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

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

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

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

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

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

Pre-Requisites of Da'wah: 

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

Daʿwah Principles Extracted from Surah Saba’ (34)

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

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

Summary: Daʿwah Method of Surah Saba’

Surah Saba’ teaches Daʿwah through:

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

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

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

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

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

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

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

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

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

Photo | references: | 1 | 2 | 3 |

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

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

Follow @IslamUltimate

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

Read More

No matter how much you deny the truth of Al Qur'an - in time you will surely come to know of it

The beauty of the truth is that it can never obscured, concealed or hidden no matter how much one tries to. The plain truth that Al Qur'an carries is from One True God, the Creator of the universe - therefore the word of God would always prevail despite people burning copies of Al Qur'an or try to misquote it through debates and lies on the social media.

When the Qur'an was revealed and Prophet Muhammad ﷺ approached the polytheists of Makkah, they simply mocked the idea of it being revealed by Allah سُبْحَٰنَهُۥ وَتَعَٰلَىٰ. When the stubbornness of the polytheists reached a point of open rebuttal coupled with extreme hostility towards the prophet of Allah, the following verse was revealed (the closing verse 88 of Surah 38 Saad - The Letter Saad):

وَلَتَعْلَمُنَّ نَبَأَهُ بَعْدَ حِينٍ

38:88 And you will surely know [the truth of] its information after a time."

This is a small verse, but with deep reflective Divine wisdom and caution for all those who deny what has been revealed and presented to them. Let us unpack this verse and see how it has impacted the mankind since its revelation and how the wisdom is being accepted and more and more non believers are entering the fold of Islam.

In its simple translation, what this meant is that those who will remain alive will see in a few years that what the Prophet (peace be on him) said will come to pass. As for those who die, no sooner than they enter the portal of death they too will realise that what the Prophet (peace be on him) had said was true.

Apparent (Ẓāhir) Meaning

This is a closing warning at the end of the surah Saad. It is being said that Al Qur’an has delivered its message. And those who deny it are told: “Soon—you will come to know the reality of what you’re rejecting.”

What does “after a time” mean? Scholars explain it can refer to: (1) A time in this life, (2) When truth becomes evident when consequences unfold, (3) At death when unseen reality becomes clear, and (4) On the Day of Judgment, when full truth is revealed. That it is a delayed but certain realization.

Scholarly Insight

• Ibn Kathir: This is a warning to disbelievers that what they deny now will become undeniable later
• Al-Tabari: “News” (naba’) refers to The truth of the Qur’an and The وعد (promise) of accountability. That is for many the truth will be revealed in this world - but those who leave this world clinging to their lies will be ultimately be held accountable and brought to harsh justice.

Deeper Meaning (Wisdom)

• Truth does not depend on acceptance People may deny, mock or ignore the truth - but the truth remains true regardless of what people say and will finally be unfolded and known. 
• Time reveals reality Some truths are not time bound to be known and not immediately obvious. With deeper reflection in time the reality of truth starts to unfold.
• Delayed consequences Actions may seem without consequence initially, but the results are inevitable. No effort can hide the reality and it does surface sooner or later.

Similar Verses in the Qur’an

• Surah Al-An'am (6:67): “For every news is a reality, and you will come to know.”
• Surah Ibrahim (14:42): “Do not think Allah unaware of what the wrongdoers do…”
• Surah Az-Zumar (39:48): “The evil (of not accepting the truth) of what they earned will appear to them…”

This means that reality eventually becomes visible. May be not present generation, but future generations would one day find out that what was being labelled as lies was in fact The Truth and will start accepting it.

