Three verses which together form a complete Qur’anic framework for faith, Da'wah, and inner strength

AL Qur'an is not only a Book of Guidance for the ordinaries, but is also a Book  of Wisdom for those who reflect over its verses deeply and connect different verses to find a hidden correlation. We have been sharing selected verses from various Surahs of Al Qur'an - but in this post we share three verses form different Surahs of Al Qur'an which together form a complete Qur’anic framework for faith, Da'wah, and inner strength.  Each verse covers one layer of reality, and when paired, they produce balance.

These verses are: Surah 30. Ar-Rum: 60, Surah 28. Al-Qasas: 56 and Surah 36. Ya-Sin: 82. Herein under we correlate 30:60 with other two verses and try to establish a framework for faith, Da'wah, and inner strength. Da'wah has been the sole responsibility of prophets and messengers of Allah. They faced stiff resistance in convincing the non believers to come to the way of one true God. Yet in most of the cases they could not succeed and felt demoralized. For their consolation, Allah told them that their responsibility was only to convey the Da'wah to the audience and then be patient for it is Allah who guides He wills. In this backdrop, now correlate the three verses and understand the Qur'anic framework.

Pairing 30:60 with 28:56 — Da'wah & Emotional Resilience

• The verses
• (28:56) - “You do not guide whom you love, but Allah guides whom He wills.”
• (30:60) “So be patient. Indeed, the promise of Allah is true. And do not let those who lack certainty weaken your resolve.”
• How these work together
• (28:56) Defines your limit, You cannot control guidance, Removes guilt, and Prevents arrogance
• (30:60) Defines your posture,  You must not lose resolve, Builds patience, and Builds patience.
• Da'wah Principle formed: Together these Convey sincerely, accept your limits, remain patient and stay firm despite rejection.
• Practical example: You explain Islam to someone and they reject it.
• 28:56 says: It was never your power
• 30:60 says: Do not let their doubt shake you
• The combination induces Emotional balance and spiritual maturity.

Pairing 30:60 with 36:82 — Faith & Certainty in Allah’s Power

• The verses
• (36:82): “When He intends a thing, He only says to it: ‘Be,’ and it is.”
• (30:60) “The promise of Allah is true… do not let the uncertain weaken you.”
• How these verses work together
• (Verse 36:82): Explains how Allah acts, that is Allah has the Absolute divine power, Allah has Instant Divine power, and His commands are instant
• (Verse 30:60) Explains how you should respond and require human patience when experiencing delays. This means extreme Perseverance at human level.
• Faith Principle formed: What Allah wills is effortless for Him but its realization / unfolding requires your patience.
• Practical example: Justice seems delayed, yet in time its unfolding surfaces exhibiting Divine wisdom. That means 36:82 says: It is effortless for Allah, and 30:60 says: So do not lose resolve. Remember Hope without illusion, patience without weakness.

All three verses together — A complete Qur’anic triangle

The above explanations this establishes a framework which envisages:

• 36:82  means Absolute Power rests with Allah
• 28:56  exhibits Human Limit (You / the inviter)
• 30:60  tells us Human Duty is to performed with Patience & firmness.

The Framework so established teaches us that (1) Allah has total control, (2) Humans have defined responsibility and that (3) Believers must maintain steadfast character

One-line synthesis

Allah has absolute power (36:82), guidance belongs to Him alone (28:56), and your role as an inviter is patient, unwavering faith without being shaken by doubt (30:60).

Why this pairing is powerful today

This framework of three verses is a must for all those involved in Da'wah. Its better understanding would:

• Prevent burnout in Da'wah.
• Protect from despair during injustice.
• Counter skepticism and mockery. and
• Build quiet, confident faith

Therefore , all believers Da'wah to the non Muslims must understand this framework so that they do not get dejected when confronted with a non receptive audience and have patience. Having extended Da'wah utilizing their best of abilities, they should leave to Allah for the results and have firm faith in doing so. This framework when understood completely boosts inner strength of the inviters to continue extending Da'wah and be rest assured that Allah will never fail them in their efforts.

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: Da'wah - The Invitation to Non-Muslims to Islam to know more Da'wah and its dynamics and modalities. 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 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 single verse from Surah Yā Sīn يٰسٓ that combines four major theological realities

Al Qur'an is a book of Divine wisdom for the men of wisdom. Every verse embodies in itself much deeper meaning than what is apparent for the ordinary. If one ponders over each verse of Al Qur'an, new windows start top open to broaden one's horizon and level of understanding of Divine wisdom. We have been sharing selected verses that make us better believers, thus better humans.

