Islam continues to permeate into the hearts and minds despite the rejection

Man has always rejected the Divine religions for they have had affiliation and strong bondage with the customs, culture and traditions of their forefathers. When Prophet Musa. Moses (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), called his people to the Divine revelations he had received directly from the Lord of the universe at Mt. Sinai, many of his people whom he had freed from the bondage of the Pharaoh, turned against him and out rightly objected the idea of him proclaiming as a messenger of God and the commandments he had brought back after meeting God. 

This has always been so before Prophet Musa and thereafter when Prophet Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم proclaimed himself as messenger of Allah and told them the revelation he has received from Allah through arch Angel Jibraeel (Gabriel). Like Prophet Musa, Prophet Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم too was subjected to a very harsh treatment both physical and mental, at times almost killing him. But due to the resilience and steadfastness God always provided to His prophets and messengers, the Divine regions thrived. Today, Islam which was once out rightly rejected is the second most adopted religion in the world, after Christianity. And some analysts claim that by 2050 Islam may overtake Christianity.

With this premise at the background, let us now share the 110th verse from Surah 11. Hūd, which draws a parallel between the conditions that both Prophets Musa and Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم faced and yet came out with huge success.

The Verse:

وَلَقَدۡ اٰتَيۡنَا مُوۡسَى الۡكِتٰبَ فَاخۡتُلِفَ فِيۡهِ​ ؕ وَ لَوۡلَا كَلِمَةٌ سَبَقَتۡ مِنۡ رَّبِّكَ لَـقُضِىَ بَيۡنَهُمۡ​ ؕ وَاِنَّهُمۡ لَفِىۡ شَكٍّ مِّنۡهُ مُرِيۡبٍ‏ 

(11:110) And We certainly gave Moses the Book before, and there arose disagreements about it (even as there are disagreements now about the Book revealed to you). Had it not been for a decree that had already gone forth from your Lord, the matter would have long been decided between them. Indeed they are in a disquieting doubt about it.

Let us explain the above quoted verse Explanation of the verse:

Context and Meaning:

This verse refers to Prophet Musa (Moses) and his mission, particularly the dispute and rejection that followed his delivering of the Torah (the Scripture) to the Israelites. The verse points out that many people disputed the divine revelation brought by Moses, just as people did with earlier prophets.

• "And We gave Moses the Scripture, but it was disputed":
• The Torah, like every revealed scripture, faced opposition and misunderstanding.
• People questioned and doubted the divine origins of Moses' message, just as they questioned the validity of previous revelations.
• "Had it not been for a word that preceded from your Lord, the matter would have been decided between them":
• This refers to God's prior decree, which held back immediate judgment and punishment for the disbelievers. God’s mercy is a recurring theme in the Quran, and it highlights that the final decision will come at a later time (on the Day of Judgment).
• It suggests that although the disbelievers were defying the truth, God had not yet executed the full consequences but allowed some time for reflection and repentance.
• "And indeed, they are, concerning it, in disquieting doubt":
• The people were in a state of doubt and confusion about the truth of the message, despite its clear signs and miracles.
• The "disquieting doubt" suggests that the rejection wasn’t purely intellectual; it was emotionally charged, rooted in pride, tribalism, and fear of losing authority.

Relevance to the Quran's Rejection:

This verse is particularly relevant when considering the rejection of the Quran by many, even up until today, and there are several parallels between the reaction to Musa's message and the reaction to the Quran:

• Doubt and Disputation:
• Just like the Torah, the Quran has been disputed by many. There is a doubt and skepticism surrounding it, especially by those who do not want to accept the divine authority behind it. The Quranic revelations have been questioned, interpreted differently, or even outright rejected by some, as was the case with earlier scriptures. 
• The "disquieting doubt" is even seen today in people who claim to have doubts about the "originality and authenticity" of Quran and its divine nature, often based on their own biases, lack of understanding, or unwillingness to accept its truth.
• Delayed Judgment: In the same way that the "matter would have been decided between them" but God allowed time before judgment, today we see that despite the rejection and opposition to the Quran, the ultimate consequences of disbelief are delayed by God’s mercy. This mirrors the warning that people will face accountability on the Day of Judgment.
• Rejection Due to Pride and Power Dynamics:
• Much of the rejection of the Quran in the past and present stems from pride, fear of losing control, or social/cultural power. People, whether in the time of Moses or now, often reject what threatens their established way of life or challenges their beliefs and authority. 
• Just as Pharaoh and his followers rejected Moses’ message because it threatened their political and spiritual control, so too do many reject the Quran because it challenges established worldviews, materialism, or secular ideologies.
• Emotional and Psychological Resistance:
• The “disquieting doubt” mentioned in the verse suggests that rejection is not always purely intellectual. It is often a psychological or emotional resistance to a message that demands change and self-reflection. 
• This is seen today as many are resistant to the Quran not because they find it intellectually flawed but because it demands a moral shift or a transformation of personal or societal behavior.

Why is it Similar?