Relevance Today

This verse is very powerful in modern context:

• People dismiss truth easily Religion is mostly views as Optional or even Outdated. The verse thus reminds that Reality doesn’t change because of opinion and truth finally unfolds.
• Short-term thinking 
• People view their life and Divine revelations for immediate results only as did the polytheists of Makkah. They even asked the prophet of Allah to ask his God to unleash His wrath on them - and when nothing happened, they mocked Prophet Muhammad ﷺ for just scaring them of the Divine wrath as there was nothing of its kind. They even disregarded the anecdotes contained in Al Qur'an and the wrath of Allah which befell on previous people of 'Ad, Thamud and many others.
• However, Al Qur'an through the verse quoted above tries to teach that consequences of some truths are based on Long-term accountability and if the Divine warnings are not heeded today, there will be no turning back when the scale of Divine justice will be put in place on the Day of Judgement.
• Moral consequences are delayed Denials, obscuring truth may work for now or sometime, but the system based on lies eventually collapse and truth is upheld in the end.
• Personal life reflection Denying truth is not only by the non believers, Hiding the truth and ignoring worship of Allah by many Muslims will also have its consequences, which may not be immediate. But these accumulate and will be presented in the charge sheet and held accountable for not realizing that they too will be put to justice like other deniers of truth.

Personal Lessons

• Don’t be deceived by delay Just because something hasn’t happened yet, doesn’t mean it won’t
• Stay grounded in truth Even if others reject it
• Think long-term Your actions have future impact

Final Reflection

This verse is like a quiet but powerful statement: “You may ignore the truth today—but one day, you won’t be able to.”

This verse serves as a stern warning that the defiance shown by the disbelievers towards the Quran, which they labeled as a lie or "nothing but old tales" (implied in the context of surrounding verses), will be proven wrong when they face the reality of the punishment and the truth of the afterlife. 

If we now look around, we will notice that many non believers of Islam are getting to know the truth contained in Al Qur'an and understanding the message of Islam by entering the fold of Islam. We have shared many revert experiences (which can be read from our reference page: Embracing Islam: Revert Experiences) which speak loud and clear the acceptance of truth which validate the verse shared above that it is only time which will unfold the truth one day.

One of the eminent scholar Yusuf Ali explains this verse beutifully by noting: There may be many things which we in our "muddy vesture of decay" may not fully understand or take in. If we only follow the right Path, we shall arrive at the Goal in the Hereafter, and then everything will be dear to us.

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

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Photo | Reference: | 1 | 2 | 3 |

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

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

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

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

Follow @IslamUltimate

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

Read More

Why does Muslims worshipping One True God – Al Wahid, rather than many gods, puzzle the Polytheists

Culture and traditions have a biding effect on people of any community. It would not be wrong to say that man is enslaved to these in varying degrees of adoption. Talking of faith, clinging to traditions passed on from ancestors play a great part in shaping the direction of man. Before we move forward with the subject of the post today, let us clearly understand what are traditions:

Tradition are beliefs and practices passed down over generations. It can include: Rituals, Religious practices and Social norms. It is more specific to religious beliefs and often tied to heritage and identity.

Now let us share the 5th verse of Surah 38. Saad (The Arabic letter Saad) which is relevant to the radiations, more specifically to the people of Makkah at the advent of Islam and also to people even today who worship more than one gods even today.  

Al-Qurʾān Verse: Surah Ṣād (38:5)

أَجَعَلَ ٱلْـَٔالِهَةَ إِلَـٰهًۭا وَٰحِدًا ۖ إِنَّ هَـٰذَا لَشَىْءٌ عُجَابٌۭ

“Has he made all the gods into one God? Indeed, this is something astonishing!”

Context (Why was this verse revealed?)

This is a Makkan verse, revealed when the Prophet ﷺ called the Quraysh to Tawḥīd (absolute oneness of Allah). At that time the Arabs worshipped many idols. In fact each tribe had its own gods and own system of belief. Connecting the traditions of the Arabs of the time, they had a strong belief in worshipping of idols, taking them as their gods.

So the reaction of the Quraysh, the leading tribe of the Makkah, was obvious when the Prophet ﷺ said: Worship only ONE God. They responded (as in this verse): “You’re turning all our gods into one? That’s unbelievable!” This  was a natural rebuttal for no prophet had come to them before and their belief in a deity, though they still called it Allah in Arabi,  they looked towards their idols as if they were connecting with a deity which was far superior. Yet when worshipping, they had the image of their idols in their minds, and not an obscured and hidden imagination of a deity unseen by them.