Surah Ya Seen  يٰسٓ, the 36th Surah / Chapter of Al Qur'an is one such Surah wherein wisdom is seen hidden under every verse and scholars have been trying to dig in what is hidden in the back end. Today we share its 12th verse that combines four theological realties in it for the information of our readers. Here we go:

اِنَّا نَحۡنُ نُحۡىِ الۡمَوۡتٰى وَنَكۡتُبُ مَا قَدَّمُوۡا وَاٰثَارَهُمۡؕ وَكُلَّ شَىۡءٍ اَحۡصَيۡنٰهُ فِىۡۤ اِمَامٍ مُّبِيۡنٍ‏ 

(36:12) We shall surely raise the dead to life and We record what they did and the traces of their deeds that they have left behind. We have encompassed that in a Clear Book.

Context within Surah Yā Sīn

Surah Yā Sīn is often called “the heart of the Qur’an” because it powerfully reminds the believers of (1) Resurrection (Ākhirah), (2) Accountability, (3) Truth of revelation, (4) Consequences of belief and disbelief.

In the Immediate context (36:7–12): Allah reassures the Prophet ﷺ that though Many people deny resurrection  and mock Divine warnings, their rejection can not cancel accountability and that every deed is preserved and Resurrection is certain.

Therefore 36:12 comes as a decisive theological statement and even if people deny, nothing is lost, nothing is forgotten, and nothing escapes judgment.

The Four Major Theological Realities in 36:12

This single verse contains four foundational pillars of Islamic belief.

• Reality of Resurrection (إِنَّا نَحْنُ نُحْيِي الْمَوْتَىٰ) - “Indeed, We give life to the dead”
• This is direct refutation of denial of the Hereafter and that Emphatic structure (inna - naḥnu) stresses certainty and that Life after death is not symbolic, but literal.
• Related verses:
• “He will revive them Who created them the first time.” (36:79)
• “Then you will surely be resurrected.” (23:16)
• Personal Accountability (وَنَكْتُبُ مَا قَدَّمُوا) - “We record what they sent ahead”
• This refers to: intentional deeds, words, choices, acts of obedience or sin
• “Sent ahead” implies: You are forwarding deeds to the Hereafter and Nothing is truly “past”
• Elsewhere in Al Qur'an it is said: “Every soul will find what it did present.” (3:30)
• Ongoing Impact of Actions (وَآثَارَهُمْ) - “And their آثار (traces / footprints)”
• This is one of the most profound elements of the verse.
• Āthār includes: knowledge you taught, good or bad example you set, children you raised, systems you supported and the harm or benefit that continued after death
• Supporting hadith: “When a person dies, his deeds end except three: ongoing charity, beneficial knowledge, or a righteous child who prays for him.” (Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim)
• This is how Islam teaches moral ripple effects — deeds outlive bodies.
• Absolute Divine Knowledge & Justice (وَكُلَّ شَيْءٍ أَحْصَيْنَاهُ) - “Everything We have precisely enumerated”
• The last part of the verses emphasises that Nothing is forgotten, nothing exaggerated  and nothing is unjust
• “Not even the weight of an atom will be overlooked.” (21:47)

Meaning of the Ending Phrase: إِمَامٍ مُّبِينٍ (Imām Mubīn)

This is ending phrase of the verse which has been discussed deeply by classical scholars. Let us expand this in the light of explanation by some of the scholars:

• Linguistic meaning: 
• Imām إِمَامٍ : 
• From the root أ م م meaning to lead, to be in front, to be followed. In Arabic, imām does not only mean a person, but it can also mean: (1) a master record, (2) a comprehensive register, (3) something that guides or governs other records, (4) Something that is followed, a comprehensive reference
• That is as mentioned in AL Qur'an: “The Day We will call every people with their imām.” (17:71), meaning their record / leader / standard
• Mubīn مُّبِينٍ : Clear, Manifest, Fully explained, and leaving no ambiguity or error
• Imām Mubīn combined thus means the absolutely clear, all-encompassing Divine register (the Preserved Tablet) in which Allah has recorded every deed, event, and consequence without error or omission.
• Scholarly explanations (Ahl al-Sunnah consensus)
• The Preserved Record (al-Lawḥ al-Maḥfūẓ): Most Scholars / mufassirūn (like Ibn Kathīr, Ṭabarī, Qurṭubī) are of the opinion that it refers to Allah’s complete register of all events - Past, present, future — all encompassed as asserted elsewhere in Al Qur'an: “Indeed, it is in a Preserved Tablet.” (85:22)
• The Master Register of Deeds: 
• Other scholars are of the view that it includes the comprehensive account from which (1) individual books of deeds are produced and (2) judgment is conducted.
• That is “This Book will speak the truth against you.” (45:29)
• However, What it does NOT mean (important clarification)  is that (1) It does not refer to a human imam, (2) It does not mean hidden esoteric leadership, (3) It does not support sectarian reinterpretations - The Qur’an itself explains Qur’an.

