Immense significance of Reading and Understanding of Qur'an

To be knowledgeable and grasp the theme and message an author conveys through his book is the total some the art of reading. One can achieve nothing if reading a book a book has not added to one's prior knowledge and vocabulary.

Reading, thus, helps expand vocabulary and knowledge and improving the communication abilities, much needed to gain someone's trust, enter into a useful and meaningful discussion backed by one's knowledge so gained by reading books on diverse subjects. Laced with good knowledge and vocabulary on a particular subject, one gains confidence and earn a respectable place of standing.

 

To understand the content, one has to be an active reader. Active reading engages the brain and forces it to answer questions and make connections - which facilitates understanding. Active reading means taking notes on the facts.

We therefore spend much time in reading our text books and professional books and even engage some learned friend, a mentor or a scholar to understand the intricate themes and subject matter. If reading and understanding of our text books so important to us, then why do we relegate Qur'an, laced with Divine wisdom, to mere reading, rather hurrying it attend to our text or business books. Even we spend more time in reading fiction, enjoying the verbosity of the writers and fancying things to add to our leisure.

But reading Qur'an is sufficient? Books of famous thinkers (in any language) may be read by many but, in reality, are understood by very few, then what to say of the Qur’an whose author is Allah, possessing infinite knowledge and wisdom? We have millions of Muslims around the world who have memorized the Qur'an, even when Arabic is not their mother tongue. But do they have also understood the Divine wisdom contained in Qur'an?

With this premise in background, let us try to understand the significance of reading and understanding of Qur'an. Reading and understanding the Qur'an is of immense significance in Islam. It is not only the Divine scripture for us Muslims but also a comprehensive guide for leading a life aligned with the will of Allah. even many a non Muslims are finding it very useful to read and understand Qur'an, some even taking years trying to find answers to their misfed queries and finally embracing Islam.

Let us carryout an in-depth explanation of its importance:

Direct Revelation from Allah

• The Qur'an is the literal word of Allah, revealed to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) through the angel Jibril (Gabriel). It is considered the ultimate source of guidance for all humanity, containing timeless wisdom for personal, social, and spiritual life.
• Surah Al-Baqarah (2:2) says: "This is the Book about which there is no doubt, a guidance for those conscious of Allah."
• Understanding the Qur'an is essential to grasp the direct words and commands of Allah, and to apply them in one’s life.

Source of Guidance and Wisdom

• The Qur'an provides guidance on every aspect of life, including matters of faith, ethics, laws, relationships, and social justice. It addresses both the worldly life and the Hereafter.
• Surah Al-Isra (17:9) states: "Indeed, this Qur'an guides to that which is most suitable and gives good tidings to the believers who do righteous deeds that they will have a great reward."
• By understanding the Qur'an, one gains insight into Allah’s wisdom and finds clarity on how to live in a way that pleases Him.

Increased Connection with Allah

• The Qur'an is a means of building a closer relationship with Allah. Reading and reflecting on its verses helps Muslims strengthen their faith (iman) and consciousness of Allah (taqwa).
• Surah Al-Anfal (8:2) mentions: "The believers are only those who, when Allah is mentioned, their hearts become fearful, and when His verses are recited to them, it increases them in faith; and upon their Lord they rely."
• Understanding the Qur'an deepens one's spiritual awareness and connection to Allah.

Guidance for the Hereafter

• The Qur'an teaches the reality of life, death, the Day of Judgment, and the Hereafter. It provides essential guidance on how to live a righteous life that leads to eternal success.
• Surah Al-Mulk (67:2) mentions: "He who created death and life to test you [as to] which of you is best in deed."
• Understanding these realities shapes one’s worldview, leading to actions that align with Allah’s guidance, ensuring success in both this world and the next.

Protection from Misguidance

• The Qur'an is a shield against misguidance and error. By reading and comprehending its messages, a believer is equipped to distinguish between truth and falsehood.
• Surah Al-Furqan (25:1) calls the Qur'an the "Criterion": "Blessed is He who sent down the Criterion upon His Servant that he may be a warner to the worlds."
• A deep understanding of the Qur'an helps protect against confusion, cultural distortions, and ideological deviations.

Moral and Ethical Framework

• The Qur'an provides a moral framework that emphasizes justice, compassion, honesty, and kindness. By understanding its verses, believers are guided to act with integrity and uphold Islamic ethical values.
• Surah Al-Hujurat (49:13) emphasizes equality and righteousness: "Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you."
• The Qur'an guides a person to live a life rooted in justice and righteousness.

Source of Peace and Tranquility

• Reading and understanding the Qur'an brings immense peace to the heart. It provides solutions to life's challenges and assures believers of Allah's mercy and assistance.
• Surah Ar-Ra'd (13:28) says: "Verily, in the remembrance of Allah do hearts find rest."
• Reflecting on the Qur'an's meanings provides comfort in times of difficulty and helps one navigate through trials with patience and faith.

Fulfillment of the Obligation of Knowledge

• Seeking knowledge is a fundamental duty in Islam. Understanding the Qur'an is part of fulfilling this obligation, as it is the primary source of Islamic knowledge.
• The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "Seeking knowledge is an obligation upon every Muslim." (Sunan Ibn Majah)
• Gaining knowledge of the Qur'an ensures that a believer has the tools necessary to live a meaningful, purposeful life in accordance with Allah’s commands.

The Emphasis of reading and Understanding Qur'an by Prophet Muhammad ﷺ

The Qur'an was the central focus of the Prophet Muhammad’s life and mission. He not only recited it but also explained and demonstrated its meanings through his actions and sayings (Hadith).

