Say ! Are those who know equal to those who do not know? Nay - Only people of understanding take heed

Acquiring knowledge is one of the biggest virtue a man can strive for - for without knowledge a man is no better than an animal who is heedless of its direction, unless tended to the direction his master wants them to. Thus it can be said that knowledge enriches the individual. It shapes our personalities, our opinions, and how we perceive the world. A knowledgeable person can interact more meaningfully with others, participate in informed discussions, and think critically about issues.

Allah in Al-Qurʾān too emphasises the importance of knowledge and encourages His servants to seek knowledge for it opens door of wisdom and enlightens one's brain to ponder over what lies beneath the surface, which wisdom-less men only see and make erratic decisions.

In one of our earlier posts: Ten most powerful verses of Al Qur'an that challenge how we think, live, and understand reality, seeking knowledge is one of these ten core points, which we will reflect upon through this post with refference to Surah Az-Zumar, the 39th Surah of Al Qur'an, verse 9 given herein under:

The Verse

The verse begins by describing a sincere believer who worships at night, but it ends with this powerful question about knowledge “…Say: Are those who know equal to those who do not know? Only people of understanding take heed.”

Context of the Verse

The verse contrasts two types of people:

• One who is deeply aware of Allah, reflective, sincere, and conscious
• One who is heedless and unaware

Then comes the rhetorical question: Can a person of knowledge be equal to one without it?

Key point: “Knowledge” here is not just information—it is: (1) Insight (basīrah), (2) Discernment, and (3) Awareness of truth and consequences

Scholarly Explanation

Before we move on to segmented explanation of the verse, let us see how eminent Muslim scholar Ibn Kathir unpacks this verse:

• "Those Who Know" vs. "Those Who Know Not": The phrase "Say: Are those who know equal to those who know not?" distinguishes between people of knowledge and faith, and those who do not, highlighting that they are not equal before Allah.
• Worship and Knowledge: Ibn Kathir emphasizes that true knowledge brings someone to sincere worship and understanding of Allah. The verse concludes that only "men of understanding" (people of intellect) truly reflect on this.
• Fear and Hope: The believer is described as being in a state of balance between fearing Allah’s punishment in the Hereafter and hoping for His mercy, particularly in the later part of life, as recorded by At-Tirmidhi and Ibn Majah.
• Qanit (Obedient): The term qanit implies a person who is constantly obedient, humbled, and devoted in prayer. 

In summary, Ibn Kathir highlights the superiority of the knowledgeable, devoted believer over the ignorant disbeliever, urging reflection on the importance of night prayer and sincerity in worship. 

What Kind of Knowledge Does the Qur’an Mean?

Throughout Al Qur'an man is asked to seek knowledge. But this knowledge should not be mere (مجرد ) data or facts, but:

• The ability to distinguish truth from falsehood
• The wisdom to act correctly
• Awareness that leads to responsibility and اخلاق (ethics)

That is a “knowing person” is not one who knows more—but one who understands better.

How to apply this verse to Fake News & AI

There were times when knowledge was contained in books by authentic scholars and writers. There was never an iota of doubt about the authenticity of the contents. But the open ended socail media and tools have changed the complexion of knowledge. Though unlike referring to libraries and finding the requisite book, which was laborious indeed, today access to information is though easy with a few clicks on a  computer keyboard, one is seldom sure of correctness of data. That is we live in an age where:

• Information is abundant
• Truth is confused
• AI can generate: (1) convincing text, (2) deep fakes, and (3) false narratives.

This makes the verse more relevant than ever.

The Real Problem Today

• Information does not equal to Knowledge
• Generally, rather mostly people consume the headlines, excerpts, viral posts or AI-generated content - which lately is gaining momentum and effecting human ability to think - thus closing doors to acquire wisdom.
• That is they don’t verify, reflect, or understand.
• This is exactly what the verse warns against: Being among those who “do not know” despite access to information
• Fake News Thrives on Lack of Discernment
• It should be understood that Emotional reactions spread misinformation faster than truth.
• That is why due to abundance of information available, people share information without checking sources and even questioning authenticity.
• Qur’anic principle: True knowledge requires critical thinking and responsibility.
• AI Amplifies the Challenge
• AI is the easiest tool to acquire and fabricate false information to look like real or reality.
• AI can generate realistic but false content and blurs lines between real vs fake and authentic vs مصنوع (fabricated).
• Therefore today being “knowledgeable” means being more careful, not just more informed

How 39:9 Guides Us in This Era

This verse calls for becoming people of understanding (ulū al-albāb) and cautions us to:

• Verify Before Believing
• Don’t accept everything you see
• Instead ask: Who created this? and What is the source?
• Think, Don’t Just React Pause before sharing - avoid emotional impulsiveness
• Seek Depth, Not Noise
• Move beyond: viral trends and superficial content
• Rather move toward meaningful knowledge and الحقيقة (truth)
• Link Knowledge with Ethics Even if something is interesting, STOP and ponder (1) Is it true? (2) Is sharing it responsible?

A Powerful Contrast

This verse implies that One who knows Verifies, reflects, thinks critically - but one who does not know and just scrolls reacts and shares blindly

A Deeper Insight

In today’s world, the greatest ignorance is not lack of information… but it is the inability to distinguish truth from falsehood. And that is exactly what this verse is addressing.

Final Reflection

Surah Az-Zumar (39:9) is not just praising knowledge—it is challenging you in a world full of voices, manipulation, and artificial content…: Will you be someone who truly knows—or someone who just consumes?

Remember! The way to true knowledge and enlightened information is devout worship, a sensitive heart, being mindful of the life to come, entertaining strong hopes of benefiting from God’s mercy and of being conscious of God. Those who limit themselves to individual experiences and superficial vision are no more than collectors of information. They will never attain the rank of people with knowledge.

May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎) help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door. 

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”

That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

May Allah forgive me if my posts ever imply a piety far greater than I possess. I am most in need of guidance.

Reading the Qur'ān should be a daily obligation of a Muslim - Reading it with translation will make it meaningful. But reading its Exegesis / Tafsir will make you understand it fully. It will also help the Muslims to have grasp over social issues and their answers discussed in the Qur'an and other matter related to inter faith so that they are able to discuss issues with non-Muslims with authority based on refences from Qur'an.

Note: When we mention God in our posts, we mean One True God, we call Allah in Islam, with no associates. Allah is the Sole Creator of all things, and that Allah is all-powerful and all-knowing. Allah has no offspring, no race, no gender, no body, and is unaffected by the characteristics of human life.

You may also refer to our exclusive reference pages: 

• Sürah 39. Az-Zumar 
• Selected verses from selected Surahs of Al-Qurʾān for compiled verses from other surahs.
• Selected Verses from Al Qur'an about a Specific Subject (Reference Page) to know more about what Qur'an says about specific subjects
• Selected Verses from the Qur'an. 

You may also refer to our Reference Pages  and Understanding Al Qur'an for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.

