İngilizce Meal — Rowad Tercüme Merkezi — Az-Zumar 39:1 – Al-Hashr 59:24

The revelation of this Book is from Allah, the All-Mighty, the All-Wise.

Indeed, We have sent down to you [O Prophet] the Book with the truth, so worship Allah with sincere devotion to Him.

Indeed, sincere devotion is due to Allah alone[1]. As for those who take others as guardians besides Him, [saying], “We only worship them so that they may bring us closer to Allah.” Allah will judge between them[2] concerning that over which they differ. Allah does not guide anyone who is a liar and a persistent disbeliever. ——— [1] i.e., He only accepts sincere worship and obedience. [2] i.e., between those who were devoted to Allah alone and those who associated partners with Him.

If Allah had willed to take for Himself a son, He could have chosen whatever He wished from among what He creates. Glory be to Him. He is Allah, the One, the Subjugator.

He created the heavens and earth for a true purpose. He wraps the night over the day and wraps the day over the night. He has subjected the sun and the moon, each running its course for an appointed term. Indeed, He is the All-Mighty, Most Forgiving.

He created you from a single soul[3], then He made from it its mate[4], and He created for you eight types of livestock[5]. He creates you in the wombs of your mothers [in stages], creation after creation, in three layers of darkness[6]. Such is Allah, your Lord. To Him belongs the dominion; none has the right to be worshiped except Him. So how are you averted? ——— [3] i.e., Adam. [4] i.e., Eve. [5] The eight types of livestock: (four males and females): a pair of sheep, a pair of goats, a pair of camels, and a pair of oxen. See 6:143-144. [6] These three layers: the belly, the womb, and the amniotic membrane.

If you disbelieve, then Allah is in no need of you, but He does not approve of disbelief for His slaves. If you are grateful, He approves that for you. No bearer of burden can bear the burden of another. Then to your Lord is your return, and He will inform you of what you used to do. He is All-Knowing of what is in the hearts.

When adversity befalls man, he calls upon his Lord, turning to Him in repentance. Then when his Lord bestows His favor upon him, he forgets the adversity for which he was calling upon Him before, and sets up rivals to Allah, to mislead others from His way. Say [O Prophet], “Enjoy your disbelief for a little while; you will be one of the people of the Fire.”

[Is he better] or the one who constantly worships during the night, prostrating and standing, fearing the Hereafter and hoping for the mercy of his Lord? Say, “Are those who know equal to those who do not know?” It is only the people of understanding who will take heed.

Say[7], “O My slaves who believe, fear your Lord. Those who do good in this world will have a good return, and Allah’s earth is spacious. Those who observe patience will be given their reward without measure.” ——— [7] Allah instructed the Prophet (ﷺ) to say on behalf of Him.

Say, “I have been commanded to worship Allah, with sincere devotion to Him,

and I have been commanded to be the first of those who submit to Allah.”

Say, “I truly fear, if I were to disobey my Lord, the punishment of a momentous Day.”

Say, “It is Allah alone Whom I worship, with sincere devotion to Him.

So worship whatever you wish besides Him.” Say, “Indeed, the losers are those who will lose themselves and their families on the Day of Resurrection. That is indeed the clear loss.”

They will have layers of fire above them and below them. That is how Allah threatens His slaves. Then fear Me, O My slaves!

But those who shun the worship of false gods[8] and penitently turn to Allah, there are glad tidings for them. So give glad tidings to My slaves, ——— [8] Tāghūt: Satan or any false objects of worship.

those who listen to speech[9] and follow the best of it. They are the ones whom Allah has guided, and they are the people of understanding. ——— [9] i.e. the Qur’an or another speech, then follow the best option, such as opting for forgiveness instead of retaliation.

Can you save those against whom the decree of punishment has been passed to be in the Fire?

But those who fear their Lord will have lofty mansions[10], built one above another, under which rivers flow. This is the promise of Allah; Allah never breaks His promise. ——— [10] i.e., elevated dwellings or palaces.

Do you not see that Allah sends down rain from the sky and makes it flow as springs in the earth, then He brings forth thereby crops of various colors; then they whither and you see them turn yellow; then He causes them to crumble? Indeed, there is a reminder in this for people of understanding.

Is one whose heart Allah has opened to Islam, so he is enlightened by his Lord [like a disbeliever]? Woe to those whose hearts are hardened upon hearing the reminder of Allah; it is they who are clearly misguided.

Allah has sent down the best message – a consistent Book of repeated lessons – causing the skins of those who fear their Lord to shiver, and then their skins and their hearts soften at the remembrance of Allah. This is the guidance of Allah by which He guides whom He wills. But whoever Allah causes to stray, there is none to guide him.

Is one who will shield himself from the terrible punishment with his face[11] on the Day of Resurrection [like someone in Paradise]? And it will be said to the wrongdoers: “Taste what you used to earn.” ——— [11] Rather than his hands, for his hands and feet will be chained to his neck.

Those who came before them also disbelieved, so the punishment came upon them from where they could not imagine.

Therefore Allah gave them a taste of disgrace in the life of this world, but the punishment of the Hereafter will be far greater, if only they knew.

Indeed, We have presented for mankind all kinds of examples in this Qur’an, so that they may take heed –

an Arabic Qur’an, free of flaws and contradictions, so that they may be conscious of Allah.

Allah makes a comparison of a slave owned by several quarrelsome masters, and a slave owned by only one master. Are they equal in comparison? All praise be to Allah. But most of them do not know.

You [O Prophet] will surely die, and they too will die;

then on the Day of Resurrection, you will dispute with one another before your Lord.

Who is then more unjust than he who tells lies about Allah and rejects the truth when it comes to him? Is there no abode for the disbelievers in Hell?

But the one who came with the truth [i.e., the prophet] and [those who] believed in it, it is they who are the righteous.

They will have with their Lord whatever they wish for. Such is the reward of those who do good.

And Allah will absolve them of their worst deeds and reward them according to the best of what they used to do.

Is Allah not sufficient for His slave? Yet they frighten you with those [whom they worship] besides Him. Whoever Allah causes to stray, there is none to guide him.

And whoever Allah guides, none can lead him astray. Is not Allah All-Mighty, Capable of Retribution?

If you ask them who created the heavens and earth, they will surely say, “Allah.” Say, “Then tell me about those whom you supplicate besides Allah; if Allah wills to harm me, can they remove His harm? Or if He wills mercy for me, can they withhold His mercy?” Say, “Allah is sufficient for me; in Him alone do the reliant put their trust.”

Say, “O my people, carry on as you are, and so will I. You will come to know

who will receive a humiliating punishment, and upon whom will descend an everlasting punishment.”

We have sent down to you the Book with the truth for all mankind. Whoever follows the guidance, it is to his own benefit, and whoever goes astray, it is only to his own loss. You are not a keeper over them.

Allah takes away the souls at the time of their death and of those who do not die during their sleep. He withholds the souls of those on whom He has decreed death and releases others until an appointed term. Indeed, there are signs in this for people who reflect.

Or have they taken besides Allah others as intercessors? Say, “Even though they have no power nor do they understand?”

Say, “All intercession belongs to Allah alone. To Him belongs the dominion of the heavens and earth, then to Him you will be returned.”

When Allah alone is mentioned, the hearts of those who do not believe in the Hereafter shrink with aversion, but as soon as those other than Him are mentioned, they rejoice.

Say, “O Allah, Originator of the heavens and earth, Knower of the unseen and the seen, it is you who will judge between Your slaves concerning that over which they used to differ.

If the wrongdoers were to possess all that is on earth and the like of it, they would surely offer it to ransom themselves from the terrible punishment on the Day of Resurrection. There will appear to them from Allah what they had never anticipated[12]. ——— [12] Of Allah’s anger and punishment.

The evil consequences of their deeds will become apparent to them, and they will be overwhelmed by what they used to ridicule.

When adversity befalls man, he cries out to Us. Then when We grant him a favor from Us, he says, “I have been granted this only because of my knowledge.” It is rather a test, but most of them do not know.

It was already said by those before them[13], but all what they earned was of no avail to them, ——— [13] Such as Korah. See 28:76-81.

Therefore the evil consequences of their deeds overtook them, and the wrongdoers among these [pagans] will be overtaken by the evil consequences of their deeds, and they will have no escape[14]. ——— [14] From Allah’s punishment.

Do they not know that Allah extends provision to whom He wills or restricts it? Indeed, there are signs in this for people who believe.

Say [Allah says], “O My slaves who have transgressed against themselves, do not despair of Allah’s mercy, for indeed Allah forgives all sins[15]. He is indeed the All-Forgiving, the Most Merciful. ——— [15] It is for those who repent and correct themselves, no matter how big the sins are. The only unforgivable sin in Islam is dying in disbelief in Allah or associating others with Him. See 4:48. The Prophet (ﷺ) reports that Allah Almighty says, "O children of Adam! As long as you call upon Me, putting your hope in Me, I will forgive you for what you have done, and I will not mind. O children of Adam! If your sins were to reach the clouds of the sky and then you sought My forgiveness, I would forgive you. O children of Adam! If you were to come to Me with sins filling the whole world and then you came to Me without associating partners with Me, I would certainly match your sins with forgiveness." [At-Tirmidhi]

Turn to your Lord [in repentance] and submit to Him before the punishment comes upon you, for then you will not be helped.

