İngilizce Meal — Rowad Tercüme Merkezi — Al-Fatihah 1:1 – Al-An'am 6:165

In the name of Allah, the Most Compassionate, the Most Merciful.

All praise be to Allah[1], the Lord[2] of the worlds[3], ——— [1] Allah is God’s most unique name. [2] The Arabic term "rabb" (translated as "Lord") includes all of the following meanings: "owner, master, ruler, controller, sustainer, provider, guardian and caretaker." [3] "the worlds" means mankind, jinn, and all that exists.

the Most Compassionate, the Most Merciful[4], ——— [4] Ar-Rahmān and Ar-Raheem are two names of Allah: Rahmān is used only to describe Allah, while raheem might be used to describe a human as well. Rahmān carries a wider meaning - merciful to all creation. Justice is a part of this mercy. Raheem includes the concept of specialty - especially merciful to the believers. Forgiveness is a part of this mercy. In addition, Rahmān is adjectival, referring to an attribute of Allah and is part of His essence. Raheem is verbal, indicating what He does: i.e., bestowing and implementing mercy.

Master[5] of the Day of Judgment. ——— [5] Other meanings for "Mālik": Sovereign, Owner, etc.

You alone we worship, and You alone we ask for help.

Guide us to the straight path,

the path of those whom You have blessed[6]; not of those who incurred Your Wrath[7], or of those who went astray[8]. ——— [6] The way of the Prophets and those who follow them. [7] Those who know the Truth and do not follow it, like the Jews. [8] Those who are ignorant of the Truth and follow misguidance, like the Christians.

Alif Lām Mīm[1]. ——— [1] Allah knows the meaning of these disjointed Arabic letters. This bears testimony to the inimitable nature of the Qur’an and its divine source.

This is the Book about which there is no doubt, a guidance for the righteous[2], ——— [2] Literally, "those who have taqwā," i.e., who have piety, righteousness, fear and love of Allah, and who take great care of avoiding His displeasure.

those who believe in the unseen, establish prayer[3], and spend out of what We[4] have provided for them, ——— [3] At its proper times and fulfill its all conditions. [4] "We" in reference to Allah in the Qur’anic verses is necessarily understood to denote grandeur and power.

and those who believe in what has been sent down to you [O Prophet] and in what was sent down before you[5], and in the Hereafter they believe with certainty. ——— [5] i.e., the Taurāt (Torah) and the Injīl (Gospel), etc.

It is they who are upon guidance from their Lord, and it is they who are successful.

Those who persist in disbelief, it is the same whether you warn them or not, they will not believe.

Allah has sealed their hearts and their hearing, and their sight is covered[6]; and for them there will be a great punishment. ——— [6] A covering preventing from discerning guidance, as a result of their arrogance and persistence in sin.

There are some people[7] who say, “We believe in Allah and the Last Day,” whereas they are not believers. ——— [7] i.e., the hypocrites.

They seek to deceive Allah and those who believe, while they deceive none but themselves, but they do not realize.

In their hearts is a sickness[8], and Allah increased their sickness, and they will have a painful punishment for their persistent lying. ——— [8] The "sickness" mentioned here includes doubt, hypocrisy, arrogance and disbelief.

When it is said to them, “Do not spread corruption in the land,” they say, “We are only reformers.”

Indeed, it is they who spread corruption, but they do not realize.

When it is said to them, “Believe as the people have believed,” they say, “Shall we believe as the fools[9] have believed?” Indeed, it is they who are the fools, but they do not know. ——— [9] The hypocrites were considering the Companions of the Prophet (ﷺ) to be fools, whereas they themselves were fools.

When they meet those who believe, they say, “We believe.” But when they are alone with their evil ones[10], they say, “We are certainly with you; we were only mocking.” ——— [10] i.e., their leaders in evil and disbelief.

Allah will mock them[11] and prolong them to wander blindly in their transgression. ——— [11] Allah mocks them in response to their mocking Muslims.

They are those who purchased misguidance for guidance, but their trade was profitless, and they were not guided.

Their likeness is that of someone who kindles a fire. When it illuminates all around him, Allah takes away their light, leaving them in utter darkness, unable to see[12]. ——— [12] This is the situation of the hypocrites in the darkness of doubt and disbelief, not seeing the truth and guidance.

Deaf, dumb, and blind; they will not return [to the straight path].

Or like a downpour from the sky accompanied by darkness, thunder, and lightning. They put their fingers into their ears out of thunderclaps, for fear of death. But Allah encompasses the disbelievers.

The lightning almost snatches away their eyesight. Every time lightning[13] strikes, they walk in its light, but when it becomes dark, they stand still. If Allah had willed, He would have taken away their hearing and their sight; for Allah is Most Capable of all things. ——— [13] The parable of lightning is that of the light of the Qur’an.

O people, worship your Lord, Who created you and those before you, so that you may become righteous;

He Who made the earth a resting place for you, and the sky a canopy; and sends down rain from the sky, and brings forth fruits thereby as a provision for you. So do not set up rivals to Allah while you know[14]. ——— [14] Do not set up rivals to Allah (in worship), Who has provided you with all these things, and you know that He alone is worthy of worship.

If you are in doubt concerning that which We have sent down upon Our slave[15], then produce a chapter like it and call upon your helpers other than Allah, if you are truthful. ——— [15] “Our servant” is referring to Muhammad (ﷺ).

But if you did not do it, and you can never do it; then beware of the Fire whose fuel will be people and stones, which is prepared for the disbelievers.

And give glad tidings to those who believe and do righteous deeds that they will have gardens under which rivers flow. Every time they are provided with a provision of fruit therefrom, they will say, “This is what we were provided with before,” for they will be given fruit that resemble one another. They will have purified spouses, and they will abide therein forever.

Allah is not ashamed to give a similitude of a mosquito or even something less [significant][16]. As for those who believe, they know that this is the truth from their Lord; but those who disbelieve say, “What does Allah mean by this similitude?” He causes many to go astray thereby and guides many thereby, but He causes none to go astray except the evildoers – ——— [16] Lit., "above it" i.e., greater in smallness.

those who break the covenant of Allah after it has been ratified, sever bonds that Allah has commanded to be maintained[17], and spread corruption in the land. It is they who are the losers. ——— [17] By keeping good relations with kith and kin.

How can you disbelieve in Allah, when you were lifeless then He gave you life, then He will cause you to die, then He will bring you back to life again, then to Him you will be returned?

It is He Who created for you all that is in the earth, then He turned towards the heaven and made them seven heavens, and He is All-Knowing of everything.

And [remember] when your Lord said to the angels, “I am going to appoint a vicegerent on earth.” They said, “Will You appoint on it someone who will spread corruption therein and shed blood, while we glorify You with Your praises and proclaim Your holiness?” He said, “I know that which you do not know.”

And He taught Adam the names of everything; then He presented them to the angels, and said, “Tell Me the names of these, if what you say is true?”

They said, “Glory be to You! We have no knowledge except what You have taught us. Indeed, it is You Who are the All-Knowing, the All-Wise.”

He said, “O Adam, inform them of their names.” When he informed them of their names, Allah said, “Did I not tell you that I know the unseen of the heavens and earth, and I know what you reveal and what you conceal?”

And when We said to the angels, “Prostrate before Adam[18],” and they prostrated except Iblīs[19]; he refused and was arrogant, and was one of the disbelievers. ——— [18] This prostration was done in obedience to Allah, out of respect, not worship. [19] The proper name of Satan, who was not an angel, but from the jinn.

We said, “O Adam, dwell in Paradise, you and your wife; and eat pleasantly from wherever you wish, but do not approach this tree, or else you will both become the wrongdoers.”

Then Satan tempted them and drove them out of the state they were in, and We said, “Go down [to the earth], as enemies to one another. You will have abode on earth and provision for an appointed time[20].” ——— [20] Until the Day of Judgment.

Then Adam received some words[21] from his Lord, and He accepted his repentance. He is the Accepter of repentance, the Most Merciful. ——— [21] These words, or supplications are: “They [both] said: “Our Lord, we have wronged ourselves, and if You do not forgive us and have mercy upon us, we will surely be among the losers.” See 7:23.

We said, “Go down all of you from here[22]! Then when My guidance comes to you; whoever follows My guidance, will have no fear, nor will they grieve. ——— [22] The addressees were Adam, Eve and Satan.

But those who disbelieve and reject Our signs, they are the people of the Fire; they will abide therein forever.”

O Children of Israel[23], remember My favor that I bestowed upon you, and fulfill My covenant; I will fulfill your covenant[24], and fear none but Me. ——— [23] Israel is Prophet Jacob (عليه السلام). The use of the epithet ‘Children of Israel’ for the Israelites is to remind them to follow their ancestor from whom they are descended. [24] This mutual pledge is as follows: If the Children of Israel keep up the prayer, give zakah, believe in and support the prophets, and spend in the cause of Allah, Allah will, in return, expiate their sins and admit them to the Gardens under which rivers flow, i.e., Paradise.

And believe in what I have sent down[25] which confirms that [Scripture] which is with you, and do not be the first to disbelieve in it, nor trade my verses for a small price, and fear Me alone. ——— [25] i.e., the prophethood of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), which is mentioned in the Torah.

And do not mix the truth with falsehood, nor conceal the truth knowingly[26]. ——— [26] The prophethood of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ).

And establish prayer, give zakah, and bow [to Allah] with those who bow[27]. ——— [27] This command is to the Children of Israel to bow down in obedience to Allah with Muhammad, as the Muslims do, i.e., embrace Islam.

Do you enjoin righteousness upon people while you forget yourselves, even though you recite the Scripture[28]? Do you not understand? ——— [28] i.e., the Torah.

Seek help through patience and prayer. It is strenuous except for the humble,

those who are sure that they are going to meet their Lord, and that they will return to Him.

O Children of Israel, remember My blessing which I bestowed upon you and that I favored you over all other people[29]. ——— [29] In their time, Allah favored them with certain privileges over other people such as sending them prophets and divine Books, and giving them kingship.

And fear a Day when no soul will avail another anything, nor intercession will be accepted, nor compensation taken, nor will they be helped.

And [remember] when We saved you from Pharaoh’s people, who were inflicting dreadful torment upon you: slaughtering your sons and sparing your women. That was a great trial from your Lord.

And [remember] when We parted the sea for you and saved you, while We drowned the people of Pharaoh while you were looking on.

And [remember] when We appointed for Moses forty nights. Then you took the calf [for worship] in his absence, while you were wrongdoers.

Yet We pardoned you after that, so that you may be grateful.

And [remember] when We gave Moses the Scripture and the criterion[30], so that you may be guided. ——— [30] Differentiating between truth and falsehood. "The Scripture and the criterion" refers to the Torah.

And [remember] when Moses said to his people, “O my people, you have wronged yourselves by taking the calf [for worship]. So repent to your Creator and kill yourselves [i.e., the guilty among you]; that is best for you with your Creator.” Then He accepted your repentance, for He is the Accepter of Repentance, the Most Merciful.

And [remember] when you said, “O Moses, we will never believe you until we see Allah openly,” so a thunderbolt struck you while you were looking on.

Then We raised you back to life after your death, so that you may be grateful.

And We shaded you with clouds and sent down to you manna and quails[31], [saying], “Eat of the good things We have provided for you.” They did not wrong Us, but they wronged themselves. ——— [31] They both have linguistic roots in Arabic; "al-mann" means that which is God-given without effort, while "al-salwā" means that in which one finds consolation and comfort.

And [remember] when We said, “Enter this town [of Jerusalem] and eat freely from wherever you wish, and enter the gate bowing down humbly and say, ‘Absolve us[32].’ We will forgive you your sins and increase [the reward of] those who do good.” ——— [32] In gratitude to Allah and admission of sin.

But the wrongdoers changed the words to other than what they were told[33]; so We sent down upon the wrongdoers a torment from the heaven for their rebelliousness. ——— [33] They were asked to seek forgiveness. The word is hittah, which means: to put down a burden, but they twisted their tongues to mean ‘barley’, hintah.

And [remember] when Moses asked for water for his people, and We said, “Strike the rock with your staff,” Then twelve springs gushed forth from it; each tribe knew its drinking place[34]. “Eat and drink from Allah’s provision, and do not spread corruption in the land.” ——— [34] The twelve tribes of the Children of Israel, who are called "Asbāt".

And [remember] when you said, “O Moses, we cannot bear the same meal. So call upon your Lord to bring forth for us from what the earth produces – its herbs, cucumbers, garlic, lentils, and onions.” Moses said, “Would you exchange what is better for what is inferior? Go down to any town and you will have what you have asked for.” They were struck with humiliation and destitution, and incurred the wrath of Allah. That was because they used to reject the signs of Allah and kill the prophets unjustly. That was because they disobeyed and were transgressors.

The believers and those who were Jews, Christians, and the Sabians [before Prophet Muhammad] – whoever believed in Allah and the Last Day and did righteous deed, they will have their reward with their Lord, and they will have no fear, nor will they grieve.

And [remember] when We took your covenant [O Children of Israel] and raised above you the mountain [saying], “Hold firmly to what We have given you and observe its teachings, so that you may become righteous.”

But then you turned away after that. If it had not been for the grace and mercy of Allah upon you, you would have surely been among the losers.

And you know about those among you who broke the Sabbath, whereupon We said to them, “Be apes, despised.”

So We made it a deterrent punishment for those alive and for those who succeeded them, and an admonition for the righteous.

And [remember] when Moses said to his people, “Allah commands you to slaughter a cow.” They said, “Are you mocking us?” Moses said, “I seek refuge in Allah from being among the ignorant!”

They said, “Call upon your Lord to make clear to us what [type of cow] it is.” He said, “Allah says, ‘It is a cow that is neither too old nor too young, but somewhere in between. So do as you are commanded!’”

They said, “Call upon your Lord to show us its color.” He said, “Allah says, ‘It is a yellow cow, bright in color – pleasing to the beholders.’”

They again said, “Call upon your Lord to make clear to us what it is. All cows look alike to us. If Allah wills, we will surely be guided.”

He said, “Allah says, ‘It is a cow neither trained to plow the earth nor water the field; sound, without blemish.’” They said, “Now you have come with the truth.” Then they slaughtered it, although they were almost not doing it.

And [remember] when you [Israelites] slew a man and disputed as to who the killer was, but Allah exposed what you were concealing.

We said, “Strike the slain with a piece of it.” This is how Allah brings the dead to life and shows you His signs, so that you may understand.

Then your hearts became hardened after that, like rocks or even harder. There are rocks from which rivers gush forth, and there are others that split open from which water comes out, while others fall down out of humility to Allah. And Allah is not unaware of what you do.

Do you [O believers] hope that they would respond to your call to believe, while a party of them used to hear the word of Allah[35] then distort it knowingly after understanding it? ——— [35] i.e., the Torah.

And when they meet the believers they say, “We believe.” But when they[36] meet one another in private they say, “Are you telling them what Allah has revealed to you [about Mohammad], so that they may argue against you before your Lord? Have you no sense?” ——— [36] i.e., the Jews.

Do they not know that Allah knows what they conceal and what they reveal?

And among them, there are illiterate people, who know nothing of the Scripture except wishful thinking, and they do nothing but guesswork.

So woe to those who write the Scripture with their own hands, and then say, “This is from Allah,” in order to trade it for a small price. Woe to them for what their hands have written, and woe to them for what they earn.

And they say, “The Fire will never touch us except for a few days.” Say, “Have you taken a covenant from Allah; for Allah will never break His covenant, or are you saying about Allah what you do not know?”

No indeed! Those who do evil and are surrounded by their sins – they are the people of the Fire; they will abide therein forever.

But those who believe and do righteous deeds – they are the people of Paradise; they will abide therein forever.

And [remember] when We took a covenant from the Children of Israel, “Do not worship except Allah; be kind to parents and kindred, and to orphans and those in need; speak good words to people; establish prayer; and give Zakah.” But then you turned away paying no heed, except a few of you.

And [remember] when We took a covenant from you that you should neither shed blood of one another, nor expel one another from your homes. Then you acknowledged it, while bearing witness to it.

Then here you are, killing one another and expelling a group of your people from their homes, aiding one another against them in sin and aggression. And if they come to you as captives, you ransom them, although their expulsion was forbidden to you[37]. Do you then believe in part of the Scripture and deny another part? Then what is the recompense for those who do so among you except disgrace in this life, and on the Day of Resurrection they will be subjected to the severest torment? For Allah is not unaware of what you do. ——— [37] There were three Jewish tribes who allied themselves with the two Arab tribes of Madinah before Islam: Banū Qaynuqā‘, Banū an-Nadīr and Banū Qurayzah. In their prolonged feuds, the Jewish clans fought alongside their allies against their brethren.

These are the people who have purchased the life of this world for the Hereafter; their punishment will not be lightened, nor will they be helped.

We gave Moses the Scripture and sent a succession of messengers after him. We gave Jesus, the son of Mary, clear signs and strengthened him with the Holy Spirit[38]. Is it that every time a messenger comes to you [O Israelites] with something against your desires, you become arrogant; some of them you rejected, and others you killed? ——— [38] i.e., the Angel Gabriel (عليه السلام).

They say, “Our hearts are wrapped.” Nay, Allah has cursed them for their disbelief, little is it that they believe.

Now that there has come to them a Book from Allah[39], confirming that which is with them[40] – although they used to pray for victory over the disbelievers in the past. But when there came to them what they recognize [to be true], they rejected it. May the curse of Allah be upon the disbelievers! ——— [39] i.e., the Qur’an. [40] i.e., the Jews.

How miserable is the price for which they sold their souls – disbelieving in Allah’s revelation out of jealous hatred that Allah would send down His grace to whom He wills of His slaves! Thus they have incurred wrath upon wrath[41], and for the disbelievers, there will be a disgracing punishment. ——— [41] They deserved double wrath: firstly for their earlier rebelliousness and then for denying Muhammad (ﷺ).

When it is said to them, “Believe in what Allah has sent down[42],” they say, “We only believe in what was sent down to us[43],” and they deny what came afterwards, although it is the truth confirming that which is with them. Say, “Then why did you kill the prophets of Allah before, if you were truly believers?” ——— [42] i.e., the Qur’an. [43] i.e., the Torah.

Moses came to you with clear signs, yet you took the calf [for worship] in his absence, while you were wrongdoers.

And [remember] when We took a covenant from you and We raised above you the mountain [saying], “Hold firmly to what We have given you and obey,” they said, “We hear and disobey.” The love of [worshiping] the calf was engraved in their hearts because of their disbelief. Say, “How wretched is what your faith enjoins you, if you are believers!”

Say, “If the Home of the Hereafter with Allah is only for you [O Israelites] among all humans, then wish for death, if you are truthful.”

But they will never wish for that because of what their hands have sent forth. And Allah is All-Knowing of the wrongdoers.

And you will surely find them the most greedy people for life, even more than the polytheists. Each one of them wishes to have a life of a thousand years. Even if they were granted such a long life, it would not save them from the punishment; for Allah is All-Seeing of what they do.

Say [O Prophet], “Whoever is an enemy to Gabriel – it is he who brings down this [Qur’an] to your heart by Allah’s permission, confirming what came before it, and a guidance and glad tidings for the believers.”

Whoever is an enemy to Allah and His angels and messengers, and to Gabriel and Michael – then Allah is indeed an enemy to the disbelievers.

We have sent down to you clear proofs, and none will reject them except the evildoers.

Is it that every time they ratify a covenant, a party of them cast it aside? In fact, most of them do not believe.

And when a messenger[44] from Allah came to them – confirming what was with them, a party of the People of the Book cast Allah’s Scripture behind their backs as if they did not know. ——— [44] i.e., Muhammad (ﷺ).

They followed what was recited by the devils during the kingdom of Solomon. It was not Solomon who disbelieved, but the devils disbelieved, teaching people magic and that which was revealed to the two angels Hārūt and Mārūt in Babylon. But these two angels did not teach anyone without telling them, “We are only a test, so do not disbelieve.” Yet they would learn from them what would cause separation between a man and his wife. But they could not harm anyone except by Allah’s permission. They would learn what harmed them and did not benefit them, although they already knew that whoever gets into it would not have any share in the Hereafter. How terrible was the price for which they sold themselves, if only they knew!

If only they had believed and feared Allah, they would have had a better reward from Allah, if only they knew!

O you who believe, do not say, “Rā‘inā,” [i.e., consider our situation!] But say, “Unzhurnā,” [i.e., wait for us!] and listen. And for the disbelievers there will be a painful torment.

Neither those who disbelieved from the People of the Book nor the polytheists wish that your Lord sends down any good to you [O Muslims]. But Allah chooses for His mercy whom He wills, for Allah is the possessor of great bounty.

We do not abrogate a verse or cause it to be forgotten except that We bring a better one or similar to it. Do you not know that Allah is Most Capable of all things?

Do you not know that to Allah belongs the dominion of the heavens and earth, and that you have no protector or supporter besides Allah?

Or would you like to question your Messenger as Moses was questioned before? Whoever exchanges faith for disbelief has indeed strayed from the sound path.

Many of the people of the Book wish they could turn you back to disbelief after you have believed, out of the envy in their hearts, after the truth has become evident to them. But pardon and overlook until Allah passes His decree[45], for Allah is Most Capable of all things. ——— [45] The provision of this verse has been abrogated, as Allah passed His decree.

And establish prayer and give zakah. Whatever good you send forth for yourselves, you will find it with Allah, for Allah is All-Seeing of what you do.

And they say, “None will enter Paradise except a Jew or a Christian.” That is their wishful thinking. Say, “Produce your proof, if you are truthful.”

On the contrary, whoever submits himself to Allah and is a doer of good will have his reward with his Lord. They will have no fear, nor will they grieve.

The Jews say, “The Christians have nothing to stand on” and the Christians say, “The Jews have nothing to stand on[46],” although they both recite the Scripture. And those [pagans] who have no knowledge say something similar. Allah will judge between them on the Day of Resurrection concerning that over which they used to differ. ——— [46] This incident is documented when the Christians of Najrān came to the Messenger of Allah, the rabbis met them and both parties disputed.

Who does greater wrong than the one who prevents Allah’s name to be mentioned in His mosques and strives for their destruction? Such people do not deserve to enter them except in fear[47]. There is a disgrace for them in this world and a great punishment in the Hereafter. ——— [47] Fear of divine justice or the believers will seize them.

To Allah belong the east and the west; wherever you turn, there is the Face of Allah[48]. For Allah is All-Encompassing, All-Knowing. ——— [48] i.e., the direction of prayer (Qiblah). This is by way of consolation to the believers that one can find Allah wherever one turns in case of mistake, or prayer of those who prayed to the direction of Jerusalem, etc.

They say, “Allah has taken a son[49]”. Glory be to Him! Rather, to Him belongs all that is in the heavens and earth – all are devoutly obedient to Him. ——— [49] The Jews claimed that Ezra was the son of God, the Christians claimed that Jesus was the son of God, and the Arab pagans claimed that the angels were God’s daughters.

The Originator of the heavens and earth. When He decrees a matter, He only says to it, “Be,” and it is.

Those who have no knowledge[50] say, “If only Allah would speak to us or a sign be given to us.” Those who came before them said similar words. Their hearts are all alike. We have made the signs clear to people who have sure faith. ——— [50] These are from Arab pagans and from the people of the Book, elsewhere called ‘the illiterates’.

We have sent you with the truth [O Prophet] as a bearer of glad tidings and a warner, and you will not be questioned about the people of the Blazing Fire.

The Jews and the Christians will never be pleased with you until you follow their religion. Say, “The guidance of Allah is the [true] guidance.” If you were to follow their desires after the knowledge that has come to you, then you would have no protector or helper against Allah.

Those to whom We have given the Book recite it as it should be recited, it is they who believe in it. As for those who disbelieve in it, it is they who are the losers.

O Children of Israel, remember My blessings that I bestowed upon you, and that I favored you over all other people.

And beware of the Day when no one will avail another in any way; no compensation will be accepted, and no intercession will benefit it, nor will they be helped.

And [remember] when Abraham was tested by his Lord with certain words, which he fulfilled[51]. Allah said, “I will make you a leader for mankind.” He said, “And from among my descendants?” Allah said, “My covenant does not include the wrongdoers.” ——— [51] Allah assigned some tasks and commandments for Abraham (عليه السلام) to carry out, which he fulfilled dutifully.

And [remember] when We made the House [i.e., Ka‘bah] a focal point and a sanctuary for the people. “[O believers], take the Station of Abraham as a place for prayer.” We charged Abraham and Ishmael to purify My House for those who perform circumambulation[52] or stay for worship, or those who bow down and prostrate. ——— [52] A form of worship particular to the Ka‘bah consisting of going around it in circuits.

And [remember] when Abraham said, “My Lord, make this city [of Makkah] a sanctuary and provide its people with fruits – those among them who believe in Allah and the Last Day.” [Allah] said, “As for those who disbelieve, I will grant them enjoyment for a short while, then I will force them into the punishment of the Fire. What a terrible destination!”

And [remember] when Abraham was raising the foundations of the House and Ishmael, [saying], “Our Lord, accept this from us, for You are the All-Hearing, the All-Knowing.

Our Lord, make us both submitted to You and from our descendants a nation submitted to You; and show us our rituals[53] and accept our repentance. You are the Accepter of Repentance, Most Merciful. ——— [53] The rituals of Hajj and ‘Umrah.

Our Lord, send among them a messenger[54] to recite to them Your revelations, teach them the Book and wisdom, and purify them. You are the All-Mighty, the All-Wise.” ——— [54] The Messenger from the posterity of Ishmael; i.e., Muhammad (ﷺ).

Who would forsake the religion of Abraham[55] except a fool! We have chosen him in this world, and in the Hereafter he will be among the righteous. ——— [55] The ‘religion of Abraham’, known as hanīfiyyah, is the most primordial, pristine and uncorrupted of all divine religions. The Qur’an underlines Islam’s close relation to it in various places.

When his Lord said to him, “Submit[56],” he said, “I have submitted to the Lord of the worlds.” ——— [56] The meaning of the word "Islam" is "submission to the will of Allah." This is ordained by Allah and taught by all of the prophets from Adam to Muhammad (ﷺ). A Muslim is one who submits himself to Allah.

This was enjoined by Abraham and Jacob to their offspring, “O my children, Allah has chosen for you this religion; so do not die except as Muslims.”

Or were you present when death approached Jacob, when he said to his children, “What will you worship after me”? They said, “We will worship your God and the God of your fathers – Abraham, Ishmael[57], and Isaac – the One God. And to Him we submit.” ——— [57] Ishmael was actually Jacob’s paternal uncle. They counted him among Jacob’s ‘fathers’ out of respect.

That was a nation that has passed on; they will have what they earned and you will have what you earned, and you will not be questioned concerning what they used to do.

They say, “Be Jews or Christians to be guided.” Say, “Rather [we follow] the religion of Abraham, the monotheist, and he was not one of the polytheists[58].” ——— [58] i.e., those who associate others with Allah in worship.

Say [O believers], “We believe in Allah and what has been sent down to us; and what was sent down to Abraham, Ishmael, Isaac, Jacob, and the descendants [of Jacob][59]; and what was given to Moses and Jesus; and what was given to the prophets from their Lord. We make no distinction between any of them, and to Him we have submitted.” ——— [59] i.e., the twelve tribes of Israel descended from Jacob.

If they believe as you have believed, then they are guided. But if they turn away, then they are in plain dissension. Allah will suffice you against them, and He is the All-Hearing, the All-Knowing.

This is the natural religion[60] of Allah. Who is better than Allah in [enjoining a] religion? And it is He Whom we worship. ——— [60] “Sibghah” linguistically means ‘color’. It is so called because religious devoutness shows on the person as much as a dye of cloth shows on it.