Photo | Reference: | 1 | 2 | 3 |

An effort has been made to gather explanation / exegesis of the surahs and selected verses of Al-Qurʾān from authentic sources and then present a least possible condensed explanation of the surah. In that the exegesis of the chapters of the Quran is mainly based on the "Tafhim al-Qur'an - The Meaning of the Qur'an" by one of the most enlightened scholars of the Muslim World Sayyid Abul Ala Maududi.  

In addition, other sources which have been explored and views of other scholars have been incorporated while explaining meaning of a verse. Those desirous of detailed explanations and tafsir (exegesis), may refer to these sites. For expansion of meaning and themes / contextual background help from ChatGPT is also taken.

Disclaimer: The material for this post has been collected from the references given above. If anyone differs with the material contained in this post, one may consult the references and their authors.  If someone has more material about the subject, he/she is most welcome to share in the comments box to make the post all encompassing.

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook. You may also refer to our Facebook  Group Islam: The Ultimate Truth for more on Islam and Da'wah.

Follow @IslamUltimate

Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, WhatsApp or any means on social media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Qur'ān - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

Read More

O’ Man! Know that the life of this world is only amusement, adornment, boasting and competition

For many, life is only about merry making, adornment, amusement and competition to overtake others to be on the top. Most of our youth is spent in a carefree high pitched environment. Such life style robs man from his sense of direction,  away from remembering our Creator, by following the Satanic pied piper. But the reality is that though the life looks full and attractive at first, but no one at the height of ecstasy, in a state of elated bliss and noise of laughter realizes that life is constantly fading. In fact every passing day in amusement is taking us close to an end when scales will be set to judge our worldly life and those who spent their lives only in merrymaking will know on that day how they badly harmed them.

Al Qur'an warns such merry makers of the day of reckoning and advises them to follow a path of blessings and rewards in a life of the Hereafter rather than being thrown into the blazing fire of hell. One such verses is the 20th verse of Surah Al-Ḥadīd, the 57th Surah / Chapter of Al Qur'an, being shared today. This verse talks of the transience of worldly life and verse emphasizes that worldly life is temporary and fleeting, similar to crops that grow and then dry up.

Surah Al-Ḥadīd (57:20)

“Know that the life of this world is only play, amusement, adornment, boasting among yourselves, and competition in wealth and children. Like the example of rain whose growth pleases the farmers; then it dries and you see it turn yellow; then it becomes debris. And in the Hereafter is severe punishment and forgiveness from Allah and His pleasure. And the life of this world is nothing but a deceiving enjoyment.”

Context of the Verse in the Surah

Surah Al-Ḥadīd generally addresses faith vs. hypocrisy, detachment from dunya (worldliness) and encouragement to spend in the path of Allah (57:10–18)

Then right after motivating believers to give charity, sacrifice for higher causes, the 20th verse comes as a reality check to warn the believers not to get attached to the world you’re being asked to give from. It reframes dunya so believers can act with clarity and detach emotionally while engaging responsibly

Breakdown of the Verse (Layer by Layer)

In this verse, Allah describes worldly life in five stages—this is deeply psychological:

• Play (لَعِبٌ – laʿib)
• Play is associated with childhood - a state when life feels like games, fun, no responsibility
• This is exactly like the life of endless entertainment, gaming, scrolling, distraction culture.
• Amusement (لَهْوٌ – lahw)
• This is the teenage/young adult phase in which youth pursue for pleasure and excitement.
• Today we find men obsessed with trends, engrossed in social media attractions and dopamine-driven habits.
• Adornment (زِينَةٌ – zīnah)
• This is more applicable to women whose sole focus is on their appearance, beauty and exposing lifestyle.
• Today we see an exhibitionist environment projecting image culture, Fashion, luxury, and curated online personas
• Boasting (تَفَاخُرٌ – tafākhur) Comparing status with others has become a fashion of the day. Most of us compare our possessions and status with others and get into a race so as to boast of our superior edge over the others. It is a boastful culture that creeps to show “Look at my success” culture to socially validate our status and prestige.
• Competition (تَكَاثُرٌ – takāthur)
• The more one gets into a projectionist life style, the more one is prone to accumulate wealth and assets to add to their self and family pride.
• Today we witness an increase in the race for elevated career, net worth obsession and setting material benchmarks of success.

The Parable of Rain (Powerful Imagery)

The second part of the verse relates life by giving a striking metaphor: "Like the example of rain whose growth pleases the farmers; then it dries and you see it turn yellow; then it becomes debris."

This metaphor aligns it with the Dunya (worldly life) which at first looks attractive, promising and full of life - But it also shows that every galore is temporary and it inevitably declines and disappears. This metaphor does not exhibit pessimism - but plain realism and true reality of the worldly life.

The Real Contrast

After describing dunya, Allah shifts perspective: “In the Hereafter is severe punishment and forgiveness from Allah and His pleasure…”

This means life is not meaningless—it is a bridge (between this world and the life of the Hereafter) and a test with consequences. This points towards Accountability (punishment) and Mercy and success (forgiveness and pleasure)

Scholarly Explanation

• One of the most enlightened scholars of the Muslim World Sayyid Abul Ala Maududi is of the opinion that to understand this theme fully one should keep the following verses of the Qur'an in mind: Imran; 14- 15, Yunus: 24-25, Ibrahim: 18, AI-Kahf: 45-46, An-Nur: 39. In all those verses the truth that has been impressed on the mind is: The life of this world is a temporary life: its spring as well as its autumn is temporary, Them is much here to allure man. but this, in fact, consists of base and insignificant things which man because of his shallowness of mind regards as great and splendid and is deluded into thinking that in attaining them lies supreme success, The truth however is that the highest benefits and means of pleasure and enjoyment that one can possibly attain in the world, arc indeed bast and insignificant and confined to a few years of temporary life, and can be destroyed by just one turn of fate. Contrary to this, the lift hereafter is a splendid and eternal life: its benefits are great and permanent and its losses too are great and permanent. The one who attains Allah's forgiveness and His goodwill there, will indeed have attained the everlasting bliss beside which the whole wealth of the world and its kingdom become pale and insignificant. And the one who is seized in God's torment there, will come to know that he had made a bad bargain even if he had attained all that he regarded as great and splendid in the world. 
• The 14th century exegete Ibn Kathir describes the life of this world:
• As a temporary, deceptive distraction (amusement, adorning, boasting) that vanishes quickly, comparing it to rain-fed vegetation that flourishes and then withers into dry chaff. The verse emphasizes that true reality is in the hereafter, offering either severe punishment or forgiveness.
• Key Takeaways from Ibn Kathir on 57:20:
• Synonyms of Worldly Life: Ibn Kathir defines the worldly life through five stages of pursuit: amusement, diversion, decoration, boasting among yourselves, and competition in wealth and children.
• The Parable of Rain: The verse uses the analogy of rain causing crops to grow. The green vegetation pleases the farmers, but quickly turns yellow, dries, and scatters as dust (or chaff).
• Significance of the Parable: Ibn Kathir explains that this illustrates the transience of life: youth and strength are followed by old age and decay, ultimately ending in death.
• The Two Destinies: The verse concludes by stating that in the Hereafter, there is either a "severe punishment" or "forgiveness from Allah and His pleasure," reinforcing that this life is merely a "deluding enjoyment".
• Purpose of the Parable: The purpose is to remind believers not to be deceived by the superficial beauty and temporary pleasures of the world, encouraging focus on the afterlife.

