What are the true emotional and spiritual signs of faith in Islam

Have you ever watched a non Muslims taking Shahadah to enter the fold of Islam? If not, do watch the countless videos of reversion to Islam on the social media network and watch closely the abrupt change in the facial expression of the revert and the display of a sudden emotional outburst. This sudden emotional outburst stems from a profound sense of spiritual relief, overwhelming joy, and the immediate feeling of reconnection with the Creator. The uncontrollable gush of tears exhibits the relief one feels from the confusion that had harboured before reversion - the reversion in fact rids a person of the uncertainty of one's former belief (s) and suddenly finding how the light at the end of the tunnel really feels when falling on one's face and body.

In fact the reverts frequently experience a release of pent-up spiritual longing, resulting in tears of happiness, a feeling of being "cleansed," and the overwhelming realization of truth. 

The verse 2 of Surah Al-Anfāl explain the same phenomena and express the true emotional and spiritual signs of faith in Islam. 

Before we go on to explain the verse 2, let me share my experience of emotional and spiritual reaction to one's faith when the Divine Scripture is being recited. I once had the opportunity to attend a religious congregation where the excerpts from Divine Scripture were being read. But to my amazement, a large segment of audience were not paying any attention to what was being said and despite many cautions by the preacher that everyone should silently and carefully listen to the sacred scripture, no one rally paid any heed to it. And when I compare this incident when the Al Qur'an is being recited, there is a pin drop silence among the audience. And some who really reflect on what is being recited are seen with tearful eyes. The some are the people who fit perfectly into the verse being shared herein under.

The verse (meaning-focused translation)

اِنَّمَا الۡمُؤۡمِنُوۡنَ الَّذِيۡنَ اِذَا ذُكِرَ اللّٰهُ وَجِلَتۡ قُلُوۡبُهُمۡ وَاِذَا تُلِيَتۡ عَلَيۡهِمۡ اٰيٰتُهٗ زَادَتۡهُمۡ اِيۡمَانًا وَّعَلٰى رَبِّهِمۡ يَتَوَكَّلُوۡنَ ​​ۖ ​ۚ‏ 

(8:2) The true believers are those who, when Allah's name is mentioned, their hearts quake, and when His verses are recited to them their faith grows, and who put their trust in their Lord

This short verse gives one of the most profound Qur’anic definitions of īmān (true faith) — not as a label, but as a living inner reality. Let us unpack these verses and their impact even today.

Context of revelation (why this verse matters)

To understand the above quoted verse, let us briefly explain when Surah Al-Anfāl was revealed and how this verse strengthened their faith during their first encounter with the polytheists of Makkah in the Battle of Badr. This was a test of faith of a very small, weak Muslim community confronting a powerful, arrogant Quraysh army.

Despite being outnumbered, the Muslim victory came only by Allah’s help. Soon after the victory, there was a dispute on the distribution of the war spoils (anfāl). So Allah revealed this surah to correct attitudes, purify intentions and redefine what real belief looks like

So 8:2 comes to say: Victory is not because of numbers or strategy alone. It comes from hearts that are alive with Allah.

Structure of the verse — three signs of true īmān

The verse gives three internal indicators, not external slogans:

• Hearts tremble when Allah is mentioned 
• “When Allah is mentioned, their hearts tremble (وَجِلَتۡ قُلُوۡبُهُمۡ wajilat qulūbuhum)”
• This is khashyah combination of awe and moral consciousness, not panic. It means: (1) Awareness of Allah’s greatness (2) Sensitivity to accountability (3) Softness of heart, not hardness

Khashyah (Arabic: خشية) is a profound, reverential fear or awe of Allah, rooted in knowledge of His greatness, power, and perfection. Unlike general fear (khawf), khashyah is a deeply conscious, respectful awe that arises from understanding God's majesty, often leading to increased devotion and avoidance of sins. 