Aishah (may Allah be pleased with her), the revered wife of  Prophet Muhammad ﷺ has been quoted as saying that Character of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ was the Qur'an. 

Prophet Muhammad ﷺ placed great emphasis on reading, understanding, and reflecting on the Qur'an. As the final messenger of Allah and the one to whom the Qur'an was revealed, the Prophet set a personal example for his followers in how they should approach and engage with the divine message. His teachings, actions, and statements highlight the importance of not only reciting the Qur'an but also comprehending its meanings and applying them in daily life. 

Here are some ways in which the Prophet emphasized the significance of reading and understanding the Qur'an:

• Earning Rewards from Allah: 
• Reciting the Qur'an carries immense spiritual reward. 
• The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "Whoever recites a letter from the Book of Allah, he will receive one good deed as ten good deeds like it. I do not say that ‘Alif-Lam-Meem’ is a letter, but Alif is a letter, Lam is a letter, and Meem is a letter." (Tirmidhi)
• While reciting the Qur'an is virtuous, understanding it brings greater rewards because it allows the reader to implement its teachings in daily life.
• Encouragement to Read the Qur'an Regularly
• The Prophet strongly encouraged Muslims to regularly recite the Qur'an and make it a central part of their lives. He often spoke about the spiritual rewards of reciting the Qur'an and how it strengthens one’s connection to Allah.
• Hadith on Rewards of Recitation: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Whoever recites a letter from the Book of Allah, he will receive one good deed as ten good deeds like it. I do not say that ‘Alif-Lam-Meem’ is a letter, but Alif is a letter, Lam is a letter, and Meem is a letter.” (Tirmidhi)
• This hadith highlights the immense rewards of even a single letter of Qur'an recitation, showing the Prophet's emphasis on its recitation.
• Understanding and Reflecting on the Qur'an
• The Prophet didn’t just stress reciting the Qur'an; he encouraged Muslims to reflect on its meanings and understand its guidance.
• Hadith on Reflection: The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "The best of you are those who learn the Qur'an and teach it." (Sahih al-Bukhari)
• This hadith emphasizes that the true benefit of the Qur'an comes from learning and teaching it, which includes understanding its meanings, wisdom, and applying its teachings.
• Hadith on Reflection on Verses: In another narration, the Prophet (peace be upon him) stated: “There is no envy (acceptable) except in two cases: a person whom Allah has given the Qur'an and recites it throughout the night and day, and a person whom Allah has given wealth, and he spends it throughout the night and day.” (Sahih al-Bukhari)
• This indicates that understanding and implementing the Qur'an in one's life is a blessing to aspire toward. It is not just the recitation but also the constant engagement with its teachings that the Prophet highlighted.
• Practical Application of the Qur'an
• The Prophet Muhammad himself was the living embodiment of the Qur'an. His actions were a reflection of the Qur'anic teachings, and he consistently applied its principles in every aspect of his life.
• Hadith of Aishah (may Allah be pleased with her): When Aishah, the wife of the Prophet, was asked about the character of the Prophet, she replied: "His character was the Qur'an." (Sahih Muslim)
• This means that the Prophet lived by the teachings of the Qur'an, illustrating its values through his behavior. Understanding the Qur'an is meant to lead to action, and the Prophet modeled this perfectly.
• Tajweed (Proper Recitation) and Memorization
• The Prophet also encouraged the proper recitation (tajweed) and memorization of the Qur'an, as it helps preserve the text and ensures its correct delivery and understanding.
• Hadith on Beautifying Recitation: The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “Adorn the Qur'an with your voices.” (Abu Dawood)
• He emphasized reciting the Qur'an correctly and beautifully, which facilitates a deeper connection with its meanings.
• Hadith on Memorization: He also said: "It will be said to the companion of the Qur'an (on the Day of Resurrection): Recite and ascend, and recite as you used to recite in the world, for your rank will be at the last verse you recite." (Sunan al-Tirmidhi)
• This indicates the importance of memorizing the Qur'an, understanding its verses, and consistently reciting it throughout one’s life.
• Warning Against Neglecting the Qur'an
• The Prophet also warned against neglecting the Qur'an, whether by not reading it, not understanding it, or not applying its teachings.
• Hadith on Qur'an being a Proof: The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "The Qur'an is a proof for you or against you." (Sahih Muslim)
• This indicates that the Qur'an will either intercede on behalf of those who read, understand, and follow its guidance or it will testify against those who neglected or rejected it.
• Teaching Qur'an to Others
• The Prophet not only taught his companions the Qur'an but encouraged them to spread its knowledge. Teaching the Qur'an involves more than just sharing its words; it requires explaining its meanings and helping others apply its teachings.
• Hadith on Teaching the Qur'an: The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "The best of you are those who learn the Qur'an and teach it." (Sahih al-Bukhari)
• Teaching the Qur'an ensures that its understanding is passed on, and this was a key focus of the Prophet’s mission.
• The Qur'an as a Source of Intercession
• The Prophet emphasized that the Qur'an will intercede on behalf of those who read and understand it on the Day of Judgment.
• Hadith on Intercession: The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "Recite the Qur'an, for it will come as an intercessor for its people on the Day of Resurrection." (Sahih Muslim)
• Understanding the Qur'an helps one live according to its teachings, leading to rewards in the Hereafter and intercession on the Day of Judgment.

Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized the reading, understanding, and application of the Qur'an throughout his life. He encouraged Muslims to recite it regularly, reflect deeply on its meanings, live by its teachings, and teach it to others. He warned against neglecting the Qur'an and highlighted its role as a source of guidance, mercy, and intercession. By following the Prophet’s example and teachings, Muslims are encouraged to make the Qur'an a central part of their lives, not just in recitation, but in comprehension and practice.