Apparent (Ẓāhir) Meaning of the Verse 5

When Prophet ﷺ asked the polytheists of Makkah to worship One True God - Al Wahid, the were simply shocked, for they have been since time immemorial emotionally attached to traditions and multiple deities. In fact they have had countless gods represented into the shape of idols and for them believing in One God which too was unseen was rather puzzling. Thus, obviously they could not comprehend a change and lose powers to the new found belief and faith calling them to abandon the faith of their forefathers.

Eminent Muslim scholar Yusuf Ali in response to the rejection of Monotheistic message of Islam notes: And what is the offence of the Messenger of Unity? That he has made all their fantastic gods disappear; that in place of chaos he has brought harmony; that in place of conflict he brings peace! It is a wonderful thing, but not in the sarcastic sense in which the Unbelievers scoff at it!

Another Muslim scholar of present times Javed Ahmad Ghamidi explains: They said this to incite people against him by contending that he was denying the divinity of the beings which were regarded sacred by them and worshipped.

Muhammad Asad explains the polytheist reaction in these very words: Divorced from its purely historical background, this criticism acquires a timeless significance, and may be thus paraphrased: "Does the claim that all creative powers and qualities are inherent exclusively in what they conceive as 'one God'?" - a paraphrase which illustrates the tendency of many people to attribute a decisive influence on human life - and, hence, a quasi-divine status - to a variety of fortuitous phenomena or circumstances (like wealth, "luck", social position, etc.) rather than to acknowledge the overwhelming evidence, in all observable nature, of God's unique existence.

Deeper Meaning (Wisdom)

• Human resistance to pure monotheism
• Polytheists often prefer tangible, multiple intermediaries, instead of One unseen, absolute God.
• This is because Tawḥīd demands full submission to One god which entails no تقسيم (division) of authority.
• Simplicity feels “strange” 
• Ironically Tawḥīd is simple to follow. But for the polytheists, it felt too radical to abandon all their gods and turn to a Deity that was unseen and could not be replicated into an idol.
• This happens because Truth usually feels “strange” when society is used to falsehood or is disoriented.

Connection to Trinity (Christian Theology)

The same mindset is of the people who have faith inn trinity. And the verse above is equally applicable to the followers of Trinity for they too believe in more than One God. Let us connect this verse conceptually:

• What is the Trinity? In Christianity (as developed historically), God is understood as the Father, Son, and the Holy Spirit. . That is Three “persons” in one essence.
• Qur’anic Perspective 
• On the contrary, Al Qur’an consistently emphasizes "Absolute oneness without division."
• The 112nd Surah Al-Ikhlas spells the concept of One God clearly and explicitly: “He is Allah, One”
• This is also augmented in the 171st verse of Surah 4. An-Nisa: “Do not say ‘Three’… Allah is only One God”
• Key Theological Differences
• Tawḥīd: God is One, Indivisible and Unique as mentioned in Surah Ash-Shura (42:11): “There is nothing like Him.”

Allah سُبْحَٰنَهُۥ وَتَعَٰلَىٰ is Al-Waahid (in Arabic: ٱلْوَٰحِدُ), the One and only God. There is no alternative. He is the sole originator from which all has arisen. He has no partners or relationships. None is equal to Him.

• Trinity: God is One essence in Three persons. That is Unity with internal distinction

* For detailed account on Islamic concept of Monotheism and Christian's concept of Trinity, please refer to our earlier posts:

• Bible and Quran - Contradictions (The Trinity)
• Concept of Tawheed in Islam- The Oneness of Allah

How 38:5 relates conceptually

While 38:5 is about Arab polytheists, the underlying principle applies to all people struggle with "Accepting absolute unity of God" - Whether Many gods (polytheism) or complex formulations (like Trinity)

Important Clarification

As mentioned before, The Quraysh, the rich and power clan of Makkah, who believed in Multiple separate gods, while the concept of Trinity (in Christian theology) claims one God, but in three persons. Although both faiths they are not identical concepts - But differ from pure Tawḥīd - which is worship of One True God, Muslims call Allah, without any associated and an imaginary of Him.