Say, “Do you [People of the Book] argue with us concerning Allah, when He is our Lord and your Lord? We are responsible for our deeds and you for yours, and we are sincerely devoted to Him.

Or do you say that Abraham, Ishmael, Isaac, Jacob, and the descendants [of Jacob] were Jews or Christians?” Say, “Are you more knowledgeable or Allah?” Who does greater wrong than the one who hides a testimony he has from Allah? But Allah is not unaware of what you do.

That was a nation that has passed on; they will have what they earned and you will have what you earned, and you will not be questioned concerning what they used to do.

The foolish among the people will say: “What has turned them away from their prayer direction they used to face[61]?” Say: “To Allah belong the east and west: He guides whom He wills to a straight path.” ——— [61] Prior to the command (in verse 144) that the Prophet (ﷺ) and his followers turn toward the Ka‘bah in Makkah for prayer, they had been facing Jerusalem to the north. Further details are mentioned in succeeding verses.

Thus We made you a balanced nation, so that you may be witnesses over mankind and the Messenger a witness over you. We did not change your former direction of prayer [to the Ka‘bah] except to distinguish those who would follow the Messenger from those who would turn back on their heels. It was surely burdensome except for those whom Allah guided. Allah would never let your [acts of] faith go to waste, for Allah is Most Gracious and Most Merciful to all people.

We see the turning of your face [O Prophet] towards heaven[62]; We will surely make you turn towards a prayer direction that will please you. So turn your face towards the Sacred Mosque [in Makkah], and wherever you are, turn your faces towards it. Those who were given the Scripture know that this is the truth from their Lord, and Allah is not unaware of what they do. ——— [62] The Prophet (ﷺ) was awaiting the command to change the qiblah; so he used to look up at the sky.

Even if you were to bring every proof to those who have been given the Scripture, they would not follow your prayer direction, nor would you follow their prayer direction; nor would any of them follow the prayer direction of the other. However, if you were to follow their desires after the knowledge that has come to you, then you would surely be among the wrongdoers.

Those whom We gave the Scripture recognize him [i.e., the Prophet] as they recognize their own sons, yet a group of them conceals the truth knowingly[63]. ——— [63] That the Ka‘bah is the correct direction of Prayer.

It is the truth from your Lord; so never be among those who doubt.

Every nation has a direction to which it turns, so compete with one another in good deeds. Wherever you are, Allah will bring you all together, for Allah is Most Capable of all things.

From wherever you set out, turn your face to the direction of the Sacred Mosque [in Makkah]. This is surely the truth from your Lord, and Allah is not unaware of what you do.

From wherever you set out, turn your face towards the Sacred Mosque [i.e., Ka‘bah]. Wherever you are, turn your faces towards it, so that the people should not have any proof against you[64], except for the wrongdoers among them. So do not fear them but fear Me, so that I may complete My favor upon you [all] and that you may be guided. ——— [64] One of the reasons for the change of qiblah was so that the Jews would have no argument against the Muslims.

Just as We have sent you a messenger from among you, reciting to you Our verses, purifying you, and teaching you the Book and Wisdom[65], and teaching you what you did not know. ——— [65] The wisdom taught by the Prophet (ﷺ) is his Sunnah.

Therefore remember Me; I will remember you[66]. Be grateful to Me, and do not be ungrateful. ——— [66] Remember Me (by praying, glorifying, etc), and I will remember you (by remembering you and bestowing countless favors on you). Allah says in a Qudsi Hadith: "...If he remembers Me in himself, I remember him in Myself; and if he remembers Me in a group, I remember him in a group better than them..." [Al-Bukhāri and Muslim]

O you who believe, seek help in patience and prayer, for Allah is with those who are patient[67]. ——— [67] Allah is with them; by guiding and supporting them.

And do not say that those martyred in Allah’s way are dead. Rather, they are alive, but you do not perceive it.

We will surely test you with something of fear and famine, and loss of property, lives and fruits. But give glad tidings[68] to those who are patient. ——— [68] As much as there are hardships and trials, there are rewards and favors.

Those when afflicted with a disaster, say, “We belong to Allah, and to Him we will return.”

They are those upon whom are blessings and mercy from their Lord, and it is they who are guided.

Indeed, Safa and Marwah [mounts] are among the symbols of Allah. So whoever performs the pilgrimage or ‘Umra, there is no blame upon him to go between them[69]. And whoever does good voluntarily, then Allah is All-Appreciative, All-Knowing. ——— [69] Some believers had previously feared that this might be a pagan practice, so Allah confirms that this is among the rites of Islam.

Those who conceal the clear proofs and guidance that We have sent down – after We explained it clearly to people in the Scripture – it is they who are cursed by Allah and will be cursed by those who curse[70]. ——— [70] From among the angels, the prophets, and the believers.

Except for those who repent, mend their deeds, and clarify the truth; I will surely accept their repentance, for I am the Accepter of Repentance, the Most Merciful.

Those who disbelieve and die as disbelievers are cursed by Allah and the angels, and by all people.

They will abide in [the curse] forever. Their punishment will not be lightened, nor will they be granted any respite.

And your god is one God. None has the right to be worshiped except Him – the Most Compassionate, the Most Merciful.

Indeed, in the creation of the heavens and earth; the alternation of the night and day; the sailing of the ships in the sea for the benefit of people; the sending down of rain from the sky by Allah, reviving thereby the earth after its death; the spreading of all kinds of creatures therein; the directing of the winds and clouds between the sky and earth – in all these, there are signs[71] for people of understanding. ——— [71] There are two āyāt (signs) leading to belief: Quranic verses and cosmic signs. The signs meant in this verse are cosmic.

And among people, there are some who take others as equals to Allah[72]: they love them as they should love Allah. But those who believe are stronger in their love for Allah. If only the wrongdoers could see the punishment, they would surely realize that all power belongs to Allah and that Allah is severe in punishment. ——— [72] In spite of all these clear signs, some people still worship false deities besides Allah.

[Consider] when those who were followed, they will disown their followers when they see the punishment, and all ties between them will be cut off.

The followers will say, “If only we could have another chance, so we could disown them as they have disowned us.” Thus will Allah show them their deeds as sources of regret, and they will never get out of the Fire.

O people, eat from what is lawful and good[73] on earth, and do not follow the footsteps of Satan, for he is your sworn enemy. ——— [73] Two conditions for consuming food: lawful, and beneficial; not harmful.

He only orders you to commit evil and immoral deeds, and to say concerning Allah what you do not know[74]. ——— [74] Falsely claiming that Allah made one thing lawful and another unlawful.

When it is said to them, “Follow what Allah has sent down,” they say, “Instead, we follow what we found our forefathers doing.” [Would they do so] even though their forefathers had no understanding, nor were they guided?

The similitude of those who disbelieved is like cattle not understanding the calls of the shepherd except shouts and cries. They are deaf, dumb, and blind[75]; and they understand nothing. ——— [75] Their senses are not tuned to divine admonition.

O you who believe, eat of the good things[76] We have provided for you, and be grateful to Allah, if you truly worship Him alone. ——— [76] Healthy and wholesome.

He has only forbidden to you carrion, blood, the flesh of swine, and what has been sacrificed to other than Allah. But if someone is compelled by necessity – neither driven by desire nor exceeding immediate need – then there is no sin upon him; for Allah is All-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

Those who conceal the revelation of Allah’s Book and purchase thereby a small price, consume nothing into their bellies except fire. Allah will not speak to them on the Day of Resurrection nor will He purify them, and for them there will be a painful punishment.

They are those who trade guidance for misguidance and forgiveness for punishment. How patient they must be to withstand the Fire[77]! ——— [77] Allah is mocking their ignorance for exchanging bliss of Paradise with punishment of Hellfire.

That is because Allah has sent down the Book in truth. And those who differ over the Book are surely in extreme dissension.

It is not righteousness to turn your faces towards the east or the west, but righteousness is to believe in Allah, the Last Day, the angels, the Scriptures, and the prophets; and to give charity out of one’s cherished wealth to relatives, orphans, the needy, the wayfarer, beggars, and to free slaves; to establish prayer and give zakah; to fulfill the ratified pledges; to be patient at times of hardship, adversity, and during the battle. Such are the true believers, and such are the righteous.

O you who believe, legal retribution is prescribed for you in cases of murder – a free for a free, a slave for a slave, and a female for a female. But if one is pardoned by the victim’s guardian, then a fair ransom of blood money should be set and paid in the best way. This is a concession and a mercy from your Lord. But whoever transgresses the limits afterward, will have a painful punishment.

In the legal retribution, there is [saving of] life for you, O people of understanding, so that you may become righteous.

It is prescribed for you that when death approaches one of you – if he leaves behind any wealth – a bequest should be made in favor of parents and immediate family members[78] with fairness, this is a duty upon the righteous. ——— [78] This ruling was abrogated in Surah an-Nisā’, stipulating obligatory shares for parents and close relatives. Those who do not inherit by law may be remembered in a bequest.

If someone alters the bequest[79] after hearing it, they will bear the sin of the alteration, for Allah is All-Hearing, All-Knowing. ——— [79] i.e., the will of the deceased.

But if someone fears partiality or injustice from the testator, and puts things right between the parties, then there is no sin upon him, for Allah is All-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

O you who believe, fasting[80] is prescribed upon you as it was prescribed upon those who were before you, so that you may become righteous. ——— [80] To abstain from food, drink, and sexual relations from dawn to dusk.

[Fasting is for] a specific number of days; but if anyone of you is ill or on a journey, he should make up for those days. As for those who can only fast with hardship, compensation can be made by feeding a needy person [for each day]. But anyone who volunteers to give more, it is better for him. Yet fasting is better for you, if only you knew[81]. ——— [81] The provision of this verse has been abrogated by the next verse: 185, with few exceptions, i.e., very old person, or pregnant, etc.

Ramadān is a month in which the Qur’an was sent down[82] as a guidance for mankind and as clear signs that show the right way and distinguish between right and wrong. So whoever of you witnesses this month, should fast. But if anyone is ill or on a journey, he should make up for those days. Allah wants ease for you and does not want hardship for you, so that you may complete the prescribed number of days, and proclaim the greatness of Allah for having guided you, and so that you may be grateful. ——— [82] This either means that the Qur’an was sent down from the Preserved Tablet to the Lowest Heaven on the Night of Decree during the month of Ramadan, or that it was the start of the revelation to Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ).

When My slaves ask you concerning Me, I am indeed near[83]. I respond to the call of the supplicant when he calls upon Me; so they should respond to Me and believe in Me, so that they may be guided. ——— [83] Allah’s nearness means that one does not need to raise his voice or to ask for intercession in order that his prayers be answered.

It has been made permissible for you to be intimate with your wives on the nights of the fast. They are a garment for you just as you are a garment for them. Allah knows that you used to deceive yourselves, so He accepted your repentance and pardoned you. So now you may have intimacy with them[84] and seek what Allah has destined for you. And eat and drink until you see the light of dawn distinct from the darkness of night, then complete the fast until nightfall. However, should you be in a devotional retreat in the mosques then do not be intimate with them. These are the limits set by Allah, so do not even come near to them. This is how Allah makes His verses clear to people, so that they may become righteous. ——— [84] Prior to this revelation, marital relations were unlawful during nights preceding fasting. Some were unable to refrain and secretly disobeyed, but Allah accepted their repentance, and then it was made lawful.

Do not consume one another’s property unjustly, nor entice the rulers[85] in order to consume a portion of people’s property wrongfully while you know [it is sin]. ——— [85] By offering bribes to those who rule in cases of litigation, i.e., judges.

They ask you about the phases of the moon. Say, “They are a means for people to determine time and pilgrimage.” It is not righteousness to enter the houses from the rear [in pilgrimage][86], but righteousness is to fear Allah. So enter the houses through their doors, and fear Allah so that you may succeed. ——— [86] It was an Arab practice prior to Islam to enter their houses from the back after assuming ihrām for pilgrimage, considering it an act of obedience.

Fight in the way of Allah against those who fight you[87], but do not transgress[88], for Allah does not like transgressors. ——— [87] This verse is the first one that was revealed in connection with Jihad. [88] Do not overlook the rulings prescribed for fighting, such as: not killing or harming women, children, the elderly, and those who did not aid the fight against you.

And kill them wherever you find them[89], and drive them out from where they drove you out[90], for persecution[91] is far worse than killing. But do not fight them at the Sacred Mosque unless they fight you there. However, if they fight you, then kill them. Such is the recompense of the disbelievers. ——— [89] i.e., the disbelievers who raised arms against you. [90] i.e., the land of Makkah from which the Muslims were expelled. [91] Among the meanings of "fitnah" are: disbelief and its imposition on others, dissension, trial, and torment.

But if they desist, then Allah is All-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

Fight them until there is no more persecution[92] and religion is only for Allah. But if they desist, let there be no aggression except against the oppressors. ——— [92] Or disbelief, polytheism, prevention from the way of Allah, etc.

[Battle in] a sacred month[93] is for [aggression committed in] a sacred month, and violations are subject to retribution. So if anyone commits aggression against you, return the aggression against him in the same manner as he showed against you. But fear Allah, and know that Allah is with those who fear Him. ——— [93] The sacred months: Dhul-Qi‘dah, Dhul-Hijjah, Muharram, and Rajab.

Spend in the way of Allah[94] and do not throw yourselves into destruction[95], and do good, for Allah loves those who do good. ——— [94] Raise funds to prepare for a just fight. [95] By not making preparations.

And Complete Hajj and ‘Umrah for Allah. But if you are prevented, then [offer] whatever sacrificial animal is available, and do not shave your heads until the sacrificial animal reaches its place of sacrifice. But if anyone among you is sick or has an ailment of the scalp [and had his head shaved], then he must compensate by fasting, charity, or a sacrificial offering[96]. And when you are safe, then if anyone takes a break between ‘Umrah and Hajj, he must offer a sacrifice of whatever animal is available. However, if he cannot afford an offering, he should fast for three days during Hajj and seven days upon his return [home], making ten days in all. This is for those who are not residents of the Sacred Mosque. And fear Allah, and know that Allah is severe in retribution. ——— [96] Fasting three days, feeding six poor of Haram (sanctified area of Makkah), or slaughtering a sheep or goat and distributing it among the poor of Haram.

The pilgrimage is in known months[97]. Whoever commits himself to perform the pilgrimage, there should be no intimacy, foul language, and arguments during the pilgrimage. Whatever good you do, Allah is aware of it. And take provisions for the journey, but the best provision is righteousness. So fear Me, O people of understanding. ——— [97] These are: Shawwal, Dhū al-Qi‘dah, and the first ten days of Dhū al-Hijjah.

There is no blame upon you for seeking the bounty of your Lord [by trading]. But as you leave the plains of ‘Arafāt, remember Allah at the Sacred Site [in Muzdalifah] and remember Him for having guided you, for you were previously among those who had gone astray.

Then move on from where the people move on[98], and seek Allah’s forgiveness, for Allah is All-Forgiving, Most Merciful. ——— [98] The addressees are the Quraysh, who held back from going to ‘Arafāt and instead remained in Muzdalifah, considering themselves above others.

When you have completed your rites, remember Allah as you used to remember your forefathers[99], or even with greater remembrance. There are some people who say, “Our Lord, give us in this world,” but they will have no share in the Hereafter. ——— [99] The Arabs were very fond of talking without end about the chivalric and heroic deeds of their ancestors.

And there are others[100] who say, “Our Lord, give us good in this world and good in the Hereafter, and protect us from the punishment of the Fire.” ——— [100] These are the ones who are well-guided.

They[101] will receive their share of what they have earned. And Allah is swift in reckoning. ——— [101] Those who supplicate with this prayer.

And remember Allah during the appointed days[102]. But whoever hastens to depart [Mina] on the second day, there is no sin upon him; and whoever delays [until the third], there is no sin upon him for those who fear Allah. So fear Allah, and know that you will be gathered before Him. ——— [102] These are the three days of staying at Mina during Hajj: 11th, 12th and 13th of Dhul-Hijjah.

There are some [hypocrites] who amaze you with their words in the life of this world and call upon Allah to witness what is in their heart, yet they are the fiercest opponents[103]. ——— [103] The Prophet (ﷺ) said, as in Sahih al-Bukhāri: "The most hated person to Allah is the one who is most quarrelsome of the opponents."

When they leave [you], they strive to spread corruption in the land[104] and destroy crops and livestock, whereas Allah does not like corruption. ——— [104] By spreading disbelief, rebellion against Allah, and injustice, which brings about punishment of withholding rain, thus causing ruination of crops and death of cattle.

When it is said to them, “Fear Allah,” pride takes hold of them to persist in sin. Hellfire is sufficient for them. What a terrible resting place!

But there are some people who sell their souls[105] to seek Allah’s pleasure, and Allah is Most Gracious to His slaves. ——— [105] i.e., give away their lives.

O you who believe, enter into Islam completely and do not follow the footsteps of Satan, for He is your sworn enemy.

Should you slip back after the clear signs have come to you, then beware that Allah is All-Mighty, All-Wise.

Are they waiting that Allah should come to them in the shadows of clouds[106], along with the angels? But then the matter would be decided. And to Allah return all matters. ——— [106] On the Day of Judgment Allah comes in this form - the way befitting His Majesty - to pass judgment on His creation.

Ask the Children of Israel how many clear signs We have given them. But anyone who substitutes the favors of Allah [for disbelief] after receiving it, then Allah is severe in punishment.

The life of this world is made appealing to those who disbelieve, and they ridicule the believers, while those who fear Allah will be above them on the Day of Resurrection. And Allah provides to whom He wills without measure.

Mankind was just one nation. Then Allah sent prophets with glad tidings and warnings[107], and sent down to them the Scriptures in truth, to judge between people in matters over which they disputed. But none disputed thereafter except out of arrogance after they had received the clear proofs[108]. Then Allah, by His grace, guided those who believed to the truth in which they disputed. For Allah guides whom He wills to a straight path. ——— [107] Ibn ‘Abbās (رضي الله عنهما) reported: “The time between Adam and Noah was ten centuries. People were on the right path, but then they started disputing over matters of faith. So, Allah sent prophets bearing glad tiding and warning”. ­[Al-Mustadrak of Al-Hākim]. [108] The plight of humans, especially those who lack sincerity and humbleness, is such that the more knowledge they possess, the more haughty and disputatious they become.

Do you think that you will enter Paradise without being tested like those before you who were tested? They were afflicted with poverty and adversity and were shaken[109] until the messenger[110] and the believers with him said, “When will the help of Allah come?” Indeed, the victory of Allah is near. ——— [109] The road to Paradise is not paved with roses; it can only be reached through hardship. [110] Any of the previous Prophets.

They ask you what they should spend. Say, “Whatever good you spend should be for parents, relatives, orphans and the needy, and the wayfarer; and whatever good you do, Allah is All-Knowing of it.”

Fighting has been enjoined upon you, even though you dislike it. But it maybe that you dislike something which is good for you, and you like something which is bad for you. Allah knows and you do not know.

They ask you about fighting in the Sacred Months[111]. Say, “Fighting therein is a great sin, but preventing people from the path of Allah, disbelieving in Him, preventing from the Sacred Mosque, and expelling its people from it is a greater sin with Allah, and persecution is far worse than fighting[112].” They will not cease fighting you until they turn you away from your faith if they can. And if anyone among you renounces his faith and dies as a disbeliever, their deeds will be void in this life and in the Hereafter. They are the people of the Fire; they will abide therein forever. ——— [111] Sacred Months are: 1st, 7th, 11th and 12th months of the lunar calendar. [112] The disbelievers asked this to scorn the Prophet (ﷺ) for what they saw as breaking an oath when a group of believers unknowingly killed a disbeliever during a sacrosanct month. [An-Nasā’ī, As-Sunan al-Kubrā].

Those who believed, migrated, and fought for the sake of Allah – it is they who hope for Allah’s mercy, and Allah is All-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

They ask you about intoxicants and gambling. Say, “In both, there is a great sin, and some benefits for people, but their sin is far greater than their benefit[113].” They ask you what they should spend. Say, “The surplus”. This is how Allah makes His verses clear to you, so that you may contemplate – ——— [113] The provision of this verse concerning alcoholic drinks and gambling has been abrogated by the verse 5:90.

in this life and the Hereafter. They ask you about orphans. Say, “Serving their interests is best. Should you mix your affairs with theirs, then they are your brothers. Allah knows who is dishonest and who is honest. If Allah had willed, He could have made things hard for you. Allah is indeed All-Mighty, All-Wise.”

Do not marry polytheist women until they believe; for a believing slave woman is better than a free polytheist, even though she may attract you. And do not give your women in marriage to polytheist men until they believe, for a believing slave is better than a free polytheist, even though he may attract you. They invite to the Fire while Allah invites to Paradise and to forgiveness by His grace, and He makes His verses clear to people so that they may take heed[114]. ——— [114] i.e., worship and obey Allah alone.

They ask you about menstruation. Say: “It is impurity; so stay away from women during menstruation[115] and do not have intercourse with them until they become pure. When they are cleansed[116], then have intimacy with them as Allah has commanded you. Allah loves those who frequently repent and He loves those who purify themselves. ——— [115] i.e., refrain from sexual intercourse. [116] By taking a ritual bath (ghusl).

Your wives are a [place of] tillage for you, so come to your tillage as you please[117], and send forth something good for yourselves. Fear Allah and know that you will meet Him, and give glad tidings to the believers.” ——— [117] Have sexual relations with your wives in any position as long as it is in the vagina.

Do not use Allah’s name in your oaths as an excuse for not doing good and fearing Allah, or not making peace between people, for Allah is All-Hearing, All-Knowing.

Allah does not hold you accountable for unintentional oaths, but He holds you accountable for what your hearts have intended. And Allah is All-Forgiving, Most Forbearing.

For those who swear not to have intercourse with their wives is a waiting period of four months. Should they then return [to each other], then Allah is All-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

But if they are determined to divorce, then Allah is All-Hearing, All-Knowing.

Divorced women should wait for three menstrual cycles[118]. It is not permissible for them to hide what Allah has created in their wombs[119] if they believe in Allah and the Last Day. Their husbands have the greater right to take them back within that period[120] if they want reconciliation. Women have rights similar to the rights over them in a reasonable manner, although men have a higher degree [of responsibility] over them. And Allah is All-Mighty, All-Wise. ——— [118] Either menstrual periods or periods of purity between menstruation; to ensure that no pregnancy has taken place. [119] That is to conceal pregnancy during their waiting period (‘iddah), with the intention of concluding the divorce. [120] During the ‘iddah period of a first and second divorce without a new marriage contract.

Divorce may be pronounced twice; then either retaining in all kindness, or separating in the best way. It is not lawful for you to take back anything that you have given them [of dowry], except when they both fear that they would not be able to maintain the limits ordained by Allah. So if you fear that they would not be able to maintain the limits set by Allah, then there is no sin upon either of them if she opts to give something for her release[121]. These are the limits ordained by Allah, so do not exceed them; whosoever exceeds the limits ordained by Allah, it is they who are the wrongdoers. ——— [121] Al-Khul‘ means the parting of a wife from her husband by returning the sum of money she received from him as dowry or gifts in exchange for conceding to her demand for divorce.

Thereafter, if he divorces her [the third time], it is not lawful for him to remarry her until she marries another man[122]. Should he divorce her, then there is no sin on them to return to each other[123], provided that they would maintain the limits ordained by Allah. These are the limits ordained by Allah, which He makes clear to people who understand. ——— [122] With the intention of permanence, not merely in order to return to the previous husband. [123] Going back to her earlier husband if the divorce from her subsequent husband is sealed.

When you divorce women and they have completed their waiting period, either retain them with fairness or release them with fairness. Do not retain them in order to harm them[124], exceeding the limits. Whoever does this, he has wronged himself. Do not make mockery of Allah’s verses, and remember Allah’s grace upon you and what He has sent down to you of the Book and the Wisdom, to exhort you. And fear Allah, and know that Allah is All-Knowing of everything. ——— [124] By prolonging an agonizing waiting period, holding them back from marrying other husbands or forcing them into seeking separation.

When you divorce women, and they have reached the end of their waiting period, do not prevent them from marrying their husbands[125] if they mutually agree with fairness. This advice is for all among you who believe in Allah and the Last Day. This is better and purer for you. And Allah knows, and you do not know. ——— [125] For the first or second time.

Mothers[126] may breastfeed their children for two full years, for those who wish to complete the full term of breastfeeding. It is the obligation upon the father of the child that he provides food and clothing [for the mothers] with fairness. No soul is obligated beyond what it can bear. Neither mother nor father should be made to suffer on account of their child, and the same duty is incumbent on the heir. If they both decide on weaning, by mutual consent and consultation, there is no sin on them. And If you wish to provide a wet nurse to your children, there is no sin on you, if you pay in full what you have agreed upon with fairness. But fear Allah and know that Allah is All-Seeing of what you do. ——— [126] ‘Mothers’ here means divorced mothers.

Those among you who pass away and leave behind widows should refrain from remarrying for four months and ten days. When they have completed their waiting period, there is no sin on you concerning what they do for themselves[127] in a reasonable manner[128]. And Allah is All-Aware of what you do. ——— [127] They may remarry if they wish. [128] A social norm that entails keeping within the dictates of Islam.

There is no sin on you if you hint a proposal of marriage or keep it concealed in your hearts. Allah knows that you will make mention of them[129], but do not make a secret promise with them, except that you may say something appropriate[130]. Do not resolve a marriage contract until the prescribed time is reached. And know that Allah knows what is in your hearts, so be cautious of Him and know that Allah is All-Forgiving, Most Forbearing. ——— [129] i.e., the widowed or irrevocably divorced. [130] e.g. by saying to her, "If one finds a wife like you, he will be happy" or so.

There is no sin on you if you divorce women before you have consummated the marriage or the dowry has been fixed; but give them a [gift of] compensation – the wealthy according to his means and the poor according to his means – a reasonable compensation is an obligation upon those who do good.

If you divorce them before you have consummated the marriage, but you have already fixed their dowry, then pay half the amount agreed upon, unless the wife graciously waives it or the husband graciously pays it in full, but graciousness is closer to piety. Do not forget to be graceful to one another, for Allah is All-Seeing of what you do.

Be mindful of the prayers[131], especially the middle prayer; and stand before Allah in complete devotion[132]. ——— [131] The five obligatory daily Prayers. [132] Prayers are mentioned in the midst of marital affair rulings, because of the hurtful feelings divorce can leave. Hence, people are reminded of the Hereafter, whereby they should not ‘overlook kindness’ among themselves by this reminder of accountability.

If you are in danger[133], then pray while walking or riding. But when you are safe, remember Allah as He taught you what you did not know. ——— [133] Of an imminent danger such as enemies and the like.

Those of you who pass away leaving widows should bequeath in their favor to be maintained for one year without forcing them out[134]. But if they leave, then there is no blame on you for what they reasonably do with themselves. And Allah is All-Mighty, All-Wise. ——— [134] The provision of this verse has been abrogated by verse 4:12.

The divorced women must be paid reasonable compensation, an obligation upon the righteous.

This is how Allah makes His verses clear to you, so that you may understand.

Have you not seen those who left their homes, while they were in thousands for fear of death? Then Allah said to them, “Die,” and then He brought them back to life[135]. For Allah is ever Gracious to people, but most people are ungrateful. ——— [135] In order to show them that they could not escape His Judgment and make them realize that He is capable of bringing about their worst fears, only then to give them their lives back again.

And fight in the way of Allah and know that Allah is All-Hearing, All-Knowing.

Who is it that will lend to Allah a goodly loan[136], so He will multiply it for him manifold? It is Allah Who withholds and gives in abundance, and to Him you will be returned. ——— [136] i.e., spending in the cause of Allah in expectation of nothing but His reward.