Whenever a new Divine Scripture was presented, it was outrightly contested. Now that the Qur'an is the final Divine Scripture, and there is no new Scripture is to be revealed, it continues to be subjected to negation, criticism and rejection. Let us see how the conditions faced by all earlier prophets and Prophet Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم are similar:

• Universal Rejection: The Quran, like the previous scriptures, faces universal rejection. Just as Moses’ revelation was disputed, the Quran faces rejection not only from non-believers but also from those who consider themselves learned or enlightened, yet remain skeptical or dismissive.
• Human Nature: The nature of disbelief and rejection of truth remains largely the same. Pride, fear of change, and attachment to worldly gains have always been factors that hinder people from accepting divine truth.
• Delayed Consequences: The verse reminds us that God has allowed time for people to reflect, but His ultimate decision will be made when the appointed time comes. The rejection of the Qur'an today does not mean God’s justice will be delayed forever; it will come at the appointed time, as it did with past nations.

Contemporary Lessons:

• Patience and Trust: For Muslims, this verse reminds us to be patient in the face of rejection or opposition, trusting that, as with past prophets, God’s justice will prevail in the end.
• Encouragement to Seek Truth: It encourages all to reflect on the message of the Quran, to seek truth, and to not follow the doubts and misconceptions surrounding it. Doubt is natural, but sincere inquiry into the Quran leads to enlightenment.

In summary, 11:110 highlights a timeless phenomenon: the rejection of divine guidance due to human resistance, pride, and doubt. It draws a clear parallel between the disputes around Moses' Torah and the rejection of the Quran, serving as a reminder of the delayed judgment and the ultimate triumph of truth. Already in many a countries, Islam is gaining popularity and acceptance at pace which has never been witnessed before. This is due to the fat that social media has provided easy and free access to Islam, Qur'an and Sunnah, which was previously generally inaccessible.  The ultimate truth will always prevail in the end.

Please visit our reference page:  Sūrah Hūd  (Prophet Hūd " هود‎ ") for selected verses from Surah Hud.

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 more 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

Prophetic stories from Al Qur'an: The defeat of Jālūt (Goliath) by a feeble young man

In the Qur’an, Ṭālūt (Taloot) and Jālūt (Jalut) refer to two historical figures in a pivotal battle involving Bani Israel. It was the face off between the small army of Ṭālūt, referred to the King Saul who lived about 3,000 years ago and was the first Israelite king, when the mighty power of Jālūt, known as the Goliath, was not only defeated but Jālūt was also killed by a feeble young man with his hand held sling. Who was this young man and who he became after his heroic feat on the battlefield? Let us go back into history and find out.

Who was Ṭālūt and who was Jālūt?

Ṭālūt is the Qur’ānic name for King Saul, appointed by Prophet Samuel as king over the Israelites, chosen not for wealth or lineage but for knowledge and physical stature. While Jālūt corresponds to Goliath, the giant warrior leading the opposing army. He is known for his height, strength, and tyranny.

The Story as Retold in the Qur’an (Surah Al‑Baqarah, verses 246–251)

Al Qur'an briefly describes the appointment of Talut as king and narrates how the army of true believers led by Talut defeated the far mightier Philistine army of Jalut (Goliath) that worshiped false deities. The effective leadership of Talut, and later, the exceptional bravery of a young man, led to an unlikely victory for the Israelites and laid the foundation for the golden period in the history of the tribe.

• Demand for a King and Appointment of Ṭālūt: 
• After Musa’s passing, the Israelites asked to appoint a king to lead them in battle. God designated Ṭālūt, despite their objections: “How can he be king over us when some of us are more worthy and he lacks great wealth?”
• Their prophet said: “Allah chose him and increased him in knowledge and stature.” (Qur’an 2:247)
• Miraculous Sign — The Return of the Ark (Tabūt)
• To confirm his appointment, God returned the Ark of the Covenant—once lost during tyranny—to the Israelites, carried by angels.
• “The sign of his authority is that the Ark shall come to you... in it is peace from your Lord...” (Qur’an 2:248)
• The Test at the River
• Before battle, Ṭālūt tested the loyalty of his army by forbidding them to drink excessively from a river: “Whoever drinks from it is not of me, except those who take only a handful...”
• Only the disciplined few passed the test.
• The Battle and Victory
• Ṭālūt’s faithful army, though smaller, faced Jālūt’s vast forces. 
• The believers prayed: “Our Lord! Send patience upon us and make us firm and grant us victory over the disbelieving people.”
• By God's will, they triumphed, and a feeble young man Dāwūd (later Prophet David) dared the mighty monster Jālūt and killed him a forceful throw of a stone from his hand held sling, causing the enemy army to flee the battlefield.

Ṭālūt had promised whoever killed Jālūt would marry his daughter and share his rule. So it was young Dawood who killed the unbeatable mighty monster received kingship as a reward and divine wisdom thereafter. Prophet Dawood is one of the few Prophets who received Kingship as well.

