The first explicit claim of arrogance in human history

Reading history is very interesting for it unveils the root causes of many a phrase we much too often use in our daily conversation. For this post today, we have taken a tall claim from Al Qur'an which to every man of wisdom should be the very first explicit claim of arrogance in the human history. But before we do that, let us find out the subtle difference between pride and arrogance as these are closely related:

The core difference between pride and arrogance lies in the relationship between self-esteem and the devaluation of others. Pride is an internal sense of pleasure, satisfaction, or self-respect stemming from one’s own achievements or efforts. In contrast, Arrogance is an external, overbearing display of superiority that requires belittling others to maintain an inflated self-image. While pride can be healthy and motivating, arrogance is typically viewed as a toxic, destructive, and insecure behavior. 

Now with this premise, let us share the 76th verse of Surah. 38 Ṣād. In fact this verse is a historical story — it is a template for understanding modern ideological arrogance. The Qur’an is showing a psychological and philosophical pattern that repeats in every age. Here is how one single verse explains atheism, racism, elitism, and technocracy using the same Qur’ānic formula:

قَالَ اَنَا خَيۡرٌ مِّنۡهُ​ ؕ خَلَقۡتَنِىۡ مِنۡ نَّارٍ وَّخَلَقۡتَهٗ مِنۡ طِيۡنٍ‏ 

(38:76) He replied: “I am nobler than he. You created me from fire and created him from clay.”

This is the answer by Iblis to a question posed by Allah when the former refused to prostrate in front of Adam, the first human being ever created. The 75th verse and its explanation is mentioned below to present the context:

(38:75) The Lord said: “O Iblis, what prevented you from prostrating yourself before him whom I created of My Two Hands. Are you waxing proud, or fancy yourself to be too exalted?”

These words have been used to point out the honor, rank and glory bestowed on man by his Creator. In other words, Allah did not get man created through his angels but created him by Himself because his creation was a highly noble task. Therefore, what is meant to be said is: What has prevented you from prostrating yourself before him whom I have made directly Myself? The answer by Iblis, the Satan, gives us a timeless arrogance equation.

Since the arrogant behaviour of Iblis to disobey his own Lord and Creator merely on grounds of superiority (him being made of fire, and Adam made of clay), which in fact was the first refusal of its kind due to arrogance, there has been no ending. Man and civilizations since time immemorial have displayed arrogance because of position, pride in forefather, cultural heritage and superiority of race and wealth has displayed his arrogance for which he and nations perished. 

Ibn Kathir presents this verse as the archetype of arrogance, where Iblis relies on his own faulty logic rather than obeying the command of God, leading to his eternal downfall. In fact this verse as the climax of Iblis's arrogance and disobedience against Allah's command to prostrate before Adam. The key points of his commentary are:

• Arrogance and False Comparison: Iblis claimed superiority based on his origin (fire) over Adam's origin (clay). Ibn Kathir highlights that Iblis made a fatal error in judgment, thinking that fire is inherently superior to clay.
• Defiance of Command: By refusing to prostrate, Iblis willfully disobeyed Allah and disputed with Him, which constituted an act of disbelief (kufr).
• The Root of Evil: This statement marks the beginning of Iblis's expulsion. Due to this arrogance and envy, Allah cursed him, exiled him from His mercy, and removed him from His presence.
• Symbolism of Name: Ibn Kathir notes that Iblis is derived from Ablasa min Ar-Rahmah, meaning he "despaired of mercy," indicating there was no hope for him after this act of rebellion. 

38:76 thus exposes arrogance as the disease of elevating the ego, using false standards, and placing one’s judgment above Allah’s wisdom — the same spiritual virus behind all human arrogance today.

This is a profound extension of Qur’ānic thought. Surah Ṣād 38:76 does not just explain personal arrogance — from personal domain it has sprang up to larger issues like every form of Racism, Classism, Nationalism, Ego, and ideology which echoes in this verse. This is one of the most powerful ethical insights of the Qur’an. The Qur’an is foretelling a universal spiritual disease that can inhabit any human identity, movement, or ideology.

Now let us just view our present times correlating it with the Satanic arrogance and its fallout on our future:

The Qur’ānic Formula of Satanic Arrogance

From 38:76 and related verses, the Qur’an gives a clear structure: Arrogance embodies Self-superiority, based on False criteria, by rejecting the truth and exhibiting contempt for others. This is the satanic pattern.

Let’s map this onto modern forms.

