SURAH AL –INSHIQAQ – Chapter 84.

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 –INSHIQAQ – Chapter 84. If you consider it a piece of learning do comment at the bottom of the blog. May Allah forgive any mistake, omission, or error on my part in its compilation (Aameen Summa Aameen). Please do write comments about this blog at its bottom.

English Translation:

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

1: When the sky is rent asunder, 2. And hearkens to (the Command of) its Lord, and it must needs (do so); - 3. And when the earth is flattened out, 4. And casts forth what is within it and becomes (clean) empty, 5. And hearkens to (the Command of) its Lord, - and it must needs (do so); - (then will come Home the full reality). 6. O thou man! Verily thou art ever toiling on towards thy Lord- painfully toiling, - but thou shalt meet Him. 7. Then he who is given his Record in his right hand, 8. Soon will his account be taken by an easy reckoning, 9. And he will turn to his people, rejoicing! 10. But he who is given his Record behind his back, - 11. Soon will he cry for perdition, 12. And he will enter a Blazing Fire.13. Truly, did he go about among his people, rejoicing! 14. Truly, did he think that he would not have to return (to Us)! 15. Nay, nay! for his Lord was (ever) watchful of him! 16. So I do call to witness the ruddy glow of Sunset; 17. The Night and its Homing; 18. And the Moon in her fullness: 19. Ye shall surely travel from stage to stage. 20. What then is the matter with them, that they believe not? - 21. And when the Quran is read to them, they fall not prostrate, 22. But on the contrary the Unbelievers reject (it). 23. But Allah has full knowledge of what they secrete (in their breasts) 24. So announce to them a Penalty Grievous, 25. Except to those who believe and work righteous deeds: For them is a Reward that will never fail.

Introduction:

Al-INSHIQAQ (Arabic: الانشقاق, "The Sundering", "Splitting Open") is the eighty-fourth chapter (surah) of the Qur'an, with 25 verses (ayats), 108 words out of which 91 words are unique without any repletion and has 445 letters. It is derived from the word in shaqqat in the first verse. Inshaqqat is infinitive which means to split as under, there by implying that it is the Surah in which mention has been made of the splitting as under of the heavens. It mentions details of the Day of Judgment when, according to this chapter, everyone will receive reckoning over their deeds in this world. In Surah Al-Inshiqaq, there is an explanation of what will happen on the Day of Resurrection in terms of changes in the conditions of heaven and earth. The verses also show that God Almighty will hold every person accountable for their deeds in this world. And the believers who do righteous deeds will receive a great reward in the hereafter. The Surah show that Allah Almighty will hold every person accountable for their deeds in this world. Surah depicts the conditions that will prevail on the Day of Judgment, such as reckoning and accountability, reward of good and torment of evil.

Period of Revelation

This is also one of the earliest Surahs revealed at Makkah and its approximate time of revelation is between 613-616 AD. The persecution of the Muslims had not yet started; however, the message of the Qur'an was being openly opposed and the people were refusing to acknowledge that resurrection would ever take place and that they would have to appear before Allah to render an account of their deeds.

Major Issues, Divine Laws and Guidance

·         On Doomsday heaven will split asunder and earth will be spread out.

·         The books of deeds will be distributed and the righteous will be happy while disbelievers will be calling for death.

·         The people are asked to believe while they have time during their life on earth.

Theme of the Surah Al- Inshiqaq:

The theme of this Surah is the Resurrection and Hereafter. In the first five verses the state of resurrection is described and the argument of its being true and certain is also given: that, one Day, the heavens will split asunder, the earth will be spread out plain and smooth, and it will throw out whatever lies inside it. It will be so because it will be the command of Allah, the Rabb of the heavens and the earth.

On that Day, all human beings will be divided into two groups:

Ø  Those whose records will be given in their right hands, will be forgiven without any severe reckoning;

Ø  Those whose records will be given to them from behind their back, will wish for death but they will not die; instead they will be cast into hell. They will meet with this fate because in this world they remained heedless and they would appear before Allah to render an account of their deeds.

In conclusion, the disbelievers who oppose the teachings of the Qur'an instead of bowing down to God when they hear it, are forewarned of a grievous punishment and the good news of limitless rewards has been given to the believers and the righteous.