Applicability Today (Very Powerful)

This verse almost reads like a description of modern life:

• Social Media Culture  where:
• Play is entertainment
• Adornment is curated lifestyles
• Boasting is posting achievements
• Competition is followers, wealth, status
• Consumerism  We have endless desire for more wealth, better lifestyle and elevated status. This exhibits the stark naked reality of never-ending dissatisfaction. This race keeps us running after the mirage all along our lives, not leaving even an iota of satisfaction and contentment.
• Identity Crisis Almost  everyone defines himself with top career positions, wealth and an image of him better than everyone else. It is for them that is verse says: "That is not your true worth."
• Mental Health Insight For those chasing the mirage of this Dunya, Anxiety, Comparison, and Emptiness is the end product. Because we are always chasing something designed to fade.

What the Verse is NOT Saying

It is NOT saying  to leave the world completely, reject success, family, or wealth - Rather it encourages a believer to Use dunya - but don’t be used by it, Stay engaged - but not attached

Practical Takeaways

• Enjoy life—but don’t be deceived by it
• Work hard—but don’t define yourself by results
• Compete—but in good deeds (khayr)

Remember: Everything you see will fade - What you send forward (ākhirah) remains. Thus this verse gives a lens to see reality clearly to know that life is like a beautiful season that will pass and Don’t mistake the season for the destination. It doesn’t tell you to abandon life—it teaches you How to live in the world without losing your soul to it.

An effort has been made to expand this verse with meaningful insertions and explanation. More can be added to it by deeper reflection of this verse to steer life to the guided path as described in Al Qur'an and disassociate ourselves from the galore and glitter of our present life - for a restraint today will turn into an eternal blessing for us in the life of the Hereafter.

May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎) help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door. 

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”

That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

May Allah forgive me if my posts ever imply a piety far greater than I possess. I am most in need of guidance.

Reading the Qur'ān should be a daily obligation of a Muslim - Reading it with translation will make it meaningful. But reading its Exegesis / Tafsir will make you understand it fully. It will also help the Muslims to have grasp over social issues and their answers discussed in the Qur'an and other matter related to inter faith so that they are able to discuss issues with non-Muslims with authority based on refences from Qur'an.

Note: When we mention God in our posts, we mean One True God, we call Allah in Islam, with no associates. Allah is the Sole Creator of all things, and that Allah is all-powerful and all-knowing. Allah has no offspring, no race, no gender, no body, and is unaffected by the characteristics of human life.

You may also refer to our exclusive reference pages: 

• Selected verses from selected Surahs of Al-Qurʾān for compiled verses from other surahs.
• Selected Verses from Al Qur'an about a Specific Subject (Reference Page) to know more about what Qur'an says about specific subjects
• Selected Verses from the Qur'an. 

You may also refer to our Reference Pages  and Understanding Al Qur'an for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.

Photo | Reference: | 1 | 2 | 3 |

An effort has been made to gather explanation / exegesis of the surahs and selected verses of Al-Qurʾān from authentic sources and then present a least possible condensed explanation of the surah. In that the exegesis of the chapters of the Quran is mainly based on the "Tafhim al-Qur'an - The Meaning of the Qur'an" by one of the most enlightened scholars of the Muslim World Sayyid Abul Ala Maududi.  

In addition, other sources which have been explored and views of other scholars have been incorporated while explaining meaning of a verse. Those desirous of detailed explanations and tafsir (exegesis), may refer to these sites. For expansion of meaning and themes / contextual background help from ChatGPT is also taken.

Disclaimer: The material for this post has been collected from the references given above. If anyone differs with the material contained in this post, one may consult the references and their authors.  If someone has more material about the subject, he/she is most welcome to share in the comments box to make the post all encompassing.

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook. You may also refer to our Facebook  Group Islam: The Ultimate Truth for more on Islam and Da'wah.

Follow @IslamUltimate

Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, WhatsApp or any means on social media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Qur'ān - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

Read More

I did not create jinn and mankind except to worship Me - The Deeper meaning of Al Qur'an verse 51:56

Al Qur'an is a Divine Book of guidance for the entire mankind, for every verse of it guides the man how to live a life based on true faith and worship his Creator, we Muslim call Allah. While men can understand every verse of Al Qur'an, as it is said in the Book that we revealed this Book in easily understandable text, yet every verse needs human wisdom to understand the true meaning of each verse. This has been the endeavour of the eminent Muslim scholars and exegetes of Al Qur'an to reflect deeply on each verse and bring out the hidden Divine Wisdom to an extent, for Allah only know what the holy words in AL Qur'an really mean. 

With this premise in view, we share a simple, yet a deep meaning verse, from Surah Adh-Dhāriyāt, the 51st Surah / Chapter of Qur'an given herein under and will try to know its apparent and deeper meaning:

وَمَا خَلَقْتُ الْجِنَّ وَالْإِنسَ إِلَّا لِيَعْبُدُونِ

“I did not create jinn and mankind except to worship Me.”

The apparent Meaning

For an ordinary believer and a beginner who is try to learn Islam, this verse simply states that Allah did not create mankind and the jinns (the invisible beings) only to worship Allah. But does this mean men and jinn are directed only to sit in a corner of a masjid to continue worshipping Allah? Well to an extent this explanation is OK for the ordinary believers - but not for the scholars. Let us understand how:

The Deeper Meaning of “Worship” (ʿIbādah)

In the Qur’anic sense, ʿibādah is much deeper than rituals. It includes:

• Knowing Allah (maʿrifah)
• Loving Him
• Obeying Him consciously
• Living ethically and justly
• Aligning your will with truth

Eminent Muslim scholar and exegete Ibn Kathir notes that worshipping Allah means obeying His commands and adhering to what He has legislated, recognizing Him as the sole Creator. 

Enlightened scholars of the Muslim World Sayyid Abul Ala Maududi notes: The word `ibadat (service, worship) in this verse has not been used in the sense of only prayer, fasting and other kinds of such worship so that one may understand that the jinn and men hav

Read More

Ten most powerful verses of Al Qur'an that challenge how we think, live, and understand reality

Al-Qurʾān, the last of the four Divine Scripture is a book of wisdom for those who can ponder over and reflect on every verse of Al Qur'an. For the ordinaries, these are apparent meanings which provide guidance to live our day to day life as per the Divine directions. However, each verse of Al Qur'an has far deeper meaning for these embody the Divine Wisdom, and only those who can stop at each verse, reflect while keeping in the context of the revelation and decipher the hidden Divine Wisdom to look into the future.

There are many verse in Al Qur'an that require deep reflection by men of wisdom - but out of these many, we share ten most powerful verses that challenge how we think, live, and understand reality —even today. Herein under, we only mention the verses - for detailed explanation and exegesis, links are given under each verse which have been published earlier. For the remaining, we will provide links as and when new posts are written.