• For his steadfastness and faithfulness, Prophet Dawood was given the Divine scripture of Psalms as mentioned in Qur'an: (17:55) Your Lord knows all who dwell in the heavens and the earth. We have exalted some Prophets over others, and We gave the Psalms to David.
• For the story of the prophet David (peace be upon him), please refer to (Surah Al-Baqarah, Ayat 251); (Surah Bani-Israil, Ayat 55); (Surah Al-Anbiya, Ayats 78-81); (Surah An-Naml, Ayat 15)
• He was also gifted with a son Sulaiman, who later rose to be the Prophet Solomon, gifted with countless bounties by Allah.

Key Themes & Lessons

Following are some of the lessons that we learn from the encounter between Dawood, later Prophet David, and Jālūt:

• Divine appointment: God appoints leaders based on character and wisdom, not status.
• Trial & discipline: True commitment is tested; only a few remain steadfast under hardship.
• Faith over numbers: Victory often comes through faith, not sheer force or majority.
• Humility in success: Dawood remained humble despite prominence and divine gifts.

I came across of a video about Prophet Dawood and Goliath and thought of sharing here being appropriate and graphical to explain what all has been written above:

The story of Ṭālūt and Jālūt, while historical, offers timeless lessons: leadership by merit, resilience in trials, humility in power, and the power of faith to overcome seemingly insurmountable odds.

Photo | References: | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 |

Please refer to our exclusive reference page: The Prophetic stories, Qaṣaṣ al-anbiyāʾ (قِصَص الْأَنـۢبِيَاء),  mentioned in Al-Qurʾān  for more prophetic stories mentioned in Al Qur'an.

You make like to refer to our reference page: Understanding Al-Qurʾān to learn Al-Qurʾān better. For more Q&A about Understanding Islam, please refer to our reference page: Understanding Islam - Frequently asked Q&A

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

Follow @IslamUltimate

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

Read More

The Prophetic stories, Qaṣaṣ al-anbiyāʾ (قِصَص الْأَنـۢبِيَاء), mentioned in Al-Qurʾān

Al Qur’an is a Divine Book of guidance, assistance and instructions for the believers to strengthen their faith and live a life as Divinely prescribed for them in the Al Qur’an. In order that everyone understands the Divine commandments, these are said in very clear and easy to understand ayat / verses. However, since man like to read folklores more than plain reading as these fascinate both children and elders alike. The prophet related stories are mentioned in Al Qur’an not for pleasure reading but carrying lessons for people of understanding, as mentioned in  Surah Yusuf, 12:111: 

"Certainly in their stories is a lesson for people of understanding. This [Qur'an] is not a tale invented, but a confirmation of what was before it, and a detailed explanation of all things, and guidance and mercy for a people who believe."

In Al Qur’an there are numerous stories of prophets and earlier communities, known as Qaṣaṣ al-Anbiyāʾ (قِصَص الْأَنـۢبِيَاء), the stories of the prophets. They're retold throughout the Qur’an, not for historical detail, but to impart moral guidance, spiritual wisdom, and divine lessons.

Qaṣaṣ al-anbiyāʾ (قِصَص الْأَنـۢبِيَاء) mentioned in Al Qur’an related to the following prophets:

• Prophet Adam (A.S.) — the story of creation, temptation, repentance (e.g. 2:30‑39, 7:11‑25)
• Prophet Nuh (Noah, A.S.) — his perseverance, flood, and lessons on long-term dedication (e.g. Surah Nuh 71, Hud 11:25‑49)
• Prophet  Ibrahim (Abraham, A.S.) — monotheism, testing of faith, and family dynamics (e.g. 6:74‑83, 19:41‑50)
• Prophet  Musa (Moses, A.S.) — liberation of the oppressed, miracles, leadership (e.g. Surah Al-Qasas, Taha)
• Prophet  Yusuf (Joseph, A.S.)
• Betrayal, patience, forgiveness, divine destiny 
• The entire Surah Yusuf, the 12th Surah / Chapter if Al Qur'an, exclusively explains the entire story of Prophet Yusuf.
• Prophets Yunus (Jonah, A.S.), Ayyub (Job, A.S.), Dawud (David, A.S.), Sulaiman (Solomon, A.S.), Luqman, Shuʿayb, Saleh, Lut (Lot), Dhul-Qarnayn — each appears in various surahs with key life events that convey deeper meaning and purpose .

Why These Stories Are Included

• Moral and Spiritual Lessons: 
• Each narrative carries themes like sacrifice, repentance, perseverance, justice, patience, trust in God, and avoidance of wrongdoing.
• Examples:
• Nuh’s persistence despite rejection.
• Ibrahim’s submission and trust.
• Yusuf’s integrity amidst adversity.
• These inspire reflection and personal reform.
• Proof of Divine Message Consistency: The stories show a consistent prophetic mission across time, reinforcing the Qur’an’s continuity with earlier revelations and Shaikh’s affirmation: "There are messengers whose stories We have told, and others We have not."
• Consolation for Believers, Challenge to Rejecters: Stories were revealed to comfort Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and believers facing hardship, reminding them they are part of a prophetic legacy. Meanwhile, they challenge skeptics by showing how past communities treated prophets.
• Intellectual and Emotional Impact: Narratives are not dull recounts; they are crafted to engage intellect and heart, prompting both intellectual reflection and emotional resonance.