• Racism (Fire vs Clay in biological form)
• Qur’ānic root: “I am better than him — my substance is superior.”
• Racist logic: (1) “My race is superior.” (2) “My DNA/skin color/ethnicity is better.” - Both reduce human worth to biological material.
• The Qur’an explicitly demolishes this: “No Arab is superior to a non-Arab, nor a white to a black…” (Prophetic teaching, meaning established in hadith)
• So racism is Iblīs’ argument using race instead of fire.
• Classism (Fire vs Clay in economic form)
• Iblīs logic: “My nature gives me higher rank.”
• Classist logic: “My wealth makes me superior.” - That is “The poor are inferior.”
• Qur’an repeats Qarūn’s arrogance (28:78): “I was given this because of my knowledge.”
• This is repetition of same ego - same superiority. 
• That is classism is combination of Iblīs mindset transformed into arrogance because of wealth.
• Nationalism (Fire vs Clay in collective identity)
• Iblīs: “I am better than him.”
• Nationalism: “My nation is superior to others.”
• This creates: Chosen peoples, Civilizational arrogance, Justification of ظلم (oppression)
• The Qur’an says nations are for: Recognition, not superiority (49:13)
• This means supremacist nationalism combines arrogance of Iblīs and flag.
• Ego (Fire vs Clay in personal psychology)
• Iblīs: “I am better.”
• Ego: “I deserve more respect.” - “I am more important.”
• This is micro-Iblīs inside the soul.
• The Prophet ﷺ said: Arrogance is rejecting truth and belittling people.
• So ego is Iblīs in the heart.
• Ideological Supremacy (Fire vs Clay in ideas)
• Iblīs: “My reasoning overrides God’s command.”
• Ideology: “My system is the ultimate truth.” - “Religion is outdated.” - “Anyone who disagrees is inferior.” 
• Whether: Secularism, Marxism, Liberalism, Scientism, Ethno-supremacy, Religious extremism
• When ideology becomes: A tool to feel superior, it becomes satanic in structure — even if it uses moral language.

So any system that normalizes superiority and contempt is walking his path, even if it claims to be progressive, religious, or moral.

One-line Qur’ānic principle:

Every form of racism, classism, nationalism, ego, and ideological supremacy is satanic not because of its label — but because it reproduces Iblīs’ core sin: claiming superiority by false standards and rejecting humility before truth and human dignity. This is why Islam treats humility (tawāḍuʿ) not as a personality trait — but as a civilizational safeguard against satanic logic.

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: The explanation above is for academic purpose only - readers are at liberty to absorb or negate the explanation of arrogance which is Satanic and has since rejection of God's command to prostrate Adam, has creeped into humans as individuals (like arrogance of Pharaoh and Kora / Qarun) and in nations like 'Ad, Thamud, people of Noah, Lot, Salih and the Romans. These arrogant people and nations disappeared in the history books, leaving behind their tales of rise in arrogance and fall due to arrogance.

You may refer to more Selected Verses from  Sürah 37 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 | 4 |

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

Al-Qurʾān: Overview and selected verses from: Sürah 38 Ṣād - the letter ص

Sürah Ṣād (The Arabic Letter: ص) is the 38th chapter (sūrah) of the Qur'an with 88 verses (āyāt) and one prostration / sajdah ۩ (38:24). Ṣād (ص ) is the name of the Surah derived from the eighteenth letter in the Arabic alphabet. 

Surah Ṣād is a powerful Makkan surah that addresses one central crisis of the human heart: "Arrogance before truth vs humility before Allah." It exposes how ego, power, status, and envy prevent people from accepting guidance — and contrasts this with the character of Allah’s chosen servants, who combined authority with submission.

We have already shared the Tafseer / Exegesis of the Surah which can be read from links given below:

| Summary | Exegesis / Tafseer > Part I | Part II |

Herein under we will only present an overview of the entire Sūrah, for the scope of this post is to only to introduce the Sūrah and provide links to some of the selected verses from this Sūrah for selective reading / references. This bird eye view includes the context, major themes and subjects and lessons that we can learn from this Sūrah, followed by references to  some of the selected verses already published.

Historical context 

The Surah was revelated in Makkah when the Quraysh, the leading and ruling tribe of Makkah had out rightly rejected the call to Islam by Prophet Muhammad ﷺ because they felt threatened socially & politically and for the fear of losing grip of their stronghold they had been enjoying for centuries.  They saw the Prophet ﷺ as a threat to their dominance and vehemently mocked the concept of Tawḥīd and Resurrection

Core theme (central axis)

This the core theme of the surah is based on confrontation with the Elite arrogance of polytheists of Makkah, specially the dominating tribe of Quraysh, Denial due to pride and Power resisting revelation. Thus it was revealed amid the conflict between Kibr (arrogance) that is refusal to submit and ʿUbūdiyyah (servanthood) - true honor.

The surah repeatedly shows that those who reject are not rejecting evidence — they are rejecting loss of status.