This surah is almost a culmination of a small cluster of surahs that are banded together because of a very similar style and subject matter. The three surahs – At-Takwir, Al-Infitaar and this one have almost an identical format of beginning with one surah squeezed in the middle – Al-Mutaffifin which is also intricately connected. This surah has the theme of inevitability and is the conclusion of this series. There are a lot of themes in this surah that discusses moving through stages and then reaching a conclusion. Allah (swt) does not spell things out for the Muslim and expects us to fill in the blanks ourselves which keeps the reader and listener of the Qur’an alert.

The surah is divided into four parts with the first five verses talking about the events of the last day. Verses six to fifteen discuss the journey of the human before it reaches its conclusion whilst verses sixteen to twenty-one calls upon the human to reflect upon nature and of the gradual changes in nature. Finally, the last part is a warning that lessons should be learnt from these arguments presented.

The Virtue in Studying This Surah

v  There is a tradition from the Prophet (S) which says: "He who studies Surah Inshiqaq Allah will make him safe from being given his Record from behind his back (on the reckoning Day)”.

v  There is a narration from Imam Sadiq, written in the book ‘Thawab-al-A'mal', which says: "He who recites those two Surahs: Infitar and Inshiqaq, and considers them present before his eyes in his obligatory and optional prayers, nothing will separate him from Allah. He will be in The continuous presence of Allah and Allah will be looking over him until all of the accounts he has with others are settled."   

Surah Al-Inshiqaq Benefits

Surah Al Inshiqaq, the 84th chapter of the Quran, is believed to have many benefits for those who recite it regularly. Some of these benefits include:

Increase in faith and righteousness: The surah reminds us of the importance of following the guidance of the Quran and the Prophet (PBUH) and encourages us to be righteous.

Protection from the trials and tribulations of this life: The surah reminds us that ultimately, success is in the hands of God, and that He will protect those who put their trust in Him.

Increase in knowledge: The surah reminds us of the importance of seeking knowledge, and it is believed that reciting it will increase one’s knowledge and understanding of the faith.

Increase in blessings and rewards in the afterlife: The surah reminds us of the importance of being mindful of our actions in this life, as we will be held accountable for them in the hereafter.

Protection from Allah’s punishment: The surah speaks about the day of judgement, and it is believed that reciting it will protect one from Allah’s punishment on the day of judgement

Forgiveness of sins: It is believed that reciting Surah Al Inshiqaq will lead to the forgiveness of one’s sins.

Protection from enemies: It is believed that reciting Surah Al Inshiqaq.

Wazaif of Surah Al Inshiqaq

There are several wazaif (liturgical formulas) that are associated with Surah Al Inshiqaq in Islamic tradition. Some of these include:

Ø  Reciting the surah 11 times every day after the morning prayer, and then blowing on one’s self, family, and wealth. This is believed to bring protection and increase in wealth.

Ø  Reciting the surah Al Inshiqaq 7 times after the evening prayer, and then blowing on one’s self, family, and wealth. This is believed to bring protection from the trials and tribulations of this life, and increase in knowledge and understanding of the faith.

Ø  Reciting the surah 11 times every day before going to bed, and then blowing on one’s self, family, and wealth. This is believed to bring peace and protection in the night.

Ø  Reciting the surah for 3 times after the evening prayer, and then blowing on one’s self, family, and wealth. This is believed to bring peace and protection.

Ø  Reciting the surah 41 times in the morning and evening after the Salah and then blow on oneself and the family, it is believed to bring wealth, prosperity, protection from all problems, increase in knowledge, forgiveness of sins and protection from enemies.

Ø  Recite of Surah Al-Inshiqaq seven times daily throughout the pregnancy for the easy delivery of a child.

Ø  If written and worn by a pregnant woman, the delivery of the baby becomes easy. However, it is important that after delivery, this Surah should be kept away from her. If this Surah is tied on any animal (eg. camels or horses) then it keeps them safe.

Ø  Surah Inshiqaq Recitation is cure of poisonous bite.

It’s important to note that these are traditional practices and reciting Quran with understanding and implementing it in daily life is more beneficial than just reciting it for specific benefits. Also, these wazaif should not be considered as a replacement for regular prayer and good deeds but as a supplement.

Researched & Compiled by:

OVAIS ASAD KHAN 

Surah Al-Buruj – Chapter 85 - 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-BURUJ – Chapter 85. If you consider it a piece of learning do comment at the bottom of the blog. May Allah forgive any mistake, omission, or error on my part in its compilation (Aameen Summa Aameen). Please do write comments about this blog at its bottom.