As one scholar explained, the Qur’an presents these stories with depth to reinforce its moral and theological teachings, not for chronology but for lasting instruction.

Examples & Key Lessons from Select Stories

• Prophet Adam: Repentance and Allah’s mercy (2:37)
• Prophet Nuh: Patience and sticking to truth amid rejection
• Prophet Ibrahim: Faith under trial and monotheism
• Prophet Musa (and his brother Haroon, Aron): Leadership, courage in adversity, divine support
• Prophet Yusuf: Forgiveness, integrity, divine wisdom (Surah Yusuf)
• Prophet Ayyub: Endurance in suffering, hope in God’s mercy
• Prophet Yunus: Redemption through repentance from the depths
• Prophet Sulaiman & Ant / Queen: Humility, gratitude, justice, and leadership wisdom (An-Naml)
• Prophet Eesa (Jesus) and his mother Maryam (Mary) The Divine miracle of birth of fatherless Jesus - Surah Maryam (Chapter 19: 16-26), Surah Āl ʿImrān (Chapter 3:45–47)
• Luqman: Ethical guidance and paternal advice (31:13‑19)

Thus the stories mentioned in Al Qur’an are very purposeful with a view to:

• Offer guidance, 
• Highlight divine wisdom,
• Teach moral values, and
• Encourage reflection and transformation.

These stories form a central part of the Qur’anic message: past narratives remaining relevant even today. We have already shared some of these prophetic stories, the links to which are given below:

• Prophetic stories, Qaṣaṣ al-Anbiyāʾ (قِصَص الْأَنـۢبِيَاء)
• The People of the Cave 
• Prophet Musa (Moses) and Khidr
• Yajooj and Majooj - Gog and Magog
• The defeat of Jālūt (Goliath) by a feeble young man
• Supplication of Prophet Yunus when in the belly  of big fish
• Prophet Idris as mentioned in the Holy Quran - Was he Biblical Enoch?
• Other Short stories
• Abel, Cain and the Crow
• How Allah Saved Ka'bah from the Invading Army of Elephants

In time we will add more stories as mentioned in Al-Qurʾān.

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

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

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

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

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

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

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

Photo : Gork | References: | 1 | 2 |

You make like to refer to our reference page: Understanding Al-Qurʾān to learn Al-Qurʾān better. 

For more Q&A about Understanding Islam, please refer to our reference page: Understanding Islam - Frequently asked Q&A

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

Follow @IslamUltimate

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

Read More

Al-Qurʾān: Selected verses from Sūrah 10. Yūnus (Prophet Jonah)

Surah Yūnus "يونس", (Prohet "Jonah"), is the 10th surah / chapter the Quran with 109 ayat / verses. The Surah is named after the Prophet Yunus (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). It is believed to have been revealed before the migration of the Prophet Muhammed صلى الله عليه وسلم and his followers from Makkah to Medina (Hijra), and is thus called a Meccan surah. 

Surah Yunus is the first of six surahs which open with the tri-letters alif, lam and ra'. For other surahs of Qur'an which commence with Huroof Muqatta’at - Disjoined Letters, please refer to our earlier post: Understanding the Holy Quran: Huroof Muqatta’at - Disjoined Letters

About Sūrah Yūnus

Its content presents a unified discourse, likely revealed in one sitting, designed to bolster the believers’ resolve and confront the Quraysh’s objections to the message of Islam 

Major Themes 

According to scholars, its major themes include:

• Tawhid (Divine Oneness) & Revelation: Emphasizes monotheism, the authenticity of the Quran, and the rejection of polytheism and false gods 
• Prophethood and Divine Message: It addresses the rejection faced by the Prophet ﷺ by drawing parallels with prophets like Nūḥ, Mūsā, and Yūnus (Jonah) — highlighting both struggle and triumph 
• Signs in Nature: Invites reflection on creation—the heavens, earth, day/night cycles, sun and moon—as evidence of God’s power and sovereignty 
• Graphic descriptions of the Hereafter: there are several verses that provide graphic descriptions of the Hereafter to serve as a stern warning, urging people to reform their ways before it’s too late.
• Judgment and Accountability: Reaffirms belief in resurrection and the Day of Judgment, warning of consequences for disbelief and neglect of divine guidance 
• Hope, Mercy & Repentance: Although some nations faced destruction, the people of Yūnus were forgiven after sincere repentance—highlighting Allah’s mercy even after delay 
• Guidance for the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ: Encourages patience, perseverance in hardship, and steadfastness in delivering the message without forcing belief 
• Critique of Disbelief: Addresses the argument of unbelievers who rejected the Quran as fabricated, demanded miracles or alternate scripture, and mocked resurrection 

Structure and Flow

• Verses 1–20: Assertion of the divine nature of the Quran, denial of sorcery accusations, and the reality of revelation to a man from among them 
• Verses 21–32: Debate over resurrection, divine purpose, and reminders from past warnings.
• Verses 33–41: Life as trial and the shifting human attitudes towards gratitude and remembrance.
• Verses 42–70: Stories of Nūḥ, Mūsā vs. Pharaoh, and the people of Yūnus.
• Verses 71–109: Reflection on faith, repentance, free will, and final exhortation to the Prophet ﷺ to continue patiently.

