My Ultimate Decision, the name and theme of my blog basically hinges about people of other faiths finally taking their Ultimate Decision of life by discarding their earlier faiths and embracing Islam. I have in the past shared circumstances and reasons by some of those who questioned their beliefs but did not find the satisfying answers till they voluntarily started reading about Islam and the Holy Qur'an when the truth started to unfold on them and took them into the final religion sent by Allah Almighty through Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). I have read many sites of Christianity which outrightly reject Islam as a Divine religion and trying to base their anti Islamic mindset - but when Islam provides answers to the very practicing Christians or those who have become racist with anti Islam mindset, many chose to be come practicing Muslims. In fact better than born Muslims. And this post today is of a man who was raised in a family where the father was extremely racist and anti Islam. Naturally, someone living in the United States where every incident of shooting is attributed to "Muslims fundamentalists" if the shooter turns out to be a Muslim and labelled as terrorist, but when a Christian does the same, he or she is simply shrugged of as a case of troubled family or bringing up, Now back to the story of this young Christian who became a bully and extremely racist and anti Muslim and became was heavily involved in the racist neo-Nazi skinhead movement. But deep inside hi, he always felt bad about what he dis but continued doing so for it also pleased him hurting others. He confides that "I remember a Mexican schoolmate of mine asking me when I was 16 "why do you hang out with those losers, you are better than that." He was right, he recalls, but I guess there was a part of me that, even though I hated my father for what he was doing to the family, that I wanted to be just like him. That is where my racism and hatred came from.
Then by age of 23, he started to seriously think of changing and finding answers to keep his mind at rest. He says:
During this time the Intifada was raging in Palestine. My father, racist and anti-Semite though he was, had always supported the Jewish state. I now think that he hated Jews, as well as any one else who wasn't white, but he hated the Arabs more than he hated the Jews, so that is why he supported Israel. As I was rethinking everything I was taught when I was younger I decided to take a closer look at this struggle in the Middle East.
So he started reading about history of Middle East and the Arabs, and Islam to see why his father so hated this religion. And as his insight into the Arabs, Middle East and Islam broadened, he started to find answers of the questions that he had had about religion. He says:
From the very beginning some things struck a chord with me and answered doubts I had always had concerning the religion I was raised in. I had always taken issue with the idea that God would ever have offspring. From my reading I recognized this belief as one pulled from pagan sources. Zeus, Odin, and numerous other pagan gods all had children. In the case of Odin, his followers even believed he hung on a tree, much like Christians believe that Jesus (PBUH) hung on a cross. Odinists, the name given to the followers of this ancient Northern European religion, also believed in a trinity of sorts formed by Odin, his son Thor, and his consort Freja. It was clear this innovation of the Christians did not have its basis in God, but in previous pagan beliefs.
The other issue that he had always struggle with was the concept of original sin. The idea that God could be so unjust as to hold himself and everyone else responsible for the sins of others who died thousands of years before me just seemed so unjust. He says:
I had a basic concept of God, and the idea He could be so unjust to do such a thing just did not sit well with me. It always seemed to me that Christians just didn't have the answer to these questions, and if they did, their answers just reinforced these unjust positions.
I looked to Judaism, but that religion offered more questions than answers as well. Their attitude towards the prophets, peace be upon them all, was disgraceful. Their religious texts accused these greatest of men of the most terrible crimes and I refused to believe God would pick such men to lead his people on earth.
If Judaism held such beliefs how could I look to them for guidance?
Reading more about Islam was like finding a place of tranquility and solace for he finally came to the understanding that Islam had all of the answers, for understanding of Islam cleared up the confusion of the lie of the trinity, and asserted Jesus' (pbuh) true role as a prophet, and not the son of God. Islam revered all of the prophets, peace and blessings of God be upon them, and recognized them for the great people they were. In Islam, and the values it promotes, He saw the answer to his problems and questions, and the future of mankind. "The issue was to now try to implement Islam in my life," says Marc Springer, the narrator of his experience of other religions and finally coming home to the world of Islam - the final religion by Allah for the entire mankind till the Day of Resurrection. Blessed are those like Marc Springer who having experienced their earlier faiths, questioned them and when found no answers, found the same in Islam, in the commandant contained in the Holy Qur'an and the teachings and way of life of the last of the prophets, Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Marc Springer later married a Muslim woman with her ancestral linkage to Saudi Arabia and lives a happily married life in Washington DC. You may read the complete narration of Marc Springer' change of faith from the source given below.
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New religions take time to mature and cement their basic foundations. When Allah chose Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), a pious, respectful and trusted man from one of the leading tribes of Makkah to be His last prophet through whom the last of the divine religions, Islam, was to be sent to the mankind, the pagans of Makkah were the most intolerable and hostile audience the Prophet of Allah had to face. Therefore, the Divine messages trickled down slowly and it took some 23 years to complete the religion as Islam solidified its position unto the disbelievers and nonbelievers.
Masjid Al Aqsa, Jerusalem
Initially, when the five prayers were made obligatory for the Muslims, the prayer direction or the Qibla (in Arabic) was chosen to be the Masjid Al Aqsa in the holy lands located on a hill in the Old City of Jerusalem that for thousands of years has been venerated as a holy site, in Judaism and Christianity and from thence by Islam too. Right from the early days of Islam, Muslim's Qibla remained the direction of Masjid Al Aqsa for over 13 years, that is from 610 CE until 623 CE. However, seventeen months after the migration of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) from Makkah to Medina the Qiblah became oriented towards the Ka'aba, Masjid Al Haraam, in Makkah.
When the Muslims came to Medina and started praying in the direction of Masjid Al Aqsa, equally revered by the Jews and which also the direction of their prayers, the Jews initially rejoiced the fact that the Prophet of Islam had to take their sacred city as a Qibla. And it was also thought by the Muslims that by having a common Qibla, the two religions would foster religious harmony and cordial relations in future. But as the spread of Islam started to gain momentum, the Jews of Medina felt threatened of losing their religious identity and as a retaliation started to mock the Muslims for not having a Qibla of their own. "Muhammad claims that his is an independent religion and his law supersedes all previous laws, but he does not yet have an independent 'qiblah' and offers his prayers facing the 'qiblah' of the Jews".
This started hurting the Prophet of Allah and he would invariably go out at night and look towards the Heavens for a Divine command regarding the Qibla for Muslims.