You may like to listen to eminent Muslim scholar, linguist and preacher Nouman Ali Khan explain the importance of reading Qur'an with understanding:

In view of the above explanation both from Qur'an and Sunnah/Hadith Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, and very informative lecture by Nouman Ali Khan, it should be well understood that reading and understanding the Qur'an is essential for every Muslim. It serves as a divine guide for every aspect of life, strengthens the connection with Allah, shapes moral character, and provides a clear pathway to success in both this world and the Hereafter. The Qur'an’s timeless message remains relevant for all humanity, offering solutions to individual and societal problems, and leading to a life of peace, righteousness, and fulfillment.

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 |Resource References: | 1 | 2 | 3 |

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

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

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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.

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Beware of a Day when there will be no barter exchange of sins with worldly wealth

The wrong doers, sinner, denier of prophets and messengers of Allah and the day the justice scales to be established on the Day of the Judgement generally seem oblivious of the Divine promise of a day when justice will be established and no one shall be wronged. And on that day, such deniers of Divine Commandments will realize how grossly misled they were and how they ruled the world using their wealth and mocked the messengers sent to them for their benefit.

The 54th verse of Surah 10 Yunus (Prophet Jonah, peace be upon him) carries a stern warning fo rall wrong doers, sinners and tyrants

وَلَوۡ اَنَّ لِكُلِّ نَفۡسٍ ظَلَمَتۡ مَا فِى الۡاَرۡضِ لَافۡتَدَتۡ بِهٖ​ؕ وَاَسَرُّوا النَّدَامَةَ لَمَّا رَاَوُا الۡعَذَابَ​ۚ وَقُضِىَ بَيۡنَهُمۡ بِالۡقِسۡطِ​ وَهُمۡ لَا يُظۡلَمُوۡنَ‏ 

(10:54) If a wrong-doer had all that is in the earth he would surely offer it to ransom himself. When the wrong-doers perceive the chastisement, they will feel intense remorse in their hearts. But a judgement shall be made with full justice about them. They shall not be wronged.

“And they will feel remorse”. When all of a sudden, they face the torment on the Day, which they had denied throughout their lives, and on that presumption had gone on doing wrong deeds. Not only this: they will also feel very sorry that they had denied the Messengers and brought baseless charges against them, who had warned them of it. Therefore when they witness it against all their expectations, they will find the ground slipping from under their feet and will feel utterly helpless and guilty in their minds because of the remembrance of their wrong doings and of the pricking of their conscience. In short, their condition will be that of a gambler, who turns a deaf ear to the counsel of his well wishers and stakes his all on mere speculation and goes bankrupt. But such a person has to blame none but himself only for his sad plight.

Let us further expand the meaning of the above quoted verses and its relevance for us:

• Desperation of the Wrongdoer: The verse begins by depicting how those who committed wrong (sins, disobedience to Allah, injustice to others) will, on the Day of Judgment, realize the enormity of their sins. If they possessed everything on earth—wealth, power, or any material resources—they would try to offer it as a ransom to escape the punishment. However, nothing in this world will be sufficient to save them once they face Allah's judgment.
• Intense Regret and Remorse: When the wrongdoers finally witness the reality of the punishment awaiting them, they will experience intense regret (Arabic: أسروا النَّدامة), which they will internalize. This remorse comes from their realization that they wasted their opportunities in life by rejecting the truth and committing sins. At this point, their regret will be of no benefit because the time for repentance and doing good deeds has passed.
• Judgment with Full Justice: Despite their remorse, justice will be served. The verse emphasizes that Allah will judge the wrongdoers with absolute fairness. The judgment will be based on their deeds, and no one will be treated unfairly. Allah is All-Knowing and Just, so everyone will be recompensed precisely according to what they deserve.
• No Injustice Will Be Done: The verse closes by reassuring that “they will not be wronged” (وَهُمْ لَا يُظْلَمُونَ). This highlights Allah's perfect justice—no one will be treated unfairly, and no soul will bear the burden of another. Each person will face the consequences of their own actions.

Broader Themes and Lessons from the Verse

• The Futility of Material Wealth: The verse shows that, in the Hereafter, all the wealth and material possessions of this world will be meaningless. The wrongdoer’s attempt to offer the entire world in exchange for freedom from punishment reflects the futility of materialism when facing Allah's judgment. Only righteous deeds, faith, and submission to Allah will matter on that day.
• The Importance of Repentance and Good Deeds: This verse serves as a warning to act now while there is still time. Wrongdoers will wish they had acted righteously, but once the Day of Judgment comes, regret will no longer benefit them. This underscores the importance of repentance (tawbah) and performing good deeds while alive.
• Divine Justice: The verse also emphasizes that Allah’s judgment will be completely just. No one will be punished unjustly or more than what they deserve. Similarly, no one will be deprived of any good they have done. Every deed, whether good or bad, will be accounted for.

Supporting Hadith

The idea of regret in the Hereafter and the futility of material possessions is echoed in several hadiths:

• Hadith on Regret in the Hereafter: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:

"The people of Hell will be made to feel remorse and regret, and they will say, 'Send us back so we can do good deeds, not the evil that we used to do.' But it will be said to them: 'No, it is just a word that they say, and in front of them is a barrier until the Day they are resurrected.'" (Surah Al-Mu’minun, 23:99-100; Sahih Muslim)

This hadith mirrors the concept of intense regret felt by the wrongdoers, as described in the verse. After death, the chance for redemption is lost, and all they can do is regret the missed opportunities to do good.