English Translation:

In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful

1. By the heaven holding the big stars. 2. And by the Promised Day (i.e. the Day of Resurrection). 3. And by the Witnessing day (i.e. Friday), and by the Witnessed day [ i.e. the day of ‘Arafat (Hajj) the ninth of Dhul- Hijjah]; 4. Cursed were the people of the Ditch (in the story of the Boy and the King). 5. Of fire fed with fuel, 6. When they sat by it (fire), 7. And they witnessed what they were doing against the believers (i.e. burning them). 8. And they had no fault except that they believed in Allah, the All- Mighty, Worthy of all Praise! 9. To Whom belongs the dominion of the heavens and the earth! And Allah is Witness over everything. 10. Verily, those who put into trial the believing men and believing women (by torturing them and burning them), and then do not turn in repentance (to Allah), then they will have the torment of Hell, and they will have the punishment of the burning Fire. 11. Verily, those who believe and do righteous good deeds, for them will be Gardens under which rivers flow (Paradise). That is the great success. 12. Verily, (O Muhammad (saas) the Seizure (punishment) of your Lord is severe and painful. 13. Verily, He it is Who begins (punishment) and repeats (punishment in the Hereafter) (or originates the creation of everything, and then repeats it on the Day of Resurrection). 14. And He is Oft- Forgiving, full of love (towards the pious who are real true believers of Islamic Monotheism), 15. Owner of the throne, the Glorious, 16. (He is the) Doer of whatsoever He intends (or wills). 17. Has the story reached you of the hosts, 18. Of Fir‘aun  Pharaoh) and Thamûd? 19. Nay! The disbelievers (persisted) in denying (Prophet Muhammad (saas) and his Message of Islamic Monotheism). 20. And Allah encompasses them from behind! (i.e. all their deeds are within His Knowledge, and He will require them for their deeds). 21. Nay! This is a Glorious Qur’an, 22. (Inscribed) in Al- Lauh Al- Mahfûz (The Preserved Tablet)!

Introduction:

Surah Al-Buruj (chapter 85 of the Qur'an) was revealed in Makkah, it has 22 verses (Ayaats) with 109 words out of which 99 are unique words without repition and have 469 letters. It was revealed during the period of 616-618 AD approximately. The subject matter itself indicates that this Surah was sent down at Makkah in the period when persecution of the Muslims was at its climax and the disbelievers of Makkah were trying their utmost by tyranny and coercion to turn away the new converts from Islam & bring them back to their former religion of idol worship. The word "Al-Buruj" in the first verse is usually translated as 'stars', or more specifically, 'great stars'. The word Al-Buruj is the plural of Burj, which means fort or tower; something that can be seen from a distance. The name of the Surah is taken from the oath which occurred in the beginning verse. Surah Buruj is one of the chapters of the 30th part of the Quran. it begins with a few oaths and then indicates a group of people known as the People of Ukhdud who would persecute the believers by throwing them into ditches of fire. The verses go on to indicate the reason for their persecution and describe the punishment and rewards that await the disbelievers and believers and cite examples of the former. The chapter ends with a brief indication of the Quran and its attributes.

Background of the Surah:

The background is the pit incident, when a community of believers who lived before the advent of Islam, said to be Unitarian Christians, were faced by ruthless and tyrannical enemies who sought to force them away from their faith. The believers refused. The tyrants then lit a great fire in a pit they had dug, and threw them into it. The believers were thus burnt to death in front of large crowds that had gathered to witness this ghastly act of extermination. The tyrants sat by, amused by the believers’ sufferings.

Theme of the Surah:

Its theme is to warn the disbelievers of the evil consequences of the persecution and tyranny that they were perpetrating on the converts to Islam, and to console the believers, so as to say: "If you remain firm and steadfast against tyranny and coercion, you will be rewarded richly for it, and Allah will certainly avenge Himself on your persecutors on your behalf.

his Surah warns the disbelievers of the evil consequences of persecution and tyranny and consoles the believers that if they remain firm and steadfast against tyranny and coercion, they will be rewarded for it, and Allah Himself will avenge their persecutors. In this connection, the story of the people of the ditch (Ashab al-Ukhdud), who had burnt the believers to death by casting them into pits full of fire is related. By means of this story the believers and the disbelievers have been taught a few lessons:

·         That just as the people of the ditch became worthy of Allah's curse and punishment, the chiefs of Makkah are also becoming worthy of it.