The silent prayers of the Prophet of Allah were finally answered and on that fateful day of 2 Hijrah when the Prophet of Allah was leading the noon prayers, came the Divine commandment:
We have certainly seen the turning of your face, [O Muhammad], toward the heaven, and We will surely turn you to a qibla with which you will be pleased. So turn your face toward al-Masjid al-Haram. And wherever you [believers] are, turn your faces toward it [in prayer]. Indeed, those who have been given the Scripture well know that it is the truth from their Lord. And Allah is not unaware of what they do. [Surah Al Baqara 2:144]
The Prophet of Allah had almost finished the two rakah or the cycles, when the Divine message arrived to change the direction of Qibla towards Ka'aba, Masjid Al Haraam, in Makkah. Thus the messenger of Allah changed the direction which was almost opposite to the direction of Masjid Al Aqsa and offered the remaining two cycles of the prayers.
Masjid Al Haraam, Ka'aba - Makkah
Due to this change of Qibla, the masjid became to known as the Masjid Qiblatain, the Masjid with two Qiblas or the prayer directions. The direction change made Muslims joyous, but it was a day of mourning for the Jews. The Muslims had now become completely independent of them and a prophecy in their old books had been fulfilled that the last of the great prophets would change the orientation of the religion of Allah from Jerusalem to the Ancient House of Abrahim (upon him be peace). Their elders went as a body to the Prophet (ﷺ) and said that if he would change his orientation back to Jerusalem, then they would follow him. [2] Allah (ﷻ) revealed in the Quran in Surah al-Baqarah:
“And even if thou broughtest unto those who have received the Scriptures all kinds of portents, they would not follow thy Qibla, nor canst thou be a follower of their Qibla; nor are some of them followers of the Qibla of others. And if thou shouldst follow their desires after the knowledge which has come unto thee, then surely wert thou of the evil doers.” [2:145]
While most of the Muslims accepted the Divine commandant wholeheartedly as Ka'aba was well known to them, some of Medina had some dual feelings as they failed to understand the wisdom behind the change in the Qibla direction. In fact it was a test for the true believer, because the true believer, unlike others, accepts the commands of Allah without any doubt:
“And thus we have made you a just community that you will be witnesses over the people and the Messenger will be a witness over you. And We did not make the qiblah which you used to face except that We might make evident who would follow the Messenger from who would turn back on his heels. And indeed, it is difficult except for those whom Allah has guided. And never would Allah have caused you to lose your faith. Indeed Allah is, to the people, Kind and Merciful.” [Al-Baqarah 2:143]
And yet again:
“Whatever Verse (revelation) do We abrogate or cause to be forgotten, We bring a better one or similar to it. Know you not that Allah is able to do all things?” [Al-Baqarah 2:106]
Thus from then on, Masjid Al Haraam, Ka'aba in Makkah became the direction for all the Muslims living anywhere in the world. Today more than a billion Muslims living all over the world face Ka'aba - an act that induces unity and focus of one's faith. A few words about the Qibla al-Qudsiyya: It is the name given to a small sect of the Jews of Medina who converted to Islam in 622/623. When the Qibla was changed, these Jews protested and finally declined the change. They remained Muslims, but did not accept any of the verses in the Qur'an written after the date of the split. Little is known of the existence of these Islamic Jews afterwards. [3] You may now watch a video of Masjid Qiblatain as shared on YouTube:
Next time you are in the holy lands and visit Medina, do not forget to visit this very important landmark of Islamic history. Masjid Qiblatain lies three miles away from Masjid an-Nabwi in Medina.
Photo (Masjid Qiblatain) | Photos (Masjid Al Aqsa / Masjid Al Haraam, Ka'aba | References: | 1 | 2 | 3 |
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Sūrat al-Qamar is the 54th chapter of the Qur'an with 55 ayat and three rukuh. The naming of this chapter with one of the most visible landmark of the celestial world after the sun explains the importance the moon carries in Islam. In the Holy Qur'an, at 28 different places the mention of moon has been made. In fact moon has always been important to the Arabs, who evading the scorching sun and extremely hot days preferred to travel at night - a time when the cool light of the moon and starts allowed them to travel with ease and also making use of the navigational properties that night afforded to them. The most important aspect of moon is that it helps to keep a track of time. Unlike the sun which remains round bright and fiery throughout the day, the moon from its first day shape of a crescent and then its varying increasing shapes that changes each day to full moon, the 14th day, and then decreasing till it became as thin as a date stalk. Allah says in 38th chapter (Surah Al Ya-Sin):
"And the moon, We have measured for it mansions (to traverse) till it returns like the old dried curved date stalk."
There is lot more that is to be talked about the importance of moon and some contraventions by the Christians, which we shall discuss in a separate post as mention of issues would digress us from the subject at hand: The meaning and explanation of Sūrat al-Qamar. Being one of the early revelations, this chapter was revealed entirely in Makkah and contains warnings to those who disbelieve in the word of Allah, brought to them through Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), followed by tales of some of the earlier people and prophets as reference and forewarning to those not listening to the Prophet of Allah and telling them how wrath of Allah fell on those who mocked the prophets and chose to remain on the path other than of Allah. In the last part, Allah once again concentrate on His message similar to the one in first part of the surah.
Now lets us read the translation and brief explanation of each part for better understand:
بِسْمِ اللهِ الرَّحْمٰنِ الرَّحِيْمِ
"In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful"
Part - I
1. The Hour has drawn near, and the moon has been cleft asunder (the people of Makkah requested Prophet Muhammad to show them a miracle, so he showed them the splitting of the moon). 2. And if they see a sign, they turn away, and say: "This is continuous magic."
The opening two verses of this chapter clearly explain the splitting of the moon, when they pagans of Makkah insisted of the Prophet of Allah to show them some sign his prophet hood. A doubt here arises in minds of some that going by the literal meaning of the first first verse, it is in fact indication of the Day of Resurrection when the moon will split and not related to actual splitting of the moon as was seen by many nonbelievers. If this verse was indicating towards the Day of Resurrection, then how come the second verse justifies the first verse. It was in fact after the moon was slit into two and then united again that the nonbelievers mocked the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and called the moon split just an act of magic. Read the detailed discussion at [4].
3. They belied (the Verses of Allah, this Qur'an), and followed their own lusts. And every matter will be settled [according to the kind of deeds (for the doer of good deeds, his deeds will take him to Paradise, and similarly evil deeds will take their doers to Hell)]. 4. And indeed there has come to them news (in this Qur'an) wherein there is (enough warning) to check (them from evil), 5. Perfect wisdom (this Qur'an), but (the preaching of) warners benefit them not, 6. So (O Muhammad ) withdraw from them. The Day that the caller will call (them) to a terrible thing. 7. They will come forth, with humbled eyes from (their) graves as if they were locusts spread abroad, 8. Hastening towards the caller, the disbelievers will say: "This is a hard Day."