Major sections & message flow

• Quraysh’s arrogance & denial (38:1–16)
• They say: “Has he made the gods into One God? This is something strange!” (38:5)
• This is not intellectual confusion — It is ego resistance.
• Mockery of accountability They also demand: “When will this Judgment be?” (38:16)
• Correlation with modern arrogance: Modern arrogance also hides behind (1) “Science” (2) “Freedom” (3) “Progress” - But often it’s really: I don’t want to submit.
• Past nations destroyed by arrogance (38:12–14)
• The surah mentions people of Nūḥ (Prophet Noah), ʿĀd, Pharaoh, Thamūd and People of Lūṭ (Prophet Lot)
• This section shows how powerful civilizations fell because of moral rebellion, not lack of technology.
• Prophet Dāwūd (David) عليه السلام — justice & humility (38:17–26)
• Key verse: “O Dāwūd, We have made you a vicegerent on earth, so judge between people with truth and do not follow desire…” (38:26)
• Prophet Dāwūd is shown as a mighty king, a devoted worshipper, a just judge who despite all his powers and position was a humble servant of Allah, always quick to repent
• Timeless inference: This section unveils that leadership must be ruled by Truth and not by desire, ego and politics.
• This is extremely relevant today.
• Prophet (D) Sulaymān (Solomon) عليه السلام — power with submission (38:30–40)
• Prophet Sulaymān had wealth, Armies, Control of jinn & wind, yet he is described as: “An excellent servant. Indeed, he was one who constantly turned to Allah.” (38:30)
• The mention of Prophet Sulaymān is meant to show that true greatness is power with humility, and NOT power with arrogance - something which embodiment of many modern days leaders and politicians.
• Prophet Ayyūb (Job) عليه السلام — suffering & patience (38:41–44)
• This sections mentions patience of Prophet Ayyūb despite loses of his Health, Wealth and Stability.  Yet he never accuses Allah.
• Key phrase: “Indeed, We found him patient. An excellent servant.” (38:44)
• Lesson: Faith is not proven in ease — it is proven in hardship.
• Iblīs — arrogance as the root of disbelief (38:71–85)
• This is one of the most important theological sections, wherein Iblīs boasts of his arrogance and says: “I am better than him.” (38:76)
• This is the first act of racism, classism, and egoism in history.
• The core diagnosis of kufr is not ignorance or lack of proof - but “I am better.”
• Relevance today: Any ideology built on: Superiority, Elitism, Ego identity is spiritually rooted in the logic of Iblīs.
• Qur’an as sincere advice (38:86–88)
• “It is nothing but a reminder for the worlds.” (38:87)
• It emphasized that the Qur’an is not a tool for power, a myth or a cultural text. It is a moral confrontation.

Important verses with timeless relevance

• 38:5 — Resistance to Tawḥīd “Has he made the gods into One God?” - Still today People resist moral authority of One God.
• 38:26 — Justice in leadership “Do not follow desire, lest it lead you astray from the path of Allah.” - This direct relevance to: (1) Judges(2) Politicians (3) Scholars (4) CEOs and even (5) Parents
• 38:30 — Definition of true success “An excellent servant.” - that is Success is not status, rather it is servanthood.
• 38:44 — Patience under trial “We found him patient.” That is suffering is not proof of rejection — It can be proof of elevation.
• 38:76 — Root of arrogance “I am better than him.” - Every form of Racism, Classism, Nationalism, Ego, and ideology echoes this sentence.
• 38:88 — Truth will manifest “And you will surely know its truth after a time.” That is Truth does not need propaganda. Time exposes it.

The Surah’s central mirror for today

Surah Ṣād asks modern humanity:

• Will you submit to truth even if it humbles you?
• Will you accept moral limits even if you have power?
• Will you let ego define you — or servanthood?

One-line summary

Surah Ṣād teaches that arrogance is the real enemy of faith, and humility is the true mark of greatness — whether you are a king, a prophet, or an ordinary believer.

Now let us share herein some of the selected ayat / verses from this surah already shared:

• Verse 29: Qur’an is a blessed Book revealed for Reflection, specially by men of understanding (ulu al-albāb), to take heed
• Verse 35: Understanding the Wisdom of Prayer of Prophet Sulieman (Solomon) 
• Verse 76: The first explicit claim of arrogance in human history

In time we will add more selected ayat / verses from this surah.

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 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

And He (who) Raised the Heaven and set the Balance

Balance is described as an even distribution of weight enabling someone or something to remain upright and steady or a situation in which different elements are equal or in the correct proportions. What else can be better explanation of balance when we view the universe with countless stars and planets moving about their orbits without ever colliding with each others since time immemorial. Although no Divine scriptures are books of science, yet we find mention of how these heavenly bodies have been balanced out in a manner that these swim across the entire universe evenly and consistently. That is how man is Divinely told about its mighty power.

The same phenomenon has been mentioned in Al-Qurʾān, Surah 55. Ar Rahman verse 7 as mentioned below along with its explanation:

وَالسَّمَآءَ رَفَعَهَا وَوَضَعَ الۡمِيۡزَانَۙ‏ 

(55:7) and He has raised up the heaven and has set a balance

Classical Qur’ānic meaning (Tafsīr)

• “He raised the heaven” (رَفَعَهَا) - Classical mufassirūn (Ibn Kathīr, Ṭabarī, Qurtubī) explain:
• Allah raised the sky without visible pillars (as mentioned in Sürah 13. Al Ra'ad :2)
• It shows divine power, order, and structure
• It is a sign of cosmic architecture, not chaos
• This establishes that the universe is constructed, not random
• Ibn Kathir indicates this refers to Allah raising the sky high above the earth, emphasizing its elevated, majestic, and high position.
• “He set the Balance” (الميزان — al-Mīzān): The word mīzān has three overlapping meanings in Tafsīr:
• Physical balance in creation - that includes (1) Proportion. (2) Measure. (3) Harmony, and (4) Equilibrium in nature - Everything is created with precise measure (Surah 54 Al-Qamar: 49)
• Moral and legal justice
• That is Justice in human society, Fairness in dealings, and Ethical order
• That’s why next verse says: “So do not transgress the balance.” (55:8) - which means Don’t corrupt natural AND moral order.
• The Scale on the Day of Judgment: Mīzān also refers to the actual scale of deeds - that is Connecting cosmos with ethics to Hereafter - So Qur’an links cosmic order to moral accountability
• Ibn Kathir notes that the mizan (balance) refers to justice. He interprets this as Allah establishing the entire system of the universe on justice and perfect balance, ensuring harmony among the stars, planets, and all living creatures. The phrase implies that everything in the universe operates within a precise, divine system, preventing chaos.