• Not fear of punishment only, but: (1) Reverence (2) Presence (3) Moral alertness
• Today’s relevance: Although, there are countless Muslims around the world who bow and prostrate to Allah five times a day, recite Al Qur'an. But if when Allah’s name is taken and it No Longer (1) Moves us, (2) Corrects us and (3) Humbles us, this reflects that our īmān has become routine, not reality.
• Faith increases with Qur’an
• “When His verses are recited, it increases them in faith”
• This teaches a critical principle: Īmān is not static — it grows or shrinks.
• That means reciting Qur’an should: (1) Strengthen conviction (2) Sharpen moral clarity (3) Renew purpose, and (4) Heal doubts
• A man's faith grows as he is able to confirm and submit to the command of God which he comes across. This is especially so where he submits to commands which go against his own personal predilections. A man's faith attains great heights if instead of trying to twist and distort the commands of God and the Prophet (peace he on him), he develops the habit of accepting and submitting to all the commands of God and the Prophet (peace be on him); if he strives to shape his conduct to the teachings which go against his personal opinions and conceptions, which are contrary to his habits, interests and convenience, which are not in consonance with his loyalties and friendships. For if he hesitates to respond positively to God's command, his faith is diminished. One thus learns that faith is not a static, immobile object. Nor is every, act of belief, or unbelief, of the same quality. An act of belief may be better or worse than another act of belief. Likewise, an act of unbelief may differ in quality from another act of unbelief. For both belief and unbelief, are capable of growth and decline.
• All this concerns the essence of belief and unbelief. However, when belief and unbelief are mentioned as a basis for membership of the Muslim community or in connection with legal rights and responsibilities as necessary corollaries of that membership, a clear line of demarcation has to be drawn between those who believe and those who do not. In this respect the determination of who is a believer and who is not will depend on the basic minimum of belief regardless of quality of belief. In an Islamic society all those who believe will be entitled to the same legal rights and will be required to fulfil the same duties regardless of the differences in the quality of their faith. Likewise, all unbelievers - regardless of the differences in the quality of their unbelief - will be placed in the category of unbelievers disregarding the question whether their unbelief is of an ordinary quality or an extremely serious one.
• But many today hear Qur’an as: Background sound, Cultural habit or Ritual recitation 
• But true believers experience Qur’an as spiritual nourishment, not spiritual noise. And it really moves their hearts and stirs their soul to get closer to Allah as is expected of them.
• Reliance on Allah (tawakkul)
• “And upon their Lord they rely” - this is the most important part of the verse. 
• At Badr, Muslims had: Limited weapons, resources and extremely outnumbered. So tawakkul on Allah was not merely a slogan — it was survival.
• Tawakkul is: Not laziness or fatalism - But doing your best and then trusting Allah with the outcome.
• Today’s relevance:
• In a world many find assurances in Insurance, Planning, Data and Control systems and think this will safeguard their lives and interest or even beat back adversary in conflicts.
• But this verse reminds us that Means are not gods - Allah is still Al-Wakīl "The Trustee." (Read more about this particular attribute of Allah at: 99 Attributes of Allah: Al Wakil - The Trustee)

How this verse redefines “real Muslim”

This verse does not define believers by: Tribe, Label, Politics,  Appearance alone and Culture. But by:

• Heart sensitivity
• Growth through Qur’an
• Dependence on Allah

This is deeply relevant in an age where Identity is loud, but spirituality is weak

Connection with surrounding verses (8:3–4)

Immediately after, Allah says: "They establish prayer and spend from what We provided. Those are truly the believers." (8:3–4)

This implies that the verse 2 shows the inner state of a true believer while verses 3-4 exhibits the emotional and spirituals signs outwardly. Remember True īmān (Faith) is the finely meshed combination of Alive heart and living obedience.

A powerful modern mirror

Having read the meaning and relevance of the above quoted verses, one must ask honestly:

• Does Allah’s name still soften my heart?
• Does Qur’an still increase my certainty?
• Do I rely on Allah — or only on systems?