Follow the best of what has been sent down to you all from your Lord, before the punishment comes upon you by surprise while you are unaware,

lest someone should say[16], “Woe to me for neglecting my duties towards Allah and for being among those who mocked [the truth]”; ——— [16] On the Day of Judgment.

or says, “If only Allah had guided me, I would have been among the righteous”;

or says, upon seeing the punishment, “If only I had another chance[17], I could be among those who do good.” ——— [17] Of the worldly life.

[Allah will say,] “No indeed! My verses had already come to you, but you rejected them and acted arrogantly, and you were among the disbelievers.”

On the Day of Resurrection, you will see those who lied against Allah with their faces darkened. Is there not in Hell an abode for the arrogant?

But Allah will save those who fear Him, for they have attained salvation[18]; no harm will touch them, nor will they grieve. ——— [18] i.e., they succeeded in the trials of the life of this world and the attainment of Paradise.

Allah is the Creator of all things, and He is the Guardian over everything.

To Him belong the keys of the heavens and earth. As for those who disbelieve in the verses of Allah, it is they who are the losers.

Say [O Prophet], “Do you order me to worship other than Allah, O ignorant people?”

It has already been revealed to you and to those who came before you that if you associate others with Allah, your deeds will surely become worthless, and you will certainly be among the losers.

Rather, worship Allah alone and be among those who are grateful.

They did not revere Allah His true reverence[19]. On the Day of Resurrection, the whole earth will be in His Grip, and the heavens will be rolled up in His Right Hand. Glorified and exalted is He above all what they associate with Him! ——— [19] As they worshiped beside Him unable and weak creatures.

The Trumpet will be blown and all those in the heavens and all those on earth will fall dead, except whom Allah wills. Then it will be blown again, and at once they will be standing, looking on.

The earth[20] will shine with the light of its Lord, the record of deeds will be laid open, the prophets and the witnesses will be brought forth, and judgment will be passed between them with fairness, and they will not be wronged. ——— [20] It refers to the place where the judgment will be held on the Judgment Day.

Every soul will be paid in full for what it has done, for He knows best[21] what they do. ——— [21] In addition to its own knowledge of what it has done.

Those who disbelieved will be driven to Hell in groups, until when they reach it, its gates will be opened and its keepers will say to them, “Did there not come to you messengers from among you, reciting the verses of your Lord and warning you of your meeting of this Day?” They will say, “Yes indeed, but the decree of punishment has come to pass against the disbelievers.”

It will be said, “Enter the gates of Hell, abiding therein forever.” What a terrible abode for the arrogant!

But those who feared their Lord will be led to Paradise in groups, until when they reach it, its gates will be wide open, and its keepers will say to them, “Peace be upon you. You have done well, so enter it, abiding forever.”

They will say, “All praise be to Allah Who has fulfilled His promise to us, and made us inherit the land[22] to dwell wherever we please in Paradise.” How excellent is the reward of those who do [good]! ——— [22] Allah will award Paradise to the believers to be its residents forever. See 21:105. Some commentators say that the word “inherit” is used because when Allah created Paradise and Hell, He made places for all humans in both. Those who go to Paradise will inherit the places of the disbelievers who go to Hell, and those who go to Hell will inherit the places of those who go to Paradise.

You will see the angels surrounding the Throne, glorifying their Lord with His praise, and matters will be settled between them with justice, and it will be said[23]: All praise be to Allah, the Lord of the worlds.” ——— [23] The believers will praise Allah for His grace, and the disbelievers will praise Him for His justice and equity.

Hā Mīm[1]. ——— [1] See footnote 2:1.

The revelation of this Book is from Allah, the All-Mighty, the All-Knowing,

the Forgiver of sin and Accepter of repentance, the Severe in punishment and Infinite in bounty. None has the right to be worshiped except Him. To Him is the final return.

None disputes against the signs of Allah except those who disbelieve, so do not be deceived by their movements in the land.

Before them, the people of Noah rejected and so did [other] parties after them. Every nation plotted against its messenger to seize him and falsely argued to refute the truth with falsehood, so I seized them. How [horrible] was My punishment!

Thus the decree of your Lord was passed against those who disbelieve, that they will be the people of the Fire.

Those [angels] who bear the Throne and those around it glorify their Lord with His praise and believe in Him, and seek forgiveness for those who believe, [saying], “Our Lord, Your mercy and knowledge encompass everything, so forgive those who repent and follow Your way, and protect them from the punishment of the Blazing Fire.

Our Lord, admit them to the Gardens of Eternity which You have promised them, and the righteous from among their parents, their spouses and their offspring. Indeed, it is You Who are the All-Mighty, the All-Wise.

And protect them from the evil consequences [of their sins]. For whoever You protect from the evil consequences on that Day, You have surely bestowed mercy upon him. That is the supreme triumph.”

Those who disbelieve will be addressed[2], “Allah’s abhorrence of you when you were called to believe but you disbelieved was greater than your abhorrence of yourselves [Today].” ——— [2] On the Day of Judgment.

They will say, “Our Lord, You have caused us to die twice[3] and brought us to life twice. Now we acknowledge our sins; is there any way out?” ——— [3] You created us from nothing, then gave us life in the wombs of our mothers, then caused us to die, and finally resurrected us after our death. See 2:28.

[They will be told], “This is because when Allah was invoked alone, you disbelieved, but when others were associated with Him, you believed. The judgment belongs to Allah, the Most High, the All-Great.”

It is He Who shows you His signs and sends down for you provision from the sky, but none will take heed except those who turn to Him.

So call upon Allah with sincere devotion to Him, even if the disbelievers may dislike it.

He is Exalted in Rank, Lord of the Throne. He sends down the revelation by His command to whom He wills of His slaves, in order to warn of the Day of Meeting,

the Day when they will be brought forth, nothing about them will be hidden from Allah. [He will say], “To whom does the dominion belong this Day[4]? To Allah, the One, the Subjugator! ——— [4] The Prophet (ﷺ) said that everyone and everything that has ever existed will die on that Day, except for Allah, the Eternal. He will then ask, “To who belongs all authority this Day? Where are the kings of the world? I am the King.” Since no one will be there to answer, Allah will answer Himself, “To Allah, the One, the Supreme!” [Sahih Muslim].

Today every soul will be recompensed for what it has earned; no injustice Today! Allah is swift in reckoning.”

Warn them of the approaching Day, when hearts will be at the throats, full of distress. The wrongdoers will have no close friend or intercessor whose word may be heeded.

He knows the sneaky glances of the eyes and what the hearts conceal.

Allah judges with justice, whereas those whom they invoke besides Him cannot judge at all. Indeed, it is Allah Who is the All-Hearing, the All-Seeing.

Have they not traveled in the land to see what was the end of those who came before them? They were far superior in strength and left more impressive marks in the land, but Allah seized them for their sins, and they had none to protect them from Allah.

That was because their messengers came to them with clear proofs, but they disbelieved; so Allah seized them. He is indeed All-Powerful and Severe in punishment.

We sent Moses with Our signs and compelling proof

to Pharaoh, Hāmān and Korah, but they said, “A magician! An utter liar!”

When he came to them with the truth from Us, they said, “Kill the sons of those who believe with him and keep their women alive.” However, the plots of the disbelievers are always bound to fail.

Pharaoh said, “Let me kill Moses, and let him call upon his Lord! For I fear that he may change your religion or spread corruption[5] in the land.” ——— [5] i.e., dissension, civil strife, and killing.

Moses said, “I seek refuge with my Lord and your Lord from every arrogant person who does not believe in the Day of Reckoning.”

A believing man from the house of Pharaoh, who was concealing his faith, said, “Would you kill a man[6] simply because he says: ‘My Lord is Allah,’ even though he has come to you with clear proofs from your Lord? If he is a liar, he will suffer the consequences of his lie, but if he is truthful, some of what he is threatening you with will befall you. Surely Allah does not guide anyone who is a transgressor and an utter liar. ——— [6] i.e., Moses.

O my people, the authority is yours today, being dominant in the land. But who would help us against Allah’s punishment, if it came upon us?” Pharaoh said, “I am only telling you what I think is right, and I am only guiding you to the right way.”

The man who believed said, “O my people, I fear for you [a fate] like the day of the enemy forces[7], ——— [7] i.e., the day of punishment upon those who rejected their prophets in the past.

like the fate of the people of Noah, ‘Ād and Thamūd, and those who came after them. And Allah does not want injustice for [His] slaves.

O my people, I fear for you the Day of crying out to one another[8], ——— [8] i.e., on the Day of Judgment; the wicked will cry out in terror, and the angels will call out the results of each person's judgment.

the Day when you will turn your backs fleeing; having none to protect you from Allah. Whoever Allah causes to stray, he will have no guide.

Joseph came to you[9] before with clear proofs, but you never ceased to doubt what he brought you. Then when he died, you said, ‘Allah will never send a messenger after him.’ This is how Allah causes to stray anyone who transgresses and is given to much doubting, ——— [9] i.e., to your ancestors, for Joseph (عليه السلام) died over 400 hundred years before Moses (عليه السلام).

those who argue against Allah’s signs with no proof given to them. How loathsome is that to Allah and to those who believe! This is how Allah seals the heart of every arrogant tyrant.”

Pharaoh said, “O Hāmān, build a tower for me so that I may reach the pathways[10] – ——— [10] i.e., means of ascent.

the pathways to the heavens so that I have a look at the God of Moses, for I think he is a liar.” This is how Pharaoh’s evil deeds were made appealing to him and he was hindered from the [right] way, and the plan of Pharaoh led only to ruin.