Relevance in the Present Day

1. Strengthening Faith Amid Opposition: Just as early Muslims faced hostility, believers today are reminded that doubt and resistance to truth is not new 
2. Miracles of Reflection: Encourages modern readers to contemplate natural phenomena as signs of divine power, especially in an age of scientific discovery 
3. Mercy through Repentance: Demonstrates that sincere repentance—even after error or delay—is recognized and rewarded by Allah (as in Yūnus’s recitation of “Lā ilāha illā anta...” 
4. Clarity in Dialogue: Provides tools to respond to skepticism, secularism, relativism, and ideological bias with reasoned evidence and prophetic wisdom.
5. Reminder of Purpose: Reinforces that life is a test; each person must choose belief and accountability over convenience or cultural acceptance.

Summary Table (Theme vis Meaning & Message)

• Monotheism & Revelation: The Quran is divine; idols and false gods cannot benefit or harm.
• Prophetic Stories: Resistance faced by prophets is timeless; conviction persists despite hardship.
• Signs in Creation: Nature as evidence of Divine Wisdom, inviting reflection and recognition.
• Judgment & Mercy: Resurrected accountability balanced by compassion for those who repent and reform.
• Responding to Rejection: Use reasoned argument and patience, not force or despair.
• Life’s Test: Human existence is temporary; faith and actions define eternal destiny.

In summary, Sūrah 10. Yūnus is a powerful Makkan surah whose themes—Tawhid, accountability, prophetic resilience, divine mercy, and rational reflection—continue to guide, console, and challenge believers today.-

We have already published detailed exegesis of the Surah which can be accessed from links given below:

| Overview | Exegesis: | Part I | Part II | Part III |  | Part IV |

*You may like to read the story of Prophet Yunus as mentioned in Qur'an from our earlier post: Prophet Younis (Jonah) and Allah's Displeasure

Mention of Prophet Yunus in other surahs of Qur'an:

• Surah As‑Saffāt (37:139–148) describes the event in detail 
• Surah Al-Anbiyā’ (21:87–88) mentions his supplication and rescue 
• Surah Yunus (10:98) mentions the people of Yunus repenting after he was sent back 
• Surah Al-Qalam (68:48–50) refers to “the companion of the Fish” urging patience in contrast to his experience 

We now share some of the verses from Sūrah Yūnus which have already been published covering some important messages:

• Divine Warning for those who worship others than Allah and call them their Intercessors with Allah - verse 18
• Allah calls you to the Abode of Peace - verse 25
• Beware of a Day when there will be no barter exchange of sins with worldly wealth - verse 54
• What do we learn from the fate of the disgraced (like Pharaoh) who remain alive in corridors of history - verse 92
• Do not worship others beside Allah - verse 104
• If Allah afflicts you with any hardship, none other than He can remove it - verse 107

In time we will continue to add more selected verses from Sūrah Yūnus for information of our readers.

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.

Please refer to our exclusive reference page: Selected verses from Surah 14. Ibrāhīm "إبراهيم" (Prophet Abraham) for verses from this Surah

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

For more 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

Al-Qurʾān: Do you seek someone other than Allah as Lord when He is the Lord of everything?

Man has always been ignorant of where to find the truth and Who to accept as his Lord. Over centuries, this confusion in the mindset of many who despite clear signs and evidence around him and in the entire universe explicitly tell him who the True Lord is - for everything that man can see or even imagine could not have been done by any worldly deity.  

For those who continue to seek another deity, Allah responds in Al-Qurʾān and tell them in clear words that He is the Only Lord of everything that exists, then why they seek someone other than Allah as their Lord. This is the message conveyed to the mankind in the 164th verse of 6th Chapter of Al-Qurʾān: Surah An‘ām being shared and explained herein under:

قُلۡ اَغَيۡرَ اللّٰهِ اَبۡغِىۡ رَبًّا وَّهُوَ رَبُّ كُلِّ شَىۡءٍ​ ؕ وَلَا تَكۡسِبُ كُلُّ نَـفۡسٍ اِلَّا عَلَيۡهَا​ۚ وَلَا تَزِرُ وَازِرَةٌ وِّزۡرَ اُخۡرٰى​ ۚ ثُمَّ اِلٰى رَبِّكُمۡ مَّرۡجِعُكُمۡ فَيُنَبِّئُكُمۡ بِمَا كُنۡـتُمۡ فِيۡهِ تَخۡتَلِفُوۡنَ‏  

(6:164) Say: 'Shall I seek someone other than Allah as Lord when He is the Lord of everything?' Everyone will bear the consequence of what he does, and no one shall bear the burden of another.  Thereafter, your return will be to your Lord, whereupon He will let you know what you disagreed about.

Since God is the Lord of the entire universe, how could anyone be His lord? Since the entire universe is yoked to obedience to God, man is an integral part of the universe, how can he reasonably, look for another lord in that area of his life in which he uses his own volition and making a judgement? Is it appropriate for him to move in diametrical opposition to the entire universe? It is for those who differ whether God is one or more, it is reminded to them that “Then to your Lord is your return, and He will inform you of what you used to differ in.”