Because this verse teaches that Faith is not what you claim - but true Faith is what moves your heart and directs your trust.

Link to your earlier themes (khashyah & knowledge)

Before end this discussion and explanation of verse 2 (and verse 3-4) of Surah Al-Anfāl, let us just links this to other verses of Qur'an and see how these perfectly aligns with other verses of Al Qur'an:

• 35:28: Those who truly fear Allah are people of knowledge
• 39:9: Are those who know equal to those who don’t?

So 8:2 shows that Knowledge leads to Khashyah and Living īmān - Not dry information.

One-line Qur’anic definition from 8:2

A true believer is someone whose heart responds to Allah, whose faith grows with Qur’an, and whose trust is anchored in Allah — not in the world.  Now we must ask ourselves where do we stand with regard to our emotional and spiritual attachment to our faith!!

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 8. Al-Anfāl  - سورة ٱلْأَنْفَال  (The Spoils of War)‎

 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.

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What is Inevitable - explained in one of the most philosophically powerful verses in the Qur’an

The wealth, position and status of man has much too often a blinding effect on the intellect and wisdom of the man. When elevated to an elitist class, man in his own arrogance of being at a position much above the others, loses sight of the realities and the temporary nature of one's status, wealth and even life. To such people, are also included the atheists who do not believe in the existence of any gods or deities and the life of the hereafter. This position is characterized by a lack of belief in supernatural beings rather than necessarily a claim of absolute knowledge. Thus Atheists actively deny the existence of God or simply lack a belief in Him. 

This was also the mindset of the polytheists of Makkah who in the formatting days of Islam out rightly rejected the existence of One God and the concept of the Resurrection - the act of rising from the dead or returning to life. In order to refute their misconception, the very two verses of Surah 56. Al-Wāqi‘ah were revealed which are considered as one of the most philosophically powerful verses in the Qur’an. In just a few words, they collapse denial, shatter complacency, and answer the deepest objections to God and the Hereafter — not by scientific argument, but by existential certainty.

The Verses

إِذَا وَقَعَتِ الْوَاقِعَةُ ۝ لَيْسَ لِوَقْعَتِهَا كَاذِبَةٌ

Idhā waqa‘ati al-wāqi‘ah — laysa li-waq‘atihā kādhibah

“When the Inevitable Event occurs — there will be no denying its occurrence.”

Opening the discourse with this sentence "and then there will be no one to deny its occurrence" by itself signifies that this is an answer to the objections that were being raised in the disbelievers’ conferences against Resurrection. This was the time when the people of Makkah had just begun to hear the invitation to Islam from the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). In it what seemed most astonishing and remote from reason to them was that the entire system of the earth and heavens would one day be overturned and then another world would be set up in which all the dead, of the former and the latter generations, would be resurrected. Bewildered they would ask: This is just impossible! Where will this earth, these oceans, these mountains, this moon and sun go? How will the centuries-old dead bodies rise up to life? How can one in his senses believe that there will be another life after death and there will be gardens of Paradise and the fire of Hell? Such were the misgivings that were being expressed at that time everywhere in Makkah. It was against this background that it was said: When the inevitable event happens, there shall be no one to belie it.

Let’s unpack how these two verses directly confront polytheistic, atheistic and materialist objections.