·         That just as the believers at that time had willingly accepted to sacrifice their lives by being burnt to death in the pits of fire instead of turning away from their faith, so also should the believers now endure every persecution and never give up faith.

·         That Allah, to Whom belongs the Kingdom of the earth and heavens, is Praiseworthy and is watching what the two groups are striving for.

Therefore, the disbelievers will not only be punished in Hell for their disbelief but, in addition to that, they also will suffer punishment by fire as a fit recompense for their tyranny and cruelty. The believers who are firm in their belief and do good deeds will go to paradise. This indeed is the supreme success. Then the disbelievers are warned that Allah's grip is very severe. If they are proud of the strength of their hosts, they should know that the hosts of Pharaoh and Thamud were even stronger and more numerous. Therefore, they should learn a lesson from the fate these people of the past met. No one can escape Allah's jurisdiction and the Qur'an that they are belying is unchangeable: it is inscribed in the Preserved Tablet, which cannot be destroyed in any way.

The main lesson of Surah Al-Buruj:

On the whole, this is a Surah of resistant perseverance, and patience from the side of the believers against the persecutions of the enemies, amongst which the promise Allah's victory is found. The name of the Surah is taken from the oath which occurred in the beginning verse of the Surah.

 

Major Issue, Divine Law and Guidance of Surah:

Those who torture the believers will be given the punishment of conflagration on the Day of Judgement

He Who created you for the first time will bring you back to life again for accountability.

The Virtue in Studying This Surah

Ø  There is a tradition from the Prophet (S) for the virtue of this Surah which says: "Allah will give reward for the good-deeds ten times the number of all people gathered in 'Friday Prayer' and all people gathered on the day of 'Arafah (the ninth day of Zilhajj), to the person who studies this Surah. Its recitation saves man from fears.” These rewards fit in with the content of the Surah and it also confirms that these rewards belong to those who study the Surah, then contemplate on it and act accordingly.

Ø  Its recitation saves man from fears.”

Ø  Holy Prophet sallal laahu alaihi wasallam said that the one who recites this surah will be near the Prophets and Messengers on the Day of Judgement.

Ø  Reciting this Surah saves one from dangers and if recited before sleeping, one is kept under the protection of Allah (S.w.T.) for the whole night.

Ø  When trying to wean a baby (stop it from breastfeeding and start eating solid foods), Surah Buruj should be written and tied as a talisman around the baby’s neck.

Ø  Recitation of Surah Buruj is a cures piles.

Ø  One who recite Surah Al-Buruj is also kept safe from danger

Ø  Recite for safety from one who speaks evil.

 Benefits:

 Surah Buruj is a chapter of the Quran that contains many powerful verses about healing. It is full of blessings and virtues, and offers many benefits for those who recite it.

Below are some of the key benefits of Surah Buruj:

Ø  The recitation of Surah Buruj can heal physical and emotional illnesses.

Ø  It can protect us from harm and ward off evil spirits.

Ø  It can help us to find peace and solace in difficult times.

Ø  It is a source of strength and support for the believer.

Ø  Reciting Surat Buruj can help us to draw closer to Allah, increase our faith & understanding of Quran.

Ø  When you recite Surah Buruj, you are invoking the protection and healing of Allah. The verses of this surah are filled with blessings and healing properties, which can help protect you from harm and illness.

Ø  Reciting Surah Buruj benefits are also a means of acquiring Allah’s mercy and forgiveness. It is a way of seeking refuge in Allah from all forms of evil and harm.

Ø  The verses of this chapter are a reminder of the power and majesty of Allah. As you recite them, you come into His presence and receive His blessings.

Ø  Surat Buruj also brings healing to your heart and soul. It is a source of comfort in times of stress and anxiety, and it brings you closer to Allah.

Ø  Increase in faith and righteousness: The surah reminds us of the importance of following the guidance of the Quran and the Prophet (PBUH) and encourages us to be righteous.

Ø  Protection from the trials and tribulations of this life: The surah reminds us that ultimately, success is in the hands of God and that He will protect those who put their trust in Him.