Relevance Today

• People still resist pure Tawḥīd Today still like to prefer intermediaries, like saints, to. connect to God.
• Cultural attachment Just like Quraysh, many a people still follow what they have inherited from their forefathers.
• Intellectual discomfort While Pure oneness is simple and absolute, yet humans often Complicate the belief systems and try to connect to God not directly but through idols are associating partners with Him for "better access."

Core Message of the Verse

Here, the real issue is not logic. In fact it is the traditional attachment, stubbornness to change due to egoist mindset and traditions. 

This verse thus poses a question: Why does pure truth feel strange to people? The answer is very simple: Because pure truth removes control, need for intermediaries and it is for this very reason the polytheists rejected monotheism, and those following Trinity. For this very reason, both polytheism and Trinity contrast with absolute divine unity in Islam.

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.

Disclaimer: This post has been published for education purpose only giving out a comparative view point. It does not in any way infringe on the beliefs and traditions of people belonging to different faith. For further study on the subject, more research may be carried out for those wanting more on the subject.

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

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

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

Photo | Reference: | 1 | 2 | 3 |

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

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

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

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

Follow @IslamUltimate

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

Read More

Al-Qurʾān: Overview and selected verses from Sürah Al Qalam (The Pen)

Sürah Al Qalam (The Pen القلم), also called Sürah Nūn (The Arabic letter: نٓ) is the sixty-eighth sūrah (chapter) of the Qur'an with 52 verses (āyāt). This Sürah describes God's justice and the judgment day. We have already published the Summary and Tafseer / Exegesis of the Sürah, which can be accessed from by clicking on the highlighted links:  | Summary | Exegesis / Tafseer |

Herein under we present an overview entire Sūrah and some of the important verses for selective reading / references. The following 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.

Overview of Sürah Al Qalam

Surah Al-Qalam (The Pen) is an early Makkan surah, revealed when the Prophet ﷺ was facing extreme resistance from the polytheists of Makkah who mocked him and attacked on his character only because he was preaching a religion which was tangent to the faith practiced by them since ages. Thus the central purpose of this surah  is to:

• Defend the character of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, 
• Expose the mindset of arrogant rejecters, and 
• Teach patience, integrity, and accountability.

Main Theme of the Surah

The surah revolves around three powerful themes:

• Defense (دفاع) of the Prophet ﷺ 
• Right at the beginning of the Surah, it has been Divinely reassured that the Prophet assumes a great character and those who mock him are the one's who do not see beyond their myopic vision: “By the pen… you are not, by the favor of your Lord, mad. And indeed, you are upon a عظیم character.”
• Through this verse, Allah directly rejects accusations of the idol worshippers and elevates the Prophet’s character.
• Exposure of corrupt mindset The surah describes a type of person who is: (1) Arrogant, (2) Greedy, and (3) Oppressive, who mock  the truth. This doesn't refer to one person but a recurring human type.
• Story of the أصحاب الجنة (People of the Garden) A group of men is described here who planned to hoard wealth and denied the poor their share. Resultantly, their garden was destroyed  overnight.

Final accountability The surah ends with Warning of the Day of Judgment and contrast between the Believers and the Rejecters of Divine religion.

Context of Revelation

In early Makkah when the Prophet ﷺ proclaimed himself as prophet of Allah and invited the polytheists of Makkah to Islam, was labeled as a madman, a poet and a liar, trying to mislead the people from their faith of their forefathers.

Thus in the surah, Allah reassures His prophet telling him that his character was the proof of his honesty and truthfulness, which even the polytheist acknowledged before his prophethood. Thus has been Divinely reassured that truth will finally prevail, despite mockery and resistance by the disbelievers of Makkah.