Meaning of the Two Verses

• Verse 1 — “When the Inevitable Event occurs” الْوَاقِعَة (al-Wāqi‘ah)
• In this verse the word Wāqi‘ahh (event) has been used for Resurrection, which nearly means the same thing as the English word inevitable, signifying thereby that it is something that must come to pass. Then, its happening has been described by the word Wāqi‘ah, which is used for the sudden occurrence of a disaster. 
• This verse just not foretell of “an event” — but an event that is Certain to happen and already decided. This event is thus inescapable.
• The Qur’an names the Day of Judgment as if it has already happened.
• This is Qur’ānic language of certainty.
• Philosophical point: The Hereafter is not hypothetical — it is part of reality’s structure.
• Verse 2 — “There will be no denying its occurrence” لَيْسَ لِوَقْعَتِهَا كَاذِبَةٌ
• Laisa li-waqati-ha kadhibat-un can have two meanings:
• That it will not be possible that its occurrence be averted, or stopped, or turned back; or, in other words, there will be no power to make it appear as an unreal event.
• That there will be no living being to tell the lie that the event has not taken place.
• This can mean that no one will be able to deny it or able to lie about it. There will thus be no excuse, no reinterpretation, no escape.
• That is no ideology will explain it away, no skepticism will survive it or no intellectualization will protect against it.
• Reality itself will silence denial.

How This Answers Atheist Objections (At a Deep Level)

• The Qur’an does NOT argue here with physics, probability or laboratory evidence. Instead, Qur'an attacks the psychology of denial.
• Atheistic objection: “There is no proof of the Hereafter.”
• Qur’ānic response: Your denial is not because it is false — Your denial exists because it has not yet confronted you.
• These verses say: Denial is temporary. Reality is permanent.

The Qur’ān’s Existential Argument (Not Just Logical)

• The Qur’an’s method is Not “Prove God with equations” - But expose human illusion of control and permanence.
• These verses imply: Every atheist certainty is built on: (1) Still being alive, (2) Still having time, and (3) Still not having faced death and of course the reality of resurrection
• So Qur’an says: Your philosophy depends on delay — not on truth.

The Collapse of Denial at Death & Resurrection

• These verses connect directly with later verses in the same surah: “Why then, when the soul reaches the throat… if you are not to be judged, bring it back.” (56:83–87)
• This is devastating logic: If no God, no Hereafter, no accountability (1) Why can’t you reverse death? (2) Why can’t science save the soul? (3) Why can’t ideology stop finality?

So 56:1–2 are an opening hammer: They announce a future reality that will invalidate all denial retroactively.

Answering “There is No God”

• These verses don’t say “God exists” directly.
• They say something deeper: There is a final reality that no human system controls.
• This itself implies: (1) Authority beyond human(2) Judgment beyond human (3) Reality beyond material
• Atheism claims: Human reason is final and that Matter is ultimate and Death is the end. There is nothing beyond.
• Qur'an says in 56:1–2: You are not final, Matter is not ultimate and Death is not the end

So they strike at the foundation of atheism: Human autonomy as ultimate authority.

Why This Is So Powerful (Psychologically & Philosophically)

1. The Qur’an does not beg disbelief to accept. It declares: Whether you believe or not — this will happen.
2. This shifts the burden: Not “Prove it to me.” - But “You will be proven wrong by reality itself.”
3. This is why the Qur’an often uses: (1) Shock (2) Certainty (3) Oaths (4) Direct confrontation - Because denial is often moral and psychological — not purely intellectual.

The Hidden Message to the Modern Mind

These verses draw a comparison with the people of the time, who trust the Systems, Technology, Medicine, Progress and Control.

While the Qur'an 56:1–2 say: There is an event that will render all of that irrelevant.

That is a direct challenge to: Secular confidence, Materialist security, and Technological arrogance.

One-line Qur’ānic answer to atheism in 56:1–2:

The Qur’an does not argue that the Hereafter is possible — it declares that it is inevitable, and that denial is only sustained by delay, not by truth. Reality itself will end the debate. This is why these verses are so short yet so terrifying — they turn the atheist position from “confident” into temporarily deferred.

Se beware of the day when every human who ever lived will be brought back to life and his dossier will be presented to him and will be rewarded or awarded accordingly. Ten it will be too late to repent for not having paid heed to the Divine warnings when there was still time to acknowledge what was being said was true.

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 56 Al-Wāqiʻa  الواقعة "The Inevitable" 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 References: | 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

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.

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