1. Change begins within

• “Allah does not change the condition of a people until they change what is within themselves.” (13:11)
• Why it matters today, because it:
• Counters victim mentality, 
• Emphasizes personal and societal responsibility. and 
• Applies to nations, communities, and individuals
• Change is not only external — it is moral and internal.
• For detailed explanation/tafsir by scholars, link to our earlier post: A single verse lays down three foundational truths about: Life, Destiny and Moral Responsibility

2. Purpose of existence

The Qur’an speaks about the purpose of human creation in multiple places, each adding a layer to the overall picture. When you bring them together, a very profound and balanced understanding emerges.

• Worship and Knowing Allah: “I did not create jinn and mankind except to worship Me.” (51:56)
• Why it matters:
• Answers the ultimate question of purpose
• Redefines life beyond career, wealth, or status
• Without purpose, success becomes empty.

• Other Verses about Creation / Human Existence: The subject is mentioned in many a verses in different Surahs / Chapter of Al Qur'an. Some are appended below:
• The Core Purpose: 
• Worship and Knowing Allah: “I did not create jinn and mankind except to worship Me.” (51:56)
• “I did not create jinn and humans except to worship Me.” 2. 51:56
• Life as a Test: 
• “He who created death and life to test you as to which of you is best in deeds…” (67:2)
• For detailed explanation/tafsir by scholars, link to our earlier post: Ponder over Death and Life - for Allah created these to judge which of you is better in deeds
• Human Role: Viceregency (Khilāfah): “Indeed, I will place a خليفة (vicegerent) on earth…” (2:30)
• Worship Through Gratitude and Recognition: “…He gave you hearing, sight, and hearts so that you may be grateful.” (16:78)
• Knowing Allah Through His Signs: “And among His signs is that He created for you spouses… indeed in that are signs for people who reflect.” (30:21) (and many similar verses)
• Ultimate Return to Allah: “Does man think he will be left without purpose?” (75:36)
• Diversity as Part of the Purpose:
• “…We made you into nations and tribes so that you may know one another…” (49:13)
• For detailed explanation/tafsir by scholars, link to our earlier post: A verse in Al-Qurʾān that defines the foundation of human equality and moral worth

3. Limits and responsibility

• “Allah does not burden a soul beyond what it can bear.” (2:286)
• Why it matters because it:
• Addresses anxiety, hardship, and mental struggle
• Instills resilience and hope
• Your struggle is not meaningless — it is measured.
• For detailed explanation/tafsir by scholars, link to our earlier posts: 
• Verily, Allah does not lay a responsibility on anyone beyond his capacity (2:286)
• Man is Divinely reassured that he will not be burdened beyond his capacity

4. Reality of worldly life

• “Know that the life of this world is play, amusement, adornment, boasting, and rivalry…” (57:20)
• Why it matters for it:
• Is Perfect description of modern consumer culture
• Explains social media comparison, status competition
• For detailed explanation/tafsir by scholars, link to our earlier post: O’ Man! Know that the life of this world is only amusement, adornment, boasting and competition 
• Know that What we chase may not be what truly matters.

5. Equality of humanity

• “The most honored of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous.” (49:13)
• Why it matters, because it:
• Destroys racism, nationalism, elitism
• Establishes moral superiority, not biological or social
• Human worth is ethical, not inherited.
• For detailed explanation/tafsir by scholars, link to our earlier post: A verse in Al-Qurʾān that defines the foundation of human equality and moral worth

6. Signs of true faith

• “Believers are those whose hearts tremble when Allah is mentioned…” (8:2)
• Why it matters because it:
• Distinguishes real faith vs cultural identity
• Calls for inner transformation, not labels
• Faith is what moves your heart, not what you claim.
• For detailed explanation/tafsir by scholars, link to our earlier post: What are the true emotional and spiritual signs of faith in Islam

7. Knowledge vs ignorance

• “Are those who know equal to those who do not know?” (39:9 )
• Why it matters because it:
• Elevates knowledge as a moral value
• Challenges anti-intellectualism
• Truth requires understanding, not blind following.
• For detailed explanation/tafsir by scholars, link to our post: Say ! Are those who know equal to those who do not know? Nay - Only people of understanding take heed

8. Insight of the learned

• “Those given knowledge see that what has been revealed to you is the truth…” (34:6 )
• Why it matters because it:
• Shows that true knowledge leads to faith, not arrogance
• Counters the idea that religion and intellect are opposed
• Deep understanding leads to humility, not denial.
• For detailed explanation/tafsir by scholars, link to our earlier post: Three verses of Qur'an that form a coherent philosophy of ‘ilm "علم" (knowledge) in Islam

9. Meaningful creation

• “We did not create the heavens and the earth for play.” (21:16)
• Why it matters because it:
• Rejects nihilism and purposeless universe
• Affirms intentional design and accountability
• Existence is not random — it is meaningful.

10. The definition of success (Surah Al-‘Asr)

• “By time, indeed mankind is in loss — except those who believe, do righteous deeds, and advise truth and patience.” (103:1–3)
• Why it matters because it defines success in four conditions:
• Faith
• Action
• Truth
• Patience
• Without these, even a “successful” life is a loss.
• For detailed explanation/tafsir by scholars, link to our earlier post: Exegesis of Surah Al 'Asr (The Time)

Deeper Reflection

It will be seen that across these verses, a pattern emerges:

• Purpose over pleasure
• Character over status
• Truth over illusion
• Accountability over denial

This points towards the fact that The Qur’an does not just inform — it confronts, corrects, and reorients how we see ourselves and the world.

Bringing it all Together

The Qur’an does not give a single narrow purpose, but a multi-dimensional one:

• Spiritual → Worship and know Allah (51:56)
• Moral → Be tested in deeds (67:2)
• Social → Act as responsible stewards (2:30)
• Intellectual → Reflect on signs (30:21)
• Emotional → Live with gratitude (16:78)
• Existential → Return to Allah with accountability (75:36)

The Qur’anic vision of life is that you are created to know Allah, live righteously, serve responsibly, and return consciously.

We will try to dig out more verses that require of us deep reflection to explore and understand the Divine Wisdom so as to benefit from AL Qur'an and shape our lives as per the Divine Wisdom.

May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎) help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door. 

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”

That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

May Allah forgive me if my posts ever imply a piety far greater than I possess. I am most in need of guidance.

Reading the Qur'ān should be a daily obligation of a Muslim - Reading it with translation will make it meaningful. But reading its Exegesis / Tafsir will make you understand it fully. It will also help the Muslims to have grasp over social issues and their answers discussed in the Qur'an and other matter related to inter faith so that they are able to discuss issues with non-Muslims with authority based on refences from Qur'an.

Note: When we mention God in our posts, we mean One True God, we call Allah in Islam, with no associates. Allah is the Sole Creator of all things, and that Allah is all-powerful and all-knowing. Allah has no offspring, no race, no gender, no body, and is unaffected by the characteristics of human life.

For more verses on Selected Subjects, please refer to our reference page: Selected Verses from Al Qur'an about a Specific Subject (Reference Page) to know more about what Qur'an says about specific subjects and our reference page: Selected Verses from the Qur'an. 

You may also refer to our Reference Pages  and Understanding Al Qur'an for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.