Did you not see the chiefs of the Children of Israel after Moses when they said to their prophet: “Appoint for us a king so that we fight in the way of Allah.” He said: “How likely is it that if fighting was enjoined upon you that you will not fight?” They said: “How could we not fight in the way of Allah, while we have been driven out of our homes and separated from our children[137]?” However, when fighting was enjoined upon them, they turned away, except a few of them. And Allah is All-Knowing of the wrongdoers. ——— [137] Their women and children were taken as captives by the enemy.

Their prophet said to them: “Allah has appointed Saul as your king.” They said: “How could he be a king over us when we are more deserving of kingship than him, and he has not been given affluence in wealth?” He said: “Allah has chosen him over you and has increased him abundantly in knowledge and physique. Allah gives kingship to whom He wills, and Allah is All-Encompassing, All-Knowing.”

Their prophet further said to them: “The sign of his kingship is that the Ark will come to you – carried by the angels – having therein tranquility[138] from your Lord and remains of what the House of Moses and the House of Aaron had left. Indeed, there is a sign in this for you, if you are true believers.” ——— [138] i.e., was giving reassurance.

When Saul set out along with the troops, he said: “Allah will test you with a river: whoever drinks from it, he is not from me, and whoever does not drink from it, he is from me, except the one who scoops a little with his hand.” But they all drank from it, except a few of them. When Saul and those who believed with him crossed the river, they said: “We do not have power against Goliath and his troops today.” But those who were certain that they will meet Allah said: “How often has a small group overcome large groups with Allah’s permission! And Allah is with those who are patient.”

When they faced Goliath and his troops in combat, they said: “Our Lord, shower us with patience, make our feet firm, and give us victory over the disbelieving people.”

Thus they defeated them by Allah’s grace, and David killed Goliath, and Allah gave him the kingdom and wisdom and taught him whatever He willed[139]. Were it not for Allah to repel some people by others, the earth would be filled with corruption, but Allah is All-Gracious to the worlds. ——— [139] i.e., knowledge of prophethood and kingdom, and how to make body armor.

These are the verses of Allah that We recite to you [O Prophet] in truth, and you are truly one of the Messengers.

Those messengers: We favored some over others. There are some to whom Allah spoke[140], and some He raised high in rank[141]. To Jesus, son of Mary, We gave clear signs and supported him with the Holy Spirit[142]. If Allah had willed, those who came after them would not have fought one another after receiving clear signs. But they differed – some believed and some disbelieved. If Allah had willed, they would not have fought one another, but Allah does what He wills. ——— [140] Such as Moses (عليه السلام). [141] Such as Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). [142] Miracles and the Evangel (Gospel).

O you who believe, spend from what We have provided for you before there comes a day when there will be no trading, friendship, or intercession. It is the disbelievers who are the wrongdoers.

Allah: none has the right to be worshiped except Him, the Ever-Living[143], All-Sustaining[144]. Neither drowsiness overtakes Him nor sleep[145]. To Him belongs all that is in the heavens and all that is on earth. Who is there that can intercede with Him except with His permission? He knows what was before them and what will be after them[146], while they encompass nothing of His knowledge, except what He wills. His Kursī[147] [i.e., footstool] extends over the heavens and earth, and safeguarding of both does not weary Him, for He is the Most High[148], the Most Great[149].[150] ——— [143] Whose life is perfect, complete, and eternal, without beginning or end. [144] Dependent on none for His existence while being the sustainer of all created beings. [145] Dozing off and falling asleep are but normal to all creation that are inherently frail. [146] Allah's knowledge encompasses every aspect of His creations in the past, present and future. [147] Chair or footstool. It is not to be confused with al-‘Arsh (the Throne), which is infinitely higher and greater than al-Kursī. [148] Above all of His creations and superior to them in essence, rank, and position. [149] Whose greatness is unlimited, beyond description or imagination. [150] This verse is known as Āyat al-Kursī, lit. The verse of the Footstool. It is the greatest verse in the Qur’an.

There is no compulsion in religion[151]; the truth has been made distinct from falsehood. Whoever rejects Tāghoot [152][i.e., false gods] and believes in Allah, has indeed grasped the strong handhold that never breaks[153]. And Allah is All-Hearing, All-Knowing. ——— [151] This is a great Islamic principle whereby no one is to be coerced to believe, but it is the duty of the believers to make sure that people know what is right and what is wrong. [152] False objects of worship, such as devils, idols, stones, sun, stars, angels, saints, graves, rulers, etc. [153] This verse immediately follows Āyat al-Kursī for good reason, as the previous verse contains clear proofs of the Oneness and Greatness of Allah, which purges Godliness from all that are worshiped besides Allah (Tāghoot).

Allah is the Protector of those who believe; He brings them out of the depths of darkness into the light[154]. As for those who disbelieve, their protectors are false gods; they bring them out from the light into the depths of darkness. They are the people of the Fire; they will abide therein forever. ——— [154] The light of truth is one, while the darknesses of disbelief, doubt and error are many.

Have you not considered the one[155] who argued with Abraham about his Lord, as Allah had given him kingship? When Abraham said, “My Lord is the One Who gives life and causes death.” He said, “I give life and cause death.” Abraham said, “It is Allah Who brings the sun from the east, so bring it from the west.” Thus the disbeliever was dumbfounded, and Allah does not guide the wrongdoing people[156]. ——— [155] He is said to be the Biblical King Nimrod. [156] Were they really in search of the Truth, Allah would surely have led them to the right path.

Or [have you considered] the one who passed by a town in ruins with its roofs collapsed? He said: “How can Allah revive them after their death[157]?” Then Allah caused him to die for a hundred years, then revived him. He said, “How long have you remained [dead]?” He said, “I have remained for a day or part of a day”. He said, “No, but you have remained for a hundred years. Look at your food and your drink; they have not changed. But look at your donkey, so that We make you a sign for people. Look at the bones, how We bring them together then cover them with flesh.” When this was made clear to him, he said: “I know that Allah is Most Capable of all things.” ——— [157] The previous verse demonstrated Allah’s Lordship, whereas this and the next verse show His ability to resurrect.

And [remember] when Abraham said: “My Lord, show me how You give life to the dead.” He said: “Do you not believe?’’ He said: “I do believe, but just to reassure my heart[158].’’ Allah said: “Then take four birds and cut them into pieces, then put a piece of each of them on each mountain, then call them; they will come swiftly to you. And know that Allah is All-Mighty, All-Wise.” ——— [158] The Prophet (ﷺ) implied by saying: “We are more likely to doubt than Ibrāhīm” [Al-Bukhārī: 4537, Muslim: 151], when he heard that people said Abraham doubted. Scholars are of the opinion that Abraham wanted to reach the highest rank of knowledge ‘concrete certitude’ (haqq al-yaqīn).

The likeness of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah is like a grain that sprouts seven ears, each ear bearing a hundred grains. And Allah gives multiple [rewards] for whom He wills. And Allah is All-Encompassing, All-Knowing.

Those who spend their wealth for the sake of Allah, then do not follow up their charity with reminders of generosity or hurtful words; they will have their reward with their Lord, and they will have no fear, nor will they grieve.

Kind words and forgiveness are better than charity followed by hurt. And Allah is Self-Sufficient, Most Forbearing.

O you who believe, do not nullify your charities with reminders and hurtful words, like the one who spends his wealth to show off before people but does not believe in Allah or the Last Day. His likeness is that of a smooth rock upon which is dust, when it is hit by a heavy rain it is left bare[159]. They will gain no reward from their deeds[160], and Allah does not guide the disbelieving people. ——— [159] Soilless and bare, unable to grow plants. [160] Their insincere spending will have no harvest to reap in the Hereafter.

And the likeness of those who spend their wealth, seeking the pleasure of Allah and fortifying their own souls, is that of a garden on a fertile hill[161]; if it is hit by a downpour, it yields double its harvest. And if it is not hit by a downpour, then a drizzle is sufficient. And Allah is All-Seeing of what you do. ——— [161] Gardens and farms on elevated land are more fertile than lower placed ones. This is the analogy Allah draws of the charity of the sincere. No matter how much it is, it grows and prospers.

Would any of you wish to have an orchard of date palms and grapevines, under which rivers flow, full of all kinds of fruits; but he grew old and had feeble young children, then it is hit by a fiery whirlwind, burning it all[162]? This is how Allah makes the verses clear to you so that you may reflect. ——— [162] Those who follow their charity by taunting and hurting the recipient’s feelings, thus rendering their charity void. ‘Umar (رضي الله عنه) said, "This is an example of a rich man who does good deeds out of obedience to Allah, and then Allah sends him Satan whereupon he commits sins till all his good deeds are lost." [Sahih al-Bukhāri: 62]

O you who believe, spend in charity from the good things you have earned and of what We have produced for you from the earth[163]. Do not choose inferior things for charity, which you yourselves would not take except by overlooking. And know that Allah is Self-Sufficient, Praiseworthy. ——— [163] Crops and minerals.

Satan threatens you with poverty[164] and orders you to commit shameful acts[165], but Allah promises you forgiveness and bounty from Him. And Allah is All-Encompassing, All-Knowing. ——— [164] If you spend your money in charity. [165] Ibn al-Qayyim says: “Exegetes unanimously agree that al-fahshā’ here means miserliness” [Tarīq al-Hijratayn, p. 375].

He gives wisdom to whom He wills[166], and whoever is given wisdom is surely given abundant good, but none will take heed except people of understanding. ——— [166] The knowledge and understanding of the religion and of the Qur’an.

Whatever charity you give or vow[167] you make, Allah surely knows it. But the wrongdoers have no helpers. ——— [167] Nadhr (vowing): It is to make obligatory for oneself that which is not, usually in return for a Godly favor. For example, if my child is healed, I will give in charity such amount of money.

If you give charity publicly, it is good; but if you give it secretly to the poor, it is better for you[168], and He will expiate some of your sins. And Allah is All-Aware of what you do. ——— [168] Observing secrecy while giving out voluntary charity to the poor is better than making it public, for it ensures his dignity and is closer to sincerity.

You are not responsible for their guidance [O Prophet], but Allah guides whom He wills. Whatever wealth you spend in charity, it is for your own good – as long as you do so seeking Allah’s pleasure. And whatever wealth you spend in charity, you will be rewarded in full, and you will not be wronged.

[Charity is] for the poor who are fully occupied in the cause of Allah, unable to move about in the land [for livelihood]; the one who is unaware would think that they are rich because of their self-restraint. You will recognize them by their appearance. They do not ask people importunately. And whatever wealth you give, then Allah is All-Knowing of it.

Those who spend their wealth in charity, day and night, in secret and in public; they will have their reward with their Lord, and they will have no fear, nor will they grieve.

Those who consume usury will not stand [on the Day of Resurrection] except like those being beaten by Satan. That is because they say, “Trade is just like usury[169].” But Allah has permitted trade and forbidden usury. Whoever desists because of receiving admonition from his Lord may keep his past gains, and his case is left to Allah. But whoever returns to it, they are the people of the Fire; they will abide therein forever. ——— [169] The image given here of a person possessed by the devil staggering while standing and walking unsteadily as they are resurrected for the Day of Judgment. It is a just requital because it mimics their insatiable lust for money in this life, twisting the laws ordained by Allah as they declared lawful what is not.

Allah destroys usury and nourishes charities, and Allah does not like any ungrateful sinner.

Those who believe, do righteous deeds, establish prayer, and give zakah, will have their reward with their Lord; and they will have no fear, nor will they grieve.

O you who believe, fear Allah and give up usury that is still due, if you are truly believers.

But if you do not do it, then beware of a declaration of war from Allah and His Messenger. However, if you repent, you may retain your capital – neither harming nor suffering harm[170]. ——— [170] Neither harming others by receiving interest, and nor suffering harm by preserving your principal capital in full.

If the debtor is in hardship, give him respite until it is easy for him to pay back. But if you waive it as charity[171], that is better for you, if only you knew. ——— [171] Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) said: "A man used to give loans to the people, and used to say to his servant, ‘If the debtor is poor, forgive him, so that Allah may forgive us.’ When he met Allah (after his death), Allah forgave him." [Sahih al-Bukhāri: 687]

And fear the Day when you will be brought back to Allah. Then every soul will be rewarded in full for what it has earned, and none will be wronged.

O you who believe, when you contract a debt among yourselves for a fixed period of time, write it down, and let the scribe write it between you with fairness. The scribe whom Allah has taught should not refuse to write, so let him write, and let the debtor dictate, but he should fear Allah his Lord, and not diminish anything out of it. If the debtor is feeble-minded, weak, or unable to dictate, then let his guardian dictate fairly, and bring two witnesses from among your men; if two men are not available, then one man and two women from those whom you accept as witnesses – so that if one of them forgets, the other can remind her. The witnesses should not refuse when they are summoned. Do not be reluctant to write down your debts, whether the amount is small or large, for a fixed period of time; that is more equitable in the sight of Allah, and more supportive as evidence, and more likely to prevent doubts among yourselves. However, if you are conducting a transaction on the spot between yourselves, there is no blame upon you not to write it, but take witnesses whenever you trade with one another. Neither a scribe nor a witness should suffer harm, for if you do cause them harm, it is indeed a sin on your part. So fear Allah, for it is Allah Who teaches you, and Allah is All-Knowing of everything[172]. ——— [172] This is known as Āyat ad-Dayn, the verse of debt, and it is the longest verse in the Qur’an.

If you are on a journey and find no scribe, then something should be taken as collateral. But if you trust one another, then the debtor should fulfill his trust, and let him fear Allah, his Lord. Do not conceal the testimony, for anyone who conceals it has a sinful heart, and Allah is All-Knowing of what you do.

To Allah belongs all that is in the heavens and all that is on earth. Whether you reveal what is within yourselves or conceal it, Allah will call you to account for it. He forgives whom He wills and punishes whom He wills, for Allah is Most Capable of all things.

The Messenger believes in what has been sent down to him from his Lord, as do the believers. All of them believe in Allah, His angels, His Books, and His messengers, [saying], “We make no distinction between any of His messengers.” And they say, “We hear and obey. Grant us Your forgiveness, our Lord, and to You is the [final] destination.”

Allah does not burden any soul greater than it can bear. For it is what it has earned, and against it is what it has incurred. “Our Lord, do not hold us accountable if we forget or fall into error. Our Lord, do not place on us such a burden as You have placed on those before us. Our Lord, do not burden us with that which we cannot bear. Pardon us, forgive us, and have mercy on us. You are our Protector, so give us victory over the disbelieving people[173].”[174] ——— [173] Allah Almighty concludes this Surah by directing His servants how to supplicate Him, just as He taught them in Surah al-Fātihah how to praise Him and ask for guidance. [174] Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) said: "Whosoever recited the last two verses of Surat al-Baqarah at night, that will be sufficient for him." [Sahih al-Bukhāri: 345]

Alif Lām Mīm[1]. ——— [1] See footnote 2:1.

Allah: None has the right to be worshiped except Him, the Ever-Living, the All-Sustaining.

He has sent down to you the Book[2] in truth, confirming what came before it. And He sent down[3] the Torah and the Gospel ——— [2] i.e., the Qur’an. [3] The difference between ‘nazzala’ (sent down) which is mentioned only with regards to the Qur’an, which signifies that the action took place in installments over a long period of time. Whereas ‘anzala’ (sent down) which is said with regards to the Torah and the Gospel, which happened once and as a whole. [Al-Tabarī].

previously, as guidance for people, and He sent down the Criterion [between right and wrong]. But those who reject the verses of Allah will suffer severe punishment, and Allah is All-Mighty, Capable of Retribution.

Indeed, there is nothing hidden from Allah on earth or in heaven.

It is He Who shapes you in the wombs as He wills. None has the right to be worshiped except Him, the All-Mighty, the All-Wise.

It is He Who has sent down to you the Book. In it are definite verses, which are the foundation of the Book; while others are ambiguous. Those with deviant hearts follow the ambiguous verses, seeking discord and seeking their [false] interpretation. But no one knows their [true] interpretation except Allah. And those who are well-grounded in knowledge say, “We believe in it. It is all from our Lord[4].” None will take heed except people of understanding. ——— [4] People of true knowledge are lauded here with the worthy epithet “al-rāsikhūna fī al-‘ilm”(the well-grounded in knowledge); they know enough and are so humble as to say: “Allah knows best”, unlike others.

“Our Lord, do not let our hearts deviate[5] after You have guided us, and grant us Your mercy; for You are the Munificent Bestower. ——— [5] ’Umm Salamah (رضي الله عنها) reported: “The Prophet (ﷺ) used to pray most by saying: “O He Who changes hearts, make my heart firm in Your religion” (yā Muqallib al-qulūb, thabbit qalbī ‘alā dīnik). When she asked him the reason for this, he (ﷺ) replied, saying: “Umm Salamah, know that every human’s heart is between two Fingers of Allah. Whoever He wills, He makes steadfast, and Whoever He wills He causes to deviate”. [Al-Tirmidhī: 3522]

Our Lord, You will surely gather all people for a Day[6] about which there is no doubt; for Allah does not break His promise.” ——— [6] The Day of Judgment.

Those who disbelieve, neither their wealth nor their children will avail them at all against Allah; it is they who are the fuel of the Fire.

[Their] case is like that of the people of Pharaoh and those before them. They all rejected Our signs, so Allah seized them for their sins, for Allah is severe in punishment.

Say to those who disbelieve: “You will soon be defeated and gathered into Hell. What a terrible resting place!”

There has been a sign for you in the two groups who confronted each other: one fighting for the cause of Allah, and the other disbelievers; they saw them, with their own eyes twice their number[7]. But Allah strengthens with His help whom He wills. There is a lesson in this for those who have insight. ——— [7] The believers saw the disbelievers to be double their own number preceding the battle of Badr, while, in fact, they were three times their number.

The love of desirable things has been made appealing to people, such as women, children, hoarded heaps of gold and silver, branded fine horses, livestock, and tilled land. These are the pleasures of the life of this world, but with Allah is the best place of return.

Say, “Shall I inform you of what is better than these? For those who fear Allah are gardens with their Lord under which rivers flow, abiding therein forever, with pure[8] spouses and pleasure from Allah. And Allah is All-Seeing of His slaves, ——— [8] i.e., they will have no menses, urine, or stool.

those who say, “Our Lord, we believe, so forgive us our sins and protect us from the punishment of the Fire.”

Those who are patient, truthful, devout, charitable, and who seek forgiveness before dawn[9]. ——— [9] The Prophet (ﷺ) said: “Our Lord, glory be His, descends every night to the lowest Heaven, when only the last third of it remains, and He says: “Who is there to supplicate Me so that I may answer him? Who is there to ask of Me so that I may give him? Who is there to seek My forgiveness so that I may forgive him?””. [Al-Bukhāri: 1145, Muslim: 758]

Allah testifies that none has the right to be worshiped except Him, as do the angels and people of knowledge; He is the Upholder of justice. None has the right to be worshiped except Him, the All-Mighty, the All-Wise.

The true religion with Allah is Islam. Those who were given the Scripture did not dispute except after the knowledge had come to them, out of mutual envy and rivalry. But whoever rejects the verses of Allah, then Allah is swift in reckoning.

Then if they argue with you, say, “I have submitted myself to Allah, and so have those who follow me.” And say to those who were given the Scripture and to the illiterate[10], “Have you submitted yourselves?” If they do, then they are rightly guided, but if they turn away, your duty is only to convey the message. And Allah is All-Seeing of His slaves. ——— [10] Those Arabs who had no scripture (i.e., the pagans).

Those who reject the verses of Allah and kill the prophets unjustly, and kill those who enjoin justice among people; so give them tidings of a painful punishment.

They are those whose deeds have become worthless in this world and in the Hereafter, and they will have no helpers.

Have you not considered those who were given a portion of the Scripture? They are invited to the Book of Allah to judge between them, and then a group of them turns away in aversion[11]. ——— [11] Referring to the Jews of Madinah who refused to implement the rulings of Allah in the Torah or to acknowledge the Prophet (ﷺ), whose coming was mentioned therein.

This is because they say, “The Fire will never touch us except for a few days.” They have been deluded in their religion by that which they used to fabricate.

But how [terrible] will it be when We gather them together on a Day about which there is no doubt, and each soul will be fully recompensed for what it has earned, and none will be wronged?

Say, “O Allah, Lord of the dominion, You give dominion to whom You will and take it away from whom You will; You honor whom You will and humiliate whom You will. All good is in Your Hand. You are Most Capable of all things.

You cause the night to enter into the day and cause the day to enter into the night; You bring the living out of the dead and bring the dead out of the living; and You give provision to whom You will without measure.”

Let not the believers take disbelievers as allies instead of believers, for whoever does so has nothing to do with Allah at all, except as a protective measure to save yourself from them[12]. And Allah warns you of Himself, and to Allah is the final return. ——— [12] Upon fearing harm from the disbelievers, Muslims are given license to placate them with their tongues, as long as their hearts are firm in Faith.

Say, “Whether you conceal what is in your hearts or reveal it, Allah knows it: He knows all that is in the heavens and all that is on earth. And Allah is Most Capable of all things.”

On the Day when every soul will find itself faced with whatever good it has done, and whatever evil it has done – it will wish that there were a great distance between it and its evil. And Allah warns you of Himself, and Allah is All-Gracious to His slaves.

Say, “If you love Allah then follow me[13]; Allah will love you and forgive you your sins: for Allah is All-Forgiving, Most Merciful.” ——— [13] Following the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) is by adhering to his Sunnah.

Say, “Obey Allah and the Messenger.” But if they turn away, then Allah does not like the disbelievers.

Allah chose Adam and Noah, the family of Abraham, and the family of ‘Imrān above all people[14]. ——— [14] Allah chose them above all people of their times: Adam whom He created with His own Hands, made the angels prostrate themselves to him; Noah (عليه السلام) whom He made the first bearer of His Message to humanity; Abraham (عليه السلام), the beloved of God, and his descendants among whom is a great number of prophets, including Muhammad (ﷺ); the Family of ‘Imrān: ‘Imrān and his wife, their daughter Mary and her son Jesus (عليه السلام), who is one of the greatest prophets of humanity.

They were descendants of one another. And Allah is All-Hearing, All-Knowing.

[Remember] when the wife of ‘Imrān said, “My Lord, I dedicate to You what is in my womb[15], so accept it from me, for You are the All-Hearing, the All-Knowing.” ——— [15] To the worship of Allah and to spend an entire life tending places of worship.

When she gave birth, she said, “My Lord, I have given birth to a female child,” – and Allah knew best what she had given birth to – “and the male is not like the female. I have named her Mary[16], and I seek refuge with You for her and her offspring from Satan[17], the accursed.” ——— [16] Maryam (مريم) literally means: maidservant of Allah. [17] Allah answered her prayers. The Prophet (ﷺ) said: “Every newborn child is touched by the devil and they start off by wailing because of this touch, except Maryam and her son”. [Al-Bukhāri: 3231, Muslim: 2366]

Her Lord graciously accepted her and caused her to grow in a good manner, and entrusted her to the care of Zachariah. Every time Zachariah entered her prayer chamber, he found with her some provision. He said, “O Mary, where did this come from?” She said, “It is from Allah, for Allah provides for whom He wills without measure.”

Thereupon Zachariah prayed to his Lord, saying, “My Lord, grant me by Your grace virtuous offspring[18], for You are the All-Hearer of prayers.” ——— [18] Upon seeing that Mary was provided with fruits out of their season, Zachariah’s hopes were revived, so he wished for fruits of his loins out of season; him being old and his wife infertile.

The angels called out to him while he was standing in the chamber praying, “Allah gives you glad tidings of John, who will believe in the Word of Allah[19] and will be honorable, abstinent [from women], and a prophet from among the righteous.” ——— [19] Referring to the prophet Jesus (عليه السلام), who was conceived merely by a command from Allah - the word "Be."

He said: “My Lord, how can I have a son when I have reached old age and my wife is barren?” He said, “Thus Allah does what He wills.”

He said, “My Lord, give me a sign.” He said, “Your sign is that you will not speak to people for three days except by gestures. And remember your Lord often and glorify Him in the evening and the morning.”

And [remember] when the angels said, “O Mary, Allah has chosen you, purified you, and chosen you over all women.

O Mary, worship your Lord devoutly, prostrate yourself and bow down with those who bow down.”

This is from the stories of the unseen that We reveal to you [O Prophet]; you were not with them when they cast lots as to which of them should take guardianship of Mary, nor were you with them when they disputed about it.

[Remember] when the angels said, “O Mary, Allah gives you glad tidings of a Word from Him[20], whose name will be the Messiah, Jesus, son of Mary; honorable in this world and the Hereafter, and one of those near [to Allah]. ——— [20] Jesus was created like Adam, through Allah’s commanding Word: Be! Thus he is called “the Word of Allah”.

He will speak to people in the cradle[21] and in maturity, and he will be one of the righteous.” ——— [21] "None spoke in cradle but three: (The first child was Jesus). (The second was): There was a man from the Children of Israel called Jurayj. His story with his mother, and he was falsely blamed for illegal sexual relations with a prostitute. The baby born out of this illegal relation spoke and declared his real father who was a shepherd and not Jurayj, so he was finally proven innocent. (The third was in the following story): A lady from the Children of Israel who wished his nursing child to become like a handsome rider who passed by, and not like a slave-girl who passed by, but the child spoke and wished to be the otherwise. When she asked her child about the reason, he said: "The rider is one of the tyrants, while the slave-girl is falsely accused of theft and illegal sexual intercourse." [The story is detailed in Sahih al-Bukhāri: 645]

She said: “My Lord, how can I have a child when no man has ever touched me?” He said, “Thus Allah creates what He wills. When He decrees something, He only says to it ‘Be’, and it is.

And He will teach him writing and wisdom, the Torah and the Gospel.

And [will send him as] a messenger to the Children of Israel, ‘I have come to you with a sign from your Lord that I make for you from clay the figure of a bird, then breathe into it, and it will become a bird by Allah’s permission; and I heal the blind and the leper, and bring the dead to life by Allah’s permission; and I inform you of what you eat and what you store in your houses. There is a sign in this for you, if you are believers.

And [I have come] confirming the Torah that came before me, and to make lawful to you some of what was forbidden to you; and I have come to you with a sign from your Lord, so fear Allah and obey me.

Indeed, Allah is my Lord and your Lord, so worship Him. This is the straight path.”

When Jesus sensed disbelief from them, he said, “Who are my helpers in the cause of Allah?” The disciples said, “We are helpers of Allah. We believe in Allah; so bear witness that we are Muslims.”

“Our Lord, we believe in what You have sent down and we follow the messenger; so count us among those who bear witness [to the truth].”

And [the disbelievers] devised a plan, but Allah also made a plan[22], and Allah is the best of planners. ——— [22] The disbelievers among the Children of Israel plotted to kill Jesus (عليه السلام) but Allah saved him and instead facilitated that they seized his look-alike without them realizing it.

And [remember] when Allah said, “O Jesus, I will take you and raise you up to Myself[23] and deliver you from those who disbelieve, and make those who follow you above[24] those who disbelieve until the Day of Resurrection. Then you will all return to Me, and I will judge between you concerning that over which you differed. ——— [23] He was raised, both body and soul, to the Heavens. [24] This is a promise from Allah that true believers who follow the path of the prophets shall always have the upper hand.

As for those who disbelieve, I will punish them severely in this world and the Hereafter, and they will have no helpers.

As for those who believe and do righteous deeds, He will give them their rewards in full, and Allah does not like the wrongdoers.”

This is what We recite to you of the verses and the wise reminder.

The similitude of Jesus before Allah[25] is like that of Adam; He created him from dust, then said to him, “Be,” and he was. ——— [25] i.e., regarding His creation of him.