The verses 3-8 are repetition of many such verses wherein the behavior of the nonbelievers is shown to be that of arrogance and heedlessness to the commandments of Allah brought to them by the Prophet of Allah. And they continue to deny the coming of a day when even the dead will be raised from the graves and made answerable to their bad or otherwise deeds. And here is a message for the Prophet of Allah too that if the nonbelievers do not pay an heed to the message brought to them, then they should be left at their own for Allah alone is powerful to deal with them not only in this world but in the hereafter too.
Part II
In the middle part of the chapter, incidents from the bygone days have been narrated as a caution for the nonbelievers that there have been people like them before too on whom prophets were sent but they did not listen to them and teased them. And then the faced the wrath of Allah for not believing in the guidance on truth sent to them.
9. The people of Nuh (Noah) denied (their Messenger) before them, they rejected Our slave, and said: "A madman!" and he was insolently rebuked and threatened. 10. Then he invoked his Lord (saying): "I have been overcome, so help (me)!" 11. So We opened the gates of heaven with water pouring forth. 12. And We caused the earth to gush forth with springs. So the waters (of the heaven and the earth) met for a matter predestined. 13. And We carried him on a (ship) made of planks and nails, 14. Floating under Our Eyes, a reward for him who had been rejected! 15. And indeed, We have left this as a sign, then is there any that will remember (or receive admonition)? 16. Then how (terrible) was My Torment and My Warnings? 17. And We have indeed made the Qur'an easy to understand and remember, then is there any that will remember (or receive admonition)?
In the verses 9-17, the mention of Prophet Nuh (Noah, peace be upon him) and his people has been narrated. His people too condemned him for not being a prophet and refused to listen to him. When the Prophet was finally tired of trying, he prayed to Allah for their condemnation. And then Allah asked him to build a big boat, enough to house pairs of all living animals and birds of the time. And then the wrath of Allah struck in the form of the greatest flood ever, which drowned everything and everyone except those on board, those who believed in the Prophet and the Divine commandments. Renowned Hadith comiler Imam Bukhari, Ibn Abi Hatim, Abdur Razzaq and Ibn Jarir have related traditions on the authority of Qatadah saying that at the time the Muslims conquered Iraq and al-Jazirah, this Ark still existed on Mount Judi (and according to a tradition, near the settlement of Baqirda), and the early Muslims had seen it.
18. 'Ad (people) belied (their Prophet, Hud), then how (terrible) was My Torment and My Warnings? 19. Verily, We sent against them a furious wind of harsh voice on a day of evil omen and continuous calamity. 20. Plucking out men as if they were uprooted stems of date-palms. 21. Then, how (terrible) was My Torment and My Warnings? 22. And We have indeed made the Qur'an easy to understand and remember, then is there any that will remember (or receive admonition)?
The second incident quoted is that of Prophet Hud (peace be upon him) and his people of Ād, an ancient tribe in Southern Arabia, in a location referred to as "al-ʾAḥq̈āf" or "the Sandy Plains," or "the Wind-curved Sand-hills"). ʿĀd is regarded as one of the original Arab tribes, the "lost Arabs". Their capital may have been what is known as "Iram of the Pillars."
Like the nonbelievers of the past, they too rejected the teachings of a monotheism as preached by Hud (peace be upon him), the Prophet of Allah. They were caught by strong winds that swept away their dwellings and Plucking out men as if they were uprooted stems of date-palms. Some say the winds continued for seven days and eight nights. "It is said that the day on which the storm started was Wednesday. From this the idea spread that Wednesday was a day of ill-luck, and no work should be started on this day. But there is no authenticity in this supposition. [1]
23. Thamud (people also) belied the warnings. 24. For they said: "A man! Alone from among us, that we are to follow? Truly, then we should be in error and distress or madness!" 25. "Is it that the Reminder is sent to him [Prophet Salih (Saleh)] alone from among us? Nay, he is an insolent liar!" 26. Tomorrow they will come to know, who is the liar, the insolent one! 27. Verily, We are sending the she-camel as a test for them. So watch them [O Salih (Saleh)], and be patient! 28. And inform them that the water is to be shared between (her and) them. Each one's right to drink being established (by turns). 29. But they called their comrade and he took (a sword) and killed (her). 30. Then, how (terrible) was My Torment and My Warnings? 31. Verily, We sent against them a single Saihah (torment - awful cry, etc.), and they became like the dry stubble of a fold-builder. 32. And indeed, We have made the Qur'an easy to understand and remember, then is there any that will remember (or receive admonition)?
Verses 23-32 narrate how people of Thamud belied warnings brought to them by Allah's Prophet Salih (Saleh, peace be upon him). When the Prophet brought them Allah's message, they refuted him for 1) He was a human being and not a super-human person so that we may regard him as superior to ourselves, 2) He was a member of their own nation, and in no way superior to the rest and 3) He was a single man, being not a prominent chief with a large following, or an army of soldiers.
Then Allah sent a she-camel as a trial for them. The she-camel appeared suddenly froma mountain, gave birth to a calf and died. Now to riase the calf, the Prophet told his people that one day she would drink the water all by herself and the next day they would be allowed to have water for themselves and their cattle. On the day of her turn neither would come to any of the springs and wells to take water nor bring his cattle for watering. The she-camel roamed at will in their settlements for a long period of time. But one day a pampered chief by the rest killed the she-camel. To this evil deed, Allah sent a single blast against them, and they became like the trampled twigs of a sheep pen-builder. [4]
33. The people of Lout (Lot) belied the warnings. 34. Verily, We sent against them a violent storm of stones (which destroyed them all), except the family of Lout (Lot), whom We saved in last hour of the night, 35. As a Favour from Us, thus do We reward him who gives thanks (by obeying Us). 36. And he [Lout (Lot)] indeed had warned them of Our Grasp, but they did doubt the warnings! 37. And they indeed sought to shame his guest (by asking to commit sodomy with them). So We blinded their eyes, "Then taste you My Torment and My Warnings." 38. And verily, an abiding torment seized them early in the morning. 39. "Then taste you My Torment and My Warnings." 40. And indeed, We have made the Qur'an easy to understand and remember, then is there any that will remember (or receive admonition)?