14th century eminent scholar and exegete Ibn Kathir's explanation focuses on the comprehensive nature of divine recording, covering several key aspects: 

• Resurrection: The verse confirms the belief that Allah will surely bring the dead back to life for judgment.
• Recording of Deeds (What they send before them): All immediate actions, whether good or bad, are fully recorded in a divine register.
• Recording of Traces/Effects (wa 'atharahum): This is a key point in Ibn Kathir's tafsir. The "traces" or "effects" (athar) refer to the lasting consequences, outcomes, and influences of a person's deeds that continue after the action itself is done, or even after the person has died.
• Examples of Traces: This includes the positive or negative effects a person's actions have on future generations, society, or the environment.
• Footprints to the Mosque: Ibn Kathir includes narrations (Hadith) where the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) explained that even the footprints made while walking to the mosque (for prayer) are recorded as good deeds, encouraging people to live where they are and not move closer to the mosque just to shorten the walk.
• The Clear Register (Imam Mubin): Everything is precisely computed and kept in a manifest book of record, also referred to as the Preserved Tablet (Lawh al-Mahfuz) or the person's book of deeds, which will be presented on the Day of Judgment. 

Ibn Kathir's interpretation emphasizes the individual's full accountability not only for their direct actions but also for the ripple effects those actions create during their lifetime and beyond. His method involves using related Quranic verses and Hadith to strengthen his explanation, which is why his tafsir is highly renowned in the Islamic world.

Sayyid Abul Ala Maududi, one of the eminent Muslim scholars of all times sums up this verse as  given herein under:

There are three kinds of the entries are made in the conduct-book of men. First, whatever a person does, good or bad is entered in the divine register. Second, whatever impressions a man makes on the objects of his environment and on the limbs of his own body itself, become recorded, and all these impressions will at one time become so conspicuous that man’s own voice will become audible and the whole history of his ideas and intentions and aims and objects and the pictures of all of his good and bad acts and deeds will appear before him. Third, whatever influences he has left behind of his good and bad actions on his future generation, on his society and on mankind as a whole, will go on being recorded in his account as far as they reach and as long as they remain active and operative. The full record of the good and bad training given by him to his children, the good or evil that he has spread in the society, and its impact on mankind as a whole, will go on being maintained till the time that it goes on producing good or evil results in the world.

In Wiki Qur'an, the same verse is explained as under:

Bringing the dead back to life has always been an issue fraught with argument. Therefore such people who doubt the Resurrection are warned here that whatever they do and whatever effects their deeds cause are written down, and nothing is forgotten. It is God Almighty who brings the dead back to life, records their actions and reckons everything. All this, then, is done in the perfect way that fits anything done by God. As for the ‘clear record’ and similar descriptions such as ‘the imperishable tablet’, these are most probably references to God’s perfect knowledge that transcends time and place.

Why This Verse Is Deeply Relevant Today

In today's world of digitization and excellent record keeping, tracking one's actions has become much to easy for everyone leaves behind one's digital footprints which become a source of permanent records. This is exactly what this verse means: Nothing disappears — it only transfers realms.

That is this verse is part of reframing of our lives wherein We are not just living — we are writing and that we are not just acting — we are actually planting آثار. Which means our actions today are being written on the Divine hard drives - the Divine إِمَامٍ مُّبِينٍ.

Thus Qur’an 36:12 declares that Allah will resurrect the dead, record every deed and its lasting effects, and preserve all of it in a perfectly clear Divine register. It establishes resurrection, accountability, moral continuity, and absolute justice — reminding humanity that nothing they do vanishes, and nothing escapes Divine knowledge.

Final reflection: The verse can be summed up in just one line "Your body will return to dust, but your آثار will still speak."

You may refer know more about Surah Ya Sīn from our reference page: Selected Verses from Sürah 36. Yā-Sīn already published.