• Hadith on the Value of Righteous Deeds: The Prophet (peace be upon him) warned about focusing too much on the material world and neglecting one’s obligations to Allah. He said:

“Take advantage of five before five: your youth before your old age, your health before your sickness, your wealth before your poverty, your free time before your preoccupation, and your life before your death.” (Sunan al-Tirmidhi, 2417)

This hadith encourages believers to use their wealth, health, and time wisely for the sake of good deeds, as these are fleeting and will not be available after death.

Broader Implications in Today’s World

• Avoiding Materialism: In today’s world, people often pursue wealth and status at the expense of their spiritual well-being. This verse serves as a reminder that material possessions cannot save a person in the Hereafter. What truly matters are good deeds and faith in Allah.
• Being Mindful of Justice: The verse also reinforces the concept of justice. In a world where injustice is often prevalent, it reminds us that Allah’s justice is absolute and that all wrongdoers will be held accountable. Therefore, believers should strive to uphold justice in their own lives and actions.
• Urgency of Good Deeds: The message of the verse is to take advantage of the time given in this life to perform good deeds, repent for mistakes, and follow Allah’s commands. Procrastination in matters of faith and good deeds can lead to regret when it is too late.

In the light of explanation above, Surah Yunus, verse 54, offers a stark reminder of the Day of Judgment and the regret that wrongdoers will feel when they face Allah’s punishment. Their desperate attempts to ransom themselves with the wealth of the world will be in vain, as the time for repentance and good deeds will have passed. The verse emphasizes the futility of materialism in the Hereafter and highlights the need for repentance and righteous actions in this life. Furthermore, it reassures that Allah's judgment is perfectly just, and no one will be wronged in the least.

Remember, the above quoted verse takes us deep into the time when people are made to account for their deeds and their fate is determined. But such a ransom will not be accepted, even should it be offered. But before the verse is concluded, we see that what was supposed has come to pass and the whole matter is done and finished with. It has all come as a great surprise which leaves them powerless. The image here is one of gloomy faces, full of sadness, their lips unable to utter a word. 

Time is now to shun any thoughts of being superior to others and harming the weak and meek for self interests and thinking that since we have been blessed so much, we are among the blessed and we will continue to be placed at a higher pedestal even on the Day of Judgement. Or being satisfied that even if we were to be penalized on that day, we could barter trade our sins with what we owned in the world and get a free ticket to Heavens. Beware of such foolish thoughts for justice of Allah cannot be bought with money but with good deeds and by living a worldly life as prescribed for us in Qur'an.

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.

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.

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

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 like to read more posts on similar theme in our series of posts related to: Ref Page: Divine Court Rules

For more Selected Verses, please refer to 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 | Tafsir References: | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 

An effort has been made to gather explanation / exegesis of the surahs and selected verses of the Qur'ān 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, references of other sources which have been explored have also been given above. Those desirous of detailed explanations and tafsir (exegesis), may refer to these sites. For expansion of meaning and themes / contextual background help from ChatGPT is also taken.

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

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

Follow @IslamUltimate

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

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What is Hijab in Islam - a broader viewpoint

Hijab is one of the most misunderstood word as for Islam is concerned. It is usually taken in context of Muslim women for covering their body contours from the eyes of the men. In fact the concept of Hijab in Islam goes far beyond merely covering one’s body or wearing a headscarf of women. It, in fact, represents a broader set of guidelines and principles related to modesty, dignity, privacy, and morality. The term "Hijab" generally means "to cover, conceal, or separate." In Islamic teachings, Hijab encompasses both outward physical coverings and inward spiritual conduct.

Thus apart from its women specific meaning, Hijab actually means covering - that is all things from the eyes of others which either concern our Awrah or many other facets of life which may be inadvertently hurting to others, if not properly taken care of. Let us dwell on it in some details:

Hijab as mostly understood, specially by Non Muslims

We have already shared a number of posts on Hijab, which refer to Hijab as generally understood. The links are shared in under for detailed reading:

• Hijab for Muslim women
• Wear Raiment of Modesty and Righteousness 
• Islam PROHIBITS looking at `Awrah – the Intimate Body Parts of others
• Why Islam gives so much emphasis on Modesty " Hayā حياء " 
• Lone brave Indian Muslim girl protects her Hijab from intimidating Hindutva terrorists

Let us sum up the concept of Hijab as for its Physical Aspect: Modesty in Dress is concerned:

• For Women: The Hijab in its most common sense refers to the modest dress code prescribed for Muslim women. This includes covering the hair and body except for the face and hands (though some interpretations recommend covering the face as well). The objective is to maintain modesty and avoid drawing unnecessary attention to oneself in public.
• Quranic Reference:
• Surah An-Nur (24:31): "And tell the believing women to lower their gaze and guard their private parts and not expose their adornment except that which [necessarily] appears thereof and to wrap [a portion of] their headcovers over their chests..."
• Surah Al-Ahzab (33:59): "O Prophet, tell your wives and your daughters and the women of the believers to bring down over themselves part of their outer garments. That is more suitable that they will be known and not be abused."

These verses establish the guidelines for modest dress, emphasizing covering parts of the body that are considered private (awrah) in public spaces.

• For Men: Although the Hijab is often associated with women, men also have guidelines regarding modesty. Men are required to dress modestly, cover their private parts (from the navel to the knee), and avoid clothing that draws excessive attention or is tight-fitting.

Surah An-Nur (24:30): "Tell the believing men to lower their gaze and guard their private parts. That is purer for them. Indeed,llah is Acquainted with what they do."