Lessons for Us Today

• Character over reputation: 
• One should try to sacrifice his character to earn a cheap reputation or position by lying or harming interests of others.
• Today many a People chase image, branding, reputation - but the real worth of man is his character  (akhlaq), not public opinion - which should be upheld at all costs.
• That is The Qur’an says: "Focus on who you are, not what people say."
• Don’t be shaken by criticism
• The Prophet ﷺ was insulted, mocked and even physically mishandled to leave his preaching - yet remained firm and finally succeeded.
• Here is lesson for us and that is Truth is not measured by popularity, for may tycoons, politicians and demagogues wield popularity for the weak and meek are to afraid of opposing them. Yet one day their empires and positions and power crumble and the weak yet truthful succeed.
• Wealth can corrupt silently - Story of the garden
• The parable of garden in the surah shows that Greed doesn’t start big - It begins with Small selfish decisions. And the wealth earned through corruption piles up until the prescribed time given to them by Allah to repent. And when they do not, the wrath of Allah falls much heavier than they might have ever imagined.
• Today we see people making corruption by small compromises of their character - but it slowly becomes a mindset.
• Usurping the rights of the poor حقوق of the poor That is how corruption snatches rights of the poor. When rich people avoid giving charity, the forget that their wealth is a trust, not absolute ownership
• Arrogance blinds truth
• The rejecters didn’t lack intelligence - They lacked humility
• Today we still find that Ego blocks guidance and despite knowing the truth, we still bcling to the faith, culture and traditions of our forefathers as did the disbelievers of Makkah/

Reflective Verses

Herein under we share some of the important and reflective verses from the surah, which can reshape our beliefs and aspirations and focus more positively to the message and deen of Islam:

• Character of the Prophet ﷺ:
• (68:4): “Indeed, you are upon a tremendous character.”  
• Reflection: Character is the highest شهادة (testimony)
• Warning against bad traits
•  (68:10–13): “Do not obey every worthless habitual swearer… slanderer… منع للخير (preventer of good)…” 
• Reflection: These traits destroy individuals and societies
• Story of the Garden
• (68:17–19): “We tested them as We tested the أصحاب الجنة…”  
• Reflection: Blessings can be removed suddenly
• Realization after loss
• (68:28): “Did I not tell you to glorify Allah?”
• Reflection: Often we realize after loss, not before
• Final accountability
• (68:35–36): “Shall We treat the المسلمين like the criminals?”
• Reflection: Ultimate justice is with Allah

Deeper Wisdom

• The Pen (Qalam) at the beginning is symbol of Knowledge, Truth and Record of deeds - this suggests: What is written and recorded matters eternally
• Hidden danger of success: The أصحاب الجنة were Successful and Wealthy - but they failed morally which led to their downfall.
• Tests (آزمائش) are subtle: Hardship's are not always tests - Even blessings are tests more than hardship tests.

Core Message

The core message of Sürah Al Qalam is that (1) Truth stands even when mocked, (2) Character defines your worth, (3) Wealth is a test, and (4) Accountability is inevitable

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

• How does Al-Qurʾān guide us to build a strong character framework
• Verses 17-33: How wealth can corrupt quietly, without a person even realizing it - A subtle parable from Al Qur'an
• Verse 51: Beware of the Evil Eye - Sometimes it cuts through your body

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

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

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Photo | Reference: | 1 | 2 | 3 | 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 Evil Eye - Sometimes it cuts through your body (Selected verses from Al Qur'an)

Generally, mst men (including women) feel jealous of blessings bestowed on others despite being heavily blessed themselves. This jealousy and envy gives birth to the proverbial Evil Eye. Although, there is no scientific proof of the existence of the Evil Eye or  its harmful effects, yet it is a widely held cultural and spiritual belief that a malevolent, envious glare, or even an admiring gaze can cause misfortune, illness, or harm to the person being looked at. It is often described as negative energy stemming from jealousy. While not scientifically proven, it is treated as a real spiritual phenomenon in many cultures. 

While in all cultures and religions, mention of the Evil Eye exists, it does too in Islam. In fact there are many a ayat of Al Qur'an and Hadiths attributed to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ  that make a mention of existence of the evil eye and its harmful effect. We have already shared many a Hadiths on the subject, of which we will make a mention of as we progress through this post. But for now, we share the 51st verse of Surah 68. Al Qalam (The Pen) which speaks of this menace.