Then there is mention of Prophet Lut (Lot, peace be upon him) and his people who were involved in the heinous crime of same sex relations among men. Prophet Lut tried his best to convince them of leaving this bad habit and go to their women instead. But he was mocked too. Then as a test, Allah sent two of his angels as guests to the Prophet. But the Prophet's wife, who was more loyal to her tribe than her husband, leaked the news of the prescience of tow adorable young men in her house. So the people of the town flocked Prophet Lut's house with lustful desires and demanded the two men be handed over to them. When all efforts of the Prophet failed to stop them and they almost stormed his house, their eyes were blinded by the Divine decree and the angels asked the Prophet to leave the city along with his family. He was told not to look back for the wrath of Allah would befell on his people. While they all reached to safety, his unfaithful wife turned back to have a last look at her tribe, but was immediately turned to ashes and died like all other evil minded people of her tribe.
The details of this story have been given in (Surah Houd, Ayats 77-83) and (Surah Al-Hijr, Ayats 61-74), and one of our earlier posts: Prophet Lut and Allah's wrath on his people.
41. And indeed, warnings came to the people of Fir'aun (Pharaoh) [through Musa (Moses) and Harun (Aaron)]. 42. (They) belied all Our Signs, so We seized them with a Seizure of the All-Mighty, All-Capable to carry out what he Will (Omnipotent).
Verses 42-43 very briefly touch upon Prophet Musa (Moses, peace be upon him) and the Pharaoh for there are many detailed account od Prophet Musa and Pharaoh in the Holy Qur'an. In fact Prophet Musa is the most talked about prophet in the Holy Qur'an. Suffice to say here that when the Pharaoh did not believe in teaching of Prophet Musa based on the Divine commandment and he along with his mighty army chased Prophet Musa and the Israelites, he was drowned for not believing the truth Prophet Musa had brought to him.
Part III
In all incidents quoted above, the same message has been quoted above has been repeated: “We have made it easy to learn lessons from the Qur’an: will anyone take heed?” The intention has been only one: Listen to what Allah's prophet tells them and act upon the Divine commandments brought to them. But if the remain heedless, then there is wrath in waiting as was brought to people before them.
43. Are your disbelievers (O Quraish!) better than these [nations of Nuh (Noah), Lout (Lot), Salih (Saleh), and the people of Fir'aun (Pharaoh), etc., who were destroyed)? Or have you an immunity (against Our Torment) in the Divine Scriptures? 44. Or do they say: "We are a great multitude, and we shall be victorious.?" 45. Their multitude will be put to flight, and they will show their backs.
Please concentrate on verses 44-45 above. The boasting tone as that of Pharaoh as been repeated taking the words from the mouths of the formidable Quraish chieftains. This verse was revealed some five years before Hijrah and soon after Hijrah and the first Muslim-Nonbelievers encounter at Badr, the strong pagan army turned its back and fled the battle ground, making the Divine forewarning coming true:
It has been narrated Ibn Jarir, Ibn Abi Hatim that Umar bin Khattab used to say: "When this verse (verse 45) of Surah Al-Qamar was sent down, I wondered what hosts it is that would be routed. But when in the Battle of Badr the pagan Quraish were routed and they were fleeing from the battlefield, I saw the Messenger of Allah in his armor rushing forward and reciting this verse: Their multitude will be put to flight, and they will show their backs Then only did I realize that this was the defeat that had been foretold." [4]
46. Nay, but the Hour is their appointed time (for their full recompense), and the Hour will be more grievous and more bitter. 47. Verily, the Mujrimun (polytheists, disbelievers, sinners, criminals, etc.) are in error (in this world) and will burn (in the Hell-fire in the Hereafter). 48. The Day they will be dragged in the Fire on their faces (it will be said to them): "Taste you the touch of Hell!" 49. Verily, We have created all things with Qadar (Divine Preordainment of all things before their creation, as written in the Book of Decrees Al-Lauh Al-Mahfuz). 50. And Our Commandment is but one, as the twinkling of an eye. 51. And indeed, We have destroyed your likes, then is there any that will remember (or receive admonition)? 52. And each and everything they have done is noted in (their) Records (of deeds). 53. And everything, small and big is written (in Al-Lauh Al-Mahfuz already beforehand i.e. before it befalls, or is done by its doer) (See the Qur'an V.57:22). 54. Verily, The Muttaqun (pious), will be in the midst of Gardens and Rivers (Paradise). 55. In a seat of truth (i.e. Paradise), near the Omnipotent King (Allah, the All-Blessed, the Most High, the Owner of Majesty and Honour).
The verses 46 to 55 are mostly directed to the Quraish, the predominant tribe of pagans of Makkah, have been the audience and warning them once again of their fate when the End Day come. That day the sinners, criminals and disbelievers will taste the reward of their crimes by Tasting the touch of Hell. Here they are once again warned that Allah shall not have to make any lengthy preparations for bringing about Resurrection, nor will it take long to come. For no sooner will a command be issued forth from Allah, it will take place in the twinkling of an eye. So heed to my commandments and those who do so will certainly be rewarded the Paradise, where they would live forever in gardens abound in fruits and rivers of milk and honey. What else could be a better rewards for being on the path of truth !!
You may now like to listen to Arabic recitation of Sūrat al-Qamar with English subtitles:
You may refer to our post "114 Chapters (Sūrahs) of the Holy Qur'an" for translation, meaning and summary of other chapters (Though not complete but building up from 30th Part backwards for chapters in 30th Part are shorter and easier to understand)
An effort has been made to gather explanation of the surahs of the Holy Qur'an from authentic souses and then present a least possible condensed explanation of the surah. However, those wanting detailed explanations and tafsir (exegesis), may refer to sites the references of which are given above.
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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.
Sūrah Yā-Sīn, the 36th Chapter / Surah of the Holy Qur'an with its 83 verses with five rukus, part of the 22-23 Juzʼ of the Qur'ān. It was revealed in later period of stay of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) in Makkah. It is considered as the Heart of the Holy Qur'an.
The name of the chapter comes from the two letters of the first verse of the chapter: Yā and Sīn. These words without any meaning in the Holy Qur'an are called "Muqatta’at" - words that have been given no meaning and include the abrogated Ayat, parables, oaths, that which should be believed in, but not implemented, these letters none but Allah (alone) knows their meanings, as against the words that are "Muhkamat" - words that are entirely clear and plain, which explain the abrogating rulings, the allowed, prohibited, laws, limits, obligations and rulings that should be believed in and implemented.