The man who believed said, “O my people, follow me, I will guide you to the right way.

O my people, the life of this world is only a brief enjoyment, whereas the Hereafter is the permanent abode.

Whoever does an evil deed will only be recompensed with the like thereof, but whoever does a righteous deed, whether male or female, and he is a believer – it is they who will enter Paradise, wherein they will be given provision without measure.

O my people, how is it that I call you to salvation while you call me to the Fire?

You call me to disbelieve in Allah and associate with Him what I have no knowledge of, while I call you to the All-Mighty, the Most Forgiving.

There is no doubt that those [gods] to whom you call me are not worthy of calling upon, neither in this world nor in the Hereafter. Our return is to Allah, and it is the transgressors who are the people of the Fire.

You will remember what I am telling you, and I entrust my affairs to Allah. Allah is All-Seeing of [His] slaves.”

So Allah protected him from the evil that they plotted, and the people of Pharaoh were overwhelmed by an evil punishment:

the Fire, which they will be exposed to [in their graves] morning and evening[11], and on the Day when the Hour takes place [it will be said], “Admit the people of Pharaoh into the most severe punishment.” ——— [11] From the time they die until the Day of Resurrection when they will be driven into the fire.

[Imagine] when they will argue in the Fire: the weak will say to those who were arrogant, “We were your followers, can you then relieve us of a portion of the Fire?”

Those who were arrogant will say, “We are all in it. Allah has already passed judgment among [His] slaves.”

Those who are in the Fire will say to the keepers of Hell, “Pray to your Lord to lighten for us the punishment for just one day.”

They will say, “Did your messengers not come to you with clear proofs?” They will say, “Yes.” They will say, “Then keep praying! The prayer of the disbelievers is only in vain.”

We will surely help Our messengers and those who believe in the life of this world and on the Day when the witnesses will come forward,

the Day when the excuses of the wrongdoers will be of no benefit to them; and they will be cursed and for them there will be the worst abode[12]. ——— [12] i.e., the Hellfire.

We gave Moses guidance, and made the Children of Israel inherit the Scripture,

as a guide and a reminder to people of understanding.

So be patient, for Allah’s promise is true. Seek forgiveness for your sin[13], and glorify your Lord with His praise evening and morning. ——— [13] Like all other prophets and messengers, Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) was infallible of sins, especially concerning what they conveyed from Allah. However, flaws or mistakes could happen with prophets, like all other human beings. The examples include the Prophet’s response to the blind man (80:1-10); Jonah’s departure from his people without Allah’s permission (21:87-88); and David’s suspicion and fear of the two men who scaled the wall of his chamber (38:21-25). If the Prophet (ﷺ) himself is urged to seek Allah’s forgiveness, then the believers are far more in need of seeking Allah’s forgiveness.

Those who argue against the verses of Allah without any proof given to them, there is nothing in their hearts but a quest for dominance which they will never attain. So seek refuge with Allah, for He is the All-Hearing, the All-Seeing.

The creation of the heavens and earth is far greater than the creation of mankind, but most people do not know.

The blind and the seeing are not equal, nor are those who believe and do righteous deeds [equal] to those who do evil. Little do you take heed!

Indeed, the Hour is coming; there is no doubt about it, but most people do not believe.

Your Lord says, “Call upon Me; I will respond to you. Those who are too proud to worship Me will enter Hell, utterly debased.”

It is Allah Who has made the night for you to rest therein and the day bright. Indeed, Allah is the Most Bountiful to people, but most people are ungrateful.

Such is Allah, your Lord, the Creator of everything; none has the right to be worshiped except Him. How are you then deluded?

This is how those who rejected Allah’s signs were deluded.

It is Allah Who has made the earth a dwelling place for you and the sky a canopy. He shaped you and perfected your form, and provided you with good things. Such is Allah, your Lord; Blessed is Allah, Lord of the worlds.

He is the Ever-Living[14]; none has the right to be worshiped except Him. So call upon Him with sincere devotion to Him. All praise be to Allah, the Lord of the worlds. ——— [14] Whose Life has no beginning and no end, and upon Whom all living beings depend.

Say [O Prophet], “I have been forbidden to worship those whom you worship besides Allah since the clear proofs have come to me from my Lord, and I have been commanded to submit to the Lord of the worlds.”

It is He Who created you from dust[15], then from a sperm drop[16], then from a clinging clot[17]. Then He brings you out as an infant, so that you may reach your age of full strength, then you become old, even though some of you may die earlier – and so that you may reach an appointed term[18], and so that you may understand. ——— [15] i.e., your father Adam. [16] i.e., the union of male and female gametes, sperm and egg; the zygote. [17] Which resembles a leech. [18] That is decreed for your death.

It is He Who gives life and causes death. When He decrees a matter, He only says to it, “Be,” and it is.

Do you not see those who dispute concerning the signs of Allah, how can they be turned away?

those who reject the Book and what We sent Our messengers with. They will soon come to know,

when the shackles will be around their necks, and with chains they will be dragged

into the scalding water, then they will be burned in the Fire.

Then it will be said to them, “Where are those whom you used to associate as partners

with Allah?” They will say, “We have lost them; rather, we never used to call upon anything before.” This is how Allah causes the disbelievers to stray.

[They will be told], “This is because you used to rejoice on earth wrongfully, and you used to exult [arrogantly].

Enter the gates of Hell, abiding therein forever. Terrible is indeed the abode of the arrogant!”

So be patient [O Prophet]. Allah’s promise is true; whether We show you some of what We threaten them with, or cause you to die [before that], to Us they will be returned.

We have sent messengers before you; of them are some whose stories We have told you, and some We have not. It was not for a messenger to bring a sign except with Allah’s permission. But when the decree of Allah comes, judgment will be passed with justice, thereupon the people of falsehood will be in utter loss.

Allah is the One Who made the livestock for you, so that you may ride some and eat others,

and you may have other benefits[19] from them, and by them you may fulfill your heartfelt need [to reach distant places], and on them and on the ships you are carried. ——— [19] i.e., their milk, wool, and hide.

And He shows you His signs; so which of the signs of Allah will you deny?

Have they not traveled through the land to see what was the end of those who came before them? They were more in number and far superior in strength, and more impressive in marks that they left behind in the land, but all what they had earned was of no avail to them.

When their messengers came to them with clear proofs, they exulted in whatever knowledge they had[20], and they were overwhelmed by what they used to ridicule. ——— [20] By ridiculing the divine knowledge brought to them by Allah’s messengers.

But when they saw Our punishment, they said, “We believe in Allah alone, and we reject what we used to associate with Him.”

But their faith was of no benefit to them when they saw Our punishment. This has always been Allah’s way with His slaves; whereupon the disbelievers were in utter loss.

Hā Mīm[1]. ——— [1] See footnote 2:1.

A revelation from the Most Compassionate, the Most Merciful,

a Book whose verses are well explained; an Arabic Qur’an[2] for people who understand, ——— [2] i.e., revealed in the Arabic language.

as a bearer of glad tidings and a warner; yet most of them turn away and they do not listen.

They say, “Our hearts are covered against what you are calling us to; there is deafness in our ears, and there is a barrier between us and you. So carry on [in your way], we will carry on [in our way].”

Say [O Prophet], “I am only a human being like yourselves; it has been revealed to me that your god is only One God, so seek the straight path to Him and seek His forgiveness, and woe to those who associate partners with Him,

those who do not give zakah, and who disbelieve in the Hereafter.

Those who believe and do righteous deeds, they will have a never-ending reward.

Say, “Do you disbelieve in the One Who created the earth in two Days[3] and you set up rivals to Him? Such is the Lord of the worlds. ——— [3] i.e., on Sunday and Monday.

He placed on it firm mountains standing high above it, showered His blessings upon it, and measured its sustenance totaling exactly four Days[4], for all who ask. ——— [4] These four Days include the first two Days, and the other two Days were: Tuesday and Wednesday.

Then He turned to the heaven when it was all smoke, and said to it and to the earth, ‘Come into being, willingly or unwillingly.’ They both said, ‘We come willingly.’

He then formed them into seven heavens in two Days[5] and assigned to each heaven its mandate. And We adorned the lowest heaven with lamps [i.e., stars] which also serve as protection[6]. That is the design of the All-Mighty, the All-Knowing.” ——— [5] i.e., on Thursday and Friday. So the total period of creating the whole universe was six heavenly Days. [6] i.e., protection from the devils who try to steal information from the angels in heaven.

But if they turn away, then say, “I warn you of a blast like the one that befell ‘Ād and Thamūd,

when the messengers came to them from the front and from behind [saying], “Worship none but Allah,” they said, “If our Lord had willed [7], He would have sent down angels; so we disbelieve in what you have been sent with.” ——— [7] To send us messengers.

As for ‘Ād, they were arrogant in the land without right, and said, “Who is more powerful than us?” Did they not see that Allah, Who created them, is more powerful than them? Yet they continued to reject Our signs.

So We sent against them a roaring wind[8] for several inauspicious days to make them taste a disgracing punishment in the life of this world, but the punishment of the Hereafter is far more disgracing, and they will not be helped. ——— [8] i.e., a screaming and furious wind.

As for Thamūd, We showed them guidance, but they preferred blindness over guidance. So they were seized by the blast of a debasing punishment for what they used to commit.

And We saved those who believed and feared Allah.