The Verse:

وَإِن يَكَادُ ٱلَّذِينَ كَفَرُوا۟ لَيُزْلِقُونَكَ بِأَبْصَـٰرِهِمْ لَمَّا سَمِعُوا۟ ٱلذِّكْرَ وَيَقُولُونَ إِنَّهُۥ لَمَجْنُونٌۭ 

The disbelievers would almost cut you down with their eyes when they hear ˹you recite˺ the Reminder,1 and say, “He is certainly a madman.”

The translation of this verse varies by some translators / scholars in which instead of cutting down is replaced by tripping down / slipping, meaning making someone lose ground of the strength his opinion.

“And indeed, those who disbelieve would almost make you slip with their eyes when they hear the Reminder, and they say, ‘He is surely mad.’”

Let us unpack this verse as noted by the scholars of Islam:

Apparent (Ẓāhir) Meaning

This verse describes two things happening to the Prophet ﷺ:

• Intense hostility of disbelievers
• When the Prophet ﷺ made known to the elders of Makkah about his elation to the prophethood, they simply mocked him and rejected him for the reason that Prophet ﷺ was an orphan and not much affluent as other big wees of Makkah. The considered it inappropriate that an orphan has been preferred over them and entrusted with the prophethood.
• Thus they looked at him with hatred, jealousy and of course anger.
• And this hatred and envy is mentioned in the above said ayat / verse: “Almost make you slip with their eyes” which means their looks were so intense it’s as if they could harm him.
• Verbal attack Beside being eyeing him with evil eyes full of envy and hatred, they also hurled verbal assault on him, calling Prophet ﷺ as a “Mad” (majnoon) man." This added to the fuel to the physical hostility (evil looks), and aggravating their intense hatred for having been made superior to them.
• Please read our earlier post for more on Evil Eye: The harmful influence and reality of Evil Eye

Explanation of the Evil Eye by Scholars

• Famous 14th century scholar and exegete Ibn Kathir notes that this verse can refer to the evil eye (ʿayn) or intense hatred that almost harms.
• Al-Qurtubi affirms: that the verse is evidence that evil eye is real. However, he adds that it reflects psychological hostility and envy.

Deeper Meaning (Wisdom)

• Truth attracts opposition Being right doesn’t mean being accepted. That is why when the Prophet ﷺ brought truth and called them upon to Islam, he was faced with intense hatred and mockery. He was not verbally assaulted, but was also physically assaulted at many a times. The stoning of Prophet ﷺ by the street children and the elders in the city of Taif is a case in point.
• Envy can be destructive Their reaction wasn’t neutral, but it was emotionally charged. This is a universal truth that envy can become harmful, both physically and spiritually.
• Emotional aggression
• The verse captures non-physical harm like the bad looks and abusive language.
• Islam recognizes that harm is not only physical, but has many diemnsions.

Similar Verses in the Qur’an

As mentioned earlier, the mention of evil eye is made at many a place in AL Qur'an, some mentioned herein under:

• Surah Al-Falaq (113:5): “And from the evil of the envier when he envies.” Here  a prayer is made to prevent harm from the evil of the envier when it envies.
• Surah Yusuf The brothers of Yusuf (AS) envied him so intensely that it brought real harm to Prophet Yusuf when he was thrown into a dead well by his brother.
• Surah Al-Baqarah (2:109): “Many of the أهل الكتاب wish to turn you back… out of envy…”

* Note: Please refer to our exegesis of above quoted Surahs/verses from our reference page: 114 Chapters (Surahs) of the Holy Qur'an: Summary /Translation, Exegesis / Tafsir “التفسير “

Hadith on Evil Eye

In addition to Al Qur'an, there are many a Hadiths attributed to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ which caution the believers of be weary of the harmful effects evil eye:

• Sahih al-Bukhari: “The evil eye is real.”
• Sahih Muslim: “If anything were to overtake destiny, it would be the evil eye.”

This hadiths point toward the fact that the evil eye has a powerful effect, but can be warded of by turning to Allah.

Is this verse applicable to everyone?

Although, this verse is specifically for the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, but in principle it is applicable to everyone for ordinary men and women too are envious of others' blessings and when they see someone in a better state from them, their envious heart vying for more induces in them negative reactions which are get transformed into dirty and evil looks, meaning harm. In many a case, one can feel the envy and it should be taken as a general warning and awareness, not paranoia, though.