Sayyid Abul Ala Maududi notes that almost all the commentators have interpreted mizan (balance) to mean justice, and “set the balance” to imply that Allah has established the entire system of the universe on justice. Had there been no harmony and balance and justice established among the countless stars and planets moving in space, and the mighty forces working in this universe, and the innumerable creatures and things found here, this life on earth would not have functioned even for a moment. Look at the creatures existing in the air and water and on land for millions and millions of years on this earth. They continue to exist only because full justice and balance has been established in the means and factors conducive to life; in case there occurs a slight imbalance of any kind, every tract of life would become extinct.

The Immediate Context (Verse 8)

Following this, in verse 8, Allah says, "Therefore, do not upset the balance." Ibn Kathir, in conjunction with other commentators, explains that this is a commandment for humanity to maintain justice, fairness, and equity in their dealings, both in weighing goods and in their conduct in life. 

Relation to modern scientific discoveries (without exaggeration)

As mentioned earlier, the Qur’an is NOT a science textbook, yet it perfectly aligns with what science now confirms about balance:

• Fine-tuning of the universe
• Modern physics shows that Physical constants (gravity, cosmological constant, electromagnetic force) are tuned with extreme precision. A slight change in the balance will mean no stars, no chemistry, no life.
• This reflects mīzān: Cosmic balance enabling existence itself
• Gravitational balance & cosmic structure
• Science shows that (1) Gravity balances expansion (2) Galaxies are structured, not random (3) Orbital mechanics depend on precise balance
• This matches Qur’ānic information: The heaven is “raised” and held in ordered structure
• Earth’s ecological balance
• Modern ecology shows: (1) Carbon cycle, (2) Nitrogen cycle, (3) Water cycle, (3) Predator-prey balance, (4) Atmospheric oxygen balance
• Human disruption causes: (1) Climate change, (2) Species extinction, (3) Ecosystem collapse
• This directly reflects: “Do not transgress the balance” (55:8)
• And it means that Environmental فساد (corruption) is literally breaking the mīzān.
• Biological homeostasis
• In biology balance is maintained in: (1) Body temperature, (2) Blood pH, (3) Oxygen levels, (4) Hormones
• That is Life depends on internal balance - Another manifestation of mīzān.

Powerful Qur’ānic worldview

The Qur’an is doing something revolutionary. It unites: (1) Cosmic order,(2) Environmental balance,(3) Social justice, and (4) Moral accountability - All under ONE concept: al-Mīzān. While modern thinking separates these. Qur’an integrates them.

A warning for modern civilization

Surah Ar-Raḥmān was revealed more than 1400 years ago, yet it describes our crisis that include (1) Climate imbalance,(2) Economic injustice,(3) Moral breakdown,(4) Psychological imbalance.

All above are forms of "Ṭughyān fī al-mīzān — transgressing the balance." Thus Al Qur’an is not only scientifically compatible — it is civilizationally prophetic.

Why this is profound (not “science in Qur’an” hype)

The miracle is NOT: “Qur’an predicted gravity equations”, But rather: Qur’an gave the correct philosophy of nature, that reality is governed by measure, balance, and accountability - which modern science is only now fully appreciating.

Summary in one sentence:

Surah 55:7 teaches that the universe is built on precise balance — a truth now confirmed by modern physics, ecology, and biology — and warns humanity that breaking this balance leads to both natural and moral collapse.

Ibn Kathir concludes that this verse highlights that just as Allah has created the heavens and the earth with a perfect, balanced, and just structure, He has also demanded that human beings uphold justice and equity in their own lives. 

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 55. Ar Raḥmān ٱلرَّحْمَٰنِ‎ (The Most Merciful) 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 | Resource 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

A Powerful Theological Truth mentioned in Al-Qurʾān (Sürah 55. Ar Raḥmān ٱلرَّحْمَٰنِ‎)

Al Qur'an, like all other three Divine scriptures, is a book of Divine wisdom which only men of wisdom, intellect and understanding can really understand. every word of Al Qur'an is to be read again and again to know the wisdom behind it. Sometimes even a small verse has hidden powerful theological truth which when pondered upon bewilders the reader.

In this context, we share a very small verse, the 26th verse of Sürah 55. Ar Raḥmān ٱلرَّحْمَٰنِ which unfolds a Divine truth when deeply reflected upon. Herein under is the verse followed by its explanation:

كُلُّ مَنْ عَلَيْهَا فَانٍ

“All that is on it (the earth) will perish.”