This is the truth from your Lord, so do not be of those who doubt.

Whoever disputes with you concerning [Jesus] after the knowledge has come to you, then say, “Come, let us call our sons and your sons, our women and your women, ourselves and yourselves, then invoke the curse of Allah upon the liars.”

Indeed, this is the true narrative, and none has the right to be worshiped except Allah, and Allah is the All-Mighty, the All-Wise.

If they turn away, then Allah is All-Knowing of those who spread corruption.

Say, “O people of the Book, come to a common term between us and you, that we worship none but Allah and associate no partners with Him, and that we do not take one another as lords besides Allah.” But if they turn away, say, “Bear witness that we are Muslims [submitting to Allah].”

O People of the Book, why do you dispute about Abraham[26], while the Torah and the Gospel were not sent down but after him? Do you not understand? ——— [26] Both the Jews and the Christians claimed Abraham as their own.

Here you are! You are those who disputed about that of which you have some knowledge, then why do you dispute about that of which you have no knowledge[27]? Allah knows and you do not know. ——— [27] Regarding the true faith of Abraham.

Abraham was neither a Jew nor a Christian, but he was a monotheist[28] Muslim, and he was not one of the polytheists. ——— [28] Hanīf means a pristine believer. The basic semantic meaning of the root h-n-f is an inclination towards uprightness and eschewing crookedness.

The closest people to Abraham are those who followed him, and this Prophet and those who believe. And Allah is the Guardian of the believers.

A faction of the People of the Book wishes to mislead you [believers]; they do not mislead except themselves, but they do not realize.

O People of the Book, why do you disbelieve in the verses of Allah[29] while you testify [to their truth]? ——— [29] About Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), while you have it written in your Books but you hide it.

O People of the Book, why do you mix the truth with falsehood and conceal the truth knowingly?

A faction of the People of the Book says, “Believe in what has been sent down to the believers in the morning and reject it in the evening, so that they may return [from their faith][30]. ——— [30] They hatched the plot of claiming to embrace Faith, only to disclaim it as untrue shortly thereafter, in order to sow the seed of doubt in the minds of the believers and thus abandon their religion.

And do not believe in anyone except those who follow your religion.” Say, “The guidance is the guidance of Allah.” [They say,] Lest someone may be given similar to what you have been given or argue with you before your Lord[31]. Say, “All bounty is in the Hand of Allah; He grants it to whom He wills. And Allah is All-Encompassing, All-Knowing.” ——— [31] They fear that if people know what their Books really say, they would be on an equal footing with them, or that it be used as an argument against them.

He chooses for His mercy whom He wills; for Allah is the Possessor of great bounty.”

And among the People of the Book are some who, if you entrust with a heap of gold, will return it to you; yet there are others who, if you entrust with a single coin of gold, will not return it to you unless you keep standing over them. This is because they say, “We are under no obligation towards the Gentiles[32].” And they tell lies about Allah knowingly. ——— [32] The Jews do not consider it a sin to cheat or lie to a gentile, i.e., a non-Jew.

But those who fulfill their covenant and fear Allah, surely Allah loves those who fear Him.

Those who trade the covenant of Allah and their oaths[33] for a small price, they will have no share in the Hereafter. Allah will neither speak to them, nor look at them on the Day of Resurrection, nor will He purify them, and for them there will be a painful punishment. ——— [33] This covenant and oath is detailed in verse 81 below; that is, to believe in the prophethood of Muhammad (ﷺ) and support him.

And there are some among them who alter the Scripture[34] with their tongues so that you may think it is part of the Scripture, while it is not part of the Scripture; and they say, “It is from Allah,” while it is not from Allah. And they tell lies about Allah knowingly. ——— [34] The Scripture meant here is the Torah; by distorting its words or meanings.

It is not for a human being whom Allah has given the Scripture, wisdom, and prophethood to say to the people, “Be my worshipers instead of Allah.” Rather, he would say, “Be devoted servants of your Lord because of your teaching of the Scripture and because of your study thereof.”

Nor would he order you to take angels and prophets as lords[35]. Would he order you to disbelieve after you have submitted to Allah [as Muslims]? ——— [35] ‘Umar (رضي الله عنه) reported: I heard the Prophet (ﷺ) say: "Do not exaggerate in praising me as the Christians praised the son of Mary, for I am only a slave. So call me the slave of Allah and His Messenger." [Sahih al-Bukhāri: 654]

And [remember] when Allah took the covenant[36] of the prophets, [saying], “After I have given you the Book and wisdom, if there comes to you a messenger[37] confirming what is with you, then you must believe in him and support him.” Allah said, “Do you affirm this covenant and accept this commitment?” They said, “Yes, we do.” He said, “Then bear witness and I am with you among the witnesses.” ——— [36] It is possible that this oath was taken when the offspring of Adam were taken out of his back, or taken from each prophet at the time of his mission. [37] This Messenger is Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ).

Whoever turns away after this, it is they who are the rebellious.

Do they seek other than the religion of Allah, whereas to Him submit all those in the heavens and on earth, willingly or unwilling, and to Him they will return?

Say, “We believe in Allah and what has been sent down to us and what was sent down to Abraham, Ishmael, Isaac, Jacob, and his descendants, and what was given to Moses, Jesus, and other prophets from their Lord; we make no distinction between any of them, and to Him we submit.”

Anyone who seeks a religion other than Islam, never will it be accepted from him; and in the Hereafter he will be among the losers.

How would Allah guide a people who disbelieved after having believed and testified that the Messenger was true, and the clear signs had come to them? For Allah does not guide the wrongdoing people.

The punishment of such people is that they are cursed by Allah, the angels, and all mankind.

They will abide therein forever. Their punishment will neither be lightened, nor will they be given respite,

except those who repent after that and mend their ways[38], for Allah is All-Forgiving, Most Merciful. ——— [38] After their disbelief and wrongdoing.

But those who disbelieve after having believed then increase in disbelief, never will their repentance be accepted; it is they who have gone astray.

Those who disbelieve and die as disbelievers, even an earth full of gold will never be accepted from any of them, if offered as ransom[39]. For such people there will be a painful punishment, and they will have no helpers. ——— [39] The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "A disbeliever will be asked: ‘Suppose you had as much gold as to fill the earth, would you offer it to ransom yourself (from the Hell-Fire)?’ He will reply, ‘Yes.’ Then it will be said to him, ‘You were asked for something less than that (to join none in worship) with Allah, but you refused. " [Sahih al-Bukhāri: 546]

You will never attain righteousness[40] until you spend in charity from what you love. Whatever you spend, Allah is All-Knowing of it. ——— [40] "Al-Birr" is sincere piety which leads to the great bounty and Paradise.

All food was permissible for the Children of Israel except what Israel [i.e., Jacob] made impermissible for himself[41] before the Torah was sent down. Say, “Bring the Torah and recite it, if you are truthful.” ——— [41] Israel (Jacob) became very ill and his illness dragged on for a long time, then he vowed that he would make unlawful for himself the drink and food he loved most should Allah cure him. The best food for him was camel meat and the drink he loved most was camel milk.

Whoever fabricates lies upon Allah after that – it is they who are the wrongdoers.

Say, “Allah has spoken the truth, so follow the religion of Abraham[42], exclusively devoted to Allah, and he was not one of the polytheists.” ——— [42] The creed of Ibrāhīm (millata Ibrāhīm) is the most primordial precursor to Islam. It is mentioned in the Qur’an in various places: 2:130, 3:95, 4:125, 6:161 and 16:123.

The first House [of worship] established for mankind was the one at Bakkah [i.e., Makkah], full of blessings[43] and guidance for the worlds. ——— [43] Of this, is that people direct themselves toward it in prayer and head for it for ‘Umrah and Hajj.

In it are clear signs [such as] the standing place of Abraham[44]; whoever enters it will be safe. Pilgrimage to the House is a duty owed to Allah upon all people who are able to make their way to it; whoever disbelieves, then Allah is in no need for the worlds[45]. ——— [44] It is the stone on which Abraham (عليه السلام) stood while building the Ka‘ba. It is an everlasting sign of the relationship of Islam to Abraham’s creed. [45] He is in no need for His servants’ worship; it is they who are in need of Him.

Say, “O People of the Book, why do you reject the verses of Allah when Allah is Witness to all what you do?”

Say, “O People of the Book, why do you hinder the believers from the way of Allah – trying to make it crooked when you are witnesses [to its truth][46]? But Allah is not unaware of what you do.” ——— [46] They were devising schemes to deviate people while secretly bearing witness to the Truth mentioned in their Books.

O you who believe, if you obey a group of those who were given the Scripture, they will turn you back as disbelievers after your belief.

How can you disbelieve while Allah’s verses are being recited to you and His Messenger is in your midst? Whoever holds fast to Allah[47] is certainly guided to the straight path. ——— [47] i.e., adhering strictly to His ordinances and to the Sunnah of His Prophet (ﷺ).

O you who believe, fear Allah as He should be feared, and do not die except as Muslims.

And hold fast to the rope of Allah[48] all together and do not be divided. Remember the favor of Allah upon you when you were enemies, then He reconciled your hearts, making you brethren by His grace. And you were on the brink of a fiery pit and He delivered you[49] from it. This is how Allah makes His verses clear to you, so that you may be guided. ——— [48] The Prophet (ﷺ) said: “I will leave with you after me two grave matters. The first is the Book of Allah. It is the rope of Allah; whoever follows it, is guided and whoever does not, has gone astray”. [Muslim: 2408] [49] The Prophet (ﷺ) addressed his Anṣār Companions after the Battle of Ḥunayn by saying: “Have I not found you: lost and Allah guided you by me? Destitute and Allah made you well-off by me? Divided and Allah united you by me?” [Muslim: 1061]

Let there be a group from among you who call to goodness: enjoining what is right, and forbidding what is wrong[50]. It is they who are successful. ——— [50] According to the laws of Allah.

Do not be like those who became divided and differed after the clear proofs had come to them; and for them there will be a great punishment.

On the Day[51] some faces will turn bright while other faces will turn dark. As for those whose faces turn dark, [they will be told], “Did you disbelieve after having believed? Taste the punishment for your disbelief.” ——— [51] i.e., the Day of Judgment.

As for those whose faces turn bright, they will be in Allah’s mercy[52], they will abide therein forever. ——— [52] In Paradise.

These are the verses of Allah; We recite them to you in truth. Allah does not want injustice to the worlds.

To Allah belongs all that is in the heavens and all that is on earth, and to Allah will return all matters.

You are the best nation ever raised for mankind: you enjoin what is right and forbid what is wrong, and believe in Allah. If the People of the Book had believed, it would have been better for them. Some of them are believers, but most of them are rebellious.

They can never harm you except for some annoyance. But if they fight you, they will turn their backs, then they will not be helped.

They are afflicted with humiliation wherever they may be[53], unless they are protected by a covenant from Allah or a treaty from the people. They have incurred Allah’s wrath and are afflicted with destitution. That is because they disbelieved in Allah’s verses and killed the prophets unjustly. That is because of their disobedience and transgression. ——— [53] This fate was imposed on the Jews by Allah, in part, in fulfillment of the divine promise to punish them severely, as found in 3:21.

Yet all are not alike: there are some among the People of the Book who are upright[54]; they recite the verses of Allah during the night and they prostrate. ——— [54] Those of them who accepted Islam, like Abdullah ibn Salām.

They believe in Allah and the Last Day; enjoin what is right and forbid what is wrong; and hasten in doing good deeds. They are among the righteous.

Whatever good they do, their reward will never be denied; for Allah is All-Knowing of those who are righteous.

Those who disbelieve, neither their wealth nor their children will ever avail them against Allah; they are the people of the Fire, they will abide therein forever.

The similitude of what they spend in the life of this world is like that of a frosty wind that strikes and destroys the harvest of a people who have wronged themselves. It is not Allah Who wronged them, but they wronged themselves.

O you who believe, do not take as close friends those from other than yourselves; they spare no effort to ruin you; they wish to see you suffer. Hatred has appeared from their mouths[55], but what their hearts conceal is even greater. We have made the verses clear to you, if only you understand. ——— [55] No matter how hard they try to keep their real feelings secret, their tongues expose their inner feelings.

O you [believers], you are those who love them but they do not love you, even though you believe in all the Scriptures[56]. When they meet you, they say, “We believe,” but when they are alone, they bite their fingertips against you in rage. Say, “May you die in your rage.” Allah is All-Knowing of what is in the hearts. ——— [56] All divine Books revealed by Allah.

If something good happens to you, it grieves them; but if adversity befalls you, they rejoice at it. But if you keep patient and fear Allah, their schemes will not harm you in the least; for Allah encompasses all what they do.

And [remember] when you left your home in the morning to position the believers for the battle [of ’Uhud]; and Allah is All-Hearing, All-Knowing.

When two parties[57] from among you were about to lose courage, but Allah was their protector. Let the believers put their trust in Allah. ——— [57] These two parties were the tribes of Banu Salimah and Banu Hārithah, but Allah made them remain firm. Allah tacitly reminds the believers of the reason for their setback in the Battle of ’Uhud. Essentially, the archers left their positions appointed for them by the Prophet (ﷺ).

Allah had helped you at Badr when you were weak; then fear Allah so that you may be grateful.

[Remember] when you said to the believers, “Will it not suffice you that your Lord will help you by sending down three thousand angels?”

Yes, if you stay patient and fear Allah, and the enemy should launch a surprise attack on you, your Lord will help you with five thousand marked angels.

Allah ordained this only as glad tidings for you, and to reassure your hearts thereby. Victory only comes from Allah, the All-Mighty, the All-Wise,

in order to destroy a section of the disbelievers or disgrace them, so they may turn back utterly disappointed.

It is not for you [O Prophet] to decide whether He will accept their repentance or punish them, for they are wrongdoers.

To Allah belongs all that is in the heavens and all that is on earth. He forgives whom He wills and punishes whom He wills, and Allah is All-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

O you who believe, do not consume usury[58], doubled and multiplied. And fear Allah, so that you may succeed, ——— [58] The Prophet (ﷺ) said: "Avoid the seven great destructive sins; among them is to consume Ribā (usury)." [Sahih al-Bukhāri: 28]

and fear the Fire prepared for the disbelievers.

And obey Allah and the Messenger, so that you may be given mercy.

And hasten towards forgiveness from your Lord and a Paradise as wide as the heavens and earth, prepared for the righteous,

those who spend in times of prosperity and adversity, and who restrain their anger[59] and pardon people; for Allah loves those who do good. ——— [59] Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) said: "The strong is not the one who overcomes others by strength, but the strong is the one who controls himself while in anger." [Sahih al-Bukhāri: 135]

And those who, when they commit a shameful act or wrong themselves, remember Allah and seek forgiveness for their sins[60] – who can forgive sins except Allah? – and they do not persist in what they did knowingly. ——— [60] Abu Bakr (رضي الله عنه) reported that the Prophet (ﷺ) said: “There is no Muslim who commits a sin, then performs ablution, prays two rak‘ahs and asks Allah for forgiveness without Allah forgiving him”. [Abū Dāwūd: 1521, al-Tirmidhī: 406, Ibn Mājah: 1395]

Their reward is forgiveness from their Lord and gardens under which rivers flow, abiding therein forever. How excellent is the reward of those who do [righteous] deeds!

There were nations that passed before you; so travel through the land and see how was the end of the deniers[61]. ——— [61] When the believers were tested by what happened to them on the day of ’Uhud, Allah Almighty said, consoling them, that there have been divine laws before you in testing our slaves through defeat and victory, but the outcome has always been destroying of the disbelievers and giving victory to the believers.

This is an exhortation for mankind; a guidance and admonition for the righteous.

Do not lose heart nor grieve, for you have the upper hand, if you are [truly] believers.

If you have suffered a blow [at ’Uhud], they too have suffered a blow like it [at Badr]. We alternate among people these days, so that Allah may reveal the believers and may choose martyrs from among you. And Allah does not like the wrongdoers.

And so that He may purify the believers and annihilate the disbelievers.

Do you think that you would enter Paradise when Allah has not yet seen those of you who struggled in His way and those who remained patient?

You did wish for martyrdom[62] before facing it, and now you have seen it with your own eyes. ——— [62] This is a reminder to the believers, who missed the Battle of Badr, of their talk about wishing to meet the enemy and being martyred. The Battle of Uhud is being alluded to here, as solid intentions and steadfastness are what actually win battles, not mere fancy talk.

Muhammad is no more than a messenger; there were messengers who passed away before him[63]. If he dies or is killed, will you turn back on your heels[64]? Anyone who turns back on his heels will not harm Allah in the least, but Allah will reward those who are grateful. ——— [63] The laws of nature apply to them too. [64] This smacks the faltering position that some Muslims took when it was rumored during the Battle of Uhud that Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) had met his death.

No soul can die except with Allah’s permission at a destined time[65]. Whoever seeks the reward of this world, We will give him thereof, and whoever seeks the reward of the Hereafter, We will give him thereof. And We will reward those who are grateful. ——— [65] This fact is stated as an encouragement to fight in Allah’s cause.

[Imagine] how many prophets along with the devout men fought, but they did not lose heart because of what they suffered in the way of Allah, nor did they weaken or surrender. And Allah loves those who are patient.

All they said was, “Our Lord, forgive us our sins and our excess in our affairs, make firm our feet, and give us victory against the disbelieving people[66].” ——— [66] This prayer is very similar to that of those who fought with Saul (Tāloot) against Goliath (Jāloot) See 2: 250.

So Allah gave them the reward of this world and the best reward of the Hereafter[67], for Allah loves those who do good. ——— [67] Gaining victory in this life and eternal bliss in Paradise.

O you who believe, if you obey those who disbelieve, they will turn you back on your heels, and thus you will return as losers.

But Allah is your Protector, and He is the Best of Helpers.

We will cast dread into the hearts of those who disbelieve because they associated partners with Allah for which He has not sent down any authority. Their refuge will be the Fire. How terrible is the abode of the wrongdoers!

Indeed, Allah fulfilled His promise to you when you were slaying them by His permission, until you lost courage and disputed over the command and disobeyed after He had shown you what you liked [victory]. Among you are some who seek this world and some who seek the Hereafter[68]. He then prevented you from [defeating] them so that He may test You, but He pardoned you, for Allah is Most Gracious to the believers. ——— [68] The first party were the archers who left their positions to collect the spoils, while the latter were those who remained at their posts.

[Remember] when you were fleeing without even casting a glance at anyone, and the Messenger was calling you back. You were then given distress[69] upon distress, so you should not grieve for what you missed or for what you suffered. For Allah is All-Aware of what you do. ——— [69] The news of the rumored death of the Prophet (ﷺ) hit them after losing the ground in the battle, so they soon forgot the defeat that had been inflicted on them.

Then He sent down tranquility upon you after distress: a slumber overtaking a group of you[70], while another group[71] cared only about themselves, having false thoughts about Allah, the untrue thoughts of ignorance, saying, “Do we have any say in the matter?” Say, “All matters belong to Allah.” They conceal in their hearts what they do not reveal to you. They say, “If we had any say in the matter, none of us would have been killed here.” Say, “Even if you had been in your homes, those among you who were destined to be killed would have come out to their killing places.” But Allah did this so that He may test your inner thoughts and distinguish what is in your hearts. For Allah is All-Knowing of what is in the hearts. ——— [70] The real believers. [71] The hypocrites.

Those of you who fled on the day when the two armies met [at ’Uhud], it was Satan who made them slip due to some of their misdeeds, but Allah has pardoned them, for Allah is All-Forgiving, Most Forbearing.

O you who believe, do not be like those who disbelieved and said about their brothers who traveled through the land or engaged in battle, “If they had stayed with us, they would not have died or been killed[72].” Allah makes that a cause of distress in their hearts. It is Allah Who gives life and causes death, and Allah is All-Seeing of what you do. ——— [72] A believer should know for certain that all matters, including life and death, are in the Hands of Allah alone.

If you are killed in the way of Allah or die, then forgiveness and mercy from Allah are far better than what they accumulate.

If you die or are martyred, it is unto Allah that you will be gathered[73]. ——— [73] For reckoning.

It is by Allah’s mercy that you [O Prophet] became lenient to them[74]. If you had been harsh and hard-hearted, they would have dispersed from you. So pardon them, seek forgiveness for them, and consult them in important matters[75]. But once you have made a decision, put your trust in Allah, for Allah loves those who put their trust in Him. ——— [74] In the Battle of Uhud, the Prophet (ﷺ) was made to show leniency to the believers who disobeyed his commands. [75] The principle of shūra (consultation) is a cornerstone and one of the greatest traits of the Islamic community.

If Allah helps you, none can overcome you; but if He forsakes you, who is there to help you after Him? In Allah let the believers put their trust.

It is not for a prophet to misappropriate the spoils of war. Whoever misappropriates will carry it with him on the Day of Resurrection[76]. Then every soul will be paid in full for what it has earned, and none will be wronged. ——— [76] The Prophet (ﷺ) said: “By Allah none of you wrongfully appropriates part of it (war booty) without him meeting Allah on the Day of Judgment carrying it. I shall know everyone of you who meets Allah carrying a camel grunting, a cow bellowing, or a goat bleating...” [Al-Bukhārī: 6979, Muslim: 1832]. Al-Qurṭubī (4:256) comments: “He comes carrying it on his back and neck, tormented by its weight, horrified by its atrocious sound, and berated by making his dishonesty known to all people…”.

Is the one who seeks Allah’s pleasure like someone who incurs Allah’s wrath, and whose abode is Hell? What a terrible destination!

They are of various ranks with Allah, and Allah is All-Seeing of what they do.

Allah conferred favor on the believers when He sent them a messenger from among themselves, reciting to them His verses, purifying them, and teaching them the Book and Wisdom[77], although before that they were clearly misguided. ——— [77] The Prophet’s Sunnah.

How is it that, when you suffered a calamity[78] [at ’Uhud] while you had inflicted twice as much upon them[79] [at Badr], you said, “How could this happen?” Say, “You brought this to yourselves. Indeed, Allah is Most Capable of all things.” ——— [78] Seventy Muslims were killed. [79] Seventy of the enemy were killed and seventy were taken as captives.

What you suffered on the day [of ’Uhud] when the two armies met was by Allah’s permission, so that He may distinguish the [true] believers,

and in order to make known those who are hypocrites. They were told, “Come forward, fight in the way of Allah or at least defend.” They said, “If we had known there was fighting, we would have certainly followed you.” That day they were nearer to disbelief than to faith, saying with their mouths what was not in their hearts, but Allah is All-Knowing of what they conceal.

Those who stayed behind said about their brothers, “If they had obeyed us, they would not have been killed [at ’Uhud].” Say, “Then avert death from yourselves, if you are truthful.”

Never think of those who are killed in Allah’s way as dead; rather, they are alive with their Lord, receiving provision[80], ——— [80] The Prophet (ﷺ) said: “When your brothers were killed in the Battle of Badr, Allah placed their souls in the (abdominal) cavities of green fowls, drinking from the rivers of Paradise, eating from its fruits and coming back at the end of the day to repose in chandeliers hung in the Shadow of the Majestic Throne. For all of this, they said: “Who would tell our brothers about us; that we are in Paradise being provided for so that they may not give up fighting in the way of Allah or cower in war?” Allah Almighty said: “I will tell them on your behalf”. Then He revealed: “Do not think that those who were killed in the way of Allah are dead. Nay but they are alive with their Lord being provided for”. [Abū Dāwūd: 2520, Ahmad: 2388; another version is found in Muslim: 1887]

rejoicing in what Allah has given them of His bounty, and delighted for those who have yet to join them, of those whom they left behind, that they will have no fear, nor will they grieve.

They rejoice at the favors and bounties of Allah, and that Allah does not cause the reward of the believers to be lost,

those who responded to Allah and the Messenger after they were struck with injury[81]. For those who did good among them and feared Allah is a great reward, ——— [81] Those Believers who chased the retreating Makkan army until they reached the outpost of Hamrā’ al-Asad, on the outskirts of Madinah. They were deeply wounded and bruised in the Battle of ’Uhud.

those[82] to whom people[83] said, “Indeed, the people have gathered against you, so fear them.” But it only increased them in faith, and they said, “Allah is Sufficient for us, and He is the best Protector[84].” ——— [82] The believers. [83] The hypocrites. [84] This is one of the greatest Dhikr (remembrance) during times of hardship. Ibn ‘Abbās (رضي الله عنهما) reported: “Hasbunā Allāh wa ni‘ma al-Wakīl (Allah suffices us, He is the best of Protectors), was said by Abraham (عليه السلام) when he was thrown in the fire and was said by Muhammad (ﷺ) when it was said: “People have regrouped for you, so fear them”, their belief grew firmer and they said: “Allah suffices us, He is the best of Protectors”.” [Al-Bukhārī: 4563]

They then returned with grace and bounty from Allah, having suffered no harm. They pursued Allah’s pleasure, and Allah is the Possessor of great bounty.

It is Satan who frightens [you] through his allies. Do not fear them, but fear Me, if you are [true] believers.

Do not let those[85] who hasten to disbelief grieve you; they can never harm Allah in the least. It is Allah’s will that they will have no share in the Hereafter, and for them there will be a great punishment. ——— [85] The hypocrites.

Those who purchase disbelief [in exchange] for faith can never harm Allah in the least, and for them there will be a painful punishment.

Those who disbelieve should not think that whatever respite We give them is good for them. We only give them respite so that they may increase in sin, and for them there will be a disgracing punishment.

Allah would not leave the believers in the state you are in, until He distinguishes the evil from the good[86], nor would Allah reveal to you [believers] the unseen, but Allah chooses from His messengers[87] whom He wills. So believe in Allah and His messengers; if you believe and fear Allah, you will have a great reward. ——— [86] Hypocrites were initially living in the midst of the believers pretending to be believers and wishing for the worst to come upon the real believers. In order to separate the wheat from the chaff, Allah decreed the calamity in the Battle of Uhud; so the hypocrites could be told apart. [87] The unseen here was informing the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) about the real hypocrites so that he may be on guard against them.

Those who greedily withhold what Allah has given them of His grace, should not think that it is good for them, rather it is bad for them; their necks will be chained[88] by what they greedily withheld on the Day of Resurrection. To Allah belongs the inheritance of the heavens and earth, and Allah is All-Aware of what you do. ——— [88] Abu Hurayrah (رضي الله عنه) reported that Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) said: "Anyone whom Allah has given wealth but he does not pay its Zakāt; then, on the Day of Resurrection, his wealth will be presented to him in the shape of a bald-headed poisonous male snake with two poisonous glands in its mouth and it will encircle itself round his neck and bite him over his cheeks and say, ‘I am your wealth; I am your treasure.’" Then the Prophet (ﷺ) recited this divine verse. [Fath al-Bāri 4/11-13, Sahih al-Bukhāri: 88].

Allah has heard the words of those who said, “Allah is poor and we are rich[89]!” We will write down what they said and their killing of the prophets unjustly, and We will say, “Taste the punishment of the burning Fire. ——— [89] Al-Hasan al-Basrī reports that when the Jews of Madinah heard the previous verse, encouraging believers to spend in the way of Allah, they said: “If He asks people to spend in His way to achieve His goals, then He must be a wretched pauper!” [al-Tabarī, Ibn Kathīr, al-Qurtubī]

That is because of what your hands have sent forth, for Allah is not unjust to [His] slaves.”

They said, “Allah has commanded us not to believe in any messenger until he brings us an offering consumed by the fire.” Say, “There came to you messengers before me with clear proofs and with what you demanded. Then why did you kill them, if you are truthful?”

Then if they reject you [O Prophet], there were messengers who were rejected before you, who came with clear proofs, written ordinances [i.e., Psalms of David], and the enlightening Scripture.