Like most of the chapter revealed in Makkah, the the theme of Sūrah Yā-Sīn is to warn the pagans of Makkah of the consequences of not believing in the Prophet hood of Muhammad (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) and of resisting and opposing it with tyranny, ridicule and mockery. The aspect of the warning is dominant and conspicuous although along with repeatedly giving the warnings, arguments also have been given for the correct understanding by the people. Arguments have been given for three things: [1]
(1) For Tauhid (Oneness of Allah), from the signs of the universe and from common sense;
(2) for the Hereafter, from the signs of the universe, from common sense and from man's own existence itself; and
(3) for the Prophet hood of the Prophet Muhammad (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him), from the fact that he was facing all kinds of hardships in the preaching of his message without any selfish motive, and from this that whatever he was inviting the people to was rational and reasonable, accepting which was in the people's own interest.
The surah ends stressing the existence of Resurrection and God's sovereign power. Now let us read the English translation of Sūrah Yā-Sīn and brief summary of the message (s) contained therein:
بِسْمِ اللهِ الرَّحْمٰنِ الرَّحِيْمِ
"In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful"
1. Ya-Sin. 2. By the Qur'an, full of wisdom (i.e. full of laws, evidences, and proofs), 3. Truly, you (O Muhammad ) are one of the Messengers, 4. On a Straight Path (i.e. on Allah's religion of Islamic Monotheism). 5. (This is) a Revelation sent down by the All-Mighty, the Most Merciful, 6. In order that you may warn a people whose forefathers were not warned, so they are heedless.
The opening six verses stress onto the nonbelievers of Makkah that Muhammad (peace be upon him) is one of many messengers that Allah had sent before him to warn them for their forefathers did not listen to earlier messengers and remained heedless. Reference verse 7 below, a doubt may rise here: How could the forefathers of a nation to whom no warner had been sent at a particular time in the past, be held responsible for their deviation at that time? The answer is: When Allah sends a Prophet, the influence of his message and teaching spreads far and wide, and is handed down by one generation to the other. As long as this influence remains, that period cannot be said to be without the guidance. But when the influence of a Prophet's teaching dies out, or the teaching is tampered with, the appointment of another Prophet becomes inevitable. Before the advent of the Holy Prophet the influence of the teachings of the Prophets Abraham, Ishmael, Shu'aib and Moses and Jesus (peace be upon all of them) could be seen everywhere in Arabia. When the influence was about to die out, and the real teaching was also distorted, Allah chose Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), and made such arrangements that His message can neither be wiped out nor tampered with. [1]
7. Indeed the Word (of punishment) has proved true against most of them, so they will not believe. 8. Verily! We have put on their necks iron collars reaching to chins, so that their heads are forced up. 9. And We have put a barrier before them, and a barrier behind them, and We have covered them up, so that they cannot see. 10. It is the same to them whether you warn them or you warn them not, they will not believe. 11. You can only warn him who follows the Reminder (the Qur'an), and fears the Most Beneficent (Allah) unseen. Bear you to such one the glad tidings of forgiveness, and a generous reward (i.e. Paradise).
In the verse 8, setting of a barrier before them and a barrier behind them" means that the natural result of their stubbornness and pride is that they neither learn any lesson from their past history nor ever consider the consequences of the fixture. Their prejudices have so covered them from every side and their misconceptions have so blinded them that they cannot see even those glaring realities which are visible to every right-thinking and unbiased person. This does not mean that it is fertile to preach, but it means: "Your preaching reaches every kind of people. When you come across the people of the first kind and you see that they continue to persist in their denial, pride and antagonism, you should leave them alone, but at the same time you should not feel disheartened so as to give up your mission, for you do not know exactly where among the multitudes of the people are those sincere servants of God, who would heed your admonition and fear God and turn to the right path. The real object of your preaching, therefore, should be to search out and collect this second kind of the people. You should ignore the stubborn people and gather this precious element of the society about you.
12. Verily, We give life to the dead, and We record that which they send before (them), and their traces [their footsteps and walking on the earth with their legs to the mosques for the five compulsory congregational prayers, Jihad (holy fighting in Allah's Cause) and all other good and evil they did, and that which they leave behind], and all things We have recorded with numbers (as a record) in a Clear Book.
Verse 12 is indicative of three kinds of the entries that are made in the conduct-book of men:
First, whatever a person does, good or bad is entered in the Divine Register.
Second, whatever impressions a man makes on the objects of his environment and on the limbs of his own body itself, become recorded, and all these impressions will at one time become so conspicuous that man's own voice will become audible and the whole history of his ideas and intentions and aims and objects and the pictures of all of his good and bad acts and deeds will appear before him.
Third, whatever influences he has left behind of his good and bad actions on his future generation, on his society and on mankind as a whole, will go on being recorded in his account as far as they reach and as long as they remain active and operative. The full record of the good and bad training given by him to his children, the Bard or evil that he has spread in the society, and its impact on mankind as a whole, will go on being maintained till the time that it goes on producing good or evil results in the world.
In verses 13-32 Allah mentions the fate of the people upon whom two messengers were sent they rejected them.
13. And put forward to them a similitude; the (story of the) dwellers of the town, when there came Messengers to them. 14. When We sent to them two Messengers, they belied them both, so We reinforced them with a third, and they said: "Verily! We have been sent to you as Messengers." 15. They (people of the town) said: "You are only human beings like ourselves, and the Most Beneficent (Allah) has revealed nothing, you are only telling lies."
Reference Verse 15: In other words, what they wanted to say was: `Since you are human beings, you cannot be the messengers of God. " The same was the view of the disbelievers of Makkah. They also said; "Muhammad (upon whom be Allah's peace) cannot be a messenger because he is a man" In Surah Al Furqan (verse 7) such disbelievers are quoted as saying: "They say: what sort of a Messenger is he that he eats food and moves about in the streets."
16. The Messengers said: "Our Lord knows that we have been sent as Messengers to you,17. "And our duty is only to convey plainly (the Message)." 18. They (people) said: "For us, we see an evil omen from you, if you cease not, we will surely stone you, and a painful torment will touch you from us." 19. They (Messengers) said: "Your evil omens be with you! (Do you call it "evil omen") because you are admonished? Nay, but you are a people Musrifun (transgressing all bounds by committing all kinds of great sins, and by disobeying Allah). 20. And there came running from the farthest part of the town, a man, saying: "O my people! Obey the Messengers; 21. "Obey those who ask no wages of you (for themselves), and who are rightly guided. 22. "And why should I not worship Him (Allah Alone) Who has created me and to Whom you shall be returned. 23. "Shall I take besides Him aliha (gods), if the Most Beneficent (Allah) intends me any harm, their intercession will be of no use for me whatsoever, nor can they save me? 24. "Then verily, I should be in plain error. 25. Verily! I have believed in your Lord, so listen to me!" 26. It was said (to him when the disbelievers killed him): "Enter Paradise." He said: "Would that my people knew! 27. "That my Lord (Allah) has forgiven me, and made me of the honoured ones!" 28. And We sent not against his people after him a host from heaven, nor do We send (such a thing). 29. It was but one Saihah (shout, etc.) and lo! They (all) were silent (dead-destroyed). 30. Alas for mankind! There never came a Messenger to them but they used to mock at him. 31. Do they not see how many of the generations We have destroyed before them? Verily, they will not return to them. 32. And surely, all, everyone of them will be brought before Us.