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

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

| Resource Reference: | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Google / ChatGPT

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

Lessons from story of Three Prophets in Al-Qurʾān (Sürah 36. Yā-Sīn) and their Lone Defender

The Lord of the entire universe created our earthly world along with abundance of means of sustenance for man to live comfortably for one sole purpose: Worship of Him, and no one else. For this He chose prophets and messengers from among the men and assigned them the sacred task of extending Da'wah / invitation to follow one true God and none else. These prophets and messengers faced an uphill task to extend the Da'wah to the idolaters who all refused to listen to them, except a few. The prophets were subjected to harsh treatment and were often mishandled and physically and spiritually abused. But they never lost ground under their feet and defended the task assigned to them.

They were, however, never alone, for some God fearing men would stand side by side and defend their cause. This is the theme of verses 13-29 of Surah Ya Seen and is being shared for believers to understand the wisdom behind the parable mentioned in Qur'an. After Prophet Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم there are to be no more prophets to extend Da'wah to the faith of Allah. So now it is the responsibility of each believer to defend our faith and extend invitation to all non Muslims to come under the fold of Islam. Like always, the path of Da'wah will always be arduous, difficult and rejections. Despite all these difficulties, the believers need to carry on and do their best, for the task of believers to convince and not enforce the Divine faith. It is up to Allah Who would melt hearts no matter how stoned and prejudiced.

Now lets us first share a brief on verses 13-29 from Surah Ya Seen of Al-Qurʾān and then wee how can we benefit from these verses and extend Da'wah to non Muslims for their own salvation. Al-Qurʾān: 

1. The Story in the Qur’an

The Parable of the Town (36:13–29)

• 36:13–14: 
• “And cite for them the example of the people of the town, when the messengers came to it. When We sent to them two, but they denied them, so We reinforced them with a third, and they said, ‘Indeed, we are sent to you as messengers.’”
• Allah sent two prophets, then strengthened them with a third, showing support and confirmation.
• 36:15–19:
• The people denied them, saying: “You are only men like us.” They accused them of lying and even threatened them: “We see an evil omen in you… we will surely stone you.”
• This highlights the resistance prophets often face.
• 36:20–22:
• “And there came from the farthest end of the city a man, rushing, saying, ‘O my people, follow the messengers! Follow those who ask of you no payment, and they are rightly guided.’”
• A lone believer courageously defended the prophets, urging his people to accept the truth.
• 36:23–27:
• He proclaimed his faith openly: “Why should I not worship Him who created me? And to Him you will be returned.”
• The people killed him, but Allah honored him: “It was said, ‘Enter Paradise.’ He said, ‘If only my people knew how my Lord has forgiven me and placed me among the honored.’”
• 36:28–29:
• Then Allah says: “And We did not send down upon his people after him any army from the heaven, nor were We to send [any]. It was but one cry, and immediately they were extinguished.”
• A single heavenly punishment destroyed the rejecters.

This in short is the complete story which mentions Allah sent two messengers to a community who were out rightly rejected by the people of the town. Then another prophet was sent, who too had a similar fate of rejection. Then a lone defender, who had accepted the faith in one true God came running from the far side of the town and pleaded to the idolaters and non believers to heed to the message the prophets were trying to put across. But the arrogant and cruel idolaters treated him harshly too and killed him.

Note: In many explanations of these verses, name of the town, prophets and even the lone defender are mentioned. But these are not associated with any authentic source. Therefore, we have not mentioned the names, for more than the names, the crux of the story matters.

2. Key Lessons for Da‘wah

• Persistence in Prophethood: 
• Allah supported His messengers with reinforcements (first two, then a third) 
• That is da‘wah requires consistency and teamwork.

• Simplicity & sincerity of the messengers: They asked for no payment (36:21). True Da'wah is for Allah alone, not for personal gain.
• The power of one sincere defender: Yet there was just one man who stood up courageously for truth. Sometimes, a single voice of sincerity can outshine an entire hostile crowd.
• Da‘wah with wisdom: He reasoned logically: “Why should I not worship Him who created me?” (36:22). Effective Da'wah appeals to intellect and heart.
• Sacrifice in Da'wah: He gave his life, but Allah rewarded him immediately with Paradise. This shows that martyrdom in the path of truth is not in vain.
• Concern for others even after death: His words in Paradise: “If only my people knew…” (36:26–27) reflect selfless concern even for those who killed him. A da‘ī cares for people’s guidance, not revenge.
• Rejection leads to swift accountability: Once truth is established and rejected arrogantly, divine punishment may follow (36:28–29).

3. Relevance for Us Today

In modern Da'wah, we may face ridicule, hostility, or rejection, just as the prophets did. We have many a incident of intimidation, burning of Qur'an and a deliberated effort to defame Islam and spread of hatred and creating a fear of Islamophobia. Despite all these hurdles and rejections, Da'wah should continue unabated and we must:

• Speak the truth sincerely, without expecting worldly benefit.
• Use reason, compassion, and patience.
• Remember that even if only a few respond, or if we feel alone, Allah values our sincerity.
• Stay firm, because the reward of steadfastness is immense—even Paradise, as in the case of the Lone Defender.