A profound verse which lays down one of the most fundamental truths of Islamic theology and worldview: absolute mortality of creation and absolute permanence of Allah alone.:

First, neither you are immortal nor the provisions that you are enjoying in this world everlasting. Immortal and everlasting is the Being of the High and Supreme God alone Whose greatness this universe testifies, and by Whose grace and kindness you have been favored with these bounties. Now, if some one among you behaves arrogantly, it would be due to his own meanness. If a foolish person assumes haughtiness in his tiny sphere of authority, or becomes god of a few helpless men who fall into his hand, this farce would not last long. A godhead that lags for a mere score or two score years in a corner of the earth whose size in this limitless universe is not even equal to a pea seed, and then becomes a legend of the past, is not something of which one may feel proud and arrogant.

The other important truth of which both these creations have been warned is: None of those whom you have set up as deities and removers of hardships and fulfiller of needs, apart from Allah, whether they are angels or prophets or the moon and the sun, or some other creation, can fulfill any of your needs. These helpless creatures and things themselves stand in need of Allah’s help for their needs and requirements. They themselves pray to Him for help. When they are not able to remove their own hardships, how will they remove your hardships? Whatever is happening in this limitless universe, from the earth to the heavens, is happening under the command of One God alone. No one else has any share in His Godhead. No one therefore can influence anyone else’s destiny in any way.

Here is a deep, structured explanation in light of Qur’an, Sunnah, and Tafsīr:

Universal mortality — no exception for creation

• The word كُلُّ (kullu) means: Every single thing, without exception.
• And مَنْ (man) includes: All living beings be it the Jinn, Animals, and Humans, even Kings & beggars, Believers & disbelievers and the mighty & the weak
• That is nothing on earth — no matter how powerful, beautiful, advanced, or admired — is exempt.

This echoes many Qur’anic verses:

• “Every soul shall taste death.” (3:185)
• “Wherever you may be, death will overtake you.” (4:78)
• “We did not grant immortality to any human before you.” (21:34)

This demolishes the illusion of permanence in dunya / our earthly world.

Collapse of worldly pride and false security

In the verse above, فَانٍ (fān) means vanishing, decaying, coming to an end

Thus this part of the verse directly confronts the human Arrogance, Attachment to wealth, Obsession with status, Trust in systems, power, or technology, that is whatever people build — empires, businesses, reputations, cities, ideologies — all share the same destiny:

 فَانٍ (fān) not only means just the death — it is total fading of worldly reality. This is why Qarun/Korah, Pharaoh, and past nations are lessons: They seemed permanent — but they became history.

A doorway to Tawḥīd (Oneness of Allah)

This verse is immediately followed by:

وَيَبْقَىٰ وَجْهُ رَبِّكَ ذُو الْجَلَالِ وَالْإِكْرَامِ

“And there will remain the Face of your Lord, Owner of Majesty and Honor.” (55:27)

This contrast is deliberate: 

• All creations are Fān (perishing), while Allah is Bāqī (Everlasting)
• All creations are Dependent while the Almighty Allah is Self-Sufficient
• All creations are weak and meek, while the ever remaining Allah is All Powerful

This is pure Tawḥīd al-Rubūbiyyah and al-Asmāʾ waṣ-Ṣifāt. For only Allah is: Al-Ḥayy (The Ever-Living) and Al-Qayyūm (Self-Existing) - click on the highlighted blue text to understand the meaning of these two attributes of Allah.

Spiritual wisdom: where should the heart attach?

This verse answers a deep human question: What is safe to love completely? - and the Islam’s answer: Don’t attach your heart to what will die - Attach it to the One who never dies

The Prophet ﷺ said: “Love whom you wish, but you will surely part from him.” (Reported in meaning in several narrations)

So the verse trains the believer to: (1) Love creation with balance. (2) Rely on Allah with certainty, and Seek the Hereafter over dunya

A cure for grief, arrogance, and despair

This single verse gives:

• For the grieving: What you lost was never permanent.
• For the arrogant: You yourself are temporary.
• For the hopeless: The One you turn to is not temporary.

This is why scholars note that this verse equalizes kings and beggars in the reality of death.

Connection to Surah Ar-Raḥmān’s theme

Surah ar-Raḥmān is about: Blessings to the jinn and humans, Power, Judgment, Mercy of Allah and His neutral and impartial Accountability.

This verse marks a turning point: 

• From enjoying blessings to remembering their end. 
• It teaches: Blessings are real — but not eternal and that Accountability is real — and eternal.

A Daʿwah and life principle for today

When viewed our world which is obsessed with: Legacy, Fame, Digital immortality, Wealth accumulation, this verse declares:

• No matter how advanced you become — you are still temporary.
• True success is not being remembered on earth, but Being accepted by Allah in the Hereafter

One powerful theological summary

Everything you see, love, fear, or rely on in this world is guaranteed to perish — only Allah is permanent, and only what is done for Him will last.