Even a third messenger was sent but he too was mocked and pained and was not taken to be a man chosen to put them on the righteous path. They even murdered a a man who tried to convince them that the messengers of Allah only conveyed to them the message from the Divine Creator and needed nothing in return. But the cruel people killed him. It was then Allah’s wrath fell upon the disbelieving community, and the whole town was annihilated. This purpose of this narration was in fact a stern warning to the pagans of Makkah and the polytheists so that they should be careful in rejecting Allah’s Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) refrain from killing him as he was repeatedly threatened lest they also invited the wrath from Allah.
33. And a sign for them is the dead land. We gave it life, and We brought forth from it grains, so that they eat thereof. 34. And We have made therein gardens of date-palms and grapes, and We have caused springs of water to gush forth therein. 35. So that they may eat of the fruit thereof, and their hands made it not. Will they not, then, give thanks? 36. Glory be to Him, Who has created all the pairs of that which the earth produces, as well as of their own (human) kind (male and female), and of that which they know not. 37. And a sign for them is the night, We withdraw therefrom the day, and behold, they are in darkness. 38. And the sun runs on its fixed course for a term (appointed). That is the Decree of the All-Mighty, the All-Knowing. 39. And the moon, We have measured for it mansions (to traverse) till it returns like the old dried curved date stalk. 40. It is not for the sun to overtake the moon, nor does the night outstrip the day. They all float, each in an orbit. 41. And an Ayah (sign) for them is that We bore their offspring in the laden ship [of Nuh (Noah)]. 42. And We have created for them of the like thereunto, so on them they ride. 43. And if We will, We shall drown them, and there will be no shout (or helper) for them (to hear their cry for help) nor will they be saved. 44. Unless it be a mercy from Us, and as an enjoyment for a while. 45. And when it is said to them: "Beware of that which is before you (worldly torments), and that which is behind you (torments in the Hereafter), in order that you may receive Mercy (i.e. if you believe in Allah's Religion - Islamic Monotheism, and avoid polytheism, and obey Allah with righteous deeds). 46. And never came an Ayah from among the Ayat (proofs, evidences, verses, lessons, signs, revelations, etc.) of their Lord to them, but they did turn away from it. 47. And when it is said to them: "Spend of that with which Allah has provided you," those who disbelieve say to those who believe: "Shall we feed those whom, if Allah willed, He (Himself) would have fed? You are only in a plain error." 48. And they say: "When will this promise (i.e. Resurrection) be fulfilled, if you are truthful?" 49. They await only but a single Saihah (shout, etc.), which will seize them while they are disputing! 50. Then they will not be able to make bequest, nor they will return to their family.
In verses 33-50 various signs of Allah in Nature are mentioned. And these signs have been taken as witness by Allah: Are there not signs enough around you to bear witness to Allah? These signs include that of earth, gardens and fields full of fruits and green crops, life, light of stars and the planets that follow a set orbit and never deviating from their path. These signs include various modes of transportation that make easier for men to move about and carry their heavy cargo of trade not only on land but also in seas and rivers. A reference to the ship of Prophet Nuh (Noah, peace be upon him) is also made which saved the paired male and female of every living thing to begin the life all over again. These signs are their for men to ponder over these and learn how Allah has made their life easier so that they learn the law of goodness from these and believe in the day which shall come unexpected and men will then be asked why did not believe in Allah when he showed many of His signs as reference. Bur perhaps it would be too late for repentance ford those who mocked the word of Allah brought to them by His messengers and will face the dreadful torment from Allah.
51. And the Trumpet will be blown (i.e. the second blowing) and behold! From the graves they will come out quickly to their Lord. 52. They will say: "Woe to us! Who has raised us up from our place of sleep." (It will be said to them): "This is what the Most Beneficent (Allah) had promised, and the Messengers spoke truth!" 53. It will be but a single Saihah (shout, etc.), so behold! They will all be brought up before Us! 54. This Day (Day of Resurrection), none will be wronged in anything, nor will you be requited anything except that which you used to do. 55. Verily, the dwellers of the Paradise, that Day, will be busy in joyful things. 56. They and their wives will be in pleasant shade, reclining on thrones. 57. They will have therein fruits (of all kinds) and all that they ask for. 58. (It will be said to them): Salamun (peace be on you), a Word from the Lord (Allah), Most Merciful. 59. (It will be said): "And O you Al-Mujrimun (criminals, polytheists, sinners, disbelievers in the Islamic Monotheism, wicked evil ones, etc.)! Get you apart this Day (from the believers). 60. Did I not ordain for you, O Children of Adam, that you should not worship Shaitan (Satan). Verily, he is a plain enemy to you. 61. And that you should worship Me [Alone Islamic Monotheism, and set up not rivals, associate-gods with Me]. That is a Straight Path. 62. And indeed he (Satan) did lead astray a great multitude of you. Did you not, then, understand? 63. This is Hell which you were promised! 64. Burn therein this Day, for that you used to disbelieve. 65. This Day, We shall seal up their mouths, and their hands will speak to Us, and their legs will bear witness to what they used to earn. (It is said that one's left thigh will be the first to bear the witness). [Tafsir At-Tabari, Vol. 22, Page 24] 66. And if it had been Our Will, We would surely have wiped out (blinded) their eyes, so that they would struggle for the Path, how then would they see? 67. And if it had been Our Will, We could have transformed them (into animals or lifeless objects) in their places. Then they should have been unable to go forward (move about) nor they could have turned back. [As it happened with the Jews see Verse 7:166 The Qur'an]. 68. And he whom We grant long life, We reverse him in creation (weakness after strength). Will they not then understand? 69. And We have not taught him (Muhammad ) poetry, nor is it meet for him. This is only a Reminder and a plain Qur'an. 70. That he or it (Muhammad or the Qur'an) may give warning to him who is living (a healthy minded the believer), and that Word (charge) may be justified against the disbelievers (dead, as they reject the warnings). 71. Do they not see that We have created for them of what Our Hands have created, the cattle, so that they are their owners. 72. And We have subdued them unto them so that some of them they have for riding and some they eat. 73. And they have (other) benefits from them (besides), and they get (milk) to drink, will they not then be grateful? 74. And they have taken besides Allah aliha (gods), hoping that they might be helped (by those so called gods). 75. They cannot help them, but they will be brought forward as a troop against those who worshiped them (at the time of Reckoning). 76. So let not their speech, then, grieve you (O Muhammad ). Verily, We know what they conceal and what they reveal. 77. Does not man see that We have created him from Nutfah (mixed male and female discharge semen drops). Yet behold! He (stands forth) as an open opponent. 78. And he puts forth for Us a parable, and forgets his own creation. He says: "Who will give life to these bones when they have rotted away and became dust?" 79. Say: (O Muhammad ) "He will give life to them Who created them for the first time! And He is the All-Knower of every creation!" 80. He, Who produces for you fire out of the green tree, when behold! You kindle therewith. 81. Is not He, Who created the heavens and the earth Able to create the like of them? Yes, indeed! He is the All-Knowing Supreme Creator.