And [consider] the Day when Allah’s enemies will be gathered to the Fire, driven in rows.

until when they reach it, their hearing, their sight and their skins will testify[9] against them concerning what they used to do. ——— [9] On the Day of Judgment, the wicked will deny the evil deeds in their record of deeds - in an attempt to escape the punishment. They will be asked if they accept Allah, the angels, or even their own families and neighbors as witnesses, but they will refuse. So Allah will make their organs testify against them. [Ibn Kathīr]

They will say to their skins, “Why did you testify against us?” They will say, “It is Allah Who made us to speak, the One Who made everything speak. It is He Who created you the first time, and to Him you will be returned.

You did not bother to hide yourselves [when committing sins] from your hearing, your sight, and your skins lest they testify against you; rather you thought that Allah does not know much of what you do.

Such was your assumption that you entertained about your Lord that ruined you, so you became losers.”

Even if they endure patiently, the Fire will still be their abode; and if they seek to make amends, they will not be allowed to do so.

We assigned to them [evil] associates[10] who made appealing to them what was before them[11] and what was behind them[12], so the decree [of punishment] became due against them along with nations that passed before them of jinn and men, for indeed they were losers. ——— [10] In this world among the jinn and men. [11] Of neglecting the reckoning and account in the Hereafter. [12] Of their disbelief and evil deeds in this world.

Those who disbelieve say, “Do not listen to this Qur’an, but make noise [when it is recited], so that you may prevail.”

We will surely make those who disbelieve taste a severe punishment, and We will surely recompense them according to the worst of what they used to do.

Such is the recompense of the enemies of Allah: the Fire, which will be their eternal home, as a recompense for their rejection of Our verses.

Those who disbelieved will say, “Our Lord, show us those jinn and men who led us astray; we will trample them under our feet, so that they become among the lowest[13].” ——— [13] In the lowest depths of Hellfire, or that we may step on them in revenge for leading us astray.

Those who say, “Our Lord is Allah,” then remain steadfast, the angels will descend upon them[14][saying], “Do not fear, nor grieve, but receive glad tidings of Paradise which you were promised. ——— [14] At the time of their death throes.

We are your allies in the life of this world and in the Hereafter. You will have therein whatever your souls desire, and you will have therein whatever you ask for,

as a hospitality from the All-Forgiving, the Most Merciful One.”

Who is better in speech than one who calls to Allah, does righteous deeds, and says, “I am one of the Muslims [submitting to Allah]”?

Good and evil are not equal. Repel evil with what is good; the one whom you have enmity with will become as if he were a close friend.

But none can attain this except those who are patient, and none can attain this except those who are greatly fortunate.

If you are prompted by Satan’s provocation, seek refuge with Allah, for He is indeed the All-Hearing, the All-Knowing.

Among His signs are the night and the day, the sun and the moon. Do not prostrate to the sun or to the moon, but prostrate to Allah Who created them, if you truly worship Him[15] ——— [15] Do not worship Allah through His creatures, but worship the Creator Himself directly and dedicate your worship to Him alone.

But if they show arrogance, then those [angels] who are with your Lord glorify Him night and day, and they never grow weary.

And among His signs is that you see the land withered, but when We send down rain upon it, it stirs and swells. He Who gives it life will surely give life to the dead, for He is Most Capable of all things.

Those who seek to cause deviation in Our verses[16] are not hidden from Us. Is one who will be cast into the Fire better or one who will come safely on the Day of Resurrection? Do whatever you wish, for He is All-Seeing of what you do. ——— [16] By denying them, distorting their meanings, preferring deviant interpretation, or making noise while they are recited as the pagans of Makkah used to do.

Those who disbelieve in the Reminder[17] when it comes to them [will be punished], for it is truly a mighty Book[18]. ——— [17] i.e., the Qur’an. [18] Inimitable and protected by Allah from any distortion or alteration.

No falsehood can approach it from the front or from behind; a revelation from the One Who is All-Wise, Praiseworthy.

Nothing is said to you [O Prophet] except what was already said to the messengers before you. Indeed, your Lord is All-Forgiving, but Severe in punishment.

If We had made it a non-Arabic Qur’an, they would have said, “If only its verses were made clear? What! A non-Arabic [book] and an Arab [messenger]?” Say, “It is a guidance and healing for those who believe. As for those who do not believe, there is deafness in their ears and they are blind to [understand] it – it is as if they are being called from a far-off place[19].” ——— [19] So they neither hear the call nor understand it.

We gave Moses the Scripture, but differences arose concerning it. Were it not for a prior decree[20] from your Lord, it would have been judged between them. Surely they are in a disquieting doubt about it. ——— [20] That Allah will delay their judgment until Judgment Day.

Whoever does a righteous deed, it is to his own benefit; and whoever does an evil deed, it is to his own loss. Your Lord is not unjust to His slaves.

The knowledge of the Hour is with Him alone. No fruit emerges from its husk, nor does any female conceive or give birth without His knowledge. On the Day when He will call them, “Where are My [alleged] partners?” They will say, “We declare before you that none of us can bear witness to that.”

Whatever they used to supplicate before will vanish from them, and they will realize that they have no escape.

Man never tires of asking for good, but if evil touches him, he is desperate and despondent.

But if We give him a taste of mercy from Us after being inflicted with adversity, he will surely say, “This is my due[21], and I do not think that the Hour will ever come, but if I am brought back to my Lord, I will surely have with Him the best [reward].” We will surely inform the disbelievers of what they did, and We will surely make them taste a harsh punishment. ——— [21] For I deserve it for my effort, knowledge, excellence, etc.

When We bestow favor upon man, he turns away and distances himself [from Us]; but when evil touches him, he is full of prolonged supplication.

Say, “Did you ever consider, if this [Qur’an] is really from Allah, but you reject it, who can be more astray than someone who is in extreme defiance?”

We will show them Our signs in the universe and in their own selves until it becomes clear to them that this [Qur’an] is the truth[22]. Is it not enough that your Lord is a Witness over all things? ——— [22] Or that He is the Truth.

Indeed, they are in doubt concerning the meeting with their Lord; He truly encompasses all things.

Hā Mīm.

‘Ayyn Sīn Qāf[1]. ——— [1] See footnote 2:1.

This is how Allah, the Al-Mighty, the All-Wise, sends revelation to you [O Prophet] and to those before you.

To him belongs all that is in the heavens and all that is on earth, and He is the Most High, the Most Great.

The heavens almost burst apart above them[2], and the angels glorify the praises of their Lord and seek forgiveness for those on earth. Indeed, Allah is the All-Forgiving, the Most Merciful. ——— [2] i.e., from the grandeur of Allah Almighty and in awe of Him.

As for those who take others as protectors besides Him, Allah is Watchful over them, and you[3] are not a keeper over them. ——— [3] O Prophet (ﷺ).

Thus We have revealed to you an Arabic Qur’an, so that you may warn the Mother Town[4] and all those around it[5], and warn them of the Day of Gathering, about which there is no doubt; one party will be in Paradise and the other in the Blaze. ——— [4] “The Mother Town” is an honorary title of Makkah for its great religious significance where Allah’s first house of worship was ever built on earth, and perhaps for its central location on earth as well. [MDCI] [5] i.e., and then all other people.

If Allah had willed, He would have made all of them a single community, but He admits to His mercy whom He wills[6], and the wrongdoers will have no protector or helper. ——— [6] i.e., those of His slaves who desire His guidance and His acceptance of them.

How do they take protectors besides Him? While Allah alone is the Protector, for He gives life to the dead, and He is Most Capable of all things.

Whatever you may differ about, it is for Allah to judge. Such is Allah, my Lord; in Whom I put my trust, and to Whom I turn[7], ——— [7] In repentance and remembering Him.

the Originator of the heavens and earth. He has given you spouses of your own kind, and pairs of livestock; by which He causes you to multiply. There is nothing like unto Him[8], and He is the All-Hearing, the All-Seeing. ——— [8] In His essence, His attributes, or His deeds.

To Him belong the keys of the heavens and earth; He extends provision to whom He wills or restricts it. Indeed, He is All-Knowing of all things.

He has prescribed for you [believers] the same religion which He enjoined upon Noah, and that which We have revealed to you [O Prophet] and that which We enjoined upon Abraham, Moses, and Jesus[9]: “You should uphold the religion and make no divisions therein.” What you are calling the polytheists to is very hard for them. Allah chooses for Himself whom He wills and guides to Himself who turns to Him. ——— [9] This verse is naming the five greatest prophets of Allah (the prophets of the firm resolve): Noah, Abraham, Moses, Jesus, and Muhammad. See also 33:7.

They did not become divided except after the knowledge had come to them[10], out of envious rivalry between them. Were it not for a prior decree from your Lord until an appointed term[11], a decisive judgment would already have been passed between them. Indeed, those who inherited the Scripture[12] after them are in disquieting doubt about it. ——— [10] No community split into factions except after receiving the knowledge given to them by their prophet, out of transgression and obstinacy towards the truth. [11] That He will delay their punishment to the judgment Day. [12] i.e., the Jews and the Christians.

Therefore call to that [religion, O Prophet] and keep to the straight path as you are commanded, and do not follow their desires, and say, “I believe in every Scripture that Allah has sent down, and I have been commanded to judge fairly among you. Allah is our Lord and your Lord. We have our deeds and you have your deeds[13]. Let there be no [further] argument between us and you[14]; Allah will bring us together, and to Him is the final return.” ——— [13] i.e., the consequences thereof. [14] Since the truth and falsehood have become clear, but those who refuse the truth do so only out of obstinacy or pursuing worldly interests.

