidance and Inspiration: The Surah serves as a guide and inspiration, teaching perseverance through challenges and steadfastness in faith. It highlights the transient nature of worldly possessions and underscores the importance of cultivating good deeds for long-term benefit.

·         Promotes Compassion and Purpose: Through the guidance provided by Surah Al-Balad, individuals are encouraged to lead lives marked by gratitude, perseverance, and devotion to Allah. The Surah promotes personal growth, compassion, and a greater sense of life purpose, helping individuals contribute positively to their communities.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Surah Balad is a powerful chapter from the Qur’an that contains several important lessons for believers. It reminds us to remain patient despite adversity. We must put our trust firmly in Allah. It warns against worshipping false gods; and reminds us that death as a certainty for all humans. May Allah guide us to understand these critical messages within this beautiful surah! Ameen!

 

Researched & Compiled by:

OVAIS ASAD KHAN