In summary: Surah Yā Sīn (36:13–29) teaches us that Da'wah is about sincerity, patience, sacrifice, and courage. Even one believer standing firm can leave a legacy, and Allah ultimately protects His message.

You may like to watch an informative video lecture by eminent Muslim scholar Nouman Ali Khan anaylysing the above quoted verses threadbare and drawing conclusive lessons for all believers:

You may refer to more Selected Verses from Sürah 36. Yā-Sīn already published. You nay also refer to our special reference page on Da'wah to know more about this sacred duty of all Muslims.

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 Courtesy Grok | 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

Beware of the day when our mouths will be sealed and our limbs will speak instead as witnesses

Man is too busy in his life to attain and maintain a position of authority or even "respect" by all means one can think of. Generally, the affluent and the demagogues hurt others, usurp their rights and loot others wealth so that their coffers swell and give him an edge over others. This has been true since ages and history is replete with such examples. Likewise, the idolaters and the denial of existence of One True God and associating worldly deities with Him will be at loss when they would find none of their worldly gods coming forward to save them. And many such actions, though make the man a success in this world, will turn out tp be his doom on the Day of Judgement. 

Surah Yā Sīn (36:65) is a striking verse about the Day of Judgment - a day when instead of people speaking, their limbs will speak to testify the harm they had brought to others on instructions of their master. A dreadful day when a person will not be able to present any justification to his worldly acts for his own limbs will be witness against him. 

The Verse

"Today We shall seal their mouths, and their hands will speak to Us, and their feet will testify to what they used to earn." (Qur’an 36:65)

Context

This verse appears in a passage (36:60–70) where Allah warns the disbelievers about the consequences of rejecting His message. It shifts the scene to the Day of Resurrection, showing how ultimate justice will be done.

Explanation

• "We shall seal their mouths" On that Day, Allah will prevent people from lying or making excuses. No verbal defense will be possible because their tongues will be silenced.
• "Their hands will speak to Us" 
• Their hands will testify to the actions they committed — whether righteous or sinful.
• This indicates that Allah will cause our own body parts to become witnesses against us.
• "Their feet will testify" The places we walked to — good or evil — will be exposed. Our feet will bear witness to our choices.

Here only the evidence to be given by the hands and the feet has been mentioned. But at other places it has been said that their eyes and their ears and their tongues, and the very skins of their body, will tell how they had been employed in the world.

* Read detailed explanation / tafsir / exegesis of the verse from our earlier post: The Day when hands will speak and feet shall bear witness to their evil deeds 

Supporting References from Qur’an

This is not the only warning that Allah has sounded to the man. There are many other verses with similar them in Al Qur'an:

• Sürah 41. Fussilat:20–21 — "When they come near it (Hell), their hearing, sight, and skins will testify against them about what they used to do. They will say to their skins, ‘Why do you testify against us?’ They will reply, ‘Allah, who gave speech to all things, gave us speech…’"
• Surah HaMim-Sajdah, Ayat 20:  Then, when all will have reached there, their ears and their eyes and their very skins will bear witness against them concerning what they had been doing in the world. 
• Sürah 17. Al Isra:36  We are warned that hearing, sight, and hearts will be questioned.
• (Surah 24 Nur:24) (Let them not be heedless of) the Day when their own tongues, their hands, and their feet shall all bear witness against them as to what they have been doing.

Here a question arises: On the one hand, Allah says: We shall seal their mouths, and on the other hand, in the verse of Surah An-Noor, He says: Their tongues will bear testimony against them. How can these two things be reconciled? The answer is: To seal the mouths means to deprive them of their power of speech. That is, after this they will not be able to say whatever they like with their tongue. The testimony of their tongues means that their tongues themselves will tell how the wicked people had used them, what blasphemies and lies they had been made to utter, what mischief they had invented and what falsehoods they had been made to say on different occasions.

Hadith Reference: Prophet ﷺ said:

"On the Day of Judgment, the servant’s feet will not move until he is asked about his life, how he spent it; about his knowledge, what he did with it; about his wealth, how he earned it and how he spent it; and about his body, how he used it." (Tirmidhī 2416)

Lessons for Us

The Divine Scriptures and the prophets of Allah have been warners only, cautioning the man of a Day that will come one day, even long after our death when our bones would have become dust. It is up to the man to take heed of such warnings and live a life to please Allah and none else.