Relevance Today

Is this verse and related hadiths relevant today? Yes indeed. One attracts evil eye from over projection like the following:

• Social exposure People are generally showy and tend to display their success, wealth, and even good health - which leads to envy and the evil eye.
• Silent negativity  Not all harm is spoken - it may come from meaningful looks, bad feelings and intentions.
• Being criticized for doing right Sometimes doing good or doing better than others are taken as point scoring, specially in the corporates world which often attract mockery (just like in the verse) for downplaying others.

How to protect against the harmful effects of the Evil Eye

Turning to Allah whenever one is blessed something more than others or put in a better position and praying to be protected from the envy of the others. Here are some tips for personal as well as protection of the family:

• Avoid showing off blessings unnecessarily - Not everything needs to be public, even from one's own siblings.
• Reciting the last two chapters of Al Qur'an: Surah Al-Falaq and Surah An-Naas. (Read our previous post on "Striking resemblance between Surahs Falaq and Naas." which give an insight to ward of internal and external evil
• Hasan Basri (رح) reports that if anyone is affected by the evil eye, these verses (51 52) may be recited and blown on the person: the ill effect will be dispelled.
• Also read our previous posts:
• For Protection against Evil and envious eye (Hadith 3371)
• How to seek refuge from all forms of Evil  (Hadith 1551)
• Supplication for the protection from every evil (Hadith Prophet Muhammad ﷺ)

Final Reflection

This verse shows that not everyone who opposes you is rational — but sometimes it is the Envy, Ego That makes one vulnerable to the harm which is inadvertently intended when one is better placed in a position or blessed more.

Remember! Evil eye and envy are real - so seek protection from Allah whenever put in a better place than others around and be extra grateful for the blessings so bestowed upon you.

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

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

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

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

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

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

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

You may refer to more Selected Verses from Surah 68 Al Qalam (The Pen)  already published. You may also refer to our exclusive reference page: Selected verses from selected Surahs of Al-Qurʾān for compiled verses from other surahs.

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

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

Photo | Reference: | 1 | 2 | 3 |

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

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

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

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

Follow @IslamUltimate

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

Read More

Al Qur’an cautions women not to be soft in speech - lest men with diseased heart take a wrong meaning

The soft voice of a women is always attractive to all men but with a big difference: Men of good character find the softness in a woman's voice as a symbol of her purity, chastity, dignity and good character. But men with diseased heart take the soft voice of a women tempting, luring and inviting. For this very reason, Islam cautions women not to be soft in speech lest men with bad character and mindset with a diseased heart try to take advantage and may attempt undue advances.

Al-Qurʾān: Selected verses from: The 32nd verse of Sürah Al Ahzab cautions women to be careful with the tone of their speech when speaking to non-maḥram men (men whom she can be married to), shared herein under with its context, explanation by eminent Muslim scholars and its relevance in our life today.

For a woman, examples of non-maḥram men include: (1) Cousins, (2) Brother-in-law, (3) Husband’s friends, (4) Colleagues, (5) Classmates, (6) neighbors, and (7) Any unrelated man

The Verse

يَـٰنِسَآءَ ٱلنَّبِىِّ لَسْتُنَّ كَأَحَدٍۢ مِّنَ ٱلنِّسَآءِ ۚ إِنِ ٱتَّقَيْتُنَّ فَلَا تَخْضَعْنَ بِٱلْقَوْلِ فَيَطْمَعَ ٱلَّذِى فِى قَلْبِهِۦ مَرَضٌۭ وَقُلْنَ قَوْلًۭا مَّعْرُوفًۭا 

O wives of the Prophet! You are not like any other women: if you are mindful ˹of Allah˺, then do not be overly effeminate in speech ˹with men˺ or those with sickness in their hearts may be tempted, but speak in a moderate tone.

The verse quoted above is originally addresses the wives of the Prophet Muhammad, stating they are not like other women and instructing them to maintain piety by not being soft in speech. This prevents those with diseased hearts from developing improper desires, directing them to speak in a straightforward, honorable manner. 