As for those who argue about [the religion of] Allah after it has been accepted [by many][15], their argument carries no weight with their Lord; they have incurred [His] wrath, and for them there will be severe punishment. ——— [15] In an attempt to turn the believers away from His religion.

It is Allah Who has sent down the Book with the truth and justice. How could you know that perhaps the Hour is near?

Those who disbelieve in it seek to hasten it[16], but those who believe are apprehensive about it and know that it is the truth. Indeed, those who dispute concerning the Hour have gone far astray. ——— [16] They challenged the Prophet (ﷺ) to bring the Hour on them immediately without delay.

Allah is Kind to His slaves; He gives provision to whom He wills, and He is the All-Powerful, the All-Mighty.

Whoever seeks the harvest of the Hereafter, We will increase for him his harvest; and whoever seeks the harvest of this world, We will give him thereof, but in the Hereafter he will have no share.

Or do they have partners who have prescribed for them a religion that is not sanctioned by Allah? If it had not been for a prior decisive decree, the matter would have been judged between them. And for the wrongdoers there will surely be a painful punishment.

You will see the wrongdoers apprehensive about what they have earned, which will inevitably befall them. But those who believe and do righteous deeds will be in meadows of the Gardens. They will have whatever they wish with their Lord; that is the great bounty.

That is the glad tidings that Allah gives to His slaves who believe and do righteous deeds. Say, “I do not ask you any reward for it, except kindness because of our kinship[17].” Whoever does a good deed, We will increase its merit for him. Indeed, Allah is All-Forgiving, Most Appreciative. ——— [17] Or true love for Allah by pursuing deeds that bring you close to Allah, or showing love and respect to the immediate household of the Prophet (ﷺ).

Or do they say, “He has fabricated lies about Allah[18]!”? But if Allah willed, He could seal up your heart[19]. Allah wipes out falsehood and establishes the truth by His Words. Indeed, He is All-Knowing of what is in the hearts. ——— [18] While they are certain of his truthfulness and honesty. [19] Allah could seal up the whole message by sealing up his heart; then he would not understand anything, so the whole message would then stop if He so willed.

It is He Who accepts repentance from His slaves and pardons sins, and He knows all what you do.

He responds to [the supplication of] those who believe and do righteous deeds and increases their reward out of His bounty. But for the disbelievers, there will be a severe punishment.

If Allah were to give abundant provision to [all] His slaves, they would transgress on earth; but He sends down what He wills in due measure. Indeed, He is All-Aware and All-Seeing of His slaves.

It is He Who sends down rain after they have lost hope, and spreads His mercy. He is the Guardian, the Praiseworthy.

Among His signs is the creation of the heavens and earth, and what He spread between them of all living creatures. And He is Most Capable of bringing them together whenever He wills.

Whatever calamity befalls you is because of what your own hands have earned, and He overlooks much.

You cannot escape [Him] on earth, and you do not have besides Allah any protector or helper.

And among His signs are the ships, sailing in the sea like mountains.

If He wills, He can still the wind, leaving the ships motionless on its surface. Indeed, there are signs in this for everyone who is steadfast and grateful.

Or He can capsize them[20] for what they committed, but He pardons much, ——— [20] i.e., He could sink the ships by violent winds.

then those who dispute concerning Our signs will know that they have no escape.

Whatever you have been given is but a short enjoyment of the life of this world, but what is with Allah is better and more lasting for those who believe and put their trust in their Lord;

and those who avoid major sins and shameful deeds, and when they are angered, they forgive;

and those who respond to their Lord and establish prayer, and conduct their affairs by mutual consultation, and spend out of what We have provided for them;

and those who retaliate fairly when oppressed[21]. ——— [21] Restoring their rights to preserve their honor and dignity, especially if the oppressor does not deserve remission, or it does not serve any interest.

The retribution of harm is its equivalent harm, but whoever pardons and seeks reconciliation, his reward is with Allah. Indeed, He does not like the wrongdoers.

But whoever retaliates after being wronged, there is no blame on them.

Blame is only on those who wrong people and transgress in the land without right. For such there will be a painful punishment.

But whoever observes patience and forgives, it is indeed a matter of great resolve[22]. ——— [22] On the part of those seeking Allah’s reward; none can be guided to this except those whom Allah blessed with great merit.

Whoever Allah causes to stray, he will have no protector thereafter. You will see the wrongdoers, when they see the punishment, saying, “Is there any way to go back?”

You will see them exposed to the Fire in a state of abject humiliation, looking with a stealthy glance. Those who believed will say, “The real losers are those who have lost themselves and their families on the Day of Resurrection.” Indeed, the wrongdoers will suffer an everlasting punishment.

They will have no protectors to help them against Allah; whoever Allah causes to stray, there is no way [to guidance] for him.

Respond to your Lord before there comes from Allah a Day that cannot be averted. On that Day you will have no refuge, nor will you be able to deny [your sins].

But if they turn away, We have not sent you as their keeper; your duty is only to convey the message. If We give man a taste of Our mercy, he exults in it; but when a calamity befalls them because of what their hands have sent forth, then man becomes totally ungrateful.

To Allah belongs the dominion of the heavens and earth. He creates what He wills; He grants females to whom He wills and grants males to whom He wills,

or grants them males and females; and He leaves whom He wills barren. Indeed, He is All-Knowing, Most Capable.

It is not for a human being that Allah should speak to him except through revelation or from behind a veil, or by sending an angel-messenger to reveal what He wills by His permission. Indeed, He is Most High, All-Wise.

Likewise, We have revealed to you a revelation by Our command. You knew nothing of the Scripture or matters of faith, but We have made it [i.e., the Qur’an] a light by which We guide whom We will of Our slaves. And you are truly leading people to a straight path,

the path of Allah, to Whom belongs all that is in the heavens and all that is on earth. Indeed, to Allah return all matters.

Hā Mīm[1]. ——— [1] See footnote 2:1.

By the clear Book,

Indeed, We have made it an Arabic Qur’an so that you may understand,

and it is in the Master Book[2] with us, highly esteemed, full of wisdom. ——— [2] i.e., the Preserved Tablet (al-Lawh al-Mahfūz).

Should We then turn the Reminder[3] away from you simply because you are a transgressing people? ——— [3] i.e., the Qur’an.

How many a prophet did We send to the earlier peoples!

No prophet ever came to them except that they ridiculed him.

So We destroyed them, although they were greater in might than these [Pagans][4], and the stories of the earlier nations have already been related[5]. ——— [4] Of the Quraysh. [5] Such as the people of Noah, Lot, Shu’ayb and other nations who were destroyed.

If you ask them, “Who created the heavens and earth?”, they will surely say, “The All-Mighty, the All-Knowing created them.”

It is He Who spread out the earth for you, and made therein pathways for you, so that you may find your way.

And it is He Who sends down rain from the sky in due measure, by which We revive dead land. This is how you will be brought forth [from the grave].

And it is He Who created all pair of things[6], and made for you ships and animals on which you ride, ——— [6] Such as male and female, sweet and bitter, day and night, mountains and plains, hot and cold, light and darkness.

so that you may settle yourselves on their backs, then remember the blessings of your Lord when you have settled thereupon and say, “Glory be to Him Who has subjected this for us, for we could not have done it by ourselves[7]. ——— [7] Lit., "made it a companion" or "made it compatible."

It is to our Lord that we will surely return.”

Yet they ascribe to Him some of His slaves as offspring[8]. Indeed, man is clearly ungrateful. ——— [8] By falsely claiming that Allah has a son or daughters, which are the allegations of disbelievers and polytheists.

Has He taken for Himself daughters from what He has created, and favored you with sons?

When one of them is given tidings of [a baby girl] the like of which he ascribes to the Most Compassionate, his face darkens as he suppresses his rage.

Or [do they ascribe to Allah] one who is brought up in adornments and is not able to present a clear argument in disputation?

They regard the angels, who are slaves of the Most Compassionate, as female. Did they witness their creation? Their testimony will be written, and they will be questioned!

They say, “If the Most Compassionate had willed, we would not have worshiped them.” They have no knowledge of that; they do nothing but conjecture.

Or have We given them a Book before this [Qur’an], to which they are holding fast?

They rather say, “We found our forefathers on a path, and we are seeking guidance in their footsteps.”

Likewise, We never sent any warner to a town before you except that its affluent ones said, “We found our forefathers on a path, and we are following their footsteps.”

[The warner] said, “Even if I bring you a better guidance than what you have found your forefathers upon?” They said, “We totally reject what you [prophets] have been sent with.”

So We took revenge on them; see what was the end of the deniers!

And [remember] when Abraham said to his father and his people, “I disown all that you worship,

except the One Who created me; He will surely guide me.”

And he made it[9] a lasting word among his descendants, so that they may return [to Allah]. ——— [9] i.e., his testimony of faith that none has the right to be worshiped except Allah.

However, I let these [Makkans] and their forefathers[10] enjoy their lives, until there came to them the truth and a clear messenger[11]. ——— [10] i.e., the descendants of Abraham (ﷺ). [11] i.e., Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ).

But when the truth came to them, they said, “This is magic, and we definitely reject it.”

And they said, “Why was this Qur’an not sent down to a great man from one of the two towns[12]?” ——— [12] i.e., Makkah and its neighboring town; Tā’if.

Is it they who distribute the mercy of your Lord? It is We Who have distributed their livelihood among them in the life of this world, and have raised some of them above others in ranks, so that they may serve one another. But the mercy of your Lord is better than what they accumulate.