• We are accountable — even our bodies will speak truth on Judgment Day.
• Avoid hypocrisy — lies and excuses won’t work; only our deeds matter.
• Guard our actions — hands, feet, eyes, ears, and tongues will all testify.
• Live in awareness of Allah — this is the essence of taqwā.

This verse thus depicts a terrible scene, one that we can hardly contemplate: We all will have to face one day. The day when everyone will et each other down; their own bodies give witness against them; their personalities are torn apart with each part claiming that the other is lying. Each organ in their bodies returns to their Lord separately, in full submission to Him. 

Time is now to purify our thoughts and keep our limbs directed to actions that please Allah and do not hurt others. Remember, when we die, there is no chance to redo our worldly actions - cash on the time we have now to straighten our dossiers honestly, hoping Allah will forgive us.

You may refer to more Selected Verses from Sürah 36. Yā-Sīn already published.

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

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

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

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

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

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

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

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

For 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: Selected verses from Sürah 36. Yā-Sīn

Sürah Yā Sīn يٰسٓ, (the *letters 'Yā'' and 'Sīn') is the 36th Sürah (chapter) of the Quran. It has 83 āyāt (verses). A study of the style shows that it was either sent down during the last stage of the middle Makkan period, or it is one of those Sürahs, which were sent down during the last stage of the Holy Prophet's stay at Makkah. While the surah begins in Juz' 22, most of it is in Juz' 23.

*   Like the disjoined letters of Yā-Sīn, there are many other Sürahs too that begin with disjoined letters. Please read about these Sürahs at: Understanding the Holy Quran: Huroof Muqatta’at - Disjoined Letters

The Sürah is considered as one of the most important Sürahs of Al Qur'an often labelled as The Heart of the Qur’an” (قلب القرآن) by many a scholar, though based on a Dai'f Hadith attributed to Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) in Tirmidhī, 2887. 

We have already shared the Tafseer / Exegesis of the Surah, and by the links given herein under, one can imagine the importance of this Surah, requiring detailed analysis and explanation:

| Summary | Exegesis / Tafseer : Part I (Ruku 1-3, verses 1-50) | Part II (Ruku 4-5, verses 51-83) |

While one needs to read and explore the many facets of this Surah from links given above, herein under we will only present a condensed overview of the entire Sūrah, for the scope of this post is to only to introduce the Sūrah and provide links to some of the selected verses from this Sūrah for selective reading / references. The following condensed overview 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.

Why this Sürah is given so much of importance?

• Central Message of the Qur’an: It summarizes the Qur’an’s themes — Tawḥīd (Oneness of Allah), Risālah (Prophethood), and Ākhirah (Hereafter).
• Ease in Recitation & Reflection: Its style is rhythmic, eloquent, and easy to memorize, touching the heart directly.
• Blessings in Hadith:
• Prophet ﷺ said: “Recite Yā Sīn over your dying ones.” (Abū Dāwūd, 3121) – it comforts the soul and reminds of Allah’s mercy.
• Another narration: “Yā Sīn is the heart of the Qur’an. Whoever recites it, seeking the pleasure of Allah, will have his sins forgiven.” (Tirmidhī, 2887).

Subjects Covered

• The Qur’an as guidance and warning.
• Consequences of rejecting prophets.
• Allah’s signs in nature and creation.
• Resurrection and accountability.
• The certainty of divine justice.

Main Themes

• Affirmation of the Qur’an’s truth (vv. 1–12).
• The Qur’an is a revelation to warn and guide.
• People who reject are blind to truth, but their records are preserved.
• Story of the Town & Messengers (vv. 13–32).
• A city where messengers were sent; one man (Ḥabīb al-Najjār) supported them and was martyred, entering Paradise.
• Lesson: truth is resisted, but sincere believers are honored by Allah.
• Signs of Allah in Creation (vv. 33–44).
• Reviving dead land with rain, pairing of creatures, ships sailing the seas.
• All point to Allah’s power.
• Warnings & Scenes of Resurrection (vv. 45–76).
• People mocked warnings, but the Day of Judgment will expose them.
• On that Day, mouths will be sealed, and hands and feet will testify (v. 65).
• Warning to the idolaters (vv. 74-75)
• Proof of Resurrection (vv. 77–83).
• A man mocks resurrection holding decayed bones; Allah responds: The One who created the first time will bring it back.
• Ends with: “So glory be to Him in Whose hand is the dominion of all things, and to Him you will be returned.” (36:83).