Every soul will taste death, and you will be paid your reward in full on the Day of Resurrection. Whoever is spared from the Fire and admitted into Paradise has truly won, for the life of this world is nothing but an illusory pleasure.

You will certainly be tested in your wealth and in yourselves, and you will certainly hear from those who were given the Scripture before you and from those who associate partners with Allah many abusive words. But if you observe patience and fear Allah, that is a matter of firm resolve.

And [remember] when Allah took a covenant from those who were given the Scripture, “that you should make it clear to people and not conceal it.” But they cast it behind their backs and sold it for a small price. How terrible is their deal!

Do not think of those who are delighted with their misdeeds and love to be praised for what they have not done[90]; so do not think that they will be safe from the punishment, and for them there will be a painful punishment. ——— [90] Abu Sa‘īd al-Khudrī (رضي الله عنه) reported that the reason for the revelation of this verse was such that: “Some hypocrites at the time of the Prophet (ﷺ) would stay behind when he used to set out on forays, and they were pleased with this. Upon his return, they would forge excuses and swear to them. They even loved to be praised for what they did not do (i.e., being believers and part of the Prophet’s (ﷺ) army). Thus this verse was revealed”. [Al-Bukhārī: 4567, Muslim: 2777]

To Allah belongs the dominion of the heavens and earth, and Allah is Most Capable of all things.

Indeed, in the creation of the heavens and earth and the alternation of the night and day are signs for people of understanding,

those who remember Allah while standing, sitting, and lying on their sides, and reflect upon the creation of the heavens and earth [saying], “Our Lord, you have not created all this in vain. Glory be to You. Protect us from the punishment of the Fire.

Our Lord, whoever You cause to enter the Fire, You have surely disgraced him, and the wrongdoers will have no helpers.

Our Lord, we have heard the caller[91] to faith calling, ‘Believe in your Lord,’ so we believed. Our Lord, forgive us our sins, expiate our misdeeds, and cause us to die among the righteous. ——— [91] Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ).

“Our Lord, give us what You have promised us through Your messengers, and do not disgrace us on the Day of Resurrection, for You never break Your promise.”

Their Lord responded to them: “I will never waste the deeds of any doer among you, male or female; you are the same in reward[92]. Those who migrated and were driven out of their homes and suffered for My sake, and fought and were killed – I will surely expiate their sins and admit them into gardens under which rivers flow, a reward from Allah; with Allah is the best reward.” ——— [92] Both men and women are born of each other and are looked upon equally.

Do not be deceived by the disbelievers’ prosperity in the land:

it is a brief enjoyment, then Hell will be their abode. What a terrible resting place!

But for those who fear their Lord will be gardens under which rivers flow, abiding therein forever – a welcoming gift from Allah; and what is with Allah is best for the righteous.

There are some among the People of the Book who believe in Allah and what has been sent down to you and what was sent down to them; humbling themselves before Allah. They do not sell Allah’s verses for a small price. It is they who will have their reward with their Lord. Indeed, Allah is swift in reckoning.

O you who believe, be patient and endure[93], stand on guard[94][95] and fear Allah, so that you may be successful. ——— [93] In the face of life’s trials and tribulations. [94] When you face your enemy in battle. [95] Rābitū from ribāt, i.e., the fact of ‘tying up’ one’s war steed at outposts to protect the borders from enemy attack.

O people, fear your Lord Who created you from a single soul, and created from it its mate[1], and from both of them created countless men and women. Fear Allah in Whose name you ask one another, and be mindful of your kinship ties[2], for Allah is ever Watchful over you. ——— [1] Adam, the single soul, and Eve its mate. [2] People’s rights, especially those of kith and kin, are to be honored as much as Allah’s own rights.

Give orphans their wealth, and do not exchange your bad possessions for their good ones, nor consume their wealth by mixing it with your own; for this is indeed a great sin.

If you fear that you may not maintain justice with orphan girls [by marrying them] then marry women of your choice—two, three, or four[3]; but if you fear that you may not maintain justice, then marry only one, or slave-girls you may own. That is more likely to avoid committing injustice. ——— [3] ‘Ā’ishah (رضي الله عنها) said: “This verse was revealed concerning any man under whom is an orphan girl for whom he is both guardian and inheritor, while she has money and with no one to argue in her favor. This guardian is enjoined not to marry her for her money, nor is he to beat or molest her in the process. In this respect, Allah says: “If you fear that you may not maintain justice with orphan girls [by marrying them] then marry women of your choice”. That is, He, the Almighty, is saying: “These I made lawful for you, and leave out those that you may be unfair to.”” [Al-Bukhārī: 4573, Muslim: 3018]

Give women their marriage dowries[4] graciously. However, if they waive to you part of it willingly, then enjoy it with a clear conscience. ——— [4] The obligatory bridal gift (mahr).

Do not give the feeble-minded your property, which Allah has made a means of livelihood for you, but feed and clothe them from it, and speak to them kindly.

Test the orphans until they reach a marriageable age. Then if you perceive maturity in them, hand over their property to them[5], and do not consume it extravagantly and hastily, lest they should grow up. If the guardian is well-off, he should restrain himself entirely; but if he is poor, he may take a reasonable provision. When you hand over their property to them, call in witnesses. And Allah is sufficient as a Reckoner. ——— [5] Test those orphans over whom you are guardian so as to make sure that they are discerning enough to be given their money and will not squander it due to lack of mental maturity.

Men have a share in what parents and relatives leave behind, and women have a share in what parents and relatives leave behind, whether it is little or much; an ordained share[6]. ——— [6] This ‘ordained share’ is detailed in verse 11-12 below.

If at the time of distribution, [other] relatives, orphans, and the needy are present, give them something too[7], and speak to them kindly. ——— [7] Those who have no share in the inheritance.

And let those [in charge of orphans] be cautious just as they themselves would be concerned had they left helpless offspring behind; let them fear Allah and say words of justice.

Indeed, those who consume the orphans’ property unjustly, only consume fire into their bellies[8], and they will burn in a Blazing Fire. ——— [8] The Prophet (ﷺ) said: “Beware of the seven most cardinal sins: And among them he mentioned consuming an orphan’s property”. [Al-Bukhārī, 6857; Muslim, 89]

Allah instructs you concerning [the inheritance of] your children: the share of a male is equal to that of two females. If there are only daughters, two or more, they get two-thirds of the estate, but if there is only one daughter, she gets half. Each parent is entitled to one-sixth if he left offspring, but if he left no offspring and the parents are the only heirs, the mother gets one-third, but if he has siblings, the mother gets one-sixth, after settling any bequests or debts[9]. Your parents and your children, you do not know which of them will benefit you more. [These shares are] ordained by Allah; and Allah is All-Knowing, All-Wise. ——— [9] Based upon prophetic Hadīths, scholars have ruled that debt takes precedence over a bequest, that a bequest should not include anyone who inherit by law, and that the total bequest should not be more than one third of the estate. After the fulfillment of debts and bequests (if any), the remainder of the estate is to be divided.

Your share is half of your wives’ estate if they leave no child; but if they leave a child, you get one-fourth, after settling the bequests or debts. Your wives’ share is one-fourth of your estate if you leave no child, but if you leave a child, they get one-eighth, after settling the bequests or debts. If a man or a woman leaves neither parents nor offspring[10], but has a brother or a sister, each one gets one-sixth[11]; but if they are more than two, they share in one-third, after settling the bequests or debts, without causing harm to the heirs. This is an instruction from Allah; and Allah is All-Knowing, Most Forbearing. ——— [10] Kalālah: A person who has no living children or parents; (from iklīl), wreath, as his brothers and sisters surround him like a wreath surrounds the head. [11] These shares are divided equally between males and females.

These are the limits [set by] Allah. Whoever obeys Allah and His Messenger, He will admit him to gardens under which rivers flow, abiding therein forever. That is the supreme triumph.

But whoever disobeys Allah and His Messenger and transgresses His limits, He will cause him to enter the Fire, abiding therein forever, and for him there will be a humiliating punishment.

Those of your women who commit adultery, call four witnesses against them[12] from amongst you. If they testify, confine them to their homes until they die or Allah ordains for them [another] way[13]. ——— [12] The witnesses must swear to actually having seen the act taking place. [13] The provision of this verse has been abrogated by the verse of Surat an-Nūr (24:2), ordaining lashing for the unmarried and stoning to death for the married.

If two among you commit this [sin], chastise them. Then if they repent and mend their ways, leave them alone[14]. Indeed, Allah is Accepting of Repentance, Most Merciful. ——— [14] Scholars differed over whether "the two" refers to two of the same sex (i.e., homosexuals) or those of opposite sexes. In either case, later rulings outlined in the Sunnah have replaced this one.

Allah only accepts the repentance of those who commit evil out of ignorance, then repent soon thereafter[15]; it is they to whom Allah will turn in forgiveness, for Allah is All-Knowing, All-Wise. ——— [15] Before seeing death with his own eyes.

However, repentance is not for those who commit evil deeds until death approaches one of them, he then says, “Now I repent,” nor for those who die as disbelievers; for them We have prepared a painful punishment.

O you who believe, it is not lawful for you to forcibly inherit women, nor to hinder them from marriage, in order to take back some of what you have given them[16] unless they commit a clear adultery. Treat them kindly. If you dislike them, it may be that you dislike something which Allah has put much good in it. ——— [16] At the time of marriage as mahr.

If you decide to replace one wife with another, and you have given her an abundance of wealth, do not take any of it back. Would you take it wrongfully and sinfully?

How could you take it back after having been intimate with one another, and they have taken from you a solemn covenant?

Do not marry the women whom your fathers married, except what happened in the past: it is indeed a shameful, detestable, and evil practice.

It is prohibited for you [to marry] your mothers, your daughters, your sisters, your paternal and maternal aunts, your brother’s daughters, your sister’s daughters, your foster mothers, your foster sisters, your mothers-in-law, your step-daughters under your guardianship if you have consummated the marriage with their mothers – however if you have not consummated the marriage, it is not a sin [to marry them] – nor wives of your own sons, nor two sisters together, except for what happened in the past, for Allah is All-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

Also [prohibited are] married women except for female slaves you may own. This is Allah’s commandment to you. All women other than these are lawful for you to marry with your wealth in a legal marriage, not adultery. When you consummate your marriage with them, give them their due dowries[17]. There is no sin on you to mutually agree after the [initial] agreement. And Allah is All-Knowing, All-Wise. ——— [17] The mahr, a specified gift to the bride required of the man upon marriage.

But if any of you cannot afford to marry free believing women, you may marry believing bondwomen in your possession. Allah knows best about your faith; you are from one another. Marry them with the permission of their masters and give them their dowries in fairness – provided that they are chaste, neither given to committing fornication nor having secret paramours. If they commit adultery after marriage, they are liable to half of the punishment prescribed for free women[18]. This is for those of you who fear falling into sin; but if you stay patient, it is better for you. And Allah is All-Forgiving, Most Merciful. ——— [18] Their punishment is fifty (50) lashes; neither stoning to death nor exile.

Allah wants to make things clear to you and guide you to the [righteous] ways of those before you, and accept your repentance; and Allah is All-Knowing, All-Wise.

Allah wants to accept your repentance, but those who follow their lusts want you to deviate a massive deviation.

Allah wants to lighten your burdens, for man was created weak.

O you who believe, do not consume one another’s property unlawfully, unless it is trade conducted with your mutual consent. And do not kill yourselves[19] [or one another]. Indeed, Allah is Most Merciful to you. ——— [19] The Prophet (ﷺ) said: "He who commits suicide by choking shall keep on choking himself in the Hellfire, and he who commits suicide by stabbing himself shall keep on stabbing himself in the Hellfire." [Sahih al-Bukhāri: 446]

And whoever does that out of aggression and injustice, We will cast him into the Fire; that is easy for Allah.

If you avoid the major sins[20] which are forbidden to you, We will absolve your [minor] sins and admit you to a noble entrance. ——— [20] The Prophet (ﷺ) said: "Avoid the seven great destructive sins." They asked, "O Allah’s Messenger! What are they?" He said, "(1) To associate partners with Allah, (2) sorcery; (3) to kill a person whom Allah has forbidden except for a just cause; (4) to consume Ribā (usury); (5) to eat up the property of an orphan; (6) to turn one’s back to the enemy and fleeing from the battlefield at the time of fighting and (7) to accuse innocent chaste women of immorality." [Sahih al-Bukhāri: 840]

Do not wish for what Allah has bestowed upon some of you over others. Men will have the reward of their deeds and women will have the reward of their deeds. And ask Allah for His bounty[21]. Indeed, Allah is All-Knowing of everything. ——— [21] The Prophet (ﷺ) said: “Ask Allah while you firmly believe that He will respond to you; know that Allah does not respond to an inattentive and wandering heart”. [At-Tirmidhī: 3479]

For everyone We have appointed heirs to what parents and close relatives leave behind. As for those to whom you have made a pledge, give them their share[22]. Indeed, Allah is Witness over all things. ——— [22] The majority of the scholars are of the opinion that the provision of this verse is abrogated by verse 8: 75.

Men are in charge of women, as Allah has made some of them excel the others, and because they spend of their wealth. Therefore the righteous women are obedient, and protect what Allah has entrusted them with[23] in [their husband’s] absence. As for those women on whose part you fear rebellion[24], [first] admonish them, [next] forsake them in bed, and [last] hit them[25]. Then if they obey you, do not take further action against them. Indeed, Allah is Most High, All-Great. ——— [23] i.e., their husbands’ property and their own chastity. [24] i.e., major rebellion or refusal of basic religious obligations. [25] It may only be resorted to when the first two measures fail and when it is expected to mend the situation; otherwise, it is not allowed. ‘Ā’ishā’s (رضي الله عنها) says: “The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) never hit anything with his hand, nor a woman, nor a servant, except when he was fighting in the path of Allah” [Al-Bukhārī: 3149; Muslim: 1057] It must not be severe or damaging, and face must be avoided, as “the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) prevented hitting the face” [Sahih Muslim: 2116]

If you fear a breach between them, appoint an arbitrator from his family and another from hers. If they both want reconciliation, Allah will bring harmony between them. Indeed, Allah is All-Knowing, All-Aware.

Worship Allah and do not associate any partners with Him. Be kind to parents, relatives, orphans, the needy, near and distant neighbors, close friends, wayfarers, and slaves whom you own[26]. For Allah does not like those who are arrogant, boastful, ——— [26] This is known as the verse of the Ten Rights (al-huqūq al-‘ashrah).

those who are stingy and promote stinginess among people[27], and conceal what Allah has bestowed upon them of His bounty. We have prepared for disbelievers a humiliating punishment. ——— [27] The Prophet (ﷺ) said: "Everyday two angels come down from heaven; one of them says, ‘O Allah! Compensate every person who spends in Your cause,’ and the other says, ‘O Allah! Destroy every miser.’" [Sahih Al-Bukhāri: 522]

And [also] those who spend their wealth to show off to people, but do not believe in Allah or the Last Day. Whoever[28] takes Satan as an associate has indeed taken an evil associate. ——— [28] They are the companions of Satan, who enjoins ungodly acts and drives them away from acts of virtue.

What harm would it do to them to believe in Allah and the Last Day, and spend out of what Allah has provided for them? For Allah is All-Knowing of them.

Allah does not do injustice as much as an atom’s weight[29]. And if it is a good deed, He will multiply it and give from Himself a great reward. ——— [29] The Prophet (ﷺ) said: “None who bears the weight of a mustard seed of faith in his heart will enter Hell”. [Muslim: 91]

How will it be when We bring a witness from every community, and bring you [O Prophet] as a witness against these [people]?

On that Day, those who disbelieved and disobeyed the Messenger will wish that the earth were leveled upon them. And they will not be able to hide anything from Allah[30]. ——— [30] Because they know that they will be held accountable for all their past deeds and they can say nothing but the truth on that Day.

O you who believe, do not approach the prayer while you are intoxicated[31] until you know what you are saying, nor in a state of major impurity – except while passing through [a mosque] – until you take a bath. If you are ill, or on a journey, or have relieved yourselves, or had intercourse with [your] women and find no water, then purify yourselves with clean earth and wipe your faces and hands with it. For Allah is Ever-Pardoning, All-Forgiving. ——— [31] The use of intoxicants was later prohibited completely. See 5:90-91.

Have you not seen those who were given a portion of the Book – purchasing misguidance and wishing that you lose your way?

But Allah knows best your enemies. Allah is sufficient as a Protector, and Allah is sufficient as a Helper.

Among the Jews are those who distort the words taking them out of context, and say, “We hear and disobey,” and “Hear! May you never hear,” and “Rā‘ina,” [i.e., hearken to us][32] – twisting their tongues and insulting the religion. If they had said, “We hear and obey,” and “Hear,” and “Wait for us,” it would have been better for them and more proper. But Allah has cursed them for their disbelief, so only a few of them will believe. ——— [32] Some of the Madinan Jews used to address the Prophet (ﷺ) by subtly twisting their tongues when uttering rā‘inā to mean: “You are foolish!”

O you who were given the Scripture, believe in what We have sent down [to Muhammad] – confirming your own Scriptures – before We obliterate faces turning them backward, or We curse them[33] as We cursed the Sabbath-breakers. For Allah’s will is always executed. ——— [33] This verse is a severe warning to the Jews and Christians that they must believe in Allah’s Messenger Muhammad (ﷺ) and in this Qur’an.

Allah does not forgive associating partners with Him[34], but forgives anything less than that for whom He wills. Whoever associates partners with Allah has indeed committed a grave sin. ——— [34] The Prophet (ﷺ) said: "Allah will say to that person of the Hellfire who will receive the least punishment, ‘If you had everything on the earth, would you give it as a ransom to free yourself?’ He will say, `Yes’. Then Allah will say, ‘While you were in the backbone of Adam, I asked you much less than this, (i.e., not to worship others besides Me), but you insisted on worshiping others besides me.’" [Sahih al-Bukhāri: 551]

Have you not seen those who claim purity for themselves[35]? It is Allah Who purifies whom He wills, and they will not be wronged even as much as the thread on a date stone. ——— [35] Those are the Jews who say: “We are the children of Allah and His beloved ones!” (5:18); “The Fire will not touch us except for a limited number of days!” (2:80).

See how they fabricate lies about Allah[36]! This in itself is sufficient as a flagrant sin. ——— [36] By falsely praising themselves and claiming honor.

Have you not seen those who were given a portion of the Scripture, who believe in idols[37] and Tāghoot [i.e., false gods][38], and they say to the disbelievers that they are more guided than the believers[39]? ——— [37] al-Jibt: all sorts of false things and everything that is worshiped besides Allah. [38] al-Tāghūt: taken from ṭughyān, i.e. transgression and wrongdoing. All that transgresses against Allah. Anyone who condones being worshiped besides Allah is a ṭāghūt. [39] Ibn ‘Abbās (رضي الله عنهما) reported: “When (the Jewish scholar) Ka‘b ibn al-Ashraf came to Makkah, the Quraysh asked him: “You are the best of the people of Madinah and their master. Aren’t you?” He replied: “Yes!” They then said: “What do you think of this sonless outcast (meaning Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) claiming that he is better than us when we are the custodians of pilgrims and the caretakers of the House of Allah!” He said: “You are indeed better than him!” Then the following verses were revealed: “Indeed, your hater is the one cut off”, (108: 3) and (5: 51- 52)”. [Al-Nasā’ī, Al-Sunan al-Kubrā: 11707; Ibn Ḥibbān: 6572]

It is they whom Allah has cursed, and whoever Allah curses, you will never find any helper for him.

Do they have a share in the dominion? Even if so, they would not give people even as much as the speck on a date stone.

Or do they envy people for what Allah has given them[40] out of His bounty? We gave the descendants of Abraham the Book and wisdom[41], and We gave them great authority[42]. ——— [40] That prophethood came to Muhammad (ﷺ). [41] Prophetic teachings. [42] Like that of Solomon’s (عليه السلام) kingdom.

Some of them believed in him [i.e., Muhammad], while others turned away from him. Hell is sufficient as a blaze.

Those who reject Our verses, We will cast them into the Fire. Whenever their skins are burnt through, We will replace them with fresh skins, so that they may taste the punishment. Indeed, Allah is All-Mighty, All-Wise.

As for those who believe and do righteous deeds, We will admit them into gardens under which rivers flow, abiding therein forever. They will have therein pure spouses[43], and We will admit them into a cool refreshing shade. ——— [43] Having no menses, stool, urine, etc. See 2:25, 3:15.

Indeed, Allah commands you to return trusts to their owners, and when you judge between people, judge with justice. What an excellent exhortation from Allah to you! Indeed, Allah is All-Hearing, All-Seeing.

O you who believe, obey Allah and obey the Messenger, and those of you who are in authority[44]. If you disagree over anything, refer it to Allah and the Messenger, if you believe in Allah and the Last Day; that is better and more commendable in the end. ——— [44] Believers are told to obey those in charge of their affairs given that it should be in accordance with the Qur’an and Sunnah. The Prophet (ﷺ) said: “No one should be obeyed in sinning against the Creator. Obeying only applies to what is deemed acceptable”. [Muslim: 1840]

Have you not seen [O Prophet] those[45] who claim that they believe in what has been sent down to you and what was sent down before you, yet they seek the judgment of Tāghoot[46] [i.e., false judges][47], even though they were commanded to reject them? Satan wants to lead them far astray. ——— [45] i.e., the hypocrites. [46] Tāghūt: See 2:256. [47] This verse was revealed about a group of the Aslam tribe, who professed Islam, then went to Abu Zurārah al-Aslamī, the soothsayer, to settle a dispute.

When it is said to them, “Come to what Allah has sent down and to the Messenger,” you will see the hypocrites turn away from you in aversion.

How will it be when a disaster befalls them because of what their hands have sent forth, then they come to you swearing by Allah, “We intended nothing but good and reconciliation.”

They are those whom Allah knows what is in their hearts; so turn away from them[48], admonish them, and speak to them in a far-reaching effective way. ——— [48] That is, do not punish them for their insincerity, so long as they did not make manifest their disbelief.

We did not send any Messenger but to be obeyed by Allah’s permission. If only they had come to you [O Prophet] – after wronging themselves – and had asked Allah for forgiveness, and the Messenger had asked for forgiveness for them, they would have found Allah Accepting of Repentance, Most Merciful.

But no, by your Lord, they will not believe until they accept you [O Prophet] as judge in their disputes, and find no discomfort within their hearts about your judgments, but accept them wholeheartedly.

If We were to command them, “Kill yourselves”, or “Leave your homes”, they would not do it except for a few of them. But if they did what they were instructed, it would surely be better for them and more reassuring[49], ——— [49] Faith (Imān) increases with obedience and decreases with rebelliousness.

and then We would certainly give them from Us a great reward,

and would surely guide them to a straight path.

Those who obey Allah and the Messenger will be with those whom Allah has blessed: the prophets, the people of Truth, the martyrs, and the righteous[50]. What excellent companions they are! ——— [50] Al-Siddiqīn (the people of the Truth): They realized the Truth and confirmed it with their hearts, and embodied it with words and actions. Al-Sālihīn (the righteous): Those whose outward actions are a manifestation of their inner Truth.

That grace is from Allah, and sufficient is Allah as Knower.

O you who believe, take your precautions, then march out in groups or march out all together.

There are some[51] among you who lag behind [from the battle]; then if a calamity befalls you, he will say, “Allah has blessed me that I was not present with them.” ——— [51] i.e., the hypocrites.

But if some bounty comes to you from Allah[52], he will surely say – as if there had never been any affection between you and him – “Oh, I wish I had been with them, so I could have made a great gain.” ——— [52] The victory or spoils of war.

Let those who sacrifice the life of this world for the Hereafter fight in the way of Allah; for whoever fights in the way of Allah, whether he is killed or attains victory, We will give him a great reward.

Why is it that you do not fight in the way of Allah and for the sake of the oppressed men, women, and children who say, “Our Lord, take us out of this town[53] of oppressive people, and grant us from Yourself a protector and grant us from Yourself a helper”? ——— [53] i.e., Makkah.

The believers fight in the way of Allah, whereas the disbelievers fight in the way of Tāghoot[54] [i.e., false gods]. So fight the allies of Satan. Indeed, the scheme of Satan is ever weak. ——— [54] See footnote 4:60.

Have you not seen those who were told, “Restrain your hands [from fighting][55], establish prayer and give zakah”? However, when fighting was ordained for them, a group of them feared people as one should fear Allah or even more. They said, “Our Lord, why have You ordained fighting for us? If only you had spared us for a little while.” Say, “The enjoyment of this world is little, and the Hereafter is better for those who fear Allah. And you will not be wronged, even as much as a thread of a date stone. ——— [55] Before permission was given to them by Allah.

Wherever you are, death will overcome you, even if you are in fortified towers.” If something good happens to them, they say, “This is from Allah,” but if something bad happens to them, they say, “This is from you[56].” Say, “All is from Allah.” What is wrong with these people that they hardly understand any words? ——— [56] The hypocrites addressing the Prophet (ﷺ).

Whatever good happens to you[57] is from Allah, but whatever bad happens to you is from yourself[58]. We have sent you [O Prophet] as a messenger to mankind, and sufficient is Allah as a witness. ——— [57] O children of Adam! [58] is due to your mistakes or sins.

Whoever obeys the Messenger has indeed obeyed Allah[59]. But anyone who turns away, We have not sent you [O Prophet] as a keeper over them[60]. ——— [59] The Prophet (ﷺ) said: “Whoever obeys me has obeyed Allah, and whoever disobeys me has disobeyed Allah”. [Al-Bukhārī: 7137, Muslim: 1835] [60] You are tasked only to convey the message.

They say, “We obey you,” but as soon as they leave you, a group of them[61] conspires by night against what you say. Allah records all their plots, so turn away from them, and put your trust in Allah. And sufficient is Allah as a Trustee of Affairs. ——— [61] i.e., the hypocrites.

Do they not then ponder on the Qur’an[62]? If it had been from anyone other than Allah, they would have surely found in it many discrepancies. ——— [62] i.e., its words, meanings and directives.

Whenever they hear any news of security or fear, they spread it[63]. If they referred it to the Messenger or to those in authority among them, those with sound judgment among them could know it. Were it not for Allah’s grace and mercy, you would all have followed Satan, except for a few. ——— [63] These hypocrites are the blabbers, a fifth column within the ranks of the believers who spread whatever news comes their way aiming to stir up unrest.

So fight in the way of Allah [O Prophet]; you are accountable only for yourself. But urge the believers [to fight]; perhaps Allah will restrain the might of the disbelievers, for Allah is strongest in might and severe in punishment.

Whoever intercedes in a good cause will have a share in its reward, but whoever intercedes in an evil cause will have a share in its burden[64]. And Allah is ever Watchful over all things. ——— [64] Abu Mūsa al-Ash‘arī (رضي الله عنه) said: “When a person in need came to the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) or when he was asked for something, he would announce: “Intercede; you will be rewarded!” [Al-Bukhārī: 1432] Yet when a person knowingly helps someone who intends evil is a partner in that misdeed and thus will reap a portion of that evil.

When you are given a greeting, respond with a better greeting or return the same[65]. Indeed, Allah is the Reckoner of all things. ——— [65] ‘Imrān ibn al-Husayn (رضي الله عنه) said: “A man came to the Prophet (ﷺ) and said: “Assalāmu ‘alaykum (Peace be upon you)”. He was replied to and sat down. The Prophet (ﷺ) said: “Ten (rewards)”. Then another one came and said: “Assalāmu ‘alaykum wa raḥmatu Allah (Peace be upon you and Allah’s Mercy)”. He was replied to and sat down. The Prophet (ﷺ) said: “Twenty”. Then another one came and said: “Assalāmu ‘alaykum wa raḥmatu Allah wa barakātuhu (Peace be upon you and Allah’s Mercy and His Blessings)”. He was replied to and sat down. The Prophet (ﷺ) said: “Thirty”. [Abū Dāwūd: 5195, At-Tirmidhī: 2689, Ahmad: 19948]

Allah: None has the right to be worshiped except Him. He will surely gather you all on the Day of Resurrection, about which there is no doubt. Who is more truthful in speech than Allah?