Before we unpack this verse, let us caution here that some people express the view that since this verse are addressed to the wives of Prophet ﷺ, the injunctions enshrined in it is meant to apply to them only. 

The Qur'anic statement that the Prophet's wives "are not like other women", obviously does not mean that other women may go out alluringly dressed, that they may speak complaisantly to men unrelated to them whereas the Prophet's wives should not do so. In fact, this statement resembles a refined person's telling his children: "Do not use abusive words; you do not belong to a group of vulgar children". No intelligent person will interpret this statement to mean that the person concerned considers the use of abusive words blameworthy only for his own children but not for others' children; that he does not mind if this habit is found among others.

What does this verse mean?

• “Do not be soft in speech”
• The verse refers to: Speaking in a seductive, overly gentle, or suggestive tone
• It does not mean, however, that women cannot speak or must be harsh.. The firmness is the key to the tone.
• Ibn Kathir explains that “Do not be soft in speech” means "Do not make the voice attractive, alluring, or flirtatious." He adds that this part of the verse refers to: Tone, not the act of speaking itself. He emphasizes: Speech should be serious and dignified, not suggestive.
• Al-Tabari adds: "Softness here means intentional gentleness meant to attract attention - that is Not natural kindness, but A tone that may invite wrong thoughts
• “Lest one with disease in the heart…”
• “Disease” here means Lust, Bad intentions and Hypocrisy
• That is Some people may misinterpret tone and develop wrong thoughts
• “Speak in an appropriate manner”
• Women are asked to be Clear, Respectful, and Dignified in order men should get tempted and commit advances.
• Important Context  Although, the verse is directly خطاب (addressed) to the wives of the Prophet ﷺ, but scholars say: The principle applies generally to modesty in interaction

Balanced Understanding Islam does NOT say: Women shouldn’t speak to men, instead interaction should be: Respectful, Professional, and Without flirtation or suggestiveness.

Deeper Wisdom Behind the Verse

• Islam الإسلام protects before harm happens. It doesn’t just forbid actions -but It blocks pathways to temptation. This is called: سد الذرائع (blocking the means)
• Recognizing human psychology 
• Attraction can begin subtly through Tone, Attention and Repetition. 
• The Qur’an addresses early stages, not just outcomes
• Responsibility of both sides
• The verse mentions: “One in whose heart is disease”
• That means Problem is not only speech - But also Listener’s intention
• Balanced Understanding (Very Important)
• Islam’s guidance here is Not Restricting women unfairly
• But Creating a safe, respectful social environment
• Final Reflection 
• This verse asks: “Is my interaction guided by dignity—or by desire?”
• Because Small tones can lead to bigger consequences
• Therefore one must  Avoid Anything that invites misunderstanding or temptation

Relevance Today

In olden times, although there existed no barriers between meeting men and women frequently, after the revelation of above verse, and verses alike, women were cautioned to be restricted to their direct interaction with men. However, in our modern context, the mutual interaction has increased manifold as men and women frequently interact at Workplaces, Social media and Public gatherings.

Thus this verse provides a guidance about Maintaining boundaries and dignity

Application in Today’s World

Let us list down DOs and DON'Ts that allow us the practical manifestation of this verse:

• Workplace interactions
• Allowed: Professional communication, Meetings, collaboration
• Avoid: Flirtatious tone and Over-personal emotional engagement
• Remember: Islam الإسلام promotes: Professional dignity
• Social media & texting
• Today’s version of “soft speech” can include: Flirty messages, Emojis with suggestive intent and Casual intimacy.
• However, the principle still applies: Tone matters—even in text
• Customer-facing roles
• Politeness is required
• But there is a Difference between: Professional friendliness and Intentional charm to attract
• Everyday conversation Mutual gender speaking normally is fine but the interaction should be Clear, Respectful and Purposeful

End Note The verse is about protecting hearts and intentions but not controlling speech harshly. It is about avoiding behavior that can Be misunderstood and Lead to temptation.

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

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

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

Photo | Reference: | 1 | 2 | 3 | 

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

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

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

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

Follow @IslamUltimate

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

Read More