Photo | 

Disclaimer: The material for this post has been collected from the references given above. If anyone differs with the material contained in this post, one may consult the references and their authors.  If someone has more material about the subject, he/she is most welcome to share in the comments box to make the post all encompassing.

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook. You may also refer to our Facebook  Group Islam: The Ultimate Truth for more on Islam and Da'wah.

Follow @IslamUltimate

Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, WhatsApp or any means on social media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Qur'ān - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

Read More

Believers should not be overawed by the Beautified life of those who prefer wordily life to that of the Hereafter

For many, life is to make merry, enjoy and make best of heir worldly life - and it is for this category of people life has been deliberately made beautified. These are those who disbelieve and mock the state of those who believe. But those who are mindful of God live for a life which will be eternal and full of Divine blessings. On the Day of Resurrection, those who restrained the wordily glitters will be above those who preferred wordily life, for they know that God provides for whom He wills without limit in the wordily life and save far greater rewards for who believe in the Divine blessings and sacrifice their desires s as to be rewarded.

This is the Divine message which is mentioned in the 212nd verse of Surah 2 Al Baqarah (The Cow) of Al Qur'an being shared today.

Context within Surah Al-Baqarah

This verse comes in Surah Al-Baqarah, where themes of guidance, امتحان (testing), and the contrast between faith and disbelief are being developed. Around this section, the Qur'an addresses:

• How people react differently to divine guidance
• The temporary nature of worldly success
• The idea that امتحان (tests) often involve hardship, patience, and ایمان (faith)

So 2:212 is part of a broader message: Don’t measure truth by who looks successful right now.

Core Meaning of the Verse

The verse contrasts believers and unbelievers, and the difference in their outlook. This life, with its transient concerns and ephemeral interests and enjoyments, is all that the unbelievers know and aspire to. They are unable to see beyond the here-and-now; they know of no greater values or aspirations other than those of life on this earth. Consequently, their scope is limited, their vision is blurred, and they are deprived of the higher understanding and greater reward experienced by believers.

A believer in God may look with disdain at material and worldly things, but that is not due to a negative or pessimistic view of life. It is because a believer seeks more from life than mere material or sensual enjoyment. A believer aims to establish God’s order in society and lead his community towards a better and more fulfilled way of life.

The verse thus highlights three key ideas:

• Worldly life can be deceiving Material success, luxury, popularity—these can be very appealing. But they are not reliable indicators of truth or righteousness.
• Believers may be looked down upon Those focused on faith, modesty, or ethical limits may be mocked as “backward,” “too strict,” or “missing out.”
• Final reality is not this life The verse shifts the perspective: الحقيقي success is in the Hereafter. What seems like “losing” now may actually be success later.

Related Qur’anic Verses (Same Theme)

• Temporary Nature of Dunya (57:20 – Surah Al-Hadid): Worldly life is play, amusement, and competition in wealth and children… This verses reinforces what looks serious now is actually temporary distraction.
• Don’t Be Deceived by Success of Others (3:196 – Surah Aal-e-Imran): Do not be deceived by the movement of disbelievers through the land. Which means don’t mistake travel, business success, influences and glitters for these do not mean the ultimate success.
• True Criterion is Taqwa (49:13 – Surah Al-Hujurat) The most honored in the sight of Allah is the most righteous. This is a direct contrast to today’s metrics (followers, wealth, fame).
• Tests Will Happen (2:214 – Surah Al-Baqarah): Do you think you will enter Paradise without being tested? - This comes very close to 2:212—reminding that struggle is part of the path.

Explanation of the verse 212 by eminent Muslim scholars 

• Ibn Kathir explains that:
• “The life of this world is beautified” means Allah has allowed it to appear attractive as a test, not as a reward in itself.
• It is not necessarily that these things are evil—but their illusion of permanence and superiority misleads people.
• Those who reject faith become absorbed in appearances—wealth, status, power.
• They mock believers because believers restrain themselves (halal/haram limits), which looks like “missing out.” That is the disbelievers mock believers because Believers prioritize آخِرَة (Hereafter) over dunya - They may live simpler lives and follow moral limits
• But Ibn Kathir emphasizes the reversal:
• On the Day of Judgment, the true rank will be clear - Those who were mocked may be elevated far above those who mocked them
• His key point: The current hierarchy is temporary and misleading.
• Classical Insight Al-Tabari highlights that:
• Mockery comes from ignorance of ultimate reality - People judge based on what they see now, not what comes after death - Provision (rizq) is not a sign of Allah’s approval—it’s given widely, even to those who reject Him
• The أهل الكفر (people of disbelief) look down upon believers as weak, naïve, or backward.
• That means Wealth is not proof of being right.
• Sayyid Abul Ala Maududi: This worldly life has been made very charming and alluring for those who have adopted the way of disbelief. So they mock at those who have adopted the way of belief ,but (they forget that) the pious people will rank above them on the Day of Resurrection. As to the wordily provisions, Allah has full authority and power to bestow these without measure on anyone He wills.

A Subtle but Powerful Lesson: One of the deepest insights scholars mention: Allah did not say the world is beautiful—He said it was made to appear beautiful.

That difference is huge. (1) It means: not everything attractive is truly good, (2) It trains you to question appearances, (3) It builds intellectual and spiritual independence

Relevance to Today’s Lifestyle (Especially Muslims)

• “Mockery” Today Isn’t Always Obvious
• In earlier times it might be direct insults. 
• Today it’s often: (1) Subtle pressure: “Why are you so strict?”, (2) Cultural framing: religious people seen as “behind”, and (3) Media portrayal: الدين = limitation
• This is exactly what 2:212 describes—just in a modern form.
• Social media & comparison culture 
• Today, platforms amplify wealth, beauty, and lifestyle. It’s easy to feel: “Everyone else is ahead” or “I’m missing out”.
• This verse directly challenges that mindset: visibility ≠ value.
• Pressure to compromise values
• Muslims today may feel pressure to: (1) Engage in unethical earning, (2) Normalize things prohibited in Islam, (3) Abandon modesty or religious identity.
• The verse acknowledges this tension: people who prioritize dunya (worldly life) may mock or dismiss those who don’t.
• Redefining success
• Modern culture often defines success as: Money, Status, and Freedom without limits
• But this verse redefines success as: Taqwa (God-consciousness), Patience, and Integrity
• Psychological impact
• This verse also protects mental well-being:
• It prevents inferiority complex
• It reduces envy
• It builds long-term perspective
• Instead of asking: “Why do they have more?” It reframes it to: “What truly matters in the end?”
• The Illusion of “Having It All”
• Modern systems promote: (1) Endless consumption, (2) Instant gratification, and (3) Image over substance
• This matches the Qur’anic idea of “beautified life”—something designed to pull attention, not fulfill the soul.
• Internal Struggle (More Dangerous)
• Today the challenge is not just outside mockery—it’s inside: (1) Doubt: “Am I missing out?”, (2) Comparison: “They’re happier than me”, and /or (3) Compromise: slowly lowering standards
• The verse is a psychological anchor against this.