Were it not that all people might become a single community [of disbelievers][13], We would have given those who disbelieve in the Most Compassionate One houses of sliver roofs and staircases to ascend, ——— [13] Assuming that Allah’s generosity to them was a sign of His approval.

and their houses having [silver] doors and couches on which they recline,

and [golden] ornaments. But all of these are mere enjoyments of the life of this world, and the Hereafter with your Lord is [only] for those who fear Allah.

Whoever turns away from the Reminder of the Most Compassionate [i.e., the Qur’an], We assign to him a devil to be his close associate,

who will surely avert them from the [right] way, while they think that they are rightly guided.

Then when he comes to Us, he will say [to his devil associate], “I wish you were as distant from me as the East and West. What a terrible associate [you were]!”

[They will be told], “As you have done wrong, it will not benefit you Today that you are sharing the punishment[14].” ——— [14] In the life of this world, it is comforting to many people when they hear that others also went through similar trials. However, this will not be the case on Judgment Day, as everyone will be desperate to save themselves, regardless of what happens to others.

Can you make the deaf hear, or guide the blind or the one who is clearly misguided?

Either We take you away [in death], We will surely exact retribution upon them,

or We will show you what We warned them of, for We have full power over them.

So hold fast to what is revealed to you. You are indeed on a straight path.

This [Qur’an] is surely a glory[15] for you and your people, and you will [all] be questioned. ——— [15] i.e., an honor or a reminder.

Ask those of Our messengers whom We sent before you: Did We appoint gods to be worshiped besides the Most Compassionate?

Indeed, We sent Moses with Our signs to Pharaoh and his courtiers, so he said: “I am a messenger of the Lord of the worlds.”

But as soon as he came to them with Our signs, they laughed at them.

Every sign We showed them was greater than the one before it[16], and We seized them with punishment[17] so that they may turn in repentance. ——— [16] i.e., the bright hand and the staff turning into a serpent. See 20:17-22. [17] i.e., the famine, scarcity of crops, floods, locusts, lice, frogs, and blood. See 7:130-133.

They said, “O magician, call upon your Lord for us, by virtue of the covenant He has made with you[18]; we will surely accept guidance.” ——— [18] See 7:134.

But as soon We removed the punishment from them, they broke their promise.

Pharaoh proclaimed to his people, saying, “O my people, does not the kingdom of Egypt belong to me, and these streams[19] flowing at my feet? Do you not see? ——— [19] i.e., branches of the Nile River.

Or am I not better than this contemptible one who can hardly express himself[20]? ——— [20] Moses had a speech impediment prior to his mission. However, when he became a prophet he asked Allah to remove his impediment, and his prayer was answered. See 20:25-36.

Then why are there not sent down upon him bracelets of gold or come with him angels to support him?”

Thus he made a fool of his people and they obeyed him. They were indeed a wicked people.

When they angered Us, We exacted Our retribution and drowned them all.

Thus We made them a precedent and a lesson[21] for the later generations. ——— [21] A precedent for those who do not learn any lesson from their example, and a lesson for those who are keen to learn a lesson.

When the example of the son of Mary was given, your people laughed and jeered[22], ——— [22] When 21:98 was revealed, warning the pagans that all what they worship besides Allah will be in Hell, a poet who was a staunch enemy of Islam, Abdullah ibn az-Ziba‘ra, along with other pagans jeered and laughed arguing that Jesus will be in Hell as well! The Prophet (ﷺ) replied that the verse was talking exclusively about idols, adding that Jesus himself did not ask to be worshiped. Verse 21:101 was later revealed in support of the Prophet declaring that they are exempted.

and they said, “Are Our gods better or he[23]?” They only mentioned him to you for the sake of argument. They are indeed a contentious people. ——— [23] i.e., Jesus.

He was only a slave whom We[24] favored and made him an example for the Children of Israel. ——— [24] i.e., Allah Almighty.

If We willed, We could [destroy you all and] replace you with angels, succeeding you on earth.

And he [i.e., Jesus] will be a sign of the Hour; so do not have doubt about it and follow me[25]. This is a straight path. ——— [25] i.e., the Prophet (ﷺ).

Do not let Satan turn you away [from the straight path], for he is your sworn enemy.

When Jesus came with clear signs, he said, “I have come to you with wisdom, and to clarify to you some of that concerning which you differ; so fear Allah and obey me.

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

But the factions differed among themselves [about Jesus]; so woe to the wrongdoers from the punishment of a painful Day!

Are they waiting except for the Hour to come upon them by surprise when they least expect it?

On that Day, close friends will become enemies to one another, except the righteous,

[It will be said to them], “O My slaves, there is no fear for you Today, nor will you grieve,

[those] who believed in Our verses and submitted [to Us as Muslims].

Enter Paradise, you and your companions[26], rejoicing in bliss.” ——— [26] i.e., your spouses, children, friends, etc.

Golden trays and cups will be passed around among them; there will be all that souls desire and eyes delight in, and you will abide therein forever.

That is Paradise which you will inherit for what you used to do.

You will have therein abundant fruit[27] to eat from. ——— [27] It also means everything delicious.

Indeed, the wicked will be in the punishment of Hell forever.

It will not be lightened for them, and they will remain therein in utter despair.

We did not wrong them, but they themselves were the wrongdoers.

They will cry out, “O Mālik[28], let your Lord put an end to us!” He will say, “You are here to stay.” ——— [28] The chief keeper of Hell.

We surely brought you the truth, but most of you were averse to the truth.

Have they devised a plan[29]? We too have devised a plan. ——— [29] Against the Prophet (ﷺ); it is referring to the pagans of Makkah.

Do they think that We do not hear their secret talks and private counsels? Yes indeed, and Our angel-messengers are with them recording everything.

Say, “If the Most Compassionate truly had a son, I would be the first of [his] worshipers[30].” ——— [30] Or I would be the first to approve it, as I obey Him in everything; whereas I deny that, for He has no offspring.

Glory be to the Lord of the heavens and earth, Lord of the Throne, far above what they ascribe [to Him].

So leave them to indulge in falsehood and amuse themselves until they meet their Day that they are promised.

It is He Who is God in the heaven and God on earth, and He is the All-Wise, the All-Knowing.

Blessed is He to Whom belongs the dominion of the heavens and earth and all that is between them. With Him is the knowledge of the Hour, and to Him you will be returned.

Those whom they supplicate[31] besides Him have no power to intercede, except those who testify to the truth knowingly[32]. ——— [31] i.e., worship. [32] i.e., except those who testify knowingly that none is worthy of worship except Allah, such as Jesus, Ezra, the angels, etc.

If you ask them who created them[33], they will surely say, “Allah.” How are they then deluded? ——— [33] i.e., those who associate partners with Allah.

And [Allah acknowledges] his saying[34], “O my Lord, these are a people who do not believe.” ——— [34] i.e., Allah knows the complaint of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) about his people.

So turn away from them and say, “Peace[35].” They will come to know. ——— [35] Safety and security, i.e., “I will not harm you.” This was before granting permission to the Prophet (ﷺ) for armed struggle.

Hā Mīm[1]. ——— [1] See footnote 2:1.

By the clear Book.

Indeed, We sent it[2] down on a blessed night, We have been warning about. ——— [2] The revelation of the Qur’an started on the Night of Decree (al-Qadr) in the month of Ramadān, the 9th month of the lunar calendar. The Night of Decree is better than one thousand months. See (97:1 and 2:185).

On that night, every matter of wisdom is determined[3] ——— [3] The angels record and descend with whatever Allah has decreed for the coming year, according to what is inscribed in the Preserved Tablet.

by Our command. We have always sent messengers.

as a mercy from your Lord. He is indeed the All-Hearing, the All-Knowing,

Lord of the heavens and earth and all that is between them, if only you had sure faith.

None has the right to be worshiped except Him, Who gives life and causes death – your Lord, and the Lord of your forefathers.

But they are in doubt, amusing themselves.

So wait for a day when the sky will bring forth a visible smoke[4], ——— [4] Referring to the drought that affected the pagans of Makkah severely, so they came to the Prophet (ﷺ), begging him to supplicate Allah to remove the affliction from them.

that will overwhelm the people. This is a painful punishment!

[They will cry,] “Our Lord, remove the punishment from us; we will surely believe!”

How will they take heed, when a messenger who explained things clearly has already come to them?

Then they turned away from him and said, “[He is] a madman, taught by others.”

We shall hold the punishment back for a while, but you will surely return [to disbelief].

On the Day when We seize [them] with the greatest assault, We will surely exact retribution.

Indeed, We tested the people of Pharaoh before them, when a noble messenger came to them,

[saying], “Hand over to me the slaves of Allah[5]. I am indeed a trustworthy messenger to you, ——— [5] i.e., the Children of Israel.

and do not be arrogant towards Allah. I have certainly come to you with clear proof.

And I certainly seek refuge with my Lord and your Lord, lest you stone me to death[6]. ——— [6] Or assault me with your tongues.

If you do not believe me, then leave me alone.”

Then he called upon his Lord, “These are wicked people”.

[Allah said], “Leave along with My slaves by night; you will surely be pursued.

And leave the sea parted[7]; for they are surely an army destined to drown.” ——— [7] i.e., calm and still, in order that Pharaoh and his soldiers would follow you and be drowned.

[Imagine] how many gardens and springs they left behind,

and crops and splendid mansions,

and luxuries they used to rejoice therein.