The verse notes that all that exists on Earth will perish but the one and only God never dies.  Just as the creation of this universe is a miracle of God, similarly the end is also a sign of His power because it shows that He is so Magnificent and Self-Sufficient that He does not depend on His creation in any way.  He does not need anything.  Compare it with any of your own creation and your attitude towards its preservation, the heartbreak you feel if it is lost or broken; can you ever have the courage to break your own piece of craft? We are so weak in front of Him.  So, then how can we deny the Almighty Lord? We recognize His power to give us but we do not recognize our duty towards Him which is to be His obedient slaves.  It is His decision that He does not punish us in this world and lets us have our way; so people think that they can keep avoiding His accountability forever.

The above explanation of a very small verse unfolds the stark realities of which we normally close our eyes and turn away to the pomp and show of the wordily life, not being any heed to cautions such like verses contain for the man, and jinn, to know that there still is time that we steer our lives on the path which is being shown to us and the hidden realities that are being open to us. Only men who have the wisdom and intellect to reflect will catch this powerful theological truth.

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 55. Ar Raḥmān ٱلرَّحْمَٰنِ‎ (The Most Merciful) 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 | 4 |

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

Al Qur'an: Overview and selected verses from Sürah 55. Ar Raḥmān ٱلرَّحْمَٰنِ‎ (The Most Merciful)

Surah Ar Raḥmān ٱلرَّحْمَٰنِ‎ (The Most Merciful), the 55th Sürah with 78 verses and three Rukus, part of Juz' 27 is one of the most rhythmic and emotionally powerful chapters of the Al Qur’an. It is often called “The Bride of the Qur’an” (a famous description attributed in early literature), because of its beauty, repetition, and deep spiritual impact.  The title of the surah, Ar-Rahman, appears in verse 1 and means "The Most Beneficent / Merciful".

The Sürah was revealed in Makkah and emphasizes themes of mercy, creation, and the relationship between Allah and humanity, making it a significant Sürah in Islamic teachings. 

The unique feature of Sürah Ar Raḥmān is that it addresses both humans and the jinn - something that makes it the only Surah of the entire Al Qur'an which addresses both humans and the jinn. The core verse of the Surah is “So which of the favors of your Lord will you deny?” which is repeated 31 times emphasizing the unlimited powers of Allah who has made everything in the universe for the man to reflect upon.

We have already shared the Tafseer / Exegesis of the Surah which can be read from links given below:

| Part 1 (Introduction) | Part 2 (Summary) | Part 3 (Tafsir / Exegesis) | 

| Understanding Surah Ar Rahman |

Herein under we will only present a condensed overview of the entire Sūrah, for the scope of this post is to only to introduce the Sūrah and provide links to some of the selected verses from this Sūrah for selective reading / references. The following bird eye view includes the context, major themes and subjects and lessons that we can learn from this Sūrah, followed by references to  some of the selected verses already published.

Context of revelation

The surah was revealed at a time when the Quraysh, the polytheist ruling tribe of Makkah reacted arrogantly to Prophet Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم when he openly proclaimed the religion of Islam to them and straightaway became hostile to him, completely denying Allah’s favors to them. They mocked the very concept of Surah Ar-Raḥmān and rejected out rightly the concept of resurrection and accountability

Thus Allah responded not with argument alone, but with a flood of blessings — natural, spiritual, cosmic, and eternal — to awaken gratitude and humility.

It is also authentically reported that the Prophet ﷺ recited this surah to the jinn, and they responded: “None of Your favors do we deny, our Lord; to You belongs all praise.” (Reported in Tirmidhī and others — often cited in tafsīr). This highlights the surah’s Daʿwah power.

Main theme of Surah ar-Raḥmān

Allah’s overwhelming mercy is displayed through countless blessings — and human/jinn ingratitude is exposed by repeated questioning of denial. It ties together: Mercy, Creation, Balance, Accountability, Paradise & Hell and Gratitude vs denial.

Core sections & important verses

• Mercy before law (55:1–4): “The Most Merciful — taught the Qur’an, created man, taught him speech.” - that is Al Qur’an is a gift of mercy, not burden and that Guidance is a blessing before obligation. It has been stated that the teaching of the Qur'an is from Allah Almighty and it is the very demand of His mercy that He should provide guidance to mankind through this teaching, for it is He Who has created man as a rational and intelligent being.
• Balance in the universe (55:5–9): 
• “And the heaven He raised and set the balance…” This is to emphasise that the universe is morally and physically balanced, thus Injustice is a violation of divine order.
• In verses 5-6 it has been said that the whole system of the Universe is functioning under Allah's Sovereignty and everything in the earth and heavens is subject to His Command alone.
• In verses 7-9 another important truth that has been expressed is that Allah has established the entire system of the Universe precisely and equitably on justice, and the nature of this system requires that those who dwell in it also should adhere to justice within the bounds of their authority and should not disturb the balance.
• Earthly blessings (55:10–13): It is emphasised that Food, fruits, palms, grains, fragrance which form the daily sustenance is a sign, not entitlement.
• Creation of humans & jinn (55:14–15): “He created man from clay… and created jinn from smokeless fire.” - both of different origins but will face accountability.
• Power over seas & treasures (55:19–25): This is to emphasise that smooth sailing of ships over seas exhibit that economic power is under Allah’s control alone.
• Mortality & Majesty (55:26–30): 
• “Everyone upon it will perish. And there will remain the Face of your Lord…” which means that Ultimate reality is Allah, not creation.
• Both the men and the jinn have been reminded of the truths that in this Universe no one except One God is immortal and imperishable, and there is none, from the lowest to the highest, who does not stand in need of God for his survival and other requirements. Whatever is happening here, from the earth to the heavens, is happening under His administration and control.
• Judgment & accountability (55:31–36) When it is said “We will attend to you, O two weighty beings…” both the groups have been warned that the time is fast approaching when they will be called to account, which they will not be able to avoid, for God's Kingdom is encircling them from every side; it is not in their power to flee it; if they are involved in the misunderstanding that they can, they may try to do so.
• In verses 37-38 it has been said that this accountability will be held on the Day of Resurrection.
• In verses 39-45 the evil end of the guilty ones, from among men and jinn, who have been disobeying Allah in the world has been mentioned.
• The Promised Reward: From verse 46 to the end of the Surah mention has been made of those rewards and blessings which will be granted to the righteous men and jinn who have led pious lives in the world and lived with a clear understanding that they will have to appear before their Lord one day and render an account of their deeds and actions. Herein, special mention is made of two sets of gardens for the rewarded and specially rewarded ones:
• Two gardens for the righteous (55:46–61) These verses present the detailed description of Jannah, to motivate the man and jinns through hope.
• Two more gardens (55:62–76) Here even more reward is promised for those above the rest in the form of elevated gardens of paradise, showing Allah’s generosity exceeds expectation.