Ø  Increase in knowledge: The surah reminds us of the importance of seeking knowledge, and it is believed that reciting it will increase one’s knowledge and understanding of the faith.

Ø  Increase in blessings and rewards in the afterlife: The surah reminds us of the importance of being mindful of our actions in this life, as we will be held accountable for them in the hereafter.

Ø  Protection from Allah’s punishment: The surah speaks about the day of judgment, and it is believed that reciting it will protect one from Allah’s punishment on the day of judgment

Ø  Forgiveness of sins: It is believed that reciting Surah Al Buruj will lead to the forgiveness of one’s sins.

It is important to note that these benefits are based on Islamic tradition and belief, and may vary from person to person. The most important benefit of reciting any surah from the Quran is that it is a way of connecting to Allah and seeking His guidance and blessings. There are several wazaif (liturgical formulas) that are associated with Surah Al Buruj in Islamic tradition. Some of these include:

Ø  Reciting the surah 11 times every day after the morning prayer, and then blowing on one’s self, family, and wealth. This is believed to bring protection and increase wealth.

Ø  Reciting the surah 7 times after the evening prayer, and then blowing on one’s self, family, and wealth. This is believed to bring protection from the trials and tribulations of this life, and increase knowledge and understanding of the faith.

Ø  Reciting the surah 11 times every day before going to bed, and then blowing on one’s self, family, and wealth. This is believed to bring peace and protection in night.

Ø  Reciting the surah for 3 times after the evening prayer, and then blowing on one’s self, family, and wealth. This is believed to bring peace and protection.

Ø  Reciting the surah 41 times in the morning and evening after the Salah and then blowing on oneself and the family, it is believed to bring wealth, prosperity, protection from all problems, increase in knowledge, and forgiveness of sins.

It’s important to note that these are traditional practices, and reciting Quran with understanding and implementing it in daily life is more beneficial than just reciting it for specific benefits.

Summary of Surah Buruj

Surah Buruj begins with a few important oaths and continues with an indication to the People of the Ditches of Fire or ‘Ukhdud.’ Although it is not known exactly which group of people in history this refers to, the Quran goes on to describe the reason why these people were burning the believers, i.e. their belief. The verses then describe the punishment that awaits the groups who torture the believers and deny God. The chapter ends with a brief description of the Quran.

Thus, Surah Buruj serves as a timeless source of inspiration, offering solace, guidance, and spiritual strength to those who engage with its verses. Its narrative of resilience in the face of oppression resonates across time, reminding believers of the enduring power of faith. By incorporating the recitation and reflection of Surah Al-Buruj into one’s life, individuals can draw upon its benefits for spiritual growth, protection, and a deepened connection with the profound stories of faith encapsulated within the Holy Quran.

Researched & Compiled by:

OVAIS ASAD KHAN 

SURAH AT-TARIQ Chapter: 86

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 AT-TARIQ Chapter: 86, 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.By the heaven and the nightly star! 2. And what will make you realize what the nightly star is? 3. It is˺ the star of piercing brightness. 4. There is no soul without a vigilant angel ˹recording everything˺. 5. Let people then consider what they were created from! 6. They were˺ created from a spurting fluid, 7. Stemming from between the backbone and the ribcage. 8. Surely He is fully capable of bringing them back ˹to life˺ 9. On the Day all secrets will be disclosed. 10. Then one will have neither power nor ˹any˺ helper. 11. By the sky with its recurring cycles, 12. And the earth with its sprouting plants! 13. Surely this ˹Quran˺ is a decisive word, 14. And is not to be taken lightly. 15. They are certainly devising ˹evil˺ plans, 16. But I too am planning. 17. So bear with the disbelievers ˹O Prophet˺. Let them be for ˹just˺ a little while.

Introduction:

Surah Al-Tariq is the 86th Surah of the Quran which consists of 17 Verses (Ayats) with 61 words, out of which 53 are unique words without repetition and have 254 letters and is placed in the 30th Juzz’ in the Quran. "Tariq" means "star" or “The Night Comer”. This surah is named "al-Tariq" because at the beginning of the surah, there is a swear by "the star". Surah al-Tariq speaks about the hereafter and mentions that God can resurrect human being after death. It also speaks about the importance of the Qur'an and introduces it as a decisive word. It focuses on the concept of the power of Allah SWT that He can revive humanity and hold us accountable on the Day of Judgment. And calming the believers down that Allah is by their side, even if some tyrannies torture them (As mentioned in the previous Surah), Judgment Day will come and they will be revived and asked about their actions towards them. Surah Al-Tariq is regarded as one of the Al-Quran Surahs which is distinguished by the shortness of its verses and its speech about the limitless power of Allah SWT.