Practical Takeaways for Daily Life

• Don’t judge your life by الآخرين’s ظاهر (outward appearance)
• Stay grounded in your principles even if unpopular
• Be cautious of being overly dazzled by wealth or trends
• Focus on barakah (blessing), not just quantity

Balanced Understanding

This verse does not mean:

• Rejecting الدنيا completely
• Avoiding success or progress
• Looking down on others

Rather, Islam encourages balance: Engage in the world—but don’t let it define your worth. Therefore , all believers should live a balanced life and not live detached from the world. Islam does not want us to go into the wilderness and worship Allah. What Islam wants us is to live a healthy family life, earn Halal Rizq and still find time to worship Allah and thank Him for whatever He has given us - and never comparing our own life with that of those who live a carefree life, squandering money and making merry all the time.

May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎) help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door. 

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”

That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

May Allah forgive me if my posts ever imply a piety far greater than I possess. I am most in need of guidance.

Reading the Qur'ān should be a daily obligation of a Muslim - Reading it with translation will make it meaningful. But reading its Exegesis / Tafsir will make you understand it fully. It will also help the Muslims to have grasp over social issues and their answers discussed in the Qur'an and other matter related to inter faith so that they are able to discuss issues with non-Muslims with authority based on refences from Qur'an.

Note: When we mention God in our posts, we mean One True God, we call Allah in Islam, with no associates. Allah is the Sole Creator of all things, and that Allah is all-powerful and all-knowing. Allah has no offspring, no race, no gender, no body, and is unaffected by the characteristics of human life.

You may refer to more Selected Verses from Surah 2 Al Baqarah (The Cow)  already published. 

You may also refer to our exclusive reference page: Selected verses from selected Surahs of Al-Qurʾān for compiled verses from other surahs.

For verses on Selected Subjects, please refer to our reference page: Selected Verses from Al Qur'an about a Specific Subject (Reference Page) to know more about what Qur'an says about specific subjects and our reference page: Selected Verses from the Qur'an. 

You may also refer to our Reference Pages  and Understanding Al Qur'an for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.

Photo | Reference: | 1 | 2 | 3 |

Note: In our posts whenever we use the word God, the English translation of Allah in Arabic, we mean One True God without any associates, partners or relatives. Muslims believe in Monotheism and do not accept the notion many gods when referring to the God by some religions.

An effort has been made to gather explanation / exegesis of the surahs and selected verses of Al-Qurʾān from authentic sources and then present a least possible condensed explanation of the surah. In that the exegesis of the chapters of the Quran is mainly based on the "Tafhim al-Qur'an - The Meaning of the Qur'an" by one of the most enlightened scholars of the Muslim World Sayyid Abul Ala Maududi.  

In addition, other sources which have been explored and views of other scholars have been incorporated while explaining meaning of a verse. Those desirous of detailed explanations and tafsir (exegesis), may refer to these sites. For expansion of meaning and themes / contextual background help from ChatGPT is also taken.

Disclaimer: The material for this post has been collected from the references given above. If anyone differs with the material contained in this post, one may consult the references and their authors.  If someone has more material about the subject, he/she is most welcome to share in the comments box to make the post all encompassing.

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook. You may also refer to our Facebook  Group Islam: The Ultimate Truth for more on Islam and Da'wah.

Follow @IslamUltimate

Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, WhatsApp or any means on social media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Qur'ān - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

Read More

How can Surah (34) Saba’ (The Sabaeans) guide those engaged in Da'wah (Inviting non-Muslims to Islam)

One of the most difficult task is to invite and convince someone to one's viewpoint. And this task becomes more difficult when one is engaged in Da'wah, that is inviting non believers, to the religions of Islam. Right from the earliest prophets chosen by the Lord of the world to invite their people to believe in existence of one true Deity who created this universe and worship Him exclusively without associating anyone equal or at par with Him.

Da'wah is not an ordinary task and for this Allah had in the past appointed specially chosen people as prophets and messengers to lead their people out of ignorance to an enlightened world exclusively to please and thank Him for the His blessings. Yet despite being the chosen ones, the prophets confronted extreme stubborn and arrogant resistance from their people. Even own family members refused to listen to some of the prophets, like son of Prophet Nuh (Noah) and wife of Prophet Lut (Lot). Many were tortured and even killed by the hostile audience who never wanted to leave the faith of their forefathers. Prophet Muhammad ﷺ was once stoned to an extent that his whole body was wounded and covered with blood. Despite all odds, Da'wah has continued unabated even till date by the followers of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ from all nook and corner of the world. 

Although, we have written many posts on Da'wah and its methodology, today we share some of the Da'wah principles as extracted form Surah Saba' (The Sabaeans) which may assist and guide the dāʿī  داعي in their sacred task of extending Da'wah to non-Muslims worldwide. But before we do that, let us briefly describe what Da'wah is and some of the pre-requisites for undertaking the sacred task of Da'wah:

Da‘wah (الدعوة) literally means “to call, invite, summon”. It is: Inviting humanity to Allah through truth, wisdom, character, and mercy. It is not propaganda, argumentation, or coercion — it is calling hearts and minds to guidance. “Invite to the path of your Lord with wisdom, good counsel, and argue with them in the best manner.” (Al qur'an 16:125)

A person engaged in Da'wah (the act of inviting others to understand and embrace Islam) is called a dāʿī (Arabic: داعي) 

Pre-Requisites of Da'wah: 

• Language of the audience: Adequate to complete knowledge of the audience is the foremost prerequisite for a dāʿī for unless one can convey the invitation in the language of the audience, one cannot really convince them what is the their mission. 
• Knowledge of Religion: Complete knowledge of own religion and adequate knowledge of the target audience is a must. A dāʿī  must be able to quote references from the religion/faith of the audience and correlate it to Islam so that the audience feel similarities of their religion with Islam and are able to weigh which path is better and why. 
• Resolve: This is prophetic - no matter who hostile or indifferent the audience were, the prophets never gave in. It was their conviction that one day their message will find acceptance that they remained committed in their effort to continue to invite them to Islam.

Daʿwah Principles Extracted from Surah Saba’ (34)

Surah Saba’ is one of the most strategic Makkan surahs for Daʿwah, because it speaks to the mind (ʿaql), conscience (qalb), and historical memory. Below are core Daʿwah principles, each anchored in explicit Qur’anic verses, with guidance on how to apply them today.