What is the matter with you that you are divided into two groups concerning the hypocrites when Allah has reverted them [to disbelief] because of their misdeeds? Do you want to guide those whom Allah has caused to stray? Whoever Allah causes to stray, you will never find a way [to guidance] for him.

They wish that you would disbelieve just as they have disbelieved so that you become all alike. Therefore do not take from them allies unless they migrate for the sake of Allah. But if they turn away, seize them and kill them wherever you find them, and do not take from them any allies or helpers,

except those who join a people with whom you have a treaty[66] or those who come to you feeling discomfort to fight you or fight their own people. If Allah had willed, He would have empowered them to fight you. Therefore if they withdraw and refrain from fighting you and offer you peace, then Allah has not given you permission [to fight] against them. ——— [66] Believers should honor their pledges. If a party with which believers have a peace treaty accepts those who come to them seeking refuge, then, by extension, the treaty includes them as well.

You will find others who wish to be secure from you and from their own people. Whenever they are tempted back to disbelief, they fall into it. Therefore if they do not withdraw, or offer you peace, or restrain their hands from you, then seize them and kill them wherever you find them; they are those against whom We have given you a clear authority.

It is not for a believer to kill another believer except by mistake. Whoever kills a believer by mistake[67] must free a believing slave and pay blood money to his family, unless they waive it as an act of charity. But if the victim was a believer and belonged to people at war with you, then a believing slave must be freed. If he belonged to a people with whom you have a treaty, then blood money must be paid to his family and the freeing of a believing slave. Anyone who is unable must fast for two consecutive months[68] by way of repentance to Allah. And Allah is All-Knowing, All-Wise. ——— [67] Inadvertent manslaughter usually results from some degree of negligence or error, thus, this punishment is ordained for not being cautious enough. [68] Uninterrupted fast except when there is a valid reason, e.g., illness, menses for women etc.

But anyone who kills a believer deliberately, his punishment will be Hell, abiding therein forever; Allah will be displeased with him and will curse him, and will prepare for him a great punishment[69]. ——— [69] Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) said: "A faithful believer remains at liberty regarding his religion unless he kills someone unlawfully." [Sahih al-Bukhāri: 2]

O you who believe, when you go to fight in the way of Allah, make sure [who you fight]; and do not say to someone who offers you the greetings of peace, “You are not a believer”[70] – seeking gains of the life of this world, while Allah has abundant gains. You were in the same position before, then Allah blessed you [with Islam]. Therefore make sure, for Allah is All-Aware of what you do. ——— [70] This is someone who withholds from fighting and declares that he is a believer.

Not equal are those believers who stay behind – except those forced by necessity – and those who fight in the way of Allah with their wealth and their lives. Allah has given a higher rank to those who fight with their wealth and their lives than those who stay behind. To each Allah has promised a fine reward[71], but Allah has favored those who fight over those who stay behind with a great reward, ——— [71] i.e., Paradise.

high ranks from Him, and forgiveness and mercy. For Allah is All-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

When the angels take the souls of those who have wronged themselves, they will say, “What was the matter with you?” They will say, “We were oppressed in the land.” They will say, “Was not Allah’s earth spacious enough for you to migrate[72]?” They are those whose refuge will be Hell – what a terrible destination! ——— [72] By remaining among the disbelievers in an environment where a Muslim is unable to practice his religion freely, although they have the means to emigrate.

Except the helpless men, women, and children who have no means nor do they know where to go.

They are those whom Allah may pardon, for Allah is Ever-Pardoning, All-Forgiving.

Whoever emigrates for the sake of Allah will find on earth many places of refuge and abundant provision. Whoever leaves his home emigrating for the cause of Allah and His Messenger, then death overtakes him, his reward has already been secured with Allah. And Allah is All-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

When you are traveling through the land, there is no blame on you to shorten the prayer[73], if you fear that the disbelievers may harm you[74]. Indeed, the disbelievers are your open enemy. ——— [73] Four rak‘ah prayers are shortened to two rak‘ahs. [74] Fear is not a condition for this concession, merely travel.

When you [O Prophet] are with them and lead them in prayer, let a group of them stand [in prayer] with you, carrying their weapons. When they have finished their prostration, let them take their positions in the rear. Then let the other group that has not yet prayed join you in prayer, keeping vigilant and carrying their arms[75]. The disbelievers wish that you would neglect your weapons and belongings, so they could launch on you a surprise attack. But there is no blame on you if you lay down your weapons because of the inconvenience of rain or because you are ill, but take all precautions. Indeed, Allah has prepared for the disbelievers a humiliating punishment. ——— [75] This is the manner of prayer in danger on the battlefield.

When you have finished the prayer, remember Allah, standing, sitting, or lying down. But when you are safe again, establish regular prayer. Indeed, prayer is prescribed for the believers at specific times.

Do not weaken in pursuit of the enemy. If you are suffering harm, they too are suffering harm just like you; but you hope from Allah what they do not hope. And Allah is All-Knowing, All-Wise.

We have sent down the Book to you [O Prophet] in truth, so that you may judge between people, in accordance with what Allah has taught you. So do not be an advocate for the deceitful.

And seek forgiveness of Allah[76], for Allah is All-Forgiving, Most Merciful. ——— [76] Abu Hurayrah (رضي الله عنه) reported: I heard Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) saying: "By Allah! I seek Allah’s forgiveness and turn to Him in repentance more than seventy times a day." [Sahih al-Bukhāri: 319]

Do not argue on behalf of those who betray themselves, for Allah does not like the treacherous and sinful.

They seek to hide from people but they do not seek to hide from Allah, although He is with them when they devise plans to say things that are displeasing to Him[77]. Indeed, Allah encompasses all what they do. ——— [77] Such as vindicating the culprit and incriminating the innocent.

Here you are, you are those who argue on their behalf in the life of this world[78], but who will argue on their behalf before Allah on the Day of Resurrection, or who will be their defender? ——— [78] You, believers, argue on their behalf in this life.

Whoever commits evil or wrongs himself, then seeks Allah’s forgiveness will find Allah All-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

And whoever commits a sin, only commits it against himself. And Allah is All-Knowing, All-Wise.

But whoever commits an offense or a sin, then blames it on an innocent person, will surely bear the guilt of slander and flagrant sin[79]. ——— [79] Khatī’ah is an inadvertent misdeed, while ’ithm is a deliberate one.

Were it not for Allah’s grace and mercy upon you [O Prophet], a group of them would have tried to mislead you, but they only mislead themselves, nor can they harm you in the least. For Allah has sent down to you the Book and Wisdom[80] and has taught you what you did not know. And the grace of Allah upon you is always great. ——— [80] The Sunnah and knowledge of the rulings of Islam.

There is no good in much of their private talks, except for one who enjoins charity[81], kindness[82], or reconciliation between people. Anyone who does that, seeking Allah’s pleasure, We will give him a great reward. ——— [81] By extending to people useful things such as money, knowledge, kindness. [82] All that is good and encouraged by Allah.

But whoever opposes the Messenger after guidance has become clear to him, and follows other than the way of the believers, We will leave him to what he has chosen[83], and burn him in Hell[84]. What a terrible destination! ——— [83] i.e., make him responsible for his choice. [84] See 3:85.

Allah does not forgive associating partners with Him, but forgives other than that to whom He wills; whoever associates partners with Allah has certainly gone far astray.

They call upon none besides Him except female [idols][85]; they call upon none but a rebellious Satan[86] ——— [85] Arabs worshiped in the age of ignorance idols with female names, like: Lāt, ‘Uzzā, Manāt. See 53:19-20. [86] They only worship false idols because Satan seduced them into this.

whom Allah cursed, who said, “I will surely take hold of a designated portion of Your slaves.

And I will surely mislead them and arouse in them false hopes, and will order them to slit the ears of livestock, and will order them to change Allah’s creation[87].” Whoever takes Satan as a protector instead of Allah has surely suffered a manifest loss. ——— [87] The Arab idolaters used to cut off the ears of cattle as a sign that such were dedicated to their gods, making them unlawful to eat; calling such cattle bahīrah. By doing so, they followed the path of Satan, not that of Allah Who made the eating of cattle lawful.

[Satan] makes promises to them and arouses in them false hopes, but Satan makes no promises to them except delusion[88]. ——— [88] “Satan will say [to his followers on the Day or Judgment] after the matter has been settled: “Allah gave you a true promise; I also gave you promise, but I betrayed you...” See 14:22.

It is they whose abode will be Hell, and they will find no escape from it.

But those who believe and do righteous deeds, We will admit them into gardens under which rivers flow, abiding therein forever. Allah’s promise is true. Who is more truthful than Allah in speech?

It is not your wishful thinking or the wishful thinking of the People of the Book that matters[89]; whoever does evil will be recompensed for it, and he will not find besides Allah any protector or helper. ——— [89] “They said: “None will enter Paradise except a Jew or a Christian.” That is their wishful thinking. Say, “Produce your proof, if you are truthful.” See 2:111.

Whoever does righteous deeds, whether male or female, and is a believer, it is they who will enter Paradise, and they will not be wronged even as much as the speck on a date stone.

Who is better in religion than one who submits himself entirely to Allah, does good, and follows the religion of Abraham, exclusively devoted to Allah? For Allah did take Abraham as a close friend.

To Allah belongs all that is in the heavens and all that is on earth. Indeed, Allah encompasses all things.

They ask you [O Prophet] concerning women. Say, “It is Allah Who gives you a ruling concerning them. It has been recited to you in the Book concerning orphan girls whom you deprive of their prescribed rights [i.e., dowry and inheritance], yet you desire to marry them, and concerning helpless children, and that you should treat orphans with justice. Whatever good you do, Allah is All-Knowing of it.”

If a woman fears ill-treatment or indifference on her husband’s part, there is no blame on them to reach an amicable reconciliation between themselves, for reconciliation is best[90], even though human souls are prone to avarice. If you do good and fear Allah, Allah is All-Aware of what you do. ——— [90] This is better than breaking up.

You will never be able to maintain absolute justice between your wives, no matter how keen you are. So do not completely incline to one leaving the other in suspense[91]. If you do what is right and fear Allah, Allah is surely All-Forgiving, Most Merciful. ——— [91] Neither divorced nor enjoying the marital rights.

But if they choose to separate, Allah will compensate both out of His abundance[92], for Allah is All-Bountiful, All-Wise. ——— [92] i.e., abundant provision from Allah or another spouse.

To Allah belongs all that is in the heavens and all that is on earth. We have ordered those who were given the Scripture before you, as well as yourselves, to fear Allah. But if you disbelieve, [know that] all that is in the heavens and earth belongs to Allah, and Allah is Self-Sufficient, Praiseworthy.

To Allah belongs all that is in the heavens and all that is on earth, and Allah is sufficient as a Trustee of Affairs.

If He wills, He can eliminate you altogether, O humans, and replace you with others, for Allah is Most Capable to do that.

Whoever seeks the reward of this world, then with Allah is the reward of this world and of the Hereafter, and Allah is All-Hearing, All-Seeing.

O you who believe, stand up for justice as witnesses for Allah[93], even against yourselves or parents and relatives. Whether one is rich or poor, Allah takes the best care of both. So do not let your desires to cause you swerve from justice. If you distort your testimony or refuse to give it, then Allah is indeed All-Aware of what you do. ——— [93] Giving testimony should only be meant to please Allah.

O you who believe, believe[94] in Allah, His Messenger, the Book which He has sent down to His Messenger, and the Books which He sent down before. Whoever disbelieves in Allah, His angels, His Books, His messengers, and the Last Day has indeed gone far astray. ——— [94] i.e., renew, confirm and adhere to your faith.

Those who believe then disbelieve, then believe and then again disbelieve, then increase in disbelief – Allah will never forgive them, nor will He guide them to a [straight] way[95]. ——— [95] They willingly chose the way of loss, so Allah left them with it. See 4:115 above.

Give tidings to the hypocrites, that for them there will be a painful punishment,

those who take disbelievers as allies instead of the believers. Are they seeking power through them? Indeed, all power belongs to Allah.

He has already sent down to you in the Book that when you hear Allah’s verses being rejected or ridiculed, do not sit with them until they engage in another discourse, or else you will be like them. Indeed, Allah will gather all the hypocrites and disbelievers together in Hell.

[These hypocrites are] those who are waiting and watching[96] to see what happens to you. If Allah grants you victory, they say, “Were we not with you?” But if the disbelievers have some partial [victory], they say, “Did we not take care of you and protect you from the believers?” But Allah will judge between you on the Day of Resurrection[97], and Allah will never give the disbelievers a way to [overcome] the believers. ——— [96] They are spying and employing all means of devious wiles and ploys to demoralize the believers. [97] In the Hereafter, but possibly in this world as well.

The hypocrites seek to deceive Allah, but it is He Who deceives them. Whenever they stand up for prayer, they stand up reluctantly, only to be seen by people[98], and they do not remember Allah but a little, ——— [98] This is because what is in their minds is not to please Allah, but rather to please other mortals.

wavering in between, neither belonging to these [believers], nor to those [disbelievers][99]. Whomsoever Allah causes to stray, you will never find a way [to guidance] for him. ——— [99] The hypocrites live in a state of perpetual doubt and constant perplexity, so they are always experiencing a state of dilemma.

O you who believe, do not take the disbelievers as allies instead of the believers. Do you want to give Allah a clear proof against yourselves?

Indeed, the hypocrites will be in the lowest depths of the Fire[100], and you will never find for them any helper, ——— [100] The Prophet (ﷺ) described four characteristics of a hypocrite: 1. Whenever he is entrusted, he betrays. 2. Whenever he speaks, he tells a lie. 3. Whenever he makes a covenant, he proves treacherous. 4. Whenever he quarrels, he behaves in an insulting manner." [Sahih al-Bukhāri: 33]. The Prophet (ﷺ) said: "The worst people before Allah on the Day of Judgment will be the double-faced people who appear to some people with one face and to other people with another face." [Sahih al-Bukhāri: 84]

except those who repent and mend their ways, and hold fast to Allah and devote their religion sincerely to Allah; it is they who will be with the believers, and Allah will give the believers a great reward.

Why would Allah punish you, if you are grateful and faithful? Allah is ever Appreciative, All-Knowing.

Allah does not like offensive words[101] to be said in public except by one who has been wronged. Allah is All-Hearing, All-Knowing. ——— [101] i.e., swearing, foul mouthing, being profane, hurling accusations, slandering, backbiting, etc.

If you do something good openly or in secret, or pardon an offense[102], then Allah is indeed Ever-Pardoning, Most Capable. ——— [102] This is mainly addressed to the one who is wronged.

Those who disbelieve in Allah and His messengers, and wish to make a distinction between Allah and His messengers, and they say, “We believe in some and disbelieve in others,” wishing to adopt a way in between.

It is they who are the true disbelievers, and We have prepared for the disbelievers a humiliating punishment.

But those who believe in Allah and His messengers, and make no distinction between any of them, they will be given their rewards. For Allah is All-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

The People of the Book ask you to bring down upon them a Book from heaven[103]. They had asked Moses even greater than that when they said, “Show us Allah openly.” But they were struck with a thunderbolt for their transgression. Then they took the calf for worship after receiving clear signs, yet We pardoned them, and We gave Moses compelling proof. ——— [103] This demand and all of the other Israelite infringements mentioned here are detailed in Surat al-Baqarah. See 2:50-66.

And We raised above them the Mount [to remind them] of their covenant, and We said to them, “Enter the gate [of Jerusalem] lowering your heads[104]”, and said to them: “Do not break the Sabbath”, and We took from them a solemn covenant. ——— [104] The Prophet (ﷺ) said: "It was said to Bani Israel, ‘Enter the gate (of the town) bowing with humility and say: ‘Repentance’, but they changed the word and entered crawling on their buttocks and said: ‘A wheat grain in the hair’." [Sahih al-Bukhāri: 615]. They said so just to ridicule Allah’s order, as they were disobedient to Him. So Allah punished them severely, most probably with a plague.

[They were cursed] for breaking their covenant, rejecting the signs of Allah, killing the prophets unjustly, and for their saying, “Our hearts are wrapped up”. Rather, it is Allah Who has sealed them for their disbelief; so none of them will believe except a few –

and for their disbelief and for their monstrous allegation[105] against Mary, ——— [105] i.e., fornication.

and for their saying, “We killed the Messiah, Jesus, son of Mary, the messenger of Allah.” But they did not kill him nor did they crucify him, but it was made to appear to them so. Even those who dispute it are in doubt about it; they have no certain knowledge other than conjecture. But they certainly did not kill him.

Rather, Allah raised him up to Himself[106], and Allah is All-Mighty, All-Wise. ——— [106] To Heaven.

There will be none from the People of the Book but will believe in him [upon his return] before his death[107], and on the Day of Resurrection, he will be a witness against them. ——— [107] The prevalent interpretation is that the People of the Book, even the Jews, will believe in Jesus; his neither being ‘an impostor’ nor ‘the son of God’, when he descends from heaven at the end of time.

For the wrongdoing of the Jews, We prohibited for them good things[108] that were lawful for them; and for their frequent hindering many from the way of Allah, ——— [108] For more details see 6:146.

and for their taking usury, although it was forbidden to them, and for unjustly consuming people’s wealth. We have prepared for the disbelievers among them a painful punishment.

But those well-grounded in knowledge among them and the believers believe in what has been sent down to you [O Prophet], and what was sent down before you; who establish prayer and give zakah, and believe in Allah and the Last Day – it is they who We will give a great reward.

We have sent revelation to you [O Prophet] just as We revealed to Noah and the prophets after him. We also sent revelation to Abraham, Ishmael, Isaac, Jacob and his descendants, and to Jesus, Job, Jonah, Aaron, and Solomon, and We gave David the Psalms.

There are messengers whose stories We have already mentioned to you and messengers We have not mentioned to you. And Allah spoke to Moses directly[109]. ——— [109] Use of the absolute object (maf‘ūl mutlaq) means that Allah addressed Moses directly in a manner befitting His Majesty, without a medium, in words that he heard and understood.

These messengers were sent as bearers of glad tidings and as warners, so that the people may have no excuse before Allah after [the coming of] the messengers. For Allah is All-Mighty, All-Wise.

But Allah bears witness to what He has sent down to you, as He has sent it down with His knowledge, and the angels bear witness, but sufficient is Allah as a Witness.

Those who disbelieve and prevent others from the way of Allah have gone far astray.

Those who disbelieve and do wrong, Allah will not forgive them nor will He guide them to a way

except the way of Hell, abiding therein forever. And that is easy for Allah.

O people, the Messenger has come to you with the truth from your Lord, so believe; it is better for you. But if you disbelieve, [know that] all that is in the heavens and earth belongs to Allah, and Allah is All-Knowing, All-Wise.

O People of the Book, do not go to extremes in your religion, and do not say about Allah but the truth. The Messiah, Jesus, son of Mary, was only a messenger of Allah, and His Word that He bestowed upon Mary, and a spirit[110] from Him. So believe in Allah and His messengers and do not say “Three” [i.e., Trinity]. Cease; that is better for you. Indeed, Allah is the only One God. Glory be to Him, [far exalted is He] to have a son. To Him belongs all that is in the heavens and all that is on earth, and sufficient is Allah as a Disposer of Affairs. ——— [110] That is, Jesus’s spirit was created by Allah. [Ibn Kathīr, al-Sa‘dī]. Al-Baghawī says: “He (Jesus) is a soul just like any other soul but Allah added him to Himself to honor him”. Al-Shawkānī is also of this opinion. Al-Alūsī says: “Because Jesus was created by a blow (of air), not by a drop (of sperm), he was called a ‘soul’.” The Qur’an makes it clear that Jesus is just like all other human beings, whose spirit was created by Allah.

The Messiah would never disdain to be a slave of Allah, nor would the nearest angels to Him. Those who disdain to worship Him and are arrogant, He will gather them all together before Him.

As for those who believe and do righteous deeds, He will give them their rewards in full and will increase them out of His bounty. But those who disdain and act arrogantly, He will subject them to a painful punishment, and they will not find for themselves any protector or helper besides Allah.

O people, there has come to you conclusive evidence[111] from your Lord, and We have sent down to you a clear light[112]. ——— [111] i.e., Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). [112] i.e., the Qur’an which guides people to the straight path as if they walk in its light.

As for those who believe in Allah and hold fast to Him, He will admit them into His mercy and grace[113], and guide them to Himself through a straight path. ——— [113] i.e., Paradise.

They ask you for a ruling. Say, “Allah gives you a ruling concerning the one leaving neither descendant nor ascendant as heir. If he dies leaving no child but a sister, she will get one-half of the inheritance. Likewise, he will inherit her if she dies leaving behind no descendant. If they are two sisters, they will share two-thirds of the inheritance. Should there be both male and female siblings, then the share of a male is equal to that of two females.”[114] Allah explains it clearly so that you do not fall into error. And Allah is All-Knowing of everything. ——— [114] This verse can be a prelude to the next surah which carries on explaining the laws and rules for the believing community in a greater detail.

O you who believe, fulfill your covenants[1]. Lawful to you are all grazing livestock, except what is recited to you [in the Qur’an], as well as hunting is prohibited while you are in the state of pilgrimage[2]. Allah ordains what He wills. ——— [1] i.e., pledges with Allah or human beings. [2] i.e., in the state of hajj or ‘umrah.

O you who believe, do not violate the sanctity of the rituals of Allah, nor of the sacred month[3], nor the sacrificial animals, nor the garlands[4], nor those [pilgrims] proceeding to the Sacred House seeking their Lord’s grace and pleasure. When your pilgrimage has ended, you may hunt. However, do not let the hatred of a people who barred you from the Sacred Mosque lead you to transgress. Cooperate with one another in goodness and righteousness, and do not cooperate in sin and transgression. And fear Allah, for Allah is severe in punishment. ——— [3] The four sacrosanct months are Dhul-Qi‘dah, Dhul-Hijjah, Muḥarram, and Rajab. [Al-Bukhārī: 4662, Muslim: 1679]. [4] Al-Qalā’id is hady (gifted offerings): garlands were put around the necks of unaccompanied offerings; hence, they were safe to roam and graze freely. [cf. Ibn Qutaybah, Gharīb al-Qur’ān; Ibn Fāris, Maqāyīs al-Lughah].

Forbidden[5] to you are carrion, blood[6], the flesh of swine, and that which is sacrificed to other than Allah; and that which is killed by strangling, or by a violent blow, or by a headlong fall, or by being gored; and that which is partly eaten by a predator unless you slaughter it [before it dies]; and that which is sacrificed to idols. Also it is forbidden to use arrows [of chance][7] to determine your decisions. This is all evil practice. Today the disbelievers have lost all hope in [eliminating] your religion, so do not fear them but fear Me. Today I have perfected your religion for you, completed My favor upon you, and have chosen Islam as your religion. But if anyone is compelled by severe hunger, not intending to sin, then Allah is All-Forgiving, Most Merciful. ——— [5] See 2:173, 5:90. [6] What is unlawful is running blood, not the blood captured in vessels after slaughter. [7] Al-istiqsām bi al-azlām (lit. divining by casting lots): This was an Arab practice before Islam, whereby they had three lots (flat marked pieces of wood) dedicated to divinations. On each there was written either: “My Lord commanded me”, “My Lord forbade me”, or nothing at all. A person would abide by what the lot told him, but if he drew the empty one, he would recast again until he drew either one of the other two. [cf. al-Tabarī, Ibn Kathīr, al-Sa‘dī]

They ask you [O Prophet] what is lawful to them. Say, “All good things[8] are lawful for you, and that which is caught by your trained hunting animals and birds of prey[9], training them as Allah has taught you. Eat what they catch for you, but mention the name of Allah upon it.” And fear Allah, for Allah is swift in reckoning. ——— [8] All useful and enjoyable food that causes no harm to the body or the intellect. [9] Such as dogs, falcons, etc.

Today all good things have been made lawful to you. As the food of the people of the Book is lawful to you, and your food is lawful to them. And [it is lawful to marry] chaste believing women and chaste women from among those who were given the Book before you, provided that you give them their dowries[10] in honest wedlock, neither openly fornicating nor taking them as secret lovers. Whoever rejects the faith, all his efforts will be worthless and in the Hereafter he will be among the losers. ——— [10] i.e., the bridal gift (mahr).

O you who believe, when you rise up for prayer, wash your faces, and your hands up to the elbows; wipe over your heads; and wash your feet up to the ankles. If you are in a state of major impurity, cleanse yourselves [by taking a bath]. But if you are ill, on a journey, or have relieved yourselves, or had sexual contact[11] with women and find no water, then purify yourselves with clean earth[12], and wipe your faces and hands therewith. Allah does not want to impose hardship on you, rather He wants to purify you and complete His favor upon you, so that you may be grateful. ——— [11] i.e., had sexual intercourse or seminal discharge. [12] This is the act of dry ablution or tayammum.

Remember Allah’s favor upon you, and His covenant that He made with you when you said, “We hear and obey.” And fear Allah, for Allah is All-Knowing of what is in the hearts.

O you who believe, stand firm for Allah by bearing true testimony, and do not let the hatred of a people lead you away from justice. Be just; that is closer to righteousness. And fear Allah, for Allah is All-Aware of what you do.

Allah has promised those who believe and do righteous deeds that they will have forgiveness and a great reward.

But those who disbelieve and reject Our verses, they are the people of the Blazing Fire.

O you who believe, remember Allah’s favor upon you when some people planned to stretch their hands against you, but He held their hands back from you. And fear Allah, and in Allah let the believers put their trust.

Allah took a covenant from the Children of Israel and appointed twelve chiefs from among them. Allah said, “I am with you. If you establish prayer, give zakah, believe in My messengers and support them, and give Allah a goodly loan[13], I will surely forgive your sins and admit you into gardens under which rivers flow. But whoever of you disbelieves after this has truly strayed from the straight path.” ——— [13] By spending in Allah’s cause, seeking His reward.

As a result of their breaking of the covenant, We cursed them and made their hearts grow hard. They distort words [of the Scripture] from their context[14], and forgot parts of what was enjoined upon them. You will not cease to discover betrayal on their part except for a few. So pardon them and overlook, for Allah loves those who do good. ——— [14] Concerning the coming of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) in the Torah.

And from among those who say, “We are Christians,” We took a covenant from them, but they forgot a part of what was enjoined upon them[15]. So We induced hostility and hatred among them[16] until the Day of Resurrection, and Allah will inform them of what they used to do. ——— [15] Concerning the coming of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) in the Injeel (Gospel). [16] Among their various denominations or sects.

O People of the Book, there has come to you Our Messenger, revealing to you much of what you have been concealing of the Scripture, and overlooking much[17]. There has surely come to you from Allah a light and a clear Book, ——— [17] Of your sin in this regard.

through which Allah guides those who seek His pleasure to the ways of peace[18], and brings them out of the depths of darkness to the light by His Will, and guides them to a straight path. ——— [18] i.e., security and well-being in this life; safety from Hellfire and admission into Paradise, the Home of peace (Dār al-Salām) See 10:25.

Those who say, “Allah is the Messiah, son of Mary,” have certainly disbelieved[19]. Say, “Who has the power to prevent Allah, if He chose to destroy the Messiah, son of Mary, his mother, and all those who are on earth?” To Allah belongs the dominion of the heavens and earth and everything between them. He creates what He wills, and Allah is Most Capable of all things. ——— [19] See footnote 4:171.