The last part of Sūrah Yā-Sīn deals with the Resurrection and Hereafter in verses 51-81. The man is reminded of that day when he will be taken by utter surprise for he thought that day which messengers of Allah have been promising may never come. That day, those who listened to Allah's commandments and His messengers and following the path of truth will be all smiles for they will be blessed and crowned with nearness to Allah. But what a bad day for those who sinned and disbelieved, a day when their own limbs will speak against them and bear witness to what all bad deeds they were forced to commit. And then Allah Almighty will stamp their eternal life with door to hell.
82. Verily, His Command, when He intends a thing, is only that He says to it, "Be!" and it is! 83. So Glorified is He and Exalted above all that they associate with Him, and in Whose Hands is the dominion of all things, and to Him you shall be returned.
The last two Verses are very powerful that exhibit the absoluteness of Allah, the Almighty and Creator of the Universe, whose one command "Be!" and it is (verse 82) made the universe from nothing but smoke by this command and everything that He created will come to an end by the same command. So Glorified is He and Exalted above all that they associate with Him, and in Whose Hands is the dominion of all things, and to Him you shall be returned (verse 83). In verse 83 for "Dominion" the Arabic word "Malakūt" has been used. Though another Arabic word "Mulk (sovereignty)" is frequently used in the Qur'an, both this word and "Malakūt"(Dominion) have the same meaning. However, going rather deeply to differentiate between the two words, some interpreters are of the opinion that "Malakūt" refers to Allah’s Lordship over the unseen realm while "Mulk" refers to His Lordship over the visible world. In some Islamic cosmologies, this world is designated by mulk, while malakūt is understood as the level of being above this world, and above that lies the arch-angelic realm, which is designated by the term "Jabarūt."[6]
You may now like to listen to Arabic recitation of Sūrah Yā-Sīn with English subtitles:
You may refer to our post "114 Chapters (Sūrahs) of the Holy Qur'an" for translation, meaning and summary of other chapters (Though not complete but building up from 30th Part backwards for chapters in 30th Part are shorter and easier to understand)
References: | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | Reading the Holy Quran 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.
An effort has been made to gather explanation / exegesis of the surahs of the Holy Qur'an from authentic souses and then present a least possible condensed explanation of the surah. However, the exegesis of the chapters of the Holy Quran are basically 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 the 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.
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Each and every chapter and verse of the Holy Qur'an carries a specific message to the believers and disbelievers alike for them to ponder over and get to know the hidden meaning from the verses and the manner and time these were revealed to understand better. Some of the chapters, however, carry a special significance, as Surah Al Yaseen is said to be the heart of the Holy Qur'an, while Surah Ar Rahman is said to be adornment of the Holy Quran. Sūrat al-Mulk is also one of the very important chapters of the Holy Qur'an and carry a special message contained in thirty verses. Revered Hadith collector Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) has been reported as saying in the noted Hadith collections At-Tirmidhi and Abu Dawood:
I heard the Messenger of Allah saying, “There is a Surah in the Quran which contains thirty Ayat which keeps interceding for a man until his sins are forgiven. This Surah is ‘Blessed is He in Whose Hand is the dominion (the opening verse of Surat Al-Mulk).’"
This surah thus gives a hope to the believers that of the recite it regularly simply to please Allah, and also act upon what has been said in it, then surely Surah Mulk will intercede for him in the Hereafter. The Prophet of Allah regularly recited Surah Al Mulk besides Surah Al Sajada before going to sleep so that all evils stay from him during his sleep. It has also been narrated by Ibn Abbas (may Allah be pleased with them) that the Messenger of Allah (may Allah bestow peace and blessings upon him) said, “Surah Mulk is a protector; a rescuer; saving from the chastisement of the grave.” As per the text, this surah has been divided into a number of parts to better understand the divine message to draw maximum benefit out of this important chapter of the Holy Qur'an:
بِسْمِ اللهِ الرَّحْمٰنِ الرَّحِيْمِ
"In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful"
(1. Blessed be He in Whose Hand is the dominion; and He is Able to do all things.) (2. Who has created death and life that He may test you which of you is best in deed. And He is the Almighty, the Oft-Forgiving;) (3. Who has created the seven heavens one above the other; you can see no fault in the creation of the Most Gracious. Then look again. Can you see any rifts) (4. Then look again and yet again, your sight will return to you, and worn out.) (5. And indeed We have adorned the nearest heaven with lamps, and We have made such lamps (as) lances to drive away the Shayatin / Satan / iblees, and have prepared for them the torment of the blazing Fire.)
The very open verse tells the reciters and the listeners that it is Allah alone, and no one else, who is the master of His dominion, which includes the entire universe beyond which there is nothing. It is He who created the universe from nothing and created life and death for every living being as a test to see who believes in Him and does good deeds for a far greater rewards that awaits in the life in the hereafter. While He would test everyone, He would also listen to those who after sinning and wrongdoing turn to Him in repentance and seek forgiveness, and He is the Oft-Forgiving.
And for those who doubt Allah's claim, they have been asked to move around and look hard to find any fault in His creation and no wonder their exercise would end in utter futility and frustration for Allah has created everything that can be seen with naked eye and those beyond that and hidden from the perception of the man in complete perfection and absoluteness.
6. And for those who disbelieve in their Lord (Allah) is the torment of Hell, and worst indeed is that destination. 7. When they are cast therein, they will hear the (terrible) drawing in of its breath as it blazes forth. 8. It almost bursts up with fury. Every time a group is cast therein, its keeper will ask: "Did no warner come to you?" 9. They will say: "Yes indeed; a warner did come to us, but we belied him and said: 'Allah never sent down anything (of revelation), you are only in great error.'" 10. And they will say: "Had we but listened or used our intelligence, we would not have been among the dwellers of the blazing Fire!" 11. Then they will confess their sin. So, away with the dwellers of the blazing Fire.