Explanation of the Verse

• The Context: This verse appears in Surah Al-An‘ām where Allah denies the notion that anyone other than Him can be the Lord and reminds people that every soul is responsible for its own deeds. No one bears the burden of another. Finally, we are told that everyone will return to Allah, who will judge us and clarify what we used to differ in.
• Key Meanings:
• Return to Allah: Every human being will be raised after death and brought before Allah.
• Divine Accounting: Allah will make clear all matters over which people differed—whether beliefs, disputes, or disagreements regarding truth and behavior.
• Ultimate Justice: The final verdict will be clear and fair, based on justice that only Allah can administer.

Complementary Verses with Similar Warnings

The message is echoed throughout the Qur’an:

• Surah At‑Tawbah (9:105): “Say, ‘Do [as you will]… and you will be returned to the Knower of the unseen and the witnessed, then He will inform you of what you used to do.’” 
• Surah Az‑Zumar (39:7): “Then to your Lord is your return, and He will inform you of what you used to do…” 
• Surah Al-An‘ām (6:60): “…then to Him will be your return; then He will inform you about what you used to do.” 

These verses reinforce the same overarching principle: every action and belief has significance, Allah alone will judge, and He will make everything clear.

Timeless Lessons for Today

• Personal Accountability: Every soul will be held fully accountable for its own deeds—no one else’s. Your life’s choices and beliefs will be individually assessed.
• Awareness in Dispute: Our disagreements—whether about religion, ethics, or worldly matters—are not negligible. Allah will clarify what was right and wrong in our disputes.
• Promotion of Justice and Truth: The promise of divine accounting motivates ethical behavior today. It encourages us to act honestly, avoid causing injustice, and seek truth sincerely.
• Comfort and Warning: For the righteous, this is reassuring; for the wrongdoer, it’s a warning. Knowing that Allah will reveal all hidden intentions compels sincerity and heart-based integrity.

Summary Table

• Verse Source Surah Al-An‘ām (6:164), also echoed in Qur’an 9:105, 39:7, 6:60
• Central Message: Return to Allah → His judgment → He will tell you what you used to do
• Modern Relevance: Encourages truth, accountability, justice, and moral growth

This message reminds humanity that life is purposeful, transparently recorded, and divinely judged. If despite all clear signs and the powerlessness of human even to make the thin covering over the date seed, one clings to his confusion as to who the real Lord is, then he certainly is at loss.

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.

Please refer to our exclusive reference page: Selected verses from Surah 6 Al-An'am (The Cattle) for verses from this Surah. 

You may also refer to our exclusive reference pages: Selected verses from selected Surahs of Al-Qurʾān for compiled verses from other surahs, and  Selected Verses from Al Qur'an about a Specific Subject (Reference Page) to know more about what Qur'an says about specific subjects.

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

Why stories of the past are retold in Al-Qurʾān?

There always has been a rejection of AL Qur'an by polytheists and non Muslims on the ground that stories in Al Qur'an has borrowed stories from the people of the past or as mentioned in the earlier Divine scriptures. Thus they label it as a replication of past events or Al Qur'an at best being a book of history. While raising such objections against Qur'an, they fail to understand the Divine philosophy of retelling the past to those are present and the one's who will be in the future. 

It is said in Qur'an (12:111):

"Certainly in their stories is a lesson for people of understanding. This [Qur'an] is not a tale invented, but a confirmation of what was before it, and a detailed explanation of all things, and guidance and mercy for a people who believe."

It is for this reason, Al Qur’an often retells stories of previous prophets and communities — sometimes with repetition, variation, or emphasis on different details. This isn't redundancy. Rather, it serves a powerful and intentional purpose, especially for people of all times, including today.

Let us examine the WHY of retelling of stories of the people of the past:

Why Are Stories Retold in the Qur’an?