The Jews and Christians say, “We are Allah’s children and His beloved ones.” Say, “Why then does He punish you for your sins? Rather, you are humans just like anyone else He created. He forgives whom He wills and punishes whom He wills.” To Allah belongs the dominion of the heavens and earth and all that is between them, and to Him is the final return.”

O People of the Book, there has come to you Our Messenger[20], making things clear to you, after an interval between the messengers, so you do not say, “No bearer of glad tidings or a warner has ever come to us.” Now there has come to you a bearer of glad tidings and a warner. And Allah is Most Capable of all things. ——— [20] The only Prophet sent after Jesus (عليه السلام) was Muhammad (ﷺ).

And [remember] when Moses said to his people, “O my people, remember the favor of Allah upon you when He appointed prophets from among you, made you sovereigns[21], and gave you[22] what He had not given any other people in the world. ——— [21] Mulūk (lit. kings) could mean: 1. masters served on by others; 2. some were made sovereigns who ruled over people; 3. granted their freedom after being slaves. [22] Of all that you need - specifically, homes, wives and servants, etc.

O my people, enter the Holy Land[23] which Allah has ordained for you and do not turn back or else you will return as losers.” ——— [23] Jerusalem.

They said, “O Moses, there is an extremely mighty people in this land; we will never enter it until they leave it. Then if they leave, only then we will enter.”

Two men who feared Allah, and who had been favored by Allah said, “Enter upon them through the gate! Once you enter it, you will surely be victorious. And put your trust in Allah, if you are believers.”

They said, “O Moses, we will never enter it as long as they are there. Go, you and your Lord, and fight; we are staying right here!”

He said, “O my Lord, I have no control over anyone except myself and my brother, so separate us from these rebellious people.”

[Allah] said, “Then this land will be forbidden to them for forty years, while they will be straying through the land. Therefore, do not grieve[24] over the rebellious people.” ——— [24] Allah repeatedly reminds Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) of not falling prey to sadness on account of the disbelievers’ ardent denial.

Relate to them the story of the two sons of Adam in truth, when both offered a sacrifice; it was accepted from one [i.e., Abel] but not accepted from the other [i.e., Cain][25]. The latter said, “I will kill you.” The former said, “Allah only accepts from those who fear Him. ——— [25] The Prophet (ﷺ) said: “No soul ever gets killed unjustifiably, unless the early son of Adam (Cain) gets some of the burden of its blood, for he was the first human to spill blood”. [Al-Bukhārī: 3335, Muslim: 1677]

Even if you stretch your hand forward to kill me, I will not stretch my hand forward to kill you, for I fear Allah, the Lord of the worlds.

I would rather let you bear your sin against me[26] and your own sin, and thus you will be one of the people of the Fire; such is the recompense of the wrongdoers.” ——— [26] The sin of killing me.

But the former justified to himself the killing of his brother and killed him, and thus became one of the losers.

Then Allah sent a crow scratching the ground[27] to show him how to bury the corpse of his brother. He said, “Woe to me! Have I failed even to be like this crow to bury the corpse of my brother?” And he became one of the remorseful. ——— [27] It is said that this raven was burying another of its kind.

For this reason, We ordained for the Children of Israel that whoever kills a person – unless in retribution for murder or corruption in the land – it is as if he killed all mankind[28]; and whoever saves a life, it is as if he saved the life of all mankind. Our messengers came to them with clear signs, yet many of them continued to exceed the limits[29] afterward in the land. ——— [28] The Prophet (ﷺ) said: "The biggest of sins are: (1) To associate partners with Allah, (2) to murder a human being, (3) to be undutiful to one’s parents (4) and to give a false testimony" [Sahih al-Bukhāri: 10] [29] By unreservedly committing grave vile deeds.

The penalty[30] for those who wage war against Allah and His Messenger, and spread corruption in the land[31], is that they should be executed, or crucified, or their hands and feet amputated on opposite sides, or banished from the land[32]. This is a disgrace for them in this world, and for them in the Hereafter, there will be a great punishment. ——— [30] Legal retribution. [31] i.e., commit acts of violence and terrorism against individuals or treason and aggression against the Islamic state. [32] This verse details the penal code for such acts as highway robbery and banditry, known as hadd al-hirābah (the penal code of waging war).

Except those who repent before you seize them; in that case, then know that Allah is All-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

O you who believe, fear Allah and seek the means of nearness to Him[33], and struggle in His way, so that you may succeed. ——— [33] By doing what pleases Allah Almighty.

As for those who disbelieved, even if they were to possess everything on earth and the like of it to ransom themselves[34] from the punishment of the Day of Resurrection, it would not be accepted from them, and for them there will be a painful punishment. ——— [34] See 3:91; 13:18; 39:47.

They will wish to get out of the Fire, but they will never get out of it, and for them there will be an everlasting punishment.

As for the thief, male or female, amputate their hands as a deterrent punishment[35] from Allah for what they have done. Allah is All-Mighty, All-Wise. ——— [35] Nakāl (deterrence) is penalization set as an example for others; it is called nakāl because it deters both the perpetrator and others from committing it.

But whoever repents after having committed wrong and mends his way, Allah will accept his repentance, for Allah is All-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

Do you not know that the dominion of the heavens and earth belongs to Allah? He punishes whom He wills and forgives whom He wills, and Allah is Most Capable of all things.

O Messenger, do not grieve for those who rush to disbelief – those who say with their mouths, “We believe”, but their hearts have no faith, nor those Jews who eagerly listen to falsehood and to those who have not yet come to you[36]. They distort the words [of Allah] out of their context saying, “If you are given this [ruling] accept it[37], but if you are not given, then beware[38].” Whoever Allah wills to be misguided[39], there is nothing you can do to avail him against Allah. They are those whose hearts Allah did not will to purify. For them there is disgrace in this world, and in the Hereafter they will suffer a great punishment. ——— [36] They had not attended the Prophet's gatherings or heard his words. [37] The legal ruling desired by them. [38] They heed the words of warning of other conniving men who were so averse that they did not go to the Prophet (ﷺ) to hear what he had to say. [39] The meaning here is misbelief, misconception, or self-delusion as a result of one's own refusal of truth.

They eagerly listen to lies and consume unlawful gains. If they come to you [O Prophet], either judge between them or turn away from them. If you turn away from them, they cannot harm you in the least. But if you judge, then judge between them with justice, for Allah loves those who are just.

But how is it that they seek your judgment when they have the Torah which contains Allah’s judgment, and they still turn away? Such people are not believers.

We sent down the Torah which contains guidance and light; the prophets who submitted themselves to Allah were judging by it for the Jews, and so did the rabbis[40] and scholars because they were entrusted to protect the Scripture of Allah, and they were witnesses to it. So do not fear people but fear Me, and do not trade My verses for a small price[41]. Whoever does not judge according to what Allah has revealed, it is they who are the disbelievers. ——— [40] Al-Rabbāniyyūn (sing. rabbānī) are men of extensive knowledge, both religious and worldly. This includes the wise scholar, the mindful jurisprudent, the reforming teacher, and the person who enjoins others to uphold the teachings of religion. [41] The guardians of Divine law should bear the fear of Allah first and foremost and not that of fellow men, nor are they to be swayed by bribes and worldly gains.

We ordained for them therein, “A life for a life, an eye for an eye, a nose for a nose, an ear for an ear, a tooth for a tooth, and for wounds equal retaliation[42].” But if anyone waives it charitably, then it will be an expiation for him[43]. Whoever does not judge according to what Allah has revealed, it is they who are the wrongdoers. ——— [42] This verse alludes to the law known as "lex talionis" (law of retaliation/reciprocal justice) which states that justice should be carried out: ‘ayin tachat ‘ayin, “an eye for an eye”, as told in the Torah (Exodus 21: 24) but which was distorted from its proper, fully-known position. The Qur’an re-establishes this principle. [43] Forgiveness is not only encouraged by Allah but is also rewarded for.

And in their footsteps[44] We sent Jesus, son of Mary, confirming the Torah that came before him, and We gave him the Gospel that contained guidance and light, confirming what came before it in the Torah; and guidance and admonition for the righteous. ——— [44] i.e., following the tradition of the prophets of the Children of Israel.

Let the people of the Gospel judge according to what Allah has revealed therein. Whoever does not judge according to what Allah has revealed, it is they who are the rebellious.

We have revealed to you [O Prophet] the Book in truth, confirming the scriptures that came before it and as a criterion[45] over them. So judge between them according to what Allah has revealed, and do not follow their desires in disregard of the truth that has come to you. To each of you We have ordained a law and a way of life[46]. If Allah had willed, He would have made you a single community, but He tests you in what He has given you. So compete with one another in doing good deeds. To Allah you will all return, then He will inform you concerning things over which you used to differ. ——— [45] Muhaymin: that which testifies the truth therein and falsifies the falsehood added to them. [46] A fact borne out by millennia that non-Muslim societies (known as dhimmiyyūn) lived and prospered in peace amidst Muslim communities and states. However, the law (shir‘ah) and way of life (minhāj) are different, yet the divinely ordained religion is, in essence, the same. The Prophet (ﷺ) said: “Prophets are half brothers; their mothers are different but their religion is the same.” [Al-Bukhārī: 3443, Muslim: 2365]

And judge between them [O Prophet] according to what Allah has revealed, and do not follow their desires. And beware of them, lest they entice you away from some of what Allah has sent down to you. If they turn away, then know that it is Allah’s will to punish them for some of their sins, and many people are indeed rebellious.

Do they seek the judgment of the times of ignorance[47]? Who could be better than Allah in judgment for people who are certain in faith? ——— [47] The Prophet (ﷺ) said: "The most hated persons to Allah are three: [among them is] a person who wants that the traditions of the pre-Islamic period of ignorance should remain in Islam." [Sahih al-Bukhāri: 21]

O you who believe, do not take the Jews and Christians as allies; they are allies of one another. Whoever among you takes them as allies[48] is indeed one of them. Allah does not guide the wrongdoing people. ——— [48] i.e., Whoever takes them as allies, aids them against the believers, or opts for their religion over Islam.

You see those[49] with sickness in their hearts rushing to them, saying, “We fear a misfortune may strike us.” Perhaps Allah will bring about victory or some other decision from Himself, then they will regret what they kept hidden in their hearts. ——— [49] i.e., the hypocrites.

And those who believe say, “Are these the people who swore their solemn oaths by Allah that they were with you[50]?” Their deeds have become worthless, and they have become losers. ——— [50] The hypocrites after their exposure.

O you who believe, Whoever among you renounces his faith, Allah will bring a people whom He loves and who love Him. They will be humble towards the believers but strict towards the disbelievers, striving in the way of Allah and fearing no reproach from any critic. This is Allah’s favor which He gives to whom He wills. And Allah is All-Bountiful, All-Knowing.

Your only allies are Allah, His Messenger, and those believers who establish prayer and give zakah with humble submission.

Whoever takes Allah, His Messenger, and the believers as their allies, then it is the party of Allah that will certainly prevail.

O you who believe, do not take as allies those who were given the Scripture before you and the disbelievers who ridicule your religion and make fun of it. And fear Allah, if you are believers.

When you give the call to prayer[51], they ridicule it and make fun of it; that is because they are people who have no understanding. ——— [51] Al-Salāh (prayer) is singled out here for it is the most apparent distinctive feature of the Muslim community.

Say, “O People of the Book, do you resent us only because we believe in Allah and what has been sent down to us and what was sent down before, and that most of you are rebellious?”

Say, “Shall I inform you of those who deserve a worse punishment from Allah? Those who have been cursed by Allah and incurred His wrath, and He turned them into monkeys and pigs, and devil[52] worshipers. Such are far worse in position and farther astray from the straight path.” ——— [52] Tāghūt: See footnote 2:256.

When they come to you [believers] they say, “We believe”, but in fact they are committed to disbelief both prior to their coming and after their leaving, and Allah knows best what they conceal.

You see many of them rushing into sin and transgression, and consuming unlawful earnings. Terrible indeed is what they do!

Why is it that their rabbis and scholars do not forbid them from saying words of sin and consuming unlawful earnings? Terrible indeed is what they commit!

The Jews say, “Allah’s Hand is restrained.” Their hands have been restrained[53] and they have been cursed for what they say. Rather, His both Hands are wide open, spending as He pleases[54]. What has been sent down to you from your Lord will surely increase many of them in transgression and disbelief. We have cast among them animosity and hatred until the Day of Resurrection. Every time they kindle the fire of war, Allah extinguishes it. They strive to spread corruption in the land, and Allah does not like those who spread corruption. ——— [53] Implying inability to give or stinginess. [54] The Prophet (ﷺ) said: “Indeed, the Right Hand of Allah is full, and spending cannot diminish it. It incessantly spends day and night. Suppose how much He must have spent since He created the heavens and earth, yet that did not decrease anything of what is in His Right Hand” [Al-Bukhārī: 7419, Muslim: 993]

Had the People of the Book believed and feared Allah, We would have surely expiated their sins from them and admitted them to Gardens of Pleasure.

If they had upheld the Torah and the Gospel, and what has been sent down to them from their Lord, they would have been given abundant provisions from above them and from below their feet. Among them are some who are on the right way, but most of them do evil deeds.

O Messenger, convey what has been sent down to you from your Lord[55]. If you do not do that, then you have not conveyed His message. Allah will protect you from the people. Allah does not guide the disbelieving people. ——— [55] ‘Ā’ishah (رضي الله عنها) said: “Whoever tells you that Muhammad (ﷺ) concealed any part of what was revealed to him (i.e., the Qur’an), then he has surely lied; when Allah says: “O Messenger, convey what has been sent down to you from your Lord…” [Al-Bukhārī: 4612]

Say, “O People of the Book, you have nothing to stand on unless you observe the Torah and the Gospel and what has been sent down to you from your Lord.” Your Lord’s revelation to you [O Prophet] will only increase them in transgression and disbelief. So do not grieve over the disbelieving people.

The believers, and those who are Jews, and the Sabians and Christians [before Prophet Muhammad] – those of them who believed in Allah and the Last Day and did righteous deeds, they will have no fear, nor will they grieve.

We took the covenant from the Children of Israel and sent them messengers. Every time there came to them a messenger with something that did not suit their desires, they denied some of them and murdered others.

They thought that there would be no consequences, so they became blind and deaf [to the truth]. Then Allah forgave them, but again many of them became blind and deaf. And Allah is All-Seeing of what they do.

They have certainly disbelieved, those who say, “Allah is the Messiah, son of Mary.” But the Messiah said, “O Children of Israel, worship Allah, my Lord and your Lord[56].” Whoever associates any partners with Allah, Allah has forbidden Paradise for him, and his abode will be the Fire. And the wrongdoers will have no helpers. ——— [56] This and the next verse addressed the Lordship and Divinity of Jesus. See 2:165.

They have certainly disbelieved, those who say, “Allah is one of Three[57].” None has the right to be worshiped except One God. If they do not desist from saying this, those who disbelieve from among them will be afflicted with a painful punishment. ——— [57] i.e., a part of the three, referring to the Christian concept of the Trinity.

Why do they not turn to Allah in repentance and seek His forgiveness? For Allah is All-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

The Messiah, son of Mary, was no more than a messenger. There were messengers who passed away before him, and His mother was a woman of truth; they both ate food[58]. See how We make Our signs clear to them, yet see how they are deluded! ——— [58] They both were in need of sustenance, proving that they were not divine beings, unlike Allah Almighty Who is in no need of anything while everything is in need of Him.

Say, “Do you worship besides Allah that which can neither harm nor benefit you?! And Allah is the All-Hearing, the All-Knowing.”

Say, “O People of the Book, do not exceed the limits of the truth in your religion, nor follow the desires of people[59] who went astray before, and misled many and themselves strayed from the straight path.” ——— [59] Their misguided and misguiding religious leaders.

Those who disbelieved from the Children of Israel were cursed on the tongue of David and Jesus son of Mary. That was because of their disobedience and their persistence in transgression.

They did not forbid one another from committing evil deeds. Terrible was indeed what they used to do!

You see many of them taking those who disbelieve as allies. Terrible was indeed what they have done for themselves, for they have incurred Allah’s wrath and they will abide in the punishment forever.

If they had believed in Allah and the Prophet, and what has been sent down to him[60], they would not have taken them as allies, but most of them are evildoers. ——— [60] Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his message.

You will surely find that the most hostile people towards the believers are the Jews and those who associate partners with Allah, and you will surely find that the closest of them in affection to the believers are those who say, “We are Christians.” That is because among them are priests and monks[61], and they are not arrogant. ——— [61] "Priests" are devoted to learning, while "monks" renounced the world and lead ascetical lives.

When they hear what has been sent down to the Messenger, you see their eyes overflowing with tears because of recognizing the truth. They say, “Our Lord, we believe, so record us among those who testify [to the truth].

Why should we not believe in Allah and the truth that has come to us? And we hope that our Lord will include us in the company of the righteous people.”

So Allah rewarded them for what they said with gardens under which rivers flow, abiding therein forever. Such is the reward of those who do good.

But those who disbelieve and reject Our signs, they are the people of the Blazing Fire.

O you who believe, do not prohibit the good things that Allah has made lawful for you[62], and do not exceed the limits, for Allah does not like those who exceed the limits. ——— [62] Anas ibn Mālik (رضي الله عنه) said about the three men who asked about the Prophet’s life, then one of them said: “I shall pray all night long and never sleep!” Another said: “I shall fast all year long and never break it!” And a third said: “I shall shun women and never ever marry!” The Prophet (ﷺ) condemned their actions and said: “Whoever renounces my way (Sunnah) has nothing to do with me!” [See: Al-Bukhārī: 5063, Muslim: 1401]

Eat of the lawful and good things that Allah has provided for you, and fear Allah in Whom you believe.

Allah will not hold you accountable for your unintentional oaths[63], but He will hold you accountable for your deliberate oaths. The expiation thereof is to feed ten needy people from what you normally feed your own family, or to clothe them, or to emancipate a slave. However, if someone cannot afford it, then he must fast for three days. That is the expiation for breaking your oaths. But be mindful of your oaths[64]. This is how Allah makes His verses clear to you, so that you may be grateful. ——— [63] i.e., out of habit or without true intent. [64] i.e., do not swear much; do not swear while lying; honor your oaths.

O you who believe, intoxicants, gambling, [sacrificing on] stone alters[65] and divining arrows are of Satan’s evil work; therefore avoid such [evil], so that you may be successful. ——— [65] Ansāb are stones or idols that were erected for worship and sacrificial offerings.

Satan only wants to create enmity and hatred between you through intoxicants and gambling, and to prevent you from remembering Allah and from prayer. Will you not then abstain?

Obey Allah and obey the Messenger and be cautious. But if you turn away, then know that the duty of Our Messenger is only to convey the message clearly.

There is no blame on those who believe and do righteous deeds for what they consumed before [its prohibition], so long as they fear Allah, believe and do righteous deeds, then they fear Allah [more] and believe, then they fear Allah and do good, for Allah loves those who do good.

O you who believe, Allah will surely test you with game within the reach of your hands and spears, so that Allah may distinguish those who fear Him unseen. Whoever transgresses after that, for him there will be a painful punishment.

O you who believe, do not kill game while you are on pilgrimage[66]. Whoever of you kills it deliberately should compensate by offering its equivalent – as judged by two just men among you – to be offered at the Sacred House, or by feeding the needy, or by fasting its equivalent, so that he may taste the consequence of his deed. Allah has pardoned what has passed, but whoever does it again, Allah will subject him to retribution, for Allah is All-Mighty, Capable of Retribution. ——— [66] See footnote above 5:1.

It is lawful for you to hunt and eat seafood, as a provision for you and for the travelers. But hunting land animals is forbidden to you as long as you are on pilgrimage. And fear Allah to Whom you will be gathered.

Allah has made the Ka‘bah, the Sacred House, a source of stability for people, and also the sacred month, the sacrificial animals and the garlands [by which they are identified]. This is so that you may know that Allah knows all that is in the heavens and all that is on earth, and that Allah is All-Knowing of everything.

Know that Allah is severe in punishment and that Allah is All-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

The Messenger’s duty is only to convey the message; Allah knows what you reveal and what you conceal.

Say, “Evil and good are not equal, even if the abundance of evil may impress you. So fear Allah, O people of understanding, so that you may be successful.”

O you who believe, do not ask about things which, if they are made known to you, would only cause you hardship[67]. If you inquire about them while the Qur’an is being revealed, they will be made known to you. Allah has pardoned you for it. Allah is All-Forgiving, Most Forbearing. ——— [67] i.e., especially contrived questions, if responded to will widen the circle of divine ordinances, which might cause difficulty for the believers to act on them.

Some people before you asked such questions, then became disbelievers as a result of that[68]. ——— [68] For not carrying out what they were commanded.

Allah did not ordain any such thing as the Bahīrah, Sā’ibah, Wasīlah, and Hām [i.e., dedicated camels to idols][69]. Rather those who disbelieve fabricate lies against Allah, and most of them do not understand. ——— [69] Camels dedicated to idols and set free to pasture, liberated from the service of man. Bahīrah: a she-camel whose riding and milking were forbidden. Sā’ibah: a she-camel that was let loose for free pasture for their idols and nothing was allowed to be carried on it. Waṣīlah: a she-camel set free for idols for it has given birth to a she-camel at its first and second delivery. Hām: a stallion-camel freed from work for the sake of their idols, after breeding ten live births.

When it is said to them, “Come to what Allah has sent down and to the Messenger,” they say, “What we have found our forefathers upon is sufficient for us.” Even though their forefathers knew nothing nor were they guided?

O you who believe, take care of your own selves. Those who have gone astray will not harm you as long as you are guided[70]. To Allah you will all return, then He will inform you of what you used to do. ——— [70] After you call them to guidance, their rejection will not harm you.

O you who believe, when death approaches one of you, call upon two just Muslim men as witnesses when you make a bequest, or two non-Muslims if you are afflicted with death while you are traveling. But if you have some doubt, keep them both after prayer[71] and let them swear by Allah, “We will not trade our testimony for any price, even in favor of a close relative, nor will we conceal the testimony enjoined by Allah, for then we would surely be among the sinners.” ——— [71] Prayers are usually attended by a congregation of people.

If they are found guilty [of false testimony], let two others take their place, nearest in kin from among those who claim a lawful right, and let them swear by Allah, “Our testimony is more truthful than their testimony, and we have not transgressed, for then we would surely be among the wrongdoers.”

That is more likely that they will give true testimony, or else they will fear that their oaths could be refuted by the oaths of the others afterwards. Fear Allah and listen [obediently], for Allah does not guide the rebellious people.

On the Day when Allah will gather the messengers and say, “What response did you receive?” They will say, “We have no knowledge. You alone are the All-Knower of all unseen.”

Then Allah will say, “O Jesus, son of Mary, remember My favor upon you and upon your mother when I supported you with the Holy Spirit – as you spoke to people in the cradle and in maturity. I taught you writing, wisdom, the Torah and the Gospel. You made something from clay in the shape of a bird by My permission and breathed into it, and it became a bird by My permission. You healed the born-blind and lepers by My permission, and you brought the dead to life by My permission. I restrained the Children of Israel from [killing] you when you came to them with clear signs, but the disbelievers among them said, “This is nothing but clear magic.”

And [remember] when I inspired the disciples, “Believe in Me and in My messenger [i.e., Jesus].” They said, “We believe, and bear witness that we submit to Allah [as Muslims].”

And [remember] when the disciples said, “O Jesus, son of Mary, can your Lord[72] send down to us a table [spread with food] from the heaven?” He said, “Fear Allah, if you are believers.” ——— [72] i.e., will Allah consent to (Allah's ability is undoubted).

They said, “We wish to eat from it and let our hearts be reassured and to know that you told us the truth, and to be witnesses to it.”

Jesus, son of Mary, said, “O Allah, our Lord, send down to us from heaven a table as a feast for us – for our present and future generations – and as a sign from You; and grant us provision, for You are the Best of Providers.”

Allah said, “I will send it down to you, but if anyone among you disbelieves afterward, I will subject him to a punishment that I have never punished anyone in the world.”

When Allah will say, “O Jesus, son of Mary, did you tell people, ‘Take me and my mother as gods besides Allah?’ He will say, ‘Glory be to You! It is not for me to say what I have no right. Had I said so, You would have surely known it. You know what is within myself, whereas I do not know what is within Yourself. Indeed, You are the All-Knower of all unseen.’”

I did not tell them except what You ordered me – ‘Worship Allah, my Lord and your Lord.’ I was witness over them as long as I was among them. But when You took me up, You Yourself were the Watcher over them, and You are a Witness over all things.

If You punish them, they are Your slaves; if You forgive them, You are indeed the All-Mighty, the All-Wise.”

Allah will say, “This is the Day when the truthfulness of the truthful will benefit them; they will have gardens under which rivers flow, abiding therein forever. Allah is pleased with them and they are pleased with Him. That is the supreme triumph.”

To Allah belongs the dominion of the heavens and earth and all that is between them, and He is Most Capable of all things.

All praise be to Allah Who created the heavens and earth, and made darkness and light; yet those who disbelieve set up equals to their Lord.

It is He Who created you from clay, then decreed a term [for your life], and another term [for resurrection] known only to Him – yet you still doubt.

He is Allah in the heavens and on earth[1]. He knows your secrets and what you reveal, and knows whatever you earn. ——— [1] Who is rightfully worshiped by the dwellers of these two realms.

No sign ever comes to them from their Lord except that they turn away from it.

They rejected the truth when it came to them, but soon they will face the consequences of what they used to ridicule.

Have they not seen how many generations We destroyed before them? We had made them more powerful in the land than We have made you. We sent down for them abundant rain and made rivers flow beneath them. Yet We destroyed them for their sins and brought forth after them other generations.

Even if We had sent down to you [O Prophet] a revelation written on paper, and they were to touch it with their hands, the disbelievers would still have said, “This is nothing but clear magic!”

They say: Why has no angel been sent down to him[2]? If We did send down an angel, the matter would have been decided and then they would not be given any respite. ——— [2] Testifying for his prophethood (ﷺ).

And if We had made him an angel, We would have surely made him [appear as] a man[3], and We would have caused them confusion just as they are confused. ——— [3] This shows that they were not sincere in their demand.

And there were messengers before you [O Prophet] who were ridiculed, but those who mocked them were overwhelmed by what they used to ridicule.

Say, “Travel through the land, then see how was the end of the deniers.”

Say, “To whom belongs all that is in the heavens and earth?” Say, “To Allah.” He has taken it upon Himself to be Merciful. He will surely gather you for the Day of Resurrection about which there is no doubt. Those who have ruined themselves will not believe.

To Him belongs all that rests in the night and in the day, and He is the All-Hearing, the All-Knowing.

Say [O Prophet], “Should I take any guardian other than Allah, the Originator of the heavens and earth, Who feeds but is not fed?” Say, “I have been commanded to be the first to submit [to Allah] and not to be one of those who associate partners with Allah.”

Say, “If I disobey my Lord, I fear the punishment of a momentous Day.”

Whoever is spared the punishment on that Day is blessed with His mercy. That is the clear triumph.

If Allah afflicts you with harm, there is none to remove it except Him; if He grants you good, He is Most Capable of all things.

He is the Vanquisher over His slaves, and He is the All-Wise, the All-Aware.

Say, “Whose testimony is the greatest?” Say, “Allah is Witness between me and you. This Qur’an has been revealed to me so that I may warn you thereby and whomsoever it reaches[4]. Do you really bear witness that there are other gods besides Allah?” Say, “I do not bear such witness.” Say, “Indeed, He is One God, and I disown all that you associate [with Him].” ——— [4] At every time and place until the Day of Judgment.