Verses 6-11 are for those who still do not believe in Allah, His countless blessings and the message brought to them through His chosen messenger, there is tiding for a place burning with blazing fires where they would burn alive forever for negating and doubting Allah's commandments and denying the prophet hood of Allah's chosen messengers. And there would be no time to repent and curse themselves for not having listened to the messengers of Allah, for they brought to them the true message. And on their way to hell, the doormen would ask: "Did no warner come to you?" And they would reply: "Yes indeed; a warner did come to us, but we belied." him. And then losers would admit that they deserved the punishment that was being meted out to them.
12. Verily! Those who fear their Lord unseen (i.e. they do not see Him, nor His Punishment in the Hereafter, etc.), theirs will be forgiveness and a great reward (i.e. Paradise). 13. And whether you keep your talk secret or disclose it, verily, He is the All-Knower of what is in the breasts (of men). 14. Should not He Who has created know? And He is the Most Kind and Courteous (to His slaves) All-Aware (of everything).
In verses 12-l4, tells of people who remain fearful of Allah in this world shall be rewarded. All their virtuous deeds are in the knowledge of Allah and He shall duly honour them. For Allah is the Most Kind and Courteous (to His slaves) All-Aware (of everything).
15. He it is, Who has made the earth subservient to you (i.e. easy for you to walk, to live and to do agriculture on it, etc.), so walk in the path thereof and eat of His provision, and to Him will be the Resurrection. 16. Do you feel secure that He, Who is over the heaven (Allah), will not cause the earth to sink with you, then behold it shakes (as in an earthquake)? 17. Or do you feel secure that He, Who is over the heaven (Allah), will not send against you a violent whirlwind? Then you shall know how (terrible) has been My Warning? 18. And indeed those before them belied (the Messengers of Allah), then how terrible was My denial (punishment)? 19. Do they not see the birds above them, spreading out their wings and folding them in? None upholds them except the Most Beneficent (Allah). Verily, He is the All-Seer of everything. 20. Who is he besides the Most Beneficent that can be an army to you to help you? The disbelievers are in nothing but delusion. 21. Who is he that can provide for you if He should withhold His provision? Nay, but they continue to be in pride, and (they) flee (from the truth). 22. Is he who walks without seeing on his face, more rightly guided, or he who (sees and) walks on a Straight Way (i.e. Islamic Monotheism). 23. Say it is He Who has created you, and endowed you with hearing (ears), seeing (eyes), and hearts. Little thanks you give.
in verses 15-23, Allah tells those who do not believe that He has made earth full of bounties and blessings so that they benefits from these. But these pleasures come with a warning that one day he will be held accountable for their fair usage or otherwise. It has been said: "Look: the earth on which you move about with full satisfaction and peace of mind, and from which you obtain your sustenance has been subdued for you by Allah; otherwise this earth might at any time start shaking suddenly so as to cause your destruction, or a typhoon might occur, which may annihilate you completely. Look at the birds that fly above you; it is only Allah Who is sustaining them in the air. Look at your own means and resources: if Allah wills to inflict you with a scourge, none can save you from it; and if Allah wills to close the doors of sustenance on you, none can open them for you. These things are there to make you aware of the truth, but you see them like animals, which are unable to draw conclusions from observations, and you do not use your sight, hearing and minds which Allah has bestowed on you as men; that is why you do not see the right way." [1
24. Say: "It is He Who has created you from the earth, and to Him shall you be gathered (in the Hereafter)." 25. They say: "When will this promise (i.e. the Day of Resurrection) come to pass? if you are telling the truth." 26. Say (O Muhammad ): "The knowledge (of its exact time) is with Allah only, and I am only a plain warner." 27. But when they will see it (the torment on the Day of Resurrection) approaching, the faces of those who disbelieve will be different (black, sad, and in grieve), and it will be said (to them): "This is (the promise) which you were calling for!"
In verses 24-27, it has been said: "You have ultimately to appear before your God in any case. It is not for the Prophet to tell you the exact time and date of the event. His only duty is to warn you beforehand of its inevitable occurrence. Today you do not listen to him and demand that he should cause the event to occur and appear prematurely before you; but when it does occur, and you see it with your own eyes, you will then be astounded. Then, it will be said to you "This is the very thing you were calling to be hastened."
28. Say (O Muhammad (peace be upon him)): "Tell me! If Allah destroys me, and those with me, or He bestows His Mercy on us, - who can save the disbelievers from a painful torment?" 29. Say: "He is the Most Beneficent (Allah), in Him we believe, and in Him we put our trust. So you will come to know who is it that is in manifest error."
In verses 28-29 replies have been given to what the disbelievers of Makkah said against the Holy Prophet (upon whom be peace) and his Companions. They cursed the Holy Prophet and prayed for his and the believers destruction. To this it has been said: "Whether those who call you to the right way are destroyed, or shown mercy by Allah, how will their fate change your destiny? You should look after yourselves and consider who would save you if you were overtaken by the scourge of God?You regard those who believe in God and put their trust in Him as the misguided. A time will come when it will become evident as to who was misguided in actual truth.
30. Say (O Muhammad ): "Tell me! If (all) your water were to be sunk away, who then can supply you with flowing (spring) water?"
In conclusion, the people have been asked this question and left to ponder over it "If the water which has come out from the earth at some place in the desert or hill country of Arabia and upon which depends your whole life activity, should sink and vanish underground, who beside Allah can restore to you this life giving water?"
You may now like to listen to Arabic recitation of Surah Al Mulk with English subtitles:
You may refer to our post "114 Chapters (Sūrahs) of the Holy Qur'an" for translation, meaning and summary of other chapters (Though not complete but building up from 30th Part backwards for chapters in 30th Part are shorter and easier to understand) Photo | References: | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 |
Reading the Holy Quran 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.
An effort has been made to gather explanation / exegesis of the surahs of the Holy Qur'an from authentic sources and then present a least possible condensed explanation of the surah. In that:
The plain translation has been taken from the Holy Quran officially published by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
The exegesis of the chapters of the Holy 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. [1]
In order to augment and add more explanation as already provided by [2], additional input has been interjected from following sources:
Exegesis by Maulana Mufti Muhammad Sharif, revised by Justice Mufti Muhammad Taqi Usmani
In addition the 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.
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
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.