• To introduce to the Polytheists of Makkah the Evolution of the Divine Religions
• The pagans of Makkah have had no interaction with a messenger before. Thus presenting them a Divine Scripture could not be done in a vacuum.
• Beside there were some Christians and Jews in Makkah and Medina who raised the similar observations about stories from the past for some of these were already mentioned in Torah and Injeel (present day Bible).
• Thus these stories were retold to reconnect Qur'an to the past and establish a continuity of the Divine message that was already there in the form of Torah and Injeel or in the history books.
• To Teach Through Repetition and Reflection
• Human beings learn best through repetition, especially when lessons are deep or emotionally charged.
• “And We certainly have diversified in this Qur'an for the people from every example…” (Qur’an 17:89)
• Each retelling highlights a different angle — spiritual, moral, historical, or emotional.
• To Show Consistency of Divine Message
• The core message of all prophets — monotheism, justice, accountability — is consistent.
• “Indeed, this is in the former scriptures — the scriptures of Abraham and Moses.” (Qur’an 87:18–19)
• By retelling stories of Nuh (Noah), Musa (Moses), Ibrahim (Abraham), Yusuf (Joseph) and others, the Qur’an re-emphasizes:
• Oneness of God
• Oneness of Divine message
• One moral system across history
• To Support and Console the Prophet ﷺ
• Stories were revealed to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ during times of trial — especially rejection and persecution in Makkah.
• “And all We relate to you of the news of the messengers is so that We may make your heart firm thereby…” (Qur’an 11:120)
• The stories gave him strength by showing:
• He was not alone
• All prophets were rejected by their people before being vindicated
• To Provide Timeless Lessons for Humanity: Every story contains universal themes that are eternally relevant:
• Adam & Iblis: Origins of human free will, arrogance vs obedience, repentance
• Nuh (Noah): Patience with rejection, persistence in Da‘wah, trusting Allah
• Ibrahim (Abraham): Tawheed (pure monotheism), sacrifice, submission
• Musa (Moses): Speaking truth to power, liberation from oppression, leadership under pressure
• Yusuf (Joseph): Patience, resisting temptation, family dynamics, divine planning
• Lut (Lot): Warnings against social and moral corruption and homosexuality
• Musa vs Pharaoh: Tyranny vs humility, false power vs divine truth
• To Warn, Encourage, and Educate Us
• These stories are not history for entertainment, but "ʿibrah" (lessons) as Allah says:
• "Indeed, in their stories there is a lesson (ʿibrah) for people of understanding..."
• (Qur’an 12:111)
• Stories show the consequences of arrogance, injustice, corruption — and the rewards of faith, patience, and obedience.

Do These Stories Matter Today

The stories of the bygone people, their rise and fall are retold time and again so that people of the future take heed from these and do not commit the same follies as were done by the people of the past and became the reason of their destruction and extinction. However, man, always being stubborn and arrogant, never learns. Herein under is the correlation between our present with the stories so retold:

• Injustice, Racism, Tyranny: Story of Pharaoh and Musa – resist oppression with truth and faith
• Youth dealing with temptation: Story of Yusuf – resisting sin and choosing dignity over desire
• Moral corruption in society: People of Lut – warning against normalized immorality
• Loneliness, abandonment, or trauma: Stories of Yusuf, Maryam – trusting Allah in isolation
• Interfaith dialogue: Stories of Ibrahim, Musa, ‘Isa – common ground among Abrahamic faiths
• Social collapse due to arrogance and denial: Stories of ‘Ād, Thamud, and past nations – rise and fall of civilizations

Conclusion:

The Qur’an retells stories for deeper reflection “So relate the stories that they may reflect.” (Qur’an 7:176) to:

• Teach moral and spiritual truths
• Inspire reflection and action
• Connect the past to the present
• Show the universality of the human struggle
• Demonstrate that divine justice is always at work

These not just stories. They're mirrors. They reflect us — our choices, our societies, our futures.

Let us learn from the past, the arrogance of people of the earlier times who vehemently rejected the Divine Da'wah, tortured the prophets, messengers and the righteous to prevail their way of life, culture and traditions continuing down from their ancestors. Today, we stand at the crossroads as always for people of earlier Divine Scriptures are not ready to accept Al Qur'an as a Divine Scripture and Islam as a religion of God. 

Not only this, the WHY of the ultimate fate of the people who were Divinely cursed has not been ever correlated with the ills of the societies we are facing today. People are being tortured, killed and subdued by those who want to dominate and rule with no rival in sight. Today, Injustice, Racism, Tyranny is at peak and it seems we have never opened our history books and Divine Scriptures to draw lessons for us by knowing how earlier people were subjected to Divine wrath and perished, leaving behind their once mighty palaces and structure in ruins forever.

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 Reference Pages  and Understanding Al Qur'an for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.

Photo | 

Disclaimer: The material for this post has been collected from authentic references and also ChatGPT.  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: Selected verses from Sürah 12. Yūsuf - Prophet Josef (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ)

Sürah Yūsuf - Prophet Joseph (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is the 12th Sürah / chapter of Al-Qurʾān. It is preceded by sūrah Hud and followed by Ar-Ra’d (The thunder). It is said to have been revealed in a single sitting and is unique in this respect. Unlike the accounts of other prophets, different elements and aspects of which are related in different surahs, the life-history of Yūsuf, is narrated in this surah only, in full and in chronological order. 

The Sürah  tells the true and complete story of Prophet Yūsuf (Joseph), son of Prophet Yaqub (Jacob - عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in one continuous narrative, which is unique in the Qur’an, beside being one of the most powerful and emotionally rich chapters in the Qur'an. It not only tells the story of Prophet Yusuf (Joseph, peace be upon him) but also conveys universal lessons about patience, trust, morality, forgiveness, and divine wisdom. This surah, which also tells of the truth, according to Muslims, contained in dreams, presents many principles of how to serve Islam by relating the life-history of a prophet, who became the most renowned and respected figure in the country to which he had been sold as a slave. In fact, Surah Yusuf is not just a beautiful story — it’s a life map.