Lessons for Us Today

• Faith in Prophethood and Qur’an – Truth may be rejected, but it always prevails.
• Supporting Truth Brings Eternal Reward – Like Ḥabīb al-Najjār, even one person’s faith and courage can change history.
• Reflect on Nature – The cycles of rain, growth, and pairs in creation are reminders of Allah’s Oneness.
• Accountability – Our bodies themselves will testify; nothing can be hidden from Allah.
• Hope and Comfort – For the dying and their families, reciting Yā Sīn reminds of Allah’s mercy, forgiveness, and the reality of the Hereafter.

In summary: Surah Yā Sīn is central because it captures the Qur’an’s heart — faith, guidance, warning, resurrection, and divine justice. It softens the heart, strengthens belief, and prepares us for the Hereafter.

Herein under are some of the selected verses / overview and scholar's interpretation of many facets of Sürah Yā-Sīn:

• What do we learn from Surah 36 Yaseen: Be the light - even if you stand alone (An insight into Sürah Yā-Sīn by eminent Muslim scholar Nauman Ali Khan)
• Verse 12: A single verse from Surah Ya Seen that combines four major theological realities 
• Verses 13-29: Lessons from story of Three Prophets in Al-Qurʾān (Sürah 36. Yā-Sīn) and their Lone Defender
• Verse 65: 
• The Day when hands will speak and feet shall bear witness to their evil deeds 
• Beware of the day when our mouths will be sealed and our limbs will speak instead as witnesses
• Verse 68: Whomsoever We grant a long life, We reverse him in his constitution
• Verses 74-75: Beware of the day when Idolaters will find their trust in idols vain

In time we shall add more selected verses from Sürah Yā-Sīn, In Sha Allah

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.

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

Beware of the day when Idolaters will find their trust in idols vain

Genesis of idolatry is almost as old as a few generations after Adam عليه السلام who laid the foundation of Tawḥīd (pure monotheism) and his descendants worshiped Allah alone. But man did not want to identify an invisible God as his direction of worship and initially made statues of their righteous or the pious to honour them. AS per Al Qur'an, it was the time of Prophet Nūḥ (Noah, عليه السلام) when this practice went underway. 

“And they said, ‘Never leave your gods: Wadd, nor Suwāʿ, nor Yaghūth, Yaʿūq and Nasr.’” (Qur’an 71:23).

"Wadd, nor Suwāʿ, nor Yaghūth, Yaʿūq and Nasr" were originally pious men, but later turned into idols. And from then on, there was no ending. Idolatry thrived since then and continues unabated in many cultures of the world even today.

Why Do People Go Towards Idolatry?

Before we share the verses 74-75 from Sürah 36. Yā-Sīn, let us briefly have a run down on why do people go towards idolatry. Some of the reasons are mentioned herein under:

• Emotional Attachment 
• People loved saints, heroes, or ancestors and wanted to keep their memory alive.
• This love slowly turned into veneration → then worship.
• Desire for “Tangible” God 
• Since Allah is unseen, some feel comfort in visible objects (statues, symbols) to focus devotion.
• Qur’an mentions: “They worship besides Allah things that neither harm them nor benefit them.” (10:18).
• Intermediaries (Shirk in worship)
• People thought idols could bring them closer to God.
• Qur’an: “We only worship them so they may bring us nearer to Allah.” (39:3).
• Cultural & Social Influence: Idolatry often spreads because it becomes part of traditions, festivals, and identity.
• Whispering of Shayṭān (Satan)
• Idolatry is one of the greatest tricks of Shayṭān.
• Qur’an: “He (Satan) said: I will mislead them, and arouse in them false desires, and order them so they slit the ears of cattle and change the creation of Allah.” (4:119).

With this a very brief on the history and reasons for adopting idolatry, we turn to the verse 74-75th from Sürah 36. Yā-Sīn which gives a Divine warning to the idolaters asking them to stay away from pieces of stone made by their own hands who can do nothing to protect them from any calamity and will not come to help them in any way when they will be presented before the only Deity, God Almighty, 

The Verses:

74. وَاتَّخَذُوا۟ مِن دُونِ ٱللَّهِ ءَالِهَةً لَّعَلَّهُمْ يُنصَرُونَ

“Yet they have taken gods besides Allah, hoping that they might be helped.”

75.

لَّا يَسْتَطِيعُونَ نَصْرَهُمْ وَهُمْ لَهُمْ جُندٌۭ مُّحْضَرُونَ

“But they cannot help them; rather, they themselves will be brought forth as troops against them (on the Day of Judgment).”