 

Modesty in dress for men also discourages extravagance or dressing in a way that could lead to pride or vanity. Please read our previous post for details: Let believing men cast down their looks

Broader meaning of Hijab in Islam

Let us now turn to meaning of Hijab in aspects other than women specific or covering of Awrah:

• Hijab of Behavior: Modesty in Conduct
• Lowering the Gaze: In addition to modest dress, Hijab includes the concept of "lowering the gaze" and avoiding inappropriate interactions with members of the opposite gender.

Surah An-Nur (24:30-31): Both men and women are commanded to lower their gaze and guard their chastity, which means avoiding lustful looks or inappropriate behavior.

• Respectful Interaction: Hijab also involves how individuals conduct themselves in social interactions. Conversations and interactions should be respectful, with the boundaries of modesty upheld. Inappropriate flirtation or physical contact with members of the opposite gender is discouraged.
• Segregation (in Certain Contexts): In certain social or religious settings, Islam encourages gender segregation to prevent any temptations or improprieties. While this varies depending on culture and context, the underlying principle is to create an environment of modesty and respect.
• Hijab of the Heart: Spiritual Modesty: Modesty in Islam is not limited to outward appearance; it also has a spiritual dimension. Hijab of the heart refers to cultivating a sense of modesty, humility, and God-consciousness (taqwa) within.
• Spiritual Purity: A believer is expected to guard their heart from pride, vanity, and immoral desires. The concept of Hijab thus extends to internal modesty, where one’s thoughts, intentions, and desires should align with Islamic teachings of morality and decency.
• Hijab of Speech: Modesty in Words: 
• The way one speaks is also part of the broader understanding of Hijab. Islam encourages believers to use their speech in a modest and respectful manner. This means avoiding vulgarity, slander, gossip, or flirtatious conversation.
• Quranic Reference:

Surah Al-Ahzab (33:32): "O wives of the Prophet, you are not like anyone among women. If you fear Allah, then do not be soft in speech [to men], lest he in whose heart is disease should covet, but speak with appropriate speech."    

• This verse encourages women to speak respectfully and not in a manner that could be misinterpreted or lead to inappropriate attraction. The principle of modest speech applies to men as well.
• Hijab of Privacy: Protecting Personal Space
• The concept of Hijab also emphasizes the importance of personal privacy. Muslims are taught to respect the private space of others, including their homes and personal affairs.
• Quranic Reference: "O you who have believed, do not enter houses other than your own houses until you ascertain welcome and greet their inhabitants." Surah An-Nur (24:27)
• This verse stresses the importance of respecting others’ privacy, which is another aspect of modesty and courtesy in Islam.
• Hijab as Protection
• One of the purposes of Hijab in all its forms—dress, behavior, speech, and privacy—is to protect individuals from harm, unwanted attention, and immorality.
• Surah Al-Ahzab (33:59): "That is more suitable that they will be known and not be abused."
• The outward expression of modesty, especially through clothing, is meant to provide a layer of protection from harassment or unwanted attention, ensuring dignity and safety.

Hijab of Projectionist Desires

Man swells out of his self when blessed with position, wealth and status better than others. Islam strictly prohibits projection of such desires for these not only display arrogance and pride rather than humbleness and humility. Some such projectionist desires are given herein under which inadvertently hurt many others, blessed less than them, are appended hereinunder:

• Hijab against exhibiting one's wealth in front of the poor
• Hijab against eating lavishly when being watched by a poor and hungry who cannot even afford a decent meal in a day
• Hijab against patting and pampering your children in front of the orphans lest their 
• Hijab against exposing others' faults and sins if you happen to know of
• Hijab against peeping into personal lives of others not exposing these to others

Thus the broad meaning of Hijab in Islam encompasses much more than the headscarf worn by women. It represents a comprehensive framework of modesty, respect, and dignity, which applies to both men and women. Hijab includes:

• Modesty in dress for both genders,
• Modesty in behavior such as lowering the gaze and maintaining proper boundaries in interactions,
• Modesty in speech, avoiding inappropriate language or tones,
• Spiritual modesty, maintaining purity of thought and intention.
• Privacy and protection of oneself from harm or exploitation. Read our post: Believers! Do not be  Over-inquisitive and unnecessarily curious
• At its core, the concept of Hijab reflects a holistic approach to living a modest, dignified, and respectful life in accordance with Islamic principles. It is designed to preserve the honor and morality of individuals and to foster a society built on mutual respect and decency.

Let us then very cautious of Hijab in its boarder meaning for it covers everything that that may lure into evil or hurt someone by exposure of acts as mentioned above.

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 | 

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

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

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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.

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What to say if one forgets to say Bismillah before eating food (Etiquettes taught by Prophet Muhammad ﷺ)

Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ is full of teaching, rendering advices and letting others know the etiquettes of living a life according the Divine guidance as contained in Qur'an. Since besides being a religion, Islam is complete code of life and code of conduct, it encompasses every action of a man which should be taken as per explained in Qur'an and practically demonstrated by Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. 

And when it comes to taking one's meal, it should commence by taking the name of Allah, saying Bismillah بِسْمِ اللَّهِ  to show our gratitude to our Creator who has provided us the means of sustenance and food to eat. But what if forgets to say Bismillah before eating the food and continues and suddenly he remembers that he has not said Bismillah. 

Prophet Muhammad ﷺ guides us for such situations and has told us what to say to compensate for our omission. This Hadith is mentioned in Sunan Ibn Majah /  Book 29 Chapters on Food / كتاب الأطعمة) / Chapter 7: Saying bismillah when eating / باب  التَّسْمِيَةِ عِنْدَ الطَّعَامِ / as Hadith number # 3945 under:

It was narrated that ‘Aishah said:

“The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) was eating food with six of his Companions when a Bedouin came and ate it all in two bites. The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: ‘If he had said Bismillah, it would have sufficed you (all). When any one of you eats food, let him say Bismillah, and if he forgets to say Bismillah at the beginning, let him say Bismillah fi awwalihi wa akhirih (In the Name of Allah at the beginning and at the end).’”