It is a Meccan Sürah revealed during a time of great hardship in the life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ (during the Year of Sorrow, when he lost both Khadijah and Abu Talib), as a source of consolation, hope, and guidance. Thus Sürah was aimed at telling Prophet Muhammad ﷺ how the earlier prophets had endured hardships, yet they remained steadfast and finally prevailed.

Here are some of the most important verses from Sürah Yusuf along with the lessons they teach for mankind:

• Patience in the Face of Trials
• "So patience is most fitting. And Allah is the one sought for help against that which you describe." (Surah Yusuf 12:18)
• Lesson: When Prophet Yaqub (Jacob) lost his son Yusuf, he responded with sabr (patience), trusting Allah instead of breaking down in despair.
• A lesson in handling personal loss or injustice with faith and dignity.
• Temptation and Moral Integrity
• "He said, 'My Lord, prison is more beloved to me than that to which they invite me. And if You do not avert their plan from me, I might incline toward them and be of the ignorant.'" (Surah Yusuf 12:33)
• Lesson: Yusuf chose prison over sin, showing his deep commitment to purity and integrity, even when faced with seduction and false accusations.
• Teaches self-control, resisting temptation, and choosing long-term righteousness over short-term pleasure.
• Allah's Plan is Always Perfect
• "Indeed, my Lord is Subtle in what He wills. Truly, it is He who is the All-Knowing, the All-Wise." (Surah Yusuf 12:100)
• Lesson: After years of pain, Yusuf is reunited with his family and elevated in status — a reminder that Allah’s plan may take time but is always just and wise.
• Teaches trust in divine timing, even when we don't understand the reason for our trials.
• Forgiveness Over Revenge
• "He said, 'No blame will there be upon you today. Allah will forgive you; and He is the most merciful of the merciful.'" (Surah Yusuf 12:92)
• Lesson: Yusuf forgave his brothers, even though they tried to destroy him out of jealousy.
• A powerful lesson in forgiveness, mercy, and letting go of grudges, even when you're in a position of power.
• Speaking the Truth, Even in Difficulty
• "And the one from Egypt who bought him said to his wife, 'Make his stay comfortable. Perhaps he may benefit us or we may adopt him as a son.'" (Surah Yusuf 12:21)
• Lesson: Even when Yusuf was sold into slavery, the people around him recognized his potential.
• Teaches that value and character are not tied to status or background, and that truth and excellence shine through, even in hardship.
• Trusting Allah in Isolation
• "And he (Yusuf) said: O my Lord, prison is more beloved to me than what they are calling me to..." (Surah Yusuf 12:33)
• (also related to previous point)
• In prison, Yusuf still maintained his faith, dignity, and continued to call others to Allah, showing that faith isn't dependent on circumstance.
• Knowledge is a Trust from Allah
• "And He (Allah) taught you of the interpretation of dreams and perfected His favor upon you..." (Surah Yusuf 12:6)
• Lesson: Knowledge is not self-earned; it’s a divine gift. Yusuf's ability to interpret dreams and govern wisely was a trust, not a personal achievement.
• Teaches humility and gratitude for divine blessings.
• Beauty of Good Character
• "Indeed, he was of Our chosen, sincere servants." (Surah Yusuf 12:24)
• Lesson: Yusuf is honored for his ikhlās (sincerity), not just for his beauty or intelligence.
• Good character and sincerity are more lasting than worldly attributes.
• Responding to Jealousy with Grace
• "Kill Yusuf or cast him out to another land so the attention of your father will be only for you..." (Surah Yusuf 12:9)
• Lesson: Jealousy can lead to horrible actions, but Yusuf never retaliated. He responded with grace, patience, and trust in Allah.
• Teaches how to rise above envy and betrayal.
• Real Success is with Allah
• "My Lord, You have given me [something] of sovereignty and taught me of the interpretation of dreams. Creator of the heavens and the earth, You are my protector in this world and in the Hereafter. Cause me to die a Muslim and join me with the righteous." (Surah Yusuf 12:101)
• Lesson: At the height of his power, Yusuf remained humble, attributing everything to Allah and asking to die as a Muslim.
• True success is not worldly status, but dying with faith and being counted among the righteous.

Conclusion:

Surah Yusuf is a masterclass in character, patience, forgiveness, and faith. It teaches that no matter how difficult your situation, if you remain truthful, pure, and patient, Allah will eventually honor you.

“Indeed, in their stories there is a lesson for those of understanding...” (Surah Yusuf 12:111)

We have already published detailed exegesis of the Surah which can be accessed from links given below:

| Overview | Exegesis: | Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4 | Lessons |

We now share some of the verses from Surah Al-A'raf which have already been published covering some important messages:

• Believers! Do not relate your vision or intentions to others - verse 5
• What is patience in Good Grace (صَبۡرٌ جَمِيۡلٌ) - verse 18
• Prayer of Prophet Yaqoob (Jacob, AS) - verse 86
• My Lord! Cause me to die in submission to You, and join me, in the end, with the righteous - verse 101
• O Creator of heavens and earth! Cause me to die in submission to You - verse 101
• Why stories of the past are retold in Al-Qurʾān? -verse 111

In time we will continue to add more selected verses from Surah .7 Al-A'raf for information of our readers.

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 more 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