The repeated verse  فَبِأَيِّ آلَاءِ رَبِّكُمَا تُكَذِّبَانِ

The unique feature of the Surah is a verse “So which of the favors of your Lord will you deny?” - فَبِأَيِّ آلَاءِ رَبِّكُمَا تُكَذِّبَانِ which forms the heart of the surah for it is repeated 31 times. This repetition is one of the most powerful rhetorical and spiritual features of the Qur’an. It is repeated for deep, multi-layered reasons — linguistic, psychological, spiritual, and Daʿwah-related.

The repetition of this phrase Awakens conscience, Breaks ingratitude, Forces reflection and Exposes denial.

One-paragraph summary

Surah ar-Raḥmān is a majestic proclamation of Allah’s mercy displayed through creation, guidance, balance, provision, accountability, and eternal reward. By repeatedly asking, “Which of the favors of your Lord will you deny?”, the surah confronts human and jinn ingratitude, forcing the heart to acknowledge blessings that are often ignored. It moves from mercy to law, from worldly gifts to the Hereafter, from fleeting life to eternal gardens, teaching that gratitude is not merely emotion but a moral response to divine generosity.

How we can benefit from Surah ar-Raḥmān today

• Cure for ingratitude & depression: Reorients focus from lack to blessing
• Environmental & social ethics: Balance (mīzān) leads to justice in economy, ecology, society
• Strengthening Tawḥīd: All blessings traced back to Allah
• Daʿwah tool: Softens hearts through mercy, not fear alone
• Daily spiritual renewal: Reciting it trains the heart in shukr / gratitude

One-line takeaway: Surah Ar-Raḥmān is a Qur’anic symphony of mercy that transforms entitlement into gratitude and arrogance into awe.

Now let us share herein some of the selected ayat / verses from this surah already shared:

• Verse 7: And He (who) Raised the Heaven and set the Balance
• Verses 7-9: Establish weight in justice and do not make deficient the balance
• Verses 19-20: Separation of two seas with a barrier
• Verse 26: All that is on it (the earth) will perish - A Powerful Theological Truth mentioned in Sürah 55. Ar Raḥmān ٱلرَّحْمَٰنِ‎ 
• Verse 60: Is the reward for good [anything] but good?

In time we will add more selected verses from Sürah Ar Raḥmān

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 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 | 4 |

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 a few verses of Al Qur'an outline the complete Qur'anic Philosophy of Da'wah - calling non Muslims to Islam

Da'wah, دعوة, the invitation to the non Muslim to enter the fold of Islam, is an important pillar of Islam, Allah directs Muslims to involve them in this sacred religious obligation, specially after the cessation of prophethood after the last of the prophets, Prophet Muhammad  صلى الله عليه وسلم.

“Let there arise out of you a group of people inviting to all that is good (Islam), enjoining Al-Ma‘roof (i.e. Islamic Monotheism and all that Islam orders one to do) and forbidding Al-Munkar (polytheism and disbelief and all that Islam has forbidden). And it is they who are the successful” [Aal ‘Imran 3:104]

Da'wah, meaning "invitation" or "summons," is the Islamic practice of calling people—both non-Muslims and Muslims—towards a better understanding and practice of Islam, based on the Quran and Sunnah. It involves sharing the message of Allah's Oneness (Tawheed), clearing up misconceptions, and encouraging righteous actions through wisdom, good character, and polite dialogue. Da'wah embodies comprehensive understanding of Islam (through complete understanding of Qur'an and Sunnah) and a general understanding of the faith being followed by the audience to whom Da'wah is being extended. 

We have already published a number of posts on importance, meaning and mode of Da'wah, which can be accessed from our reference page: Da'wah - The Invitation to Non-Muslims to Islam for better understanding of what really Da'wah is.