Arabic Text:‏

حَدَّثَنَا أَبُو بَكْرِ بْنُ أَبِي شَيْبَةَ، حَدَّثَنَا يَزِيدُ بْنُ هَارُونَ، عَنِ هِشَامٍ الدَّسْتَوَائِيِّ، عَنْ بُدَيْلِ بْنِ مَيْسَرَةَ، عَنْ عَبْدِ اللَّهِ بْنِ عُبَيْدِ بْنِ عُمَيْرٍ، عَنْ عَائِشَةَ، قَالَتْ كَانَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ ـ صلى الله عليه وسلم ـ يَأْكُلُ طَعَامًا فِي سِتَّةِ نَفَرٍ مِنْ أَصْحَابِهِ فَجَاءَ أَعْرَابِيٌّ فَأَكَلَهُ بِلُقْمَتَيْنِ فَقَالَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ ـ صلى الله عليه وسلم ـ ‏ "‏ أَمَا أَنَّهُ لَوْ كَانَ قَالَ بِسْمِ اللَّهِ لَكَفَاكُمْ فَإِذَا أَكَلَ أَحَدُكُمْ طَعَامًا فَلْيَقُلْ بِسْمِ اللَّهِ فَإِنْ نَسِيَ أَنْ يَقُولَ بِسْمِ اللَّهِ فِي أَوَّلِهِ فَلْيَقُلْ بِسْمِ اللَّهِ فِي أَوَّلِهِ وَآخِرِهِ ‏"‏ ‏.‏

Grade: Sahih (Darussalam)

This hadith emphasizes the importance of saying "Bismillah" (In the Name of Allah) before eating, and it reflects a broader Islamic principle that actions should be accompanied by the remembrance of Allah, especially when receiving sustenance.

The hadith suggests that when "Bismillah" is pronounced, the food is not only sufficient but also blessed, even if the quantity seems limited. The Bedouin, who did not say "Bismillah," quickly consumed the food, whereas invoking Allah’s name would have caused the food to suffice for everyone. This illustrates the concept of barakah (blessing) associated with remembering Allah.

If someone forgets to say "Bismillah" before eating, they are given a remedy by saying "Bismillah fi awwalihi wa akhirih" بِسْمِ اللَّهِ فِي أَوَّلِهِ وَآخِرِهِ (In the Name of Allah, at the beginning and at the end), which still invokes Allah's blessings retroactively.

Connection to the Qur'an

Let us see how this  complements the Qur'anic teachings by encouraging mindfulness of Allah's presence in daily activities, showing gratitude for His provisions, and seeking blessings in all affairs.

• Acknowledging Allah's Provision:
• The Qur'an repeatedly stresses that all sustenance comes from Allah. 
• In Surah Al-Baqarah (2:172), Allah commands believers to "Eat of the good things which We have provided for you, and be grateful to Allah." 
• By saying "Bismillah" before eating, a Muslim acknowledges Allah as the provider of the food and shows gratitude for it.
• Gratitude and Blessings:
• The act of saying "Bismillah" invokes blessings and barakah (divine increase) in the meal. This aligns with the Qur'anic idea that gratitude leads to an increase in blessings. 
• In Surah Ibrahim (14:7), Allah says, "If you are grateful, I will surely increase you [in favor]." 
• The Prophet ﷺ, by instructing to say "Bismillah," is encouraging gratitude that brings blessings, a theme also found in the Qur'an.
• Mindfulness of Allah:
• The Qur'an encourages mindfulness of Allah in all actions, including eating. 
• In Surah Al-An'am (6:121), believers are instructed to "Eat not of (meat) on which Allah's name has not been pronounced." 
• This verse points to the importance of beginning actions, especially related to food, with the remembrance of Allah’s name.

In view of the explanation of the Hadith and its connection with Qur'an, we must make it a habit to begin eating our meal by saying بِسْمِ اللَّهِ  (in the name of Allah). But if we forget it and begin eating, then no sooner we remember it should stop and say بِسْمِ اللَّهِ فِي أَوَّلِهِ وَآخِرِهِ (In the Name of Allah, at the beginning and at the end) and then resume eating. Allah will honour our omission and bless us, 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.

Please refer to our exclusive reference page Etiquettes taught by Prophet Muhammad ﷺ for more etiquettes attributed to Prophet Muhammad.

For more hadiths on varying subjects, refer to our reference page: Sunnah and Hadith of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ to know more about Hadiths and Sunnah of Prophet of Allah. You may also refer to our Reference Pages for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.

Photo | Source of Hadith | Help taken from ChatGPT for expanding meaning of the Hadith

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

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

Follow @IslamUltimate

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

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Spend of what Allah has granted you before death should come to you

No two men are blessed equally. Rather it is generally seen that the Have NOTs are more than those who are the lucky ones to have the blessings of Allah and means of sustenance available to them. This disparity in means of sustenance has been created so that those who have more than their needs, should share the extra with those who have none or too less to live a meaningful life. Despite the wisdom behind the blessings and otherwise, most of us fail the test and fail to part with our resources to help others. If man had been generous, the world today would have been a happier place. But despite abundance of resources, we see children dying of hunger in many areas of the world. Instead of helping them, there are countries who dump millions of tons of wheat into the sea for want of storage.