So it was; and We made another people inherit all that.

Neither the heaven nor earth wept for them, nor were they given any respite.

Thus did We save the Children of Israel from the humiliating punishment,

from Pharaoh. He was indeed arrogant who transgressed all bounds.

We chose them[8] knowingly over all other peoples. ——— [8] We chose the Children of Israel over all other peoples of their time for their numerous prophets.

And We gave them signs in which there was a clear test.

Indeed, these [Makkans] say,

“There is nothing after our first death, and we will not be resurrected,

then bring back our forefathers if you are truthful.”

Are they better [in power] or the people of Tubba‘[9] and those who were before them? We destroyed them, for they were truly wicked[10]. ——— [9] i.e., the people of Sheba. [10] Tubba’ al-Himyari was a righteous Yemeni king of ancient times whose people persisted in disbelief and were destroyed; nonetheless, they were more powerful and superior to the pagans of Makkah.

We have not created the heavens and earth and all that is between them for amusement.

We have not created them except for a true purpose, but most of them do not know.

Indeed, the Day of Judgment is the time appointed for them all,

the Day when no patron[11] will avail another in the least, nor will they be helped, ——— [11] i.e., protector, close associate, kith and kin, etc.

except those to whom Allah shows mercy. He is indeed the All-Mighty, the Most Merciful.

Indeed, the tree of Zaqqūm

will be the food of the sinful,

like molten metal that will boil in their bellies

like the boiling of scalding water.

[It will be said], “Seize him and drag him into the midst of the Blazing Fire.

Then pour over his head the torment of scalding water.”

“Taste this. You are surely the mighty and honorable![12] ——— [12] Abu Jahl, the chief of pagans in Makkah, replied to the warning of punishment in the Hereafter by saying, “How can I be punished when I am the mighty and honorable one!” So Allah killed him in the Battle of Badr and humiliated him, and revealed this verse. He will be taunted with these words in Hell as a reminder of his own words and additional torment.

This is what you [all] used to doubt.”

Indeed, the righteous will be in a safe place,

in gardens and springs,

wearing fine silk and heavy brocade, facing one another.

So it will be, and We will marry them to maidens with gorgeous eyes.

They will call therein for every kind of fruit, safe and secure.

They will not taste death therein except the first death, and He will protect them from the punishment of the Blazing Fire,

as a grace from your Lord. That is the supreme triumph.

We have made this [Qur’an] easy in your own language, so that they may take heed.

Then wait; they too are waiting.

Hā Mīm[1]. ——— [1] See footnote 2:1.

The revelation of this Book is from Allah, the All-Mighty, the All-Wise.

Indeed, there are signs in the heavens and earth for the believers;

and in your creation and the living creatures that He spreads out, there are signs for people who are certain in faith.

And in the alternation of the night and day, the provision that Allah sends down from the sky[2], reviving thereby the earth after its death, and directing of the winds, there are signs for people of understanding. ——— [2] i.e., the rain.

These are the verses of Allah that We recite to you in truth. What message will they believe in after Allah and His verses?

Woe to every sinful liar,

who hears the verses of Allah being recited to him, yet he persists in his arrogance, as if he did not hear them. So give him tidings of a painful punishment.

When he comes to know anything of Our verses, he takes them in ridicule. For them there will be a humiliating punishment.

Behind them is Hell; neither their gains nor those whom they took besides Allah as protectors will avail them anything, and for them there will be a great punishment.

This [Qur’an] is guidance, and for those who disbelieve in the verses of their Lord, there will be a scourge of painful torment.

It is Allah Who has subjected for you the sea, so that the ships may sail on it by His command, and so that you may seek His bounty, and so that you may be grateful.

And He has subjected for you all that is in the heavens and all that is on earth; all is from Him. Indeed, there are signs in this for people who reflect.

Tell those who believe to forgive those who do not fear Allah’s days [of retribution], so that He may recompense each people for what they used to do[3]. ——— [3] In the Hereafter, those who forgive will be rewarded, and who earned evil will be punished. This was at the outset of the Prophet’s mission before the permission of Jihad.

Whoever does a righteous deed, it is for his own benefit; and whoever does an evil deed, it is to his own loss. Then to your Lord you will be returned.

Indeed, We gave the Children of Israel the Scripture, wisdom, and prophethood; provided them with good things; and favored them above all others[4]. ——— [4] By sending them numerous prophets from among the descendants of Abraham.

We gave them clear directions in matters [of religion]. They did not differ except after the knowledge had come to them out of transgression against one another[5]. Indeed, your Lord will judge between them on the Day of Resurrection concerning their differences. ——— [5] No community split into factions until there came to them a prophet with divine knowledge; some of them believed and most of them disbelieved out of arrogance and pursuit of worldly benefits.

Then We put you [O Prophet] on a clear way of the religion; so follow it and do not follow the desires of those who have no knowledge.

They cannot avail you at all against Allah. Indeed, the wrongdoers are protectors of one another, whereas Allah is the Protector of the righteous.

This [Qur’an] is an insight for people; a guidance and mercy for people who are certain in faith.

Do those who commit evil deeds think that We will make them equal to those who believe and do righteous deeds, in this life and after their death? How poorly they judge!

Allah created the heavens and earth for a true purpose, and so that every soul may be recompensed for what it has earned, and they will not be wronged.

Have you seen the one who took his whims as his god, and Allah caused him to stray despite having knowledge[6], and sealed up his hearing and heart, and put a cover over his sight? Who can guide him after Allah? Will you not then take heed? ——— [6] Or Allah’s eternal knowledge of that person's preference for his own inclinations over divine guidance.

And they say, “There is nothing but our life of this world: we die and we live[7], and nothing causes us to die except time.” They have no knowledge of that; they only speculate. ——— [7] i.e., some of us die without return, and others are born replacing them.

When Our clear verses are recited to them, their only argument is to say: “Bring our forefathers back, if you are truthful.”

Say, “It is Allah Who gives you life then causes you to die, then He will gather you on the Day of Resurrection about which there is no doubt, but most people do not know.”

To Allah belongs the dominion of the heavens and earth. On the day when the Hour will take place, the people of falsehood will be in total loss.

You will see every community on its knees. Every community will be summoned to its book [of deeds], “Today you will be recompensed for what you used to do.

This is Our Record that tells the truth about you, for We[8] used to record all what you used to do.” ——— [8] By Our angel scribes.

As for those who believed and did righteous deeds, their Lord will admit them into His mercy. That is indeed the clear triumph.

But those who disbelieved [will be asked], “When My verses were recited to you, did you not show arrogance and were a wicked people?

Whenever it was said, ‘Allah’s promise is certainly true and there is no doubt about the Hour,’ you said, ‘We do not know what the Hour is; We think it is just an assumption, and we are not convinced.’”

The evil consequences of their deeds will become apparent to them, and they will be overwhelmed by what they used to ridicule.

It will be said, “Today We will forget you as you forgot the meeting of this Day of yours. Your abode will be the Fire, and you will have no helpers.

That is because you took Allah’s verses in ridicule, and were deluded by the life of this world.” So Today they will not be taken out of it, nor will they be asked to make amends.

So all praise be to Allah, Lord of the heavens, Lord of the earth, and Lord of the worlds.

To Him belongs all supremacy in the heavens and earth, and He is the All-Mighty, the All-Wise.

Hā Mīm[1]. ——— [1] See footnote 2:1.

The revelation of this Book is from Allah, the All-Mighty, the All-Wise.

We have not created the heavens and earth and all that is between them except for a true purpose and for a set term, yet those who disbelieve turn away from what they have been warned of.

Say, “Tell me about those whom you invoke besides Allah; show me what they have created on the earth, or do they have a share in the heavens? Bring me a scripture revealed before this, or some remnant of knowledge, if you are truthful.”

Who is more astray than one who invokes besides Allah those who will not respond to him until the Day of Resurrection, and are in fact unaware of their invocations?

When such people are gathered, they will become their enemies and will reject their worship.

When Our clear verses are recited to them, those who disbelieve say about the truth when it comes to them, “This is clear magic.”

Or do they say, “He has fabricated it”? Say, “If I did fabricate it, there is nothing you can do to protect me against Allah. He knows best that in which you indulge[2]. He is Sufficient as a witness between me and you, and He is the All-Forgiving, the Most Merciful.” ——— [2] Of false accusations and slander about Qu’ran and Prophet (ﷺ).

Say, “I am not the first of the messengers[3], nor do I know what will happen to me or to you. I only follow what is revealed to me, and I am not but a clear warner.” ——— [3] To be surprised at my message, nor have I brought something different from the previous messengers.

Say, “What do you think, if this [Qur’an] is really from Allah and yet you reject it, and a witness[4] from the Children of Israel has testified in its favor and believed[5], whereas you persist in arrogance[6]? Indeed, Allah does not guide the wrongdoing people.” ——— [4] Such as Abdullah ibn Salām, a Jewish scholar, who accepted Islam when the Prophet (ﷺ) emigrated from Makkah to Medina. [5] Based on information in the Torah testifying his message. [6] The estimated conclusion could be "...would you not then be unjust and wrongdoer people?"

The disbelievers say about the believers, “If this [faith] were something good, they[7] would not have believed in it before us.” Now since they are not guided by it, they will say, “This is an old fabrication.” ——— [7] These poor and powerless individuals and slaves who embraced Islam.

And before it was the Scripture of Moses a guide and a mercy. This Book is a confirmation of it, in the Arabic language, in order to warn those who do wrong and give glad tidings to those who do good.