Background of Surah at Tariq:

This is one of the earliest Surahs revealed at Makkah. It was sent down at a stage when the disbelievers of Makkah were employing all sorts of devices and plans to defeat and frustrate the message of Islam. Allah has appointed a guardian angel over each soul. Surah At-Tariq was revealed after Surah Al-Balad and it is categorized as a Makki Surah with its revelation period between 618-620 AD., meaning it was revealed to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) in Makkah before his migration to Madinah. There are two main reasons mentioned for the revelation of Surah At-Tariq:

The First Reason: The initial verses of the Surah (“By the sky and the night-comer, and what can make you know what is the night-comer? It is the piercing star”) were revealed regarding Abu Talib, the uncle of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). On one occasion, Abu Talib came to the Prophet and honored him with bread and milk. While the Prophet was eating, a shooting star appeared and turned into water and then fire. Abu Talib became frightened and asked the Prophet about it. The Prophet explained that it was a sign from Allah and a miraculous sign of His verses. This incident astonished Abu Talib, and as a result, Allah revealed these verses.

The Second Reason: The verse of Allah Almighty (“Then let mankind look at his food”) was revealed regarding Abu Al-Ashadd bin Qais Al-Jumahi, who was a disbeliever sitting on animal skin and challenging the people, saying, “O people of Quraish, whoever can remove me from this position will have such and such reward, and Muhammad claims that Hellfire has nineteen keepers. I will do the job of ten keepers; you all do the job of the remaining nine.” As a response to his challenge, Allah revealed this verse.

Significance of Surah Al-Tariq:

Surah Al-Tariq is a Meccan Surah that was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad PBUH in Mecca. It is one of the Al- Quran Surahs that gives warning to the disbelievers of Judgment Day and what will happen to them in it. It was revealed by Allah to firm the hearts of the believers in their first phase of Islam and to warn the disbelievers that they will be accountable for their doings and their denying of the truth as well.

Major Issues of Surah At- Tariq:

Ø  Allah has appointed a guardian angel over each soul.

Ø  The Qur'an is the decisive word of Allah.

Key themes in Surah Al-Tariq:

The basic theme of the Surah is Allah's guidance through His prophets. The purpose of this guidance is to take the people from darkness to light. Many people in the past had doubts about their prophets. There are three major themes of Surah Al-Tariq;

Ø  Every human being’s deeds are recorded by the guarding angels. “There is no soul without a vigilant angel ˹recording everything˺.”

Ø  Allah SWT is Capable of reviving all the creatures once again after their death to appear before Him on Judgment Day. “Surely He is fully capable of bringing them back ˹to life˺.”

Ø  The Holy Quran which is guarded by Allah is a conclusive Word of Him and It adjudges between truth and false. “Surely this ˹Quran˺ is a decisive word,”

There are two other deep themes of Surah Al-Tariq that resulted from deep reflection on the verses of the Surah;

Journeying.

This theme is stated in the first three verses that talk about the stars and how they guide the night travelers in their journeys by mapping the locations of the bright stars to reach their destination. Similarly, just like the stars, the Quran can lead them to their right destination in their lives and the afterlife if they follow It. Since the two of them are the creations of God. Also, this theme was stated in the journey of the male fluid that comes out of the father’s body along the path to impregnate the mother’s body through the gushing water. Allah explains the process of human creation that can be regarded as a journey saying, “And indeed, we created humankind1 from an extract of clay,” “then placed each ˹human˺ as a sperm-drop1 in a secure place,” “then We developed the drop into a clinging clot ˹of blood˺, then developed the clot into a lump ˹of flesh˺, then developed the lump into bones, then clothed the bones with flesh, then We brought it into being as a new creation.1 So Blessed is Allah, the Best of Creators.” Surah Al-Mu’minun

Secrecy:

In the previous Surah, Al-Buruj, the disbelievers were causing torture to the believers and were bearing witness to their murders. However, when nations commit such crimes, they tend to hide and protect the evidence of their actions. Nonetheless, Allah says, “On the Day all secrets will be disclosed.” So, even these closely guarded secrets (saraa’ir) will be exposed and revealed to the public on Judgment Day. Also, the Arabic word ‘kayd’, which means secret evil planning, matches the theme of secrecy of the Surah.