Those to whom We gave the Scripture recognize [Muhammad][5] just as they recognize their own sons. Those who have ruined their own souls will not believe. ——— [5] They had an exact description of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) in their Scriptures.

Who does greater wrong than one who fabricates lies against Allah or rejects His verses? The wrongdoers will never succeed.

On the Day when We will gather them all together, then We will say to those who associated partners with Allah, “Where are your partners whom you claimed [to be equal to Allah]?”

Then they will have no excuse but to say, “By Allah, our Lord, we never associated any partners [with Allah][6].” ——— [6] They will falsely swear, thinking they have something to stand on.

See how they will lie against themselves, and all what they used to fabricate will vanish from them.

There are some among them who listen to you[7], but We have placed covers on their hearts so that they do not understand it, and deafness in their ears. Even if they were to see every sign, they would still not believe in them. When they come to you arguing, the disbelievers say, “This is nothing but ancient fables.” ——— [7] When you recite the Qur’an.

They prevent others from him, and they themselves keep away from him; they destroy none but themselves, but they do not realize.

If you could only see when they will be made to stand before the Fire, they will say, “If only we were sent back, we would not reject the verses of our Lord, and we would be among the believers.”

But that which they used to conceal before will become apparent to them. And even if they were sent back, they would surely return to what they were forbidden, for they are indeed liars.

They say, “There is nothing beyond our life in this world, and we will not be resurrected.”

If you could only see when they are made to stand before their Lord. He will say, “Is this not the truth?” They will say, “Yes indeed, by our Lord.” He will say, “So taste the punishment for your disbelief.”

Losers indeed are those who deny the meeting with Allah, until when the Hour comes upon them by surprise, they will say, “Woe to us for having ignored this!” They will bear their burdens on their backs. Terrible indeed is their burden!

The life of this world is nothing but play and amusement, but the Home of the Hereafter is far better for those who fear Allah. Do you not then understand?

We know well that what they say grieves you [O Prophet]. It is not you that they doubt, rather it is the verses of Allah that the wrongdoers deny.

There were messengers rejected before you, but they endured patiently their rejection and persecution until Our help came to them. None can change the words of Allah. You have already received some accounts of those messengers[8]. ——— [8] “We relate to you [O Prophet] the stories of the messengers to strengthen your heart.” See 11:120.

If you find their denial hard to bear, then seek – if you can – a tunnel into the earth or a stairway into the sky to bring them a sign. If Allah had willed, He could have brought them all to guidance; so do not be of those who are ignorant.

Only those who listen will respond. As for the dead[9], Allah will resurrect them, then to Him they will be returned. ——— [9] i.e., the dead of heart, meaning the disbelievers.

They say, “Why has no sign been sent down to him from his Lord?” Say, “Allah is Capable to send down a sign,” but most of them do not know [the consequences].

There is no moving creature on earth or a bird flying with its two wings, but are communities like you. We have missed nothing in the Record[10], then to their Lord they will be gathered. ——— [10] i.e., the Preserved Tablet.

Those who reject Our verses are deaf and dumb in the depths of darkness. Whomever Allah wills, He causes him to stray and whomever He wills, He leads him to a straight path.

Say, “What do you think[11], if there comes upon you the punishment of Allah or the Hour comes upon you, would you then call upon anyone other than Allah, if you are truthful?” ——— [11] i.e., “Tell me..."

No, it is Him alone you would call upon[12]. If He willed, He could remove whatever harm made you call upon Him, and you would forget whatever partners you associate with Him.” ——— [12] When you are touched by hardship.

We sent messengers to nations before you and seized them with poverty and hardship, so that they may humble themselves.

If only they had humbled themselves when Our affliction came upon them, but their hearts were hardened, and Satan made their misdeeds appealing to them.

When they forgot the reminder that they were given[13], We opened for them the doors of everything – until when they rejoiced in pride for what they were given, We seized them by surprise, so they fell into utter despair. ——— [13] i.e., their trial by hardship or the warning of their prophets.

Then the wrongdoers were totally exterminated. And all praise be to Allah, the Lord of the worlds.

Say, “What do you think, if Allah were to take away your hearing and your sight, and seal up your hearts – which god other than Allah could restore them to you?” See how We diversify the signs, yet they still turn away.

Say, “What do you think, if the punishment of Allah were to come upon you, suddenly or predictably, who would be destroyed except the wrongdoing people?”

We do not send the messengers except as bringers of glad tidings and as warners. Those who believe and mend their ways, they will have no fear, nor will they grieve.

But those who reject Our verses will be afflicted with the punishment for their evil deeds.

Say [O Prophet], “I do not tell you that I have the treasuries of Allah, nor do I know the unseen, nor do I tell you that I am an angel. I only follow what is revealed to me.” Say, “Is the blind equal to the one who can see[14]? Do you not then contemplate?” ——— [14] The analogy of the blind and the seeing, the dead and the living, is indicating to the disbeliever who is blind of seeing the truth, and the believer who sees it and believes in it.

Warn with this [Qur’an] those who fear that they will be gathered before their Lord – having no protector or intercessor other than Him – so that they may become righteous.

Do not send away [O Prophet] those who invoke their Lord morning and evening, seeking His Face [pleasure]. You are not accountable for them whatsoever, nor are they accountable for you whatsoever. If you still send them away, you will be one of the wrongdoers.

Thus We have tested some of them by means of others, so that they may say, “Are these the ones whom Allah has favored among us[15]?” Does Allah not know best those who are grateful? ——— [15] The poor Muslims with the Prophet (ﷺ). The influential leaders of Quraysh disdained sitting with them.

When those who believe in Our verses come to you, say, “Peace be upon you. Your Lord has decreed mercy upon Himself; whoever among you commits a sin out of ignorance then repents afterwards and mends his ways, then Allah is indeed All-Forgiving, Most Merciful.”

This is how We explain the verses in detail, so that the way of the evildoers may become known.

Say, “I have been forbidden to worship those whom you supplicate besides Allah.” Say, “I do not follow your desires[16]. If I did, I would go astray and I would not be one of those who are guided.” ——— [16] Following vain desires is what leads people to stray.

Say [O Prophet], “I am on clear evidence from my Lord, yet you have denied it. I do not have that [punishment] which you seek to hasten. The decision rests with Allah alone; He tells the truth and He is the Best of Judges.”

Say, “If that which you seek to hasten were within my power, the matter would have already been decided between me and you. But Allah knows best the wrongdoers.”

He alone has the keys of the unseen[17]; no one knows them except Him. He knows what is in the land and sea. Not a leaf falls without His knowledge, nor a grain in the darkness of the earth, nor anything moist or dry, but is [written] in a Clear Record[18]. ——— [17] Keys of the Unseen, such as the knowledge of the Hour; sending down of rain; knowledge of what is in the wombs. No one knows what one will earn for tomorrow, and where one will die. See 31:34. [18] The Preserved Tablet.

It is He Who takes your souls by night[19] and knows what you do by day, then He raises you up therein so that an appointed term may be fulfilled[20]. Then to Him is your return, and He will inform you of what you used to do. ——— [19] When you sleep. [20] i.e., so that one’s life comes to an end.

He is the Subjugator over His servants and sends over you recording-angels until when death comes upon one of you, Our angels take his soul, and they never fall short in their duty.

Then they will be returned to Allah, their true Lord. Indeed, judgment belongs to Him alone, and He is the Swiftest Reckoner.

Say, “Who rescues you from the darkness of the land and sea? You invoke Him humbly and privately[21], ‘If only He rescues us from this, we will certainly be among those who are grateful.’” ——— [21] The Arabs of that time did not deny Allah’s Lordship (tawhīd al-rubūbiyyah) Whom they turned to in times of hardship, but they denied His sole Divinity (tawhīd al-ulūhiyyah), i.e., worshiping none but Allah.

Say, “Allah rescues you from it and from every distress, yet you associate partners with Him.”

Say, “He is Capable of sending a punishment from above you or from beneath your feet, or split you into factions, and make you suffer at the hands of one another.” See how We diversify the signs, so that they may understand.

But your people [O Prophet] have rejected this [Qur’an] although it is the truth. Say, “I am not a keeper over you.

Every matter has an appointed time, and you will soon come to know.

When you see those who ridicule Our verses, turn away from them until they engage in another discourse. If Satan should make you forget, then as soon as you remember, do not remain with the wrongdoing people.

Those who fear Allah are in no way accountable for them; their duty is only to remind, so that they may abstain [from mockery].

Leave those who take their religion as play and amusement, and are deluded by the life of this world. But admonish them with this [Qur’an], so no soul should be ruined for its misdeeds – having no protector or intercessor other than Allah. Even if they were to offer every form of ransom, it would not be accepted. Such are the ones who will be ruined for their misdeeds. They will have scalding water to drink and a painful punishment for their disbelief.

Say, “Shall we invoke[22] besides Allah that which can neither benefit nor harm us, and shall we turn back to disbelief after being guided by Allah? Just like the one whom devils have tempted in the land leaving him bewildered, although he has companions inviting him to guidance[23], “Come to us.” Say, “Allah’s guidance is the [true] guidance, and we are commanded to submit to the Lord of the worlds, ——— [22] i.e., worship. [23] The example given is of one who lost his way and is further confused by evil ones, tempting him to follow various directions, all leading to destruction; although his sincere friends call him to the right direction, but he ignores them.

and to establish prayer and fear Him, for it is He to Whom you will all be gathered.

It is He Who created the heavens and earth for a true purpose. On the Day [of Resurrection] He will say, “Be,” and it will be. His word is the truth. His is the dominion on the Day the Trumpet will be blown. He is the Knower of the unseen and the seen, and He is the All-Wise, the All-Aware.”

And [remember] when Abraham said to his father, Āzar, “Do you take idols as gods? I see that you and your people are clearly misguided.”

Thus We showed Abraham the dominion of the heavens and earth so that he would be of those who have certain faith.

When the night grew dark upon him, he saw a star and said, “This is my Lord.” But when it set, he said, “I do not like those that set.”[24] ——— [24] Abraham wanted to show them futility and folly of worshiping mere idols by a logical conclusion.

Then when he saw the moon rising, he said, “This is my Lord.” But when it set, he said, “Unless my Lord guides me, I will surely be among the misguided people.”

Then when he saw the sun rising, he said, “This is my Lord; this is greater.” But when it set, he said, “O my people, I disown all what you associate with Allah.

I turn my face towards the One Who originated the heavens and earth, inclining to true faith, and I am not one of those who associate partners with Allah.”

His people argued with him. He said, “Do you argue with me concerning Allah when He has guided me? I do not fear what you associate with Him, [none can harm me] except what my Lord wills. My Lord encompasses everything in His knowledge. Will you not then take heed?

Why should I fear what you associate with Him, when you do not fear that you associate with Allah for which He has not sent down any authority? So which of the two parties has more right to feel secure, if you really know?

Those who believe and do not mix their faith with falsehood[25] are the ones who will be secure, and it is they who are rightly guided. ——— [25] i.e., they do not worship others besides Allah.

That was Our argument which We gave Abraham against his people. We elevate in ranks whom We will. Your Lord is All-Wise, All-Knowing.

We granted him Isaac and Jacob – each of them We guided as We previously guided Noah, and among his descendants: David, Solomon, Job, Joseph, Moses, and Aaron. Thus do We reward those who do good.

And Zachariah, John, Jesus, and Elias – each was among the righteous.

Also Ishmael, Elisha, Jonah, and Lot – each of them We preferred over all other people [of their times].

And some of their fathers, their descendants, and their brothers – We chose them and guided them to a straight path.

This is Allah’s guidance with which He guides whom He wills of His slaves. If they were to associate others with Him, all their deeds would have been nullified.

They are those whom We gave the Scripture, wisdom and prophethood. But if these [pagans] disbelieve in it, then We have entrusted it to a people who will not disbelieve in it.

They are those whom Allah has guided, so follow their guidance. Say, “I do not ask you any reward for it. It is but a reminder for the worlds.”

They did not revere Allah His true reverence when they said, “Allah has sent down nothing to human beings.” Say [O Prophet], “Who then sent down the Scripture that Moses brought as a light and guidance for people, but you make it into separate sheets – revealing some and concealing much, although you have been taught [this Qur’an] which neither you nor your forefathers knew?” Say, “Allah [sent it down].” Then leave them to amuse themselves in their falsehood.

This is a blessed Book which We have sent down – confirming what came before it, so that you will warn the Mother of Cities [i.e., Makkah] and all those around it[26]. Those who believe in the Hereafter believe in it and are mindful of their prayers. ——— [26] i.e., all other peoples.

Who does greater wrong than the one who fabricates lies against Allah or says, “A revelation has come to me” – whereas nothing has been revealed to him, or the one who says, “I can send down the like of what Allah has sent down.” If only you could see the wrongdoers in the throes of death while the angels are stretching out their hands[27] [saying], “Give up your souls! Today you will be recompensed with a disgracing punishment, because you used to tell lies against Allah and you arrogantly rejected His verses.” ——— [27] Striking them, as they are not willing to give up their souls out of the fear of account.

“Now you have come to Us alone[28] just as We created you the first time – leaving behind all that We had bestowed upon you. We do not see with you your intercessors[29] whom you claimed to be associates [with Allah]. Now all your ties have been severed[30] and all your claims have failed you.” ——— [28] On the Day of Judgment. [29] Whom you thought to intercede for you with Allah. [30] Between you and the claimed associates and intercessors.

It is Allah Who causes the grain and fruit-stones to sprout. He brings forth the living from the dead and the dead from the living. Such is Allah! So how are you being turned away?

It is He Who cleaves the daybreak, and made the night for rest, and the sun and the moon with a precise measurement[31]; that is the design of the All-Mighty, the All-Knowing. ——— [31] i.e., their precise movement.

And He made the stars as your guide through the darkness of the land and sea. We have made the signs clear for people who know.

It is He Who originated you from a single soul, then assigned for you a place to stay and a place to rest[32]. We have made the signs clear for people who understand. ——— [32] Mustaqarr, Mustawda‘: i.e., the loins of men, the wombs of women; the surface of earth, the belly of earth after death.

It is He Who sends down water from the sky and We produce thereby vegetation of all kinds. We produce from it greenery from which We bring forth clustered grains. From the spathes of palm trees emerge clusters of dates hanging within reach and gardens of grapevines, olives, and pomegranates – similar [in shape] yet different [in taste]. Look at their fruit when they bear fruit and ripen. Indeed, there are signs in these for people who believe.

They regard the jinn as partners of Allah, even though He created them, and they falsely attribute to Him sons and daughters without knowledge. Glorified and Exalted is He far above what they ascribe to Him.

He is the Originator of the heavens and earth. How could He have a son when He never had a companion? He created all things, and He is All-Knowing of everything.

Such is Allah, your Lord; none has the right to be worshiped except Him, the Creator of all things. So worship Him, for He is the Maintainer of all things.

No vision can encompass Him[33], but He encompasses all vision, and He is the Most Subtle, the All-Aware. ——— [33] The people of Paradise will be able to see Allah in the Hereafter. See 75:22-23.

There have come to you insights from your Lord. Whoever chooses to see [the truth], it is for his own good. But whoever turns a blind eye, it is to his own loss. And [say], “I am not a keeper over you.”

This is how We diversify the verses, so that they may say, “You have studied [previous scriptures][34]”, and so that We may make it clear for people who know. ——— [34] Accusing the Prophet (ﷺ) of having learned from the People of the Book.

Follow [O Prophet] what is revealed to you from your Lord – none has the right to be worshiped except Him – and turn away from those who associate partners with Allah.

If Allah had willed, they would not have associated partners with Him. We have not made you a keeper over them, nor are you their trustee[35]. ——— [35] Your duty is only to deliver the message.

Do not revile those whom they supplicate besides Allah, lest they revile Allah out of spite and lack of knowledge. This is how We made the deeds of every people appealing to them. Then to their Lord is their return, and He will inform them of what they used to do.

They swear by Allah their most solemn oaths that if a sign came to them, they would certainly believe in it. Say [O Prophet], “Signs are only with Allah.” How do you know that even if it came to them, they would still not believe?

We will turn their hearts and eyes away [from the truth] just as they refused to believe in it the first time, and We will leave them to wander blindly in their obstinacy.

Even if We did send the angels down to them, and the dead spoke to them, and We gathered before them everything, they would still not believe, unless Allah so willed, but most of them are ignorant.

Similarly did We make for every prophet enemies, devils from among men and jinn, whispering to one another alluring words of delusion. If Allah had willed, they would not have done so. So leave them to their fabrications,

so that the hearts of those who disbelieve in the Hereafter may incline towards it and be pleased with it, and may commit whatever sins they want.

[Say], “Should I seek a judge other than Allah when He is the One Who has sent down to you the Book explained in detail?” Those whom We gave the Book know that it has been sent down from your Lord in truth, so never be among those who doubt.

The Word of your Lord is perfect in truthfulness and justice; none can change His Words[36], and He is the All-Hearing, the All-Knowing. ——— [36] Allah says: “It is We Who have sent down the Reminder [the Qur’an], and it is We Who will preserve it.” See 15:9.

If you obey most of those on earth, they will lead you away from the way of Allah. They follow nothing but assumptions and they do nothing but lie.

Your Lord knows best who strays from His way, and He knows best those who are guided.

So eat of that [meat] over which the name of Allah is mentioned[37] if you [truly] believe in his verses. ——— [37] Upon slaughtering it.

Why should you not eat of that over which the name of Allah is mentioned when He has expounded clearly what is forbidden to you, unless you are compelled by necessity[38]? Indeed, many [deviants] lead others astray by their desires, without any knowledge. Your Lord knows best the transgressors. ——— [38] Allah says: “But if someone is compelled by necessity – neither driven by desire nor exceeding immediate need – then there is no sin upon him.” See 2:173.

Avoid committing sin, whether openly or in secret. Indeed, those who commit sin will be recompensed for what they used to do.

Do not eat of that [meat] over which the name of Allah is not mentioned, for this is a grave disobedience. But the devils whisper to their [human] friends to argue with you; if you were to obey them[39], you would surely become polytheists. ——— [39] As obedience being the basis of worship.

Is the one who was dead and We gave him life [by faith] and gave him a light with which he walks among people like the one in darkness from which he can never escape[40]? This is how the deeds of the disbelievers have been made appealing to them. ——— [40] The simile given here is about someone who is guided by light of guidance and someone who is bereft of the light of guidance.

Thus We have placed in every city the most wicked ones to conspire in it, yet they only conspire against themselves, without even realizing it.

When a sign comes to them, they say, “We will never believe until we are given the like of what was given to the messengers of Allah.” Allah knows best where to place His message. Those who are wicked will be afflicted with disgrace from Allah and a severe punishment for their plots.

Whoever Allah wills to guide, He opens his heart to Islam; and whoever He wills to lead astray, He makes his heart tight and constricted[41], as if he were climbing up into the sky. This is how Allah punishes those who do not believe. ——— [41] Due to his arrogance and persistence in sin.

This is the straight path of your Lord. We have made the verses clear for people who take heed.

They will have the Home of Peace with their Lord, and He will be their Protector because of what they used to do.

On the Day when He will gather them all together [saying], “O assembly of jinn, you have misled many humans.” Their human friends will say, “Our Lord, we have benefited from one another[42], but now we have reached our term which You appointed for us.” He will say, “The Fire is your abode, abiding therein forever, except if Allah wills otherwise.” Your Lord is All-Wise, All-Knowing. ——— [42] The jinn enjoyed the humans by obeying and worshiping them and the humans enjoyed the jinn by fulfilling their wishes and gratifying their lusts.

This is how We make the wrongdoers take control over one another[43] because of what they used to do. ——— [43] By misguiding and inciting to do evil deeds.

“O assembly of jinn and humans, did there not come to you messengers from among you, reciting to you My verses and warning you of meeting this Day of yours?” They will say, “We testify against ourselves.” They were deluded by the life of this world, and they will testify against themselves that they were disbelievers.

This is because your Lord would never destroy a town for their wrongdoing while its people are unaware [of the truth].

Everyone will be assigned ranks according to their deeds, for your Lord is not unaware of what they do.

Your Lord is the Self-Sufficient and full of Mercy. If He wills, He can take you away and replace you with whoever He wills, just as He brought you forth from the offspring of other people.

Indeed, what you have been promised will come to pass, and you will have no escape.

Say [O Prophet], “O my people, carry on in your way, and so will I; you will come to know who will have the [best] ultimate abode. Indeed, the wrongdoers will never succeed.”

They assign to Allah a portion of the crops and livestock He created, saying, “This is for Allah” – as they claim – “and this is for our partners [i.e., idols].” But that which is assigned for their partners does not reach Allah, while that which is assigned for Allah reaches their partners[44]. How unfair their judgment is! ——— [44] It was an Arab heathen ritual to allocate two shares out of their livestock; a share for God and a share for idols. If a portion of God’s share was mixed with that of their idols, they would not deduct it, saying that God is in no need of it. Yet if a portion of their idols’ share fell with that of God’s they would readily cut it and add it on to their idols’ share.

Similarly, the evil associates of the pagans have made the killing of their children[45] appealing to them, in order to lead them to destruction and confuse them in their faith. If Allah had willed, they would not have done that. So leave them to their fabrications. ——— [45] Out of fear of poverty.

They say, “These livestock and crops are reserved, none may eat them except those[46] whom we wish,” – as they claim – and there are livestock whose backs are forbidden [from labor][47], and livestock over whom they do not mention the name of Allah [while slaughtering] – fabricating lies against Him[48]. He will punish them for their lies. ——— [46] i.e., the servants of idols and others. [47] The four categories of grazing livestock were dedicated to their idols and false deities, and they were forbidden from riding and labor. See 5:103. [48] i.e., false claims that these practices are part of Allah’s religion.

They also say, “What is in the bellies of these livestock[49] is exclusively for our males and forbidden to our females, but if it is stillborn, they all will have a share in it. He will punish them for what they attribute[50]. He is All-Wise, All-Knowing. ——— [49] i.e., their milk and offspring. [50] i.e., for making things lawful and unlawful as they wish.

Losers indeed are those who kill their children foolishly out of ignorance and prohibit what Allah has provided for them – fabricating lies against Him. They have gone astray and are not guided.

It is He Who brings into being gardens – trellised and untrellised – and palm trees and crops of different flavors, and olives and pomegranates – similar [in shape] yet different [in taste]. Eat of their fruit when they bear fruit and give out its due on the day of harvest. But do not be wasteful, for He does not like those who are wasteful.

Among livestock are some that carry loads and others not. Eat of what Allah has provided for you, and do not follow the footsteps of Satan[51], for He is your sworn enemy. ——— [51] By falsely making some provisions lawful and others unlawful.

[They are] eight [in four] pairs: a pair of sheep and a pair of goats. Say, “Has He forbidden the two males or the two females, or what the wombs of the two females contain? Tell me on the basis of knowledge, if you are truthful.”

Likewise, a pair of camels and a pair of cattle. Say, “Has He forbidden the two males or the two females, or what the wombs of the two females contain? Or were you present when Allah gave you this commandment?” So who does greater wrong than the one who fabricates lies against Allah in order to mislead people without knowledge? Allah does not guide the wrongdoing people.

Say [O Prophet], “I do not find in what has been revealed to me anything forbidden to eat except carrion, running blood or the swine flesh – which is impure – or a sinful offering in the name of other than Allah. However, if someone is compelled by necessity – neither driven by desire nor transgressing due limit – then your Lord is All-Forgiving, Most Merciful.”

To the Jews We forbade every animal of undivided hooves[52], and of the cattle and sheep, We forbade their fat except what attaches to their backs or intestines, or what sticks to their bones. This is how We recompensed them for their transgression, and We are Truthful. ——— [52] i.e., clawed animals that have nails in their toes, e.g. camels, ostriches, etc.

But if they reject you [O Prophet], then say, “Your Lord is the possessor of infinite mercy, but His punishment cannot be averted from the wicked people.”

Those who associate partners with Allah will say, “If Allah had willed, neither we nor our forefathers would have associated anything with Him, nor would we have made anything forbidden[53].” Likewise, those who came before them rejected the truth until they tasted Our punishment. Say, “Do you have any knowledge that you can present to us? You follow nothing but assumption and you do nothing but lie. ——— [53] They falsely argue by citing predestination (al-qadar), when they were given the choice of choosing the right or wrong path.

Say, “Allah alone has the most conclusive argument. If He had willed, He could have guided you all.”

Say [O Prophet], “Bring your witnesses who can testify that Allah has forbidden all this.” If they testify, do not testify with them. Do not follow the desires of those who reject Our verses, and who disbelieve in the Hereafter, and they set up equals to their Lord.

Say [O Prophet], “Come, I will recite to you what your Lord has forbidden to you: do not associate any partners with Him[54], and honor your parents. Do not kill your children for fear of poverty, for We provide for you and for them. Do not approach shameful acts, whether openly or in secret. Do not kill the soul sanctified by Allah, except lawfully. This is what He commands you, so that you may understand. ——— [54] Monotheism (tawhīd) is the fountainhead of all virtue, whereas associating others with Allah (shirk) is the source of all evil.

Do not approach the orphan’s property, except to improve it, until he attains maturity. Give full measure and weight with justice. We do not burden any soul beyond what it can bear. And maintain justice when you speak, even if it be about a close relative. And fulfill the covenant of Allah. This is what He commands you, so that you may take heed.

This is My straight path; follow it and do not follow other ways, lest they lead you away from His way. This is what He commands you, so that you may become righteous.”

Then We gave Moses the Scripture, completing [Our favor] upon those who do good, and explaining everything in detail, and as a guidance and a mercy, so that they may believe in their meeting with their Lord.

This [Qur’an] is a blessed Book which We have sent down, so follow it and fear Allah, so that you may be shown mercy.

You [pagans] may no longer say, “Scriptures were only sent down to two groups before us, and we were unaware of their teachings.”

Or you would say, “If only the Scriptures had been sent down to us, we would have been better guided than they.” Now there has come to you a clear proof from your Lord, a guidance and a mercy. Who does greater wrong than he who denies the verses of Allah and turns away from them? We will recompense those who turn away from Our verses with the worst punishment, for their turning away.

Are they waiting for the coming of the angels, or the coming of your Lord, or the coming of some of your Lord’s signs[55]? On the Day when some of your Lord’s signs come, belief will be of no benefit to those who did not believe before, or those who did not do some good through their faith. Say, “Wait then; we too are waiting.” ——— [55] These denoting the approach of the Last Hour: angel of death, Allah’s judgment on the Day of Judgment, or signs of the Hour.

Those who have made divisions in their religion and turned into factions[56], you have nothing to do with them. Their case rests with Allah alone; He will inform them of what they used to do. ——— [56] The People of the Book or others.

Whoever comes with a good deed will be rewarded tenfold, but whoever comes with an evil deed will only be punished with its like, and none will be wronged.

Say [O Prophet], “Indeed, my Lord has guided me to a straight path, an upright religion, the faith of Abraham, inclining to the true faith[57], and he was not one of those who associate partners with Allah.” ——— [57] See 2:135.

Say, “Indeed, my prayer, my sacrifice, my living and my dying are all for Allah[58], Lord of the worlds. ——— [58] One should dedicate all acts of worship to Allah, and rely upon Him in every aspect of life and death.

He has no partner. This is what I have been commanded, and I am the first to submit to Allah.”

Say [O Prophet], “Should I seek a lord other than Allah, when He is the Lord of everything?” Every soul will face the consequences of its actions. No bearer of burden will bear the burden of another. Then to your Lord is your return, and He will inform you concerning that over which you used to differ.

It is He Who has made you successors on earth and raised some of you over others in ranks, so that He may test you with that which He has given you. Your Lord is swift in punishment, and He is All-Forgiving, Most Merciful.