It is for this very reason, Allah has asked His servants to help others from what they have been given, lest death begets them and they leave behind their coffers stuffed with money that if had been given away in charity, would have come to their rescue on the Day of the Judgment.

Of the many verses from Qur'an on charity, we share the 10th verse of Surah Al-Munafiqun which emphasizes the importance of giving charity (sadaqah) and performing good deeds before death, as once death comes, it is too late for repentance or righteous actions. The verse reads:

وَاَنۡفِقُوۡا مِنۡ مَّا رَزَقۡنٰكُمۡ مِّنۡ قَبۡلِ اَنۡ يَّاۡتِىَ اَحَدَكُمُ الۡمَوۡتُ فَيَقُوۡلَ رَبِّ لَوۡلَاۤ اَخَّرۡتَنِىۡۤ اِلٰٓى اَجَلٍ قَرِيۡبٍۙ فَاَصَّدَّقَ وَاَكُنۡ مِّنَ الصّٰلِحِيۡنَ‏ 

(63:10) And spend of what Allah has granted you by way of sustenance before death should come to any of you and he should say: “Lord, why did You not defer my return for a while so that I might give alms and be among the righteous?”

With respect to charitable donations, the surah here touches their hearts in several ways: "Give, then, out of what We have provided for you." This reminds us of the source of all that we have. It is all from God in whom we believe and who instructs us to be generous and charitable. Such giving should be done "before death comes to any ofyou.. ." It should be a result of the person's own action before death overtakes him and he leaves everything behind for others to enjoy. If he does not do so then he will look around only to discover that he has put nothing forward for his own salvation. This is the worst stupidity and the greatest loss. He will then feel pangs of regret and wish he could have more time to be charitable and join with those people who are righteous.

Let us expand this verse to have a detailed view of its revelation:

• Command to Spend in Charity: The verse instructs believers to give from what Allah has provided them. This refers to wealth, time, and abilities that Allah has granted as a means to support others and to earn His pleasure. Charity (sadaqah) is a major way to purify wealth and help those in need.
• Before Death Approaches: The warning is clear: believers should act while they are alive and capable. Once death comes, there will be no opportunity to return to life and rectify one's shortcomings, including giving charity or engaging in righteous deeds.
• Regret After Death: The verse portrays a scene where a person, upon realizing that death is imminent, regrets not having spent their wealth in charity or having performed more righteous deeds. They beg for a delay or extension of life so they can return to perform good deeds, especially charity. However, at that point, it is too late, and no delay will be granted.

Supporting Hadith and Teachings:

The theme of this verse is reflected in many hadiths that highlight the importance of giving charity and performing good deeds during one's lifetime, as these actions cannot be performed after death.

• Hadith on Giving Charity Before Death: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized the urgency of giving charity before it is too late. He said:

“A man said: O Messenger of Allah, which charity is the most virtuous? He said: 'To give in charity when you are healthy and miserly, fearing poverty and hoping for a long life. Do not delay until the soul reaches the throat, and then say: ‘This is for so-and-so, and that is for so-and-so,’ when it has already become so-and-so's.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, 2748)

This hadith reinforces the message of the verse by advising believers to give charity while they are still alive, in good health, and capable. The Prophet warns that delaying charity until the moment of death is futile because once death approaches, the opportunity to perform good deeds is lost.

• Hadith on Regret After Death: The Prophet (peace be upon him) also mentioned how the deceased will regret not having done more during their lifetime. He said:

"The servant says, 'My Lord, give me respite so that I may give charity and be among the righteous.' But Allah will not grant respite to a soul when its appointed time has come." (Sahih al-Bukhari, 4679)

This hadith directly mirrors the sentiment expressed in the verse: once the time of death arrives, no further chances will be given to perform acts of righteousness, including charity.

• The Value of Charity: The Prophet (peace be upon him) greatly emphasized the importance of charity and how it benefits both the giver and society. He said:

"Charity does not decrease wealth. No one forgives another except that Allah increases his honor, and no one humbles himself for the sake of Allah except that Allah raises his status." (Sahih Muslim, 2588)

Charity is seen not as a loss of wealth, but as a means to gain blessings and honor in both this life and the Hereafter. This hadith encourages believers to give freely and frequently without fearing poverty.

Broader Lessons from the Verse and Hadith:

• The Urgency of Good Deeds: Both the verse and hadiths convey a sense of urgency in performing good deeds, particularly giving charity. Life is short and unpredictable, and death can come at any moment. Believers should make the most of their time and wealth by engaging in righteous actions.
• Regret of the Negligent: After death, the opportunity to rectify one’s shortcomings is gone. The verse captures the regret that many will feel at not having done more, particularly in helping others and supporting charitable causes.
• Giving While Alive and Healthy: The hadith encourages giving charity when one is healthy and able, rather than delaying until death approaches. Charity given in such a state demonstrates sincerity and a willingness to part with wealth for the sake of Allah, without waiting for the moment when it is too late.
• Charity as a Means of Salvation: Charity is one of the most virtuous deeds in Islam. It not only purifies one’s wealth but also serves as a shield from Allah's displeasure and punishment. Thus, giving generously in one’s lifetime is a way to secure success in the Hereafter.

Surah Al-Munafiqun, verse 10, along with the supporting hadiths, serves as a reminder for believers to give charity and engage in righteous actions while they are still able. The verse warns against procrastination in doing good deeds, as death could come at any moment, leaving no further opportunity for repentance or charity. The hadiths reinforce the urgency of acting before death and the regret that will come to those who delay, making it clear that charity is an essential part of a believer’s duty that must be fulfilled during their lifetime.

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.

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.

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

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.