• Begin Daʿwah with Tawḥīd rooted in knowledge Da'wah or calling non Muslims to enter the fold of Islam is not an easy task - everyone cannot do it. Unless one is fully equipped with the knowledge of Islam and the religion of the target audience, one may fail in his Da'wah task. When one is confident in these preliminaries, then he may begin is Da'wah as per following guidelines
• Daʿwah principle: Start with Who Allah is, not just what is forbidden and establish ownership, authority, and wisdom of Allah
• Application: In Daʿwah, clarify who has the right to legislate, judge, and command - This dismantles secular or materialist worldviews at the root
• Appeal to reason: 
• Accountability is unavoidable: “Those who disbelieve say, ‘The Hour will never come to us.’ Say: Yes—by my Lord, it will surely come to you…” (34:3)
• Daʿwah principle: The Hereafter is a logical necessity, not just a theological claim - Therefore moral order demands final accountability.
• Application: Ask reflective questions like (1) Can injustice truly go unanswered? (2) Does morality make sense without judgment?
• Use history as a living argument “There was for [the people of] Saba’ a sign in their dwelling place…” (34:15)
• Daʿwah principle: Past civilizations are moral case studies, not legends.
• Application:
• Show how prosperity but ingratitude leads to collapse
• Relate ancient Saba’ to modern civilizations
• Daʿwah through civilizational reflection, not just preaching
• Highlight gratitude as the foundation of stability
• “Eat from the provision of your Lord and be grateful to Him…” (34:15)
• Daʿwah principle: Gratitude (shukr) is not emotional—it is behavioral
• Application: Teach that gratitude means Ethical use of wealth, Justice and Obedience to Allah
• This reframes Islam as a system of sustaining blessings, not restricting life.
• Expose the illusion of wealth and children
• “It is not your wealth nor your children that bring you closer to Us…” (34:37)
• Daʿwah principle: Material success is not proof of truth. 
• Application: Address modern success metrics - Ask: If wealth equals truth, why do corrupt people prosper?
• Explain Shayṭān’s strategy: misguidance without force
• “And Iblīs found his assumption about them to be true…” (34:20)
• Daʿwah principle: Shayṭān succeeds through neglect, not compulsion
• Application: Warn against spiritual laziness - Emphasize awareness over obsession with “evil forces” for Islam restores moral vigilance.
• Dispel false intercessions and misplaced hopes
• “Say: Call upon those you claim besides Allah…” (34:22)
• Daʿwah principle: No system, saint, ideology, or leader can save without Allah
• Application: Challenge blind trust in: Political systems, Religious elites, and Cultural traditions
• This establishes direct responsibility before God.
• Address the psychology of denial, not just disbelief
• “Those who disbelieve will say, ‘Our Lord, show us those who misled us…’” (34:31–33)
• Daʿwah principle: Disbelief is often emotional and social, not intellectual
• Application: Understand peer pressure, pride, and fear of loss - Daʿwah requires empathy, not just argumentation
• Clarify the Prophet’s ﷺ role: conveying, not coercing
• “We have not sent you except as a bringer of good news and a warner to all mankind.” (34:28)
• Daʿwah principle: Guidance is Allah’s work - The caller’s duty is clarity and sincerity
• Application: Relieves Daʿwah burnout - Encourages patience and wisdom
• End Daʿwah with responsibility, not despair
• “Say: My Lord extends provision to whom He wills and restricts it…” (34:36)
• Daʿwah principle: Life is a test, not a scoreboard
• Application: Reframe suffering and prosperity - Invite people to see life through the lens of purpose

Summary: Daʿwah Method of Surah Saba’

Surah Saba’ teaches Daʿwah through:

• Reason
• History
• Psychology
• Civilizational patterns
• Moral accountability

In one sentence: Call people to Allah by awakening their gratitude, exposing illusions of power, and restoring awareness of accountability.

May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎) help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door. 

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”

That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

May Allah forgive me if my posts ever imply a piety far greater than I possess. I am most in need of guidance.

Reading the Qur'ān should be a daily obligation of a Muslim - Reading it with translation will make it meaningful. But reading its Exegesis / Tafsir will make you understand it fully. It will also help the Muslims to have grasp over social issues and their answers discussed in the Qur'an and other matter related to inter faith so that they are able to discuss issues with non-Muslims with authority based on refences from Qur'an.

Note: When we mention God in our posts, we mean One True God, we call Allah in Islam, with no associates. Allah is the Sole Creator of all things, and that Allah is all-powerful and all-knowing. Allah has no offspring, no race, no gender, no body, and is unaffected by the characteristics of human life.

Photo | references: | 1 | 2 | 3 |

For more Q&A about Understanding Islam, please refer to our reference page: Understanding Islam - Frequently asked Q&A. You may also refer to our refference page: Scholars' Viewpoint on important issue related to Islam to know more about Islam.

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook. You may also refer to our Facebook  Group Islam: The Ultimate Truth for more on Islam and Da'wah.

Follow @IslamUltimate

Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, WhatsApp or any means on Social Media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Holy Qur'an - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

Read More

How mercy of Allah shows a way out of an oath taken in anger and regretted sincerely – as in case of Prophet Job (Ayyūb AS)

Anger is a state that is considered as one of the worst thing that can happen to a man. Although anger is usually ignites a man's mind when being threatened unjustly, revoked or mislead, the resultant outburst which ranges from low to high intensity mindset can leave severe consequences if a decision is taken in that high emotional state. 

In fact, taking a decision in anger or acting impulsively while in this emotional state—often leads to "blindness" where rational thinking is suppressed, resulting in poor judgment and behaviors that are frequently regretted. That is why studies after studies are being under taken on the subject of anger management to allow controlling one's emotional state that blinds a man's rational thinking.

The state is not only restricted to common man but also many a prophet who took irrational decisions affected - but later regretted and repented sincerely. The decision made in anger ad by Prophet Jonah (Yunus AS) is a case in point, already mentioned in one of our earlier posts: Prophet Younis (Jonah) and Allah's Displeasure.

Today we share yet another example of taking an oath in anger due to misfed information related to Prophet Prophet Ayyūb (Job, عليه السلام) as mentioned in the 44th verse of Surah Ṣād, in which mercy of Allah is mentioned when the prophet repented and Allah showed him a way out of fulfilling his oath.

The Verse

(٤٤) وَخُذْ بِيَدِكَ ضِغْثًا فَاضْرِبْ بِهِ وَلَا تَحْنَثْ إِنَّا وَجَدْنَاهُ صَابِرًا نِعْمَ الْعَبْدُ إِنَّهُ أَوَّابٌ

“And take in your hand a bundle (of grass) and strike with it, and do not break your oath. Indeed, We found him patient. What an excellent servant! Indeed, he was constantly turning (to Allah).”

Quick Context Recap

This verse is about Prophet Ayyūb (Job, عليه السلام). In his old age, he faced severe illness, loss of wealth and family - yet he remained patient and faithful. During his illness, his wife took very good care of him. However due to a misfed satanic whisper, he during the hardship and extreme illness, made an oath to beat his with with 100 hundred lashes when he became healthy. When Allah restored him to health and the anger of the illness was gone, he became worried as how to fulfill the oath. For if he carried out the oath, he would be inflicting pain on an innocent person, and if he did not, he would be committing the sin of breaking the oath. Allah took him out of the difficult situation by the Command: "Take a broom containing as many sticks of straw as the number of the stripes you had sworn to give; then strike the person just once with the broom so as both to fulfill your oath and to avoid giving undue trouble to the person concerned."

Prophet Job (Ayyub AS) has been mentioned in this context to impress the reader that when the righteous servants of Allah are afflicted with hardships and calamities, they do not complain of their distress to Allah but endure the tests and trials set by Him patiently and invoke only Him for help. They do not despair of God and do not turn to others for help if their distress is not removed after making invocations to God for some time, but they believe that whatever they will get, they will get only from Allah. Therefore, they remain hopeful of His mercy, no matter how long they might have to suffer the distress. That is why they arc honored and blessed with the favors and bounties with which the Prophet Job was honored and blessed in his life. So much so that if they get involved in a moral dilemma due to a state of agitation, Allah shows them a way out of it- in order to save them from evil, as He showed a way to the Prophet Job. 