Importance of reciting Surah Al-Tariq and its Benefits

·         Reciting Surah Al-Tariq is a good deed that strengthens our relation to Allah and he will reward you because of it as the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “Whoever recites a letter from the Book of Allah, he will be credited with a good deed, and a good deed gets a ten-fold reward.

Reciting Surah Al-Tariq in prayer while reflecting on its deep meanings helps us continuously remember Judgment Day on which we will be asked about our recorded deeds so we will always be aware of It and choose to always make good choices preferring the afterlife and its rewards.

·         Surah Al-Tariq is a reminder to everyone that his deeds, whether it is good or bad, are recorded.

·         It also reminds us that the hidden evil planned by the disbelievers is visible to Allah SWT and He is planning also to punish them.

·         In addition, it causes awakening and fear from Allah SWT as the one will certainly die one day and will meet Allah asking him about his deeds.

·         This encourages the one to do their best and repent to Allah to forgive them before Judgment Day so that no one can help him or even himself.

Benefits:

1.      Closer Connection to God: Reciting Surah Tariq is considered a means of drawing nearer to God in Islamic tradition. The Surah contains verses that emphasize God’s attributes, power, and creative abilities in the universe

2.      Enhanced Spiritual Awareness: Surah Tariq discusses the mysteries and wonders of the heavens and the earth. Contemplating these verses can lead to a heightened sense of spirituality and awe at the magnificence of God’s creation.

3.      Protection Against Evil Forces: Traditional belief holds that reciting Surah Tariq can offer protection against negative influences and evil forces. This protection can extend to spiritual evil, such as harmful thoughts or negative energies, as well as external negative influences

4.      Induction of Mental Peace: The rhythmic and melodious tone of Surah Tariq, when recited with devotion, can have a calming effect on the mind. The profound spiritual messages in the Surah can help individuals find inner peace and tranquility.

5.      Increased Focus and Mindfulness: Regular recitation of Surah Tariq involves concentration on the verses, fostering mindfulness. This practice can enhance one’s ability to focus on the present moment and be more mindful of their actions and surroundings.

6.      Emotional Balance: Reciting Surah Tariq can provide an emotional outlet for individuals, allowing them to express their feelings and thoughts. The act of recitation, combined with the spiritual content of the Surah, can reduce stress and anxiety levels.

7.      Improved Interpersonal Relationships: The teachings of Surah Tariq emphasize principles such as justice, kindness, and equality. When individuals internalize these principles through regular recitation and reflection, they are more likely to apply them in their interactions with others.

8.      Moral Upliftment: Surah Tariq encourages ethical behavior and integrity by emphasizing the consequences of one’s actions and the accountability before God. Regular recitation and contemplation of the Surah can lead to moral upliftment, inspiring individuals to make better ethical choices in their daily lives.

9.      Enhanced Cognitive Skills: Engaging with the Surah through recitation and understanding stimulates cognitive processes. The act of contemplation and critical thinking about the Surah’s content can enhance one’s ability to think critically, analyze complex concepts, and solve problems.

Conclusion:

To conclude, Surah At-Tariq is one of the magnificent chapters of the Quran that emphasizes the oneness of Allah and His mercy towards His servants. It invites reflection upon Allah’s creation and prepares individuals for the Day of Resurrection. In this article, we will explain the reasons for the revelation of this Surah and provide an overview of its general context, as well as explore the interpretation and key themes of Surah At-Tariq, understanding the themes of Surah Al-Tariq and reflecting on It can remind us that we are not alone if we face any harm by the disbelievers, and reciting it calms us down and encourages us to do our best and let go of the thinking of the evil acts done by the truth deniers knowing that the plan of Allah made for them will take over all their plans.

Overall, incorporating the recitation and contemplation of Surah Tariq in daily life can lead to a profound transformation. It offers a holistic approach to well-being, strengthening faith, enhancing mental well-being, and fostering spiritual growth. Embrace the teachings of Surah Tariq and embark on a journey towards a more fulfilling and harmonious existence.

 

Researched & Compiled by:

OVAIS ASAD KHAN