Today, through this post we link verses from three different Surahs of Qur'an which together form an excellent synthesis. and provide a complete Qur’anic philosophy of Da'wah — covering Da'wah method, limits, and transformation. This balanced framework protects a dāʿī (one extending Da'wah) from arrogance, burnout, and misplaced expectations. These Surahs are Surah Mu'min 40:28–45 with Surah Al-Qasas 28:56 and Surah Ar-Ra'd 13:11.

Before we explain the philosophy of Da'wah, let us in one paragraph explain the passage of verses of Surah Al Mu'min (40:28–45) for it is the basis of the Method of extending Da'wah mentioned in successive lines.

Surah Al Mu'min is revealed in the context of Pharaoh’s court, where a believing man from Pharaoh’s own family secretly held faith in Musa عليه السلام and, at a critical moment, spoke publicly to defend him against unjust execution. In a society dominated by tyranny, propaganda, and arrogance, this believer delivers a reasoned, compassionate, and courageous speech: he appeals to conscience, logic, historical precedent, and fear of the Hereafter, warning his people against persecuting a messenger who came with clear signs. He contrasts the call to Allah with the call to falsehood, expresses sincere concern for their ultimate fate, and entrusts his matter to Allah when facing danger. The passage concludes by showing that Allah protected him while Pharaoh and his people were engulfed by punishment, demonstrating that truth can be spoken even within corrupt systems, that moral courage may be costly but is divinely supported, and that oppressive power ultimately collapses before Allah’s justice. 

Now let us outline a unified Qur’anic Da'wah Philosophy, grounded directly in these three pillars:

• Method: Speak with wisdom, courage, and compassion
• From Surah Mu'min (40:28–45): This passage teaches how to give Da'wah. Following are core methods to give Da'wah:
• Appeal to conscience (40:28)
• Use reason and fairness (40:28)
• Remind of history (40:30–31)
• Show concern for akhirah (40:32–33)
• Clarify moral paths (40:41)
• Center on Tawḥīd (40:42–43)
• End with tawakkul (40:44)
• Da'wah principle: Daʿwah is moral persuasion, not emotional pressure or political force.
• Limits: Guidance is not in human control
• From Surah al-Qaṣaṣ (28:56) “Indeed, you do not guide whom you love, but Allah guides whom He wills…”
• Core limit: Even the Prophet ﷺ could not guide those he loved most - Love, logic, and effort are not enough
• Da'wah principle: You are responsible for delivery, not conversion.
• This protects the dāʿī from: (1) Guilt, (2( Manipulation, (3) Despair, and even (4) Pride
• Transformation: Change must come from within
• From Surah ar-Raʿd (13:11) “Indeed, Allah does not change the condition of a people until they change what is within themselves.”
• Core transformation law: (1) Guidance is not imposed, (2) Hearts must open voluntarily, and (3) Inner moral change precedes outer reform.
• Daʿwah principle: Daʿwah invites — it cannot substitute inner repentance and sincerity.

The Integrated Qur’anic Model

When combined, these verses give this complete structure:

• Verses 40:28-45
• Dimension: What you cannot control
• What it teaches: Wisdom, logic, compassion, courage
• Verse 28:56
• Dimension: How to call
• What it teaches: Hearts & guidance belong to Allah
• Verse 13:11
• Dimension; What must happen in them
• What it Teaches: Inner moral transformation

The Balanced Daʿwah Equation

The balanced Qur’anic formula based on (1) Sincere effort (40), (2) Acceptance of limits (28:56) and (3) Emphasis on inner change (13:11) results into a Healthy, effective, sustainable Daʿwah**

How this formula protects the dāʿī? This framework protects against: (1) Forcing outcomes, (2) Measuring success by numbers, (3) Emotional burnout, (4) Arrogance when people accept, and (5) Despair when people reject.

How this framework applies today

• In family Daʿwah: Da'wah begins at home. It should be every endeavour of the elders to build faith among the children by speaking with love(40), accepting Allah's decree (28:56), and Focus on hearts, not arguments (13:11)
• In public Daʿwah: However, when in public the mode changes to Speaking truth with courage (40), not chasing validation (28:56) and calling for personal reform (13:11)
• In political or social Daʿwah: Address conscience and justice (40), don’t idolize leaders or systems (28:56), and Emphasize ethical revival (13:11)

Summarizing the Qur’anic Daʿwah philosophy in one line 

Call with wisdom and courage, accept that guidance is Allah’s alone, and remember that real change begins in the heart — this is the Qur’anic balance of Daʿwah.

This post ii point form is to introduce outline the Quranic philosophy of Da'wah to our readers and those involved in Da'wah for reflection correlating it with complete explanation of each verse so as to understand the whole picture. remember, Da'wah is not an easy task, it takes complete understanding of Qur'an and Sunnah and detailed knowledge of faith of the audience so that one is able to give answers to the questions of the audience, convincing them that what came earlier and later is a complete chain of Divine plan so that people understand the final religion which in fact is the continuation of the Divine message sent earlier through earlier prophets. 

You may refer to more Selected Verses from Sürah 40. Al Mu'min (The Believer)  already published.

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 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 | 4 | 5 |

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.

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