Core Lessons from the Verse

• Patience under extreme hardship
• Despite his ailment, Prophet Ayyūb (AS) didn’t just endure his ailment but He remained faithful without اعتراض (complaint against Allah) as mentioned the verse: “We found him patient”
• This means that True strength comes from steadiness in hardship.
• Allah provides merciful solutions
• Rather than forcing harm on his prophet, Allah accepted his repentance and gave an alternative.
• "Take in your hand a bundle (of thin stalks) and strike with it, and do not break your oath." This represents taking 100 thin, light twigs or grass stalks and hitting once, allowing each piece to touch her, fulfilling the count of 100.
• This shows that Islam is not rigid - It balances Law with Mercy.
• Intentions matter
• Oath of Prophet Ayyūb came from a moment of difficulty and being mislead and acted in anger - therefore Allah considered his sincerity to his wife whom the prophet loved dearly and was not willing to materialize his oath.
• This shows that Allah looks a hidden intentions, not just actions.
• This verse is also used in Islamic jurisprudence to demonstrate how oaths (ayman) are fulfilled in challenging situations, highlighting that the intention was to keep the vow without malice. 
• The quality of being “Awwāb”
• Not only ordinary humans, even prophets turn back repeatedly: "What an excellent servant! Indeed, he was constantly turning (to Allah).”
• In this part of the verse, there is a lesson for us: Perfection is not required - Returning is.

Prophet Muhammad  ﷺ also emulated the model of Prophet Ayyub (AS) in his decision making

Several Ahadith show that the Holy Prophet, in order to inflict the prescribed punishment on a fornicator who was too ill or too weak to receive a hundred stripes, also adopted the method taught in this verse. 'Allama Abu Bakr al-Jassas has related a tradition on the authority of Hadrat Said bin Sa'd bin 'Ubadah to the effect that a person from the tribe of Bani Sa`idah happened to commit fornication, and he was a sick man and a mere skeleton. Thereupon the Holy Prophet commanded: "Take a branch of the palm tree with a hundred twigs on it and strike him therewith once and for all. " (Ahkam al Qur 'an). In Musnad Ahmad, Abu Da'ud, Nasa'i, Ibn Majah, Tabarani, 'Abdur Razzaq and other collections of Hadith also there are several Ahadith supporting it, which conclusively proves that the Holy Prophet had devised this very method for inflicting the prescribed punishment on a sick or weak person. However, the jurists lay the condition that some part of every twig or piece of straw must strike the culprit, and even if only one stroke, it must also hurt the culprit; that is, it is not enough just to touch him but he must be struck with it.

Why This Verse is Important Today

• We live in a low-patience world Today we expect Instant results and Instant relief - whereas this verse teaches patience through long, difficult trials.
• Emotional reactions and regret 
• We more often than not, make harsh promises and emotional decisions - and obviously then regret them.
• The lesson is Don’t act in anger - And if you do—seek wise, gentle solutions.
• Rigid vs compassionate thinking Some today apply rules harshly - that is why this verse teaches to look for Mercy within law.
• Dealing with guilt and mistakes 
• Many people feel stuck after mistakes - but this verse shows tells us that Allah opens doors of ease and redemption if sincerely turn to Him.
• Here the question also arises that if a person has sworn to do something and afterwards he comes to know that it is improper, then what should he do? Then is a tradition from the Holy Prophet to the effect that in such a case one should do only that which is better, and the same is the atonement for the oath. Another tradition from him says that one should do something good instead of the improper thing and should atone for his oath. This verse supports this second tradition, for if keeping oneself from an improper thing had been the atonement for the oath, Allah would not have told the Prophet Job to strike the broom once and fulfill his oath, but would have said: "Do not do this improper thing, and your restraint itself is the atonement for your oath."
• Maintaining faith during hardship 
• Many of us go through Illness, financial struggle and personal losses. This verse presents us the role model of Prophet Ayyūb (AS).
• And that is never to lose faith in Allah and always try to keep connected to him.

A Balanced Principle from This Verse

Islam is not about Harsh legalism or Careless leniency. It is Principled and Compassionate. This verse shows something profound - Allah is not looking to trap you in your words, rather He is guiding us to Integrity with mercy

Final Reflection

Ask yourself: When I make a mistake or a harsh decision—do I double down, or do I seek a wiser, gentler path?

The Core Message

The above quoted verse shows us that the best believer is not one who never errs - rather it is he who is patient, returns to Allah, and and chooses mercy over harm.

May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎) help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door. 

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”

That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

May Allah forgive me if my posts ever imply a piety far greater than I possess. I am most in need of guidance.

Reading the Qur'ān should be a daily obligation of a Muslim - Reading it with translation will make it meaningful. But reading its Exegesis / Tafsir will make you understand it fully. It will also help the Muslims to have grasp over social issues and their answers discussed in the Qur'an and other matter related to inter faith so that they are able to discuss issues with non-Muslims with authority based on refences from Qur'an.

Note: When we mention God in our posts, we mean One True God, we call Allah in Islam, with no associates. Allah is the Sole Creator of all things, and that Allah is all-powerful and all-knowing. Allah has no offspring, no race, no gender, no body, and is unaffected by the characteristics of human life.

You may refer to more Selected Verses from  Sürah 38 Ṣād - the letter ص  already published. You may also refer to our exclusive reference page: Selected verses from selected Surahs of Al-Qurʾān for compiled verses from other surahs.

For verses on Selected Subjects, please refer to our reference page: Selected Verses from Al Qur'an about a Specific Subject (Reference Page) to know more about what Qur'an says about specific subjects and our reference page: Selected Verses from the Qur'an. 

You may also refer to our Reference Pages  and Understanding Al Qur'an for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.

Photo | Reference: | 1 | 2 | 3 |

An effort has been made to gather explanation / exegesis of the surahs and selected verses of Al-Qurʾān from authentic sources and then present a least possible condensed explanation of the surah. In that the exegesis of the chapters of the Quran is mainly based on the "Tafhim al-Qur'an - The Meaning of the Qur'an" by one of the most enlightened scholars of the Muslim World Sayyid Abul Ala Maududi.  

In addition, other sources which have been explored and views of other scholars have been incorporated while explaining meaning of a verse. Those desirous of detailed explanations and tafsir (exegesis), may refer to these sites. For expansion of meaning and themes / contextual background help from ChatGPT is also taken.

Disclaimer: The material for this post has been collected from the references given above. If anyone differs with the material contained in this post, one may consult the references and their authors.  If someone has more material about the subject, he/she is most welcome to share in the comments box to make the post all encompassing.

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook. You may also refer to our Facebook  Group Islam: The Ultimate Truth for more on Islam and Da'wah.

Follow @IslamUltimate

Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, WhatsApp or any means on social media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Qur'ān - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

Read More