Context

These verses occur in a passage where Allah exposes the futility of idol-worship. The Quraysh and other polytheists had taken idols, saints, or false deities thinking they would protect them, intercede for them, or bring them closer to God (see also 39:3).

"Unquestionably, [exclusive] devotion is to Allah. And those who take other protectors besides Him [say], "We do not worship them except to bring us closer to Allah." Indeed, Allah will judge between them concerning that over which they differ. Indeed, Allah does not guide one who is a liar and a [confirmed] disbeliever." 

In these two verses, Allah reminds them:

• The false gods have no power to help.
• On the Day of Judgment, these very idols or entities will actually turn against those who worshipped them.

Detailed Explanation

• Verse 74
• The irony is highlighted: people worship things “besides Allah” in the hope of gaining protection, success, or victory. This reflects misplaced trust.
• Example: The Quraysh thought their idols around the Ka‘bah could protect them.
• Modern parallel: People sometimes put absolute reliance on wealth, status, or systems — treating them as “saviors.”
• Verse 75: Allah exposes the reality:
• The false gods cannot help their worshippers.
• On the Day of Judgment, those very beings will testify against their worshippers (see 10:28, 25:17).
• “Troops against them” means: the worshippers and their false gods will be gathered together as opposing sides, and the idols will disown their worshippers (see 2:166–167).

Cross-References from Qur’an

• 10:18: “They worship besides Allah that which neither harms them nor benefits them, and they say: These are our intercessors with Allah…”
• 29:25: “…These idols you worship instead of Allah are only a means of love between you in worldly life; then on the Day of Judgment you will deny one another and curse one another, and your refuge will be the Fire.”
• 25:17–18: Allah will question the false gods, and they will say: “Glory be to You! It was not for us to take them as protectors…”

The story of Prophet Ibrāhīm (Abraham, عليه السلام)

It would be very pertinent to mention the the story of Prophet Ibrāhīm (Abraham, عليه السلام) whose destroying the idols is one of the most powerful demonstrations against idolatry in the Qur’an. 

The Qur’anic Episode of Ibrāhīm challenging  idol-worship is mentioned in (Surah al-Anbiyāʾ 21:51–70)

• He reasoned with his people: “What are these statues to which you are devoted?” (21:52). To which they replied that their forefathers worshiped them. He said: “Indeed, you and your forefathers have been in manifest error.” (21:54).
• The Idol-Smashing Event When his people left for a festival, Ibrāhīm entered their temple and  smashed all the smaller idols but left the biggest idol intact. (Qur’an: “So he broke them into pieces, except the largest of them, that they might return to it.” (21:58)).
• When they returned, they were furious: “Who has done this to our gods? He is certainly one of the wrongdoers.” (21:59). They suspected Ibrāhīm, since he had spoken against idols. To this was Ibrāhīm’s Brilliant Response: “Rather, this—the biggest of them—did it. So ask them, if they can speak.” (21:63).
• His point was clear: if these idols were truly gods, why didn’t they protect themselves? And they wise did realise the truth: Qur’an: “So they returned to their (own minds) and said, ‘Indeed, you are the wrongdoers.’” (21:64). But arrogance blinded them, and they still demanded punishment for Ibrāhīm.
• To punish Ibrāhīm, there was an attempt to burn him alive. They said: “Burn him and support your gods, if you will act.” (21:68). However, Allah protected him: “We said: O fire, be coolness and safety upon Abraham.” (21:69).

This episode clearly shows that idols at their own are just stone carved images and shapes who cannot even move an inch on their own. Yet people still worship them, hoping their lives to be reformed. But they forget that it is Allah alone, and no one else no matter how pious or prophetic can help them.

Lessons for Today

• Misplaced reliance is dangerous Relying on material wealth, power, or human connections as if they are ultimate protectors is like idol-worship. Only Allah is the true Guardian.
• False intercessors are powerless Nothing — saints, leaders, wealth, ideologies — can stand before Allah unless He wills. Worship and trust must be placed only in Him.
• Accountability On the Day of Judgment, anything worshipped besides Allah will turn into a witness against its worshippers.

Related posts already published on Shirk - The act of equating anyone with One True God

• What is the Reality of Shirk - the sin of idolatry or polytheism
• Understanding Shirk - Grave sin of Associating Partners with Allah
• A parable in the Qur’an which teaches absurdity of idolatry and worshiping beings other than Allah

In short: Verses 74–75 of Surah Yā Sīn remind us that only Allah deserves reliance and worship. Any “god” — whether idol, person, or worldly attachment — will ultimately betray those who trust in it.

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 36. Yā-Sīn 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 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