For more Selected Verses, please refer to 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 | Tafsir References: | 1 | 2 | 

An effort has been made to gather explanation / exegesis of the surahs and selected verses of the Qur'ān 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, references of other sources which have been explored have also been given above. 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

Glad tidings for those who respond to the call of their Lord

This worldly life of ours was not created to make merry, enjoy the abundant and unending means of sustenance and forget about our Lord who created all this for us. On the contrary, our Lord crated this universe full of resources to sustain us so that we are thankful to Him and bow our head in gratitude and utter humility. This theme has been repeated at a number of times in Qur'an .

We pick up the 18th verse of Surah 13. Ar Ra'd and understand the Divine promise for those who respond to the Divine call and those who do not: 

لِلَّذِيۡنَ اسۡتَجَابُوۡا لِرَبِّهِمُ الۡحُسۡنٰى​ؕ وَالَّذِيۡنَ لَمۡ يَسۡتَجِيۡبُوۡا لَهٗ لَوۡ اَنَّ لَهُمۡ مَّا فِى الۡاَرۡضِ جَمِيۡعًا وَّمِثۡلَهٗ مَعَهٗ لَافۡتَدَوۡا بِهٖؕ اُولٰۤـئِكَ لَهُمۡ سُوۡۤءُ الۡحِسَابِ ۙ وَمَاۡوٰٮهُمۡ جَهَـنَّمُ​ؕ وَبِئۡسَ الۡمِهَادُ‏ 

(13:18) There is good reward for those who respond to the call of their Lord. And those who do not respond to their Lord, (a time will come when) they shall offer all they have - even if they have all the riches of the world and the like of it besides to redeem themselves (from the chastisement of Allah). They will be subjected to a severe reckoning and Hell shall be their refuge. What a wretched resting place it is!

The verse contains two types of subjects: Those who respond to the Divine Call and those who do not. It will be seen that most part of the verse is about warning to those who do not heed to the Divine Call and have been warned of the consequences of their disbelief in the Lord of the entire universe. Let us try to understand the deep rooted meaning of this verse:

• Those Who Respond to Allah: The verse begins by referring to those who respond positively to Allah's call (i.e., follow His guidance and obey His commands). For such individuals, the best reward awaits them, which includes Allah’s pleasure, Paradise, and His infinite mercy.
• Those Who Do Not Respond: In contrast, the verse warns about those who reject or ignore Allah’s guidance. Even if they possessed all the wealth and riches in the world, they would not be able to ransom themselves on the Day of Judgment to escape punishment.
• The Worst Accountability: These people will face a severe and difficult accounting for their actions on the Day of Judgment. This refers to a detailed and harsh reckoning of their deeds.
• Their End is Hellfire: For those who rejected Allah's message, the verse ends with a grave warning: their ultimate destination is Hell, and it is described as a miserable and wretched resting place.

Lessons from the Verse:

• The verse contrasts the fate of the believers (those who respond to Allah) with that of the disbelievers (those who reject the message).
• It highlights the futility of worldly possessions in the Hereafter and the severity of rejecting divine guidance.
• The verse serves as a reminder to heed Allah’s call and follow His path to avoid the severe consequences in the Hereafter.

We learn from the Quran that the rebels of Allah shall have to render a reckoning, whereas there shall be a light reckoning from those who have been faithful and obedient to their Lord. In consideration of their loyal services, their cases will be dealt with leniently, and taking their general goodness into account many of their shortcomings will be forgiven.

That is whoever responds to Him will have a fine reward, and whoever turns away will face great suffering. So much so that the latter will want to offer the earth’s riches twice over, in order to release himself. But there is no chance of release. There is only an awful reckoning and a fitting abode in hell.

Here again the contrast is clear between those who respond to their Lord and those who do not. Between the rich reward and the awful reckoning, hell and its painful abode. This follows the same pattern of the sūrah in providing one contrasting image after another. 

This is further amplified by a tradition of the Prophet (peace be upon him). Aishah relates: I said, O Messenger of Allah, the most dreadful verse of the Quran is this: “Whoso shall commit an evil, he shall be punished for it. (Surah An- Nisa, Ayat 123).” The Prophet answered: O Aishah, don’t you know how Allah clears the accounts of His faithful and obedient servant. Whatever harm or trouble he receives in this world, even so much as the pricking of a thorn, is taken by Allah as atonement for one or the other of his sins. As regards to the Hereafter, everyone who shall be called upon to render an account of any sin, shall be punished for it. At this Aishah asked: Then what is meant by light reckoning in this verse: Whoso shall be given his “Book of Deeds” in his right hand, he will render a light reckoning? (Surah Al- Inshiqaq, Ayats 7-8). The Prophet (peace be upon him) answered: This means merely the presentation of his whole conduct, that is, all his deeds, good and bad, shall be presented before Allah but he shall not be called upon to clear the account of all his deeds; for the one who shall be called upon to clear the whole of his account, shall be totally ruined.

The same thing is happening even in this world. A master deals very leniently with his faithful and obedient servant and connives at his minor faults and even forgives his major faults in consideration of his meritorious services. On the other hand, if a servant is proved to be treacherous and dishonest, no consideration is given even to his services, and he is punished both for his minor and for major faults.

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.

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.

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

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.

For more Selected Verses, please refer to 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 | Tafsir References: | 1 | 2 | 3 |

An effort has been made to gather explanation / exegesis of the surahs and selected verses of the Qur'ān 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, references of other sources which have been explored have also been given above. Those desirous of detailed explanations and tafsir (exegesis), may refer to these sites. For expansion of meaning and themes / contextual background help from ChatGPT is also taken.

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

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