Indeed, those who say, “Our Lord is Allah”, then remain steadfast, they will have no fear, nor will they grieve.

They are the people of Paradise; abiding therein forever, as a reward for what they used to do.

We have enjoined upon man kindness to his parents. His mother bore him in hardship and gave birth to him in hardship, and his bearing and weaning take thirty months, until when he reaches full maturity and reaches forty years, he says, “My Lord, inspire me to be grateful to Your favors which You blessed me and my parents with, and to do righteous deeds that will make You pleased; and make my offspring righteous. Indeed, I repent to you, and I am one of the Muslims [submitting to You].”

Such are those from whom We will accept their best deeds and overlook their misdeeds. They will be among the people of Paradise – a true promise that they were given.

But some say to their parents, “Fie upon you both! Are you warning me that I will be resurrected, even though many generations have passed before me [yet none was resurrected]?” His parents cry seeking Allah’s help, “Woe to you! Believe! The promise of Allah is true.” But he says, “This is nothing but ancient fables.”

Such are those upon whom the punishment has become binding, as happened to communities of Jinn and men before them, for they were truly losers.

Everyone will be ranked according to what they did, so that He may recompense them in full for their deeds, and none will be wronged.

On the Day when the disbelievers will be brought to the Fire, [they will be told], “You have exhausted your share of pleasures in the life of the world, and you have enjoyed them. Today you will be recompensed with a disgracing punishment for your arrogance in the land without any right and for your rebellion.

Remember [Hūd][8] the brother of ‘Ād, when he warned his people in the [land of] sand dunes[9] – and indeed there came warners before him and after him – [saying], “Worship none but Allah. Indeed, I fear for you the punishment of a horrible day.” ——— [8] i.e., Prophet Hūd. [9] The people of ‘Ād were the inhabitants of the sand dunes (sand hills) in the southern part of Arabia.

They said, “Have you come to turn us away from our gods? Then bring us what you are threatening us with, if you are truthful.”

He said, “The knowledge [of its coming] is with Allah alone. I only convey to you the message that I have been sent with, but I see that you are an ignorant people.”

When they saw it as a cloud approaching their valleys, they said, “This is a cloud bringing us rain.” [Hūd said,] No, it is what you sought to hasten[10] – a wind bearing a painful punishment. ——— [10] When you challenged me by saying, “Then bring us what you are threatening us with”. (See 46:22 of this chapter).

It will destroy everything by the command of its Lord. And they became such that there was nothing left visible except [ruins of] their dwellings. This is how We recompense the wicked people.

We had given them the power to an extent that We have not given you [O Makkans], and We gave them[11] hearing, sight, and hearts. But neither their hearing, nor their sight, nor their hearts availed them in the least, for they used to reject the signs of Allah. And they were overwhelmed by what they used to ridicule. ——— [11] i.e., the people of Prophet Hūd.

We have certainly destroyed some towns around you and had given them numerous signs, so that they might return [from disbelief].

Why is it that they were not helped by those [idols] whom they took as gods besides Allah so that they might bring them closer to Him[12]? Rather, they were lost from them. Such was [the outcome of] their falsehood and the lies they used to fabricate. ——— [12] As they used to claim.

And [remember] when We sent to you a group of jinn to listen to the Qur’an. When they heard it, they said [to one another], “Listen attentively.” Then when it was over, they returned to their people as warners.

They said, “O our people, we have heard a scripture that has been sent down after Moses, confirming what came before it; it guides to the truth and to a straight path.

O our people, respond to the one[13] who is calling to Allah, and believe in him; He will forgive some of your sins and protect you from a painful punishment. ——— [13] i.e., Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ).

And whoever does not respond to the one who is calling to Allah will have no escape on earth, nor will he have any protectors against Him; such people are clearly misguided.”

Do they not see that Allah, Who created the heavens and earth, and was not wearied by creating them[14], is able to bring the dead to life? Yes indeed! He is the Most Capable of all things. ——— [14] Or did not fail in creating them.

On the Day when the disbelievers are exposed to the Fire, [they will be asked], “Is this not the truth?” They will say, “Yes indeed, by our Lord.” He will say, “Then taste the punishment for your disbelief.”

So be patient, as the Messengers of Firm Resolve[15] were patient, and do not seek to hasten [punishment] for them. On the Day when they see what they were warned of, it will be as if they had only stayed [in this world] for an hour of a day[16]. This is a warning. Will anyone be destroyed except the rebellious people? ——— [15] They are Noah, Abraham, Moses, Jesus, and Muhammad (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon them all). [16] i.e., for a short period of time.

Those who disbelieve and prevent others from Allah’s way, He will render their deeds void.

As for those who believe, do righteous deeds, and believe in what has been sent down to Muhammad – which is the truth from their Lord – He will absolve them of their sins and set their condition right.

That is because the disbelievers follow falsehood, whereas the believers follow the truth from their Lord. This is how Allah explains to people their comparisons[1]. ——— [1] So that each party may know the outcome of its choice.

When you encounter the disbelievers [in battle], strike [their] necks until you have thoroughly subdued them, then bind the captives firmly[2]. Later [you may free them] as a favor[3] or for ransom until the war comes to an end[4]. That [is Our command], if Allah had willed, He could have subjected them to punishment, but [He ordered you to fight] to test some of you by means of others. Those who are killed in the way of Allah, He will never render their deeds void. ——— [2] i.e., seize those remaining fighters as captives. [3] i.e., release them without taking any ransom. [4] lit., until the war lays down its burdens, its armor.

He will guide them, and will set their condition right,

and He will admit them to Paradise, which He has already made known to them[5]. ——— [5] The believers will recognize their mansions in Paradise just like they recognize their homes in the life of this world.

O you who believe, if you stand up for Allah, He will help you and make your steps firm[6]. ——— [6] i.e., if you stand up for Allah’s cause, His religion, and for His Prophet with your life and wealth, He will make your feet firm on the battlefield and grant you victory.

As for those who disbelieve, how wretched will be their state! And He will render their deeds void.

That is because they detest what Allah has sent down, so He rendered their deeds worthless.

Have they not traveled through the land to see what was the end of those before them? Allah destroyed them utterly[7], and a similar end awaits the disbelievers. ——— [7] i.e., Allah destroyed them and all their belongings of wealth, property, and offspring.

That is because Allah is the Protector of the believers whereas the disbelievers have no protector.

Allah will surely admit those who believe and do righteous deeds to gardens under which rivers flow. As for those who disbelieve, they enjoy themselves [in this world] and they eat as cattle eat[8]; their final abode is the Fire. ——— [8] The disbelievers enjoy their life while they are oblivious of their consequences in the Hereafter, just like the cattle that graze in the pasture not knowing that they will probably be slaughtered soon.

How many towns We destroyed that were more powerful than your town that expelled you, and there was none to help them!

Are those who possess clear proof from their Lord like those whose evil deeds are made appealing to them and who follow their own desires?

The likeness of Paradise promised to the righteous is that of a [garden which has] rivers of fresh water[9]; rivers of milk the taste of which never changes; rivers of wine delicious to drink; and rivers of pure honey. They will have therein all kinds of fruit and forgiveness from their Lord. Can they be like those who will abide in the Fire forever, and will be given boiling water to drink that tears apart their intestines? ——— [9] Neither stagnant nor polluted.

Among these [hypocrites] are some who listen to you [O Prophet], but when they leave your presence, they say to those who were given knowledge[10], “What did he just say[11]?” It is they whose hearts Allah has sealed up and who follow their desires. ——— [10] From among the companions of the Prophet (ﷺ). [11] In an ignoring and indifferent manner.

As for those who follow guidance, He increases them in guidance and blesses them with righteousness[12]. ——— [12] Taqwā: It means piety, fear and consciousness of Allah, and care to avoid displeasing Him.

Are they but waiting for the Hour to come upon them by surprise? Already [some of] its signs have appeared[13]. What good will it do them to take heed when it actually befalls them? ——— [13] Such as the coming of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), and the splitting of the moon after the pagans of Makkah challenged the Prophet (ﷺ) which was fulfilled before their eyes, yet they denied that miracle.

Then know [O Prophet] that none has the right to be worshiped except Allah, and seek forgiveness for your sins[14] and for the [the sins of] the believing men and women, for Allah knows your movements and your places of rest. ——— [14] See footnote 40:55. Since the Prophet (ﷺ) is urged to seek forgiveness, the believers are far greater in need of seeking Allah’s forgiveness.

Those who believe say, “If only a Chapter were sent down [about fighting]? But when a precise Chapter is sent down and fighting[15] is mentioned therein, you see those in whose hearts is sickness looking at you like someone who is about to die. It would have been better for them[16] ——— [15] The believers longed for a Qur’anic revelation that would give them permission to fight their enemies. [16] It could also mean “Woe to them!” if disconnected from the next verse.

to obey and say good words. Once the fighting was ordained, it would be better for them to be truthful to Allah.

Then if you turn away[17], what else can be expected but that you will spread corruption in the land and sever your ties of kinship[18]? ——— [17] From Islam or from struggling in the way of Allah. [18] As you used to do in the pre-Islamic period of ignorance.

These are the ones whom Allah has cursed and has made them deaf and blinded their sight.

Do they not reflect upon the Qur’an, or are there locks upon their hearts?

Indeed, those who turn back [to disbelief] after guidance had become clear to them, it is Satan who has tempted them and deceived them with false hopes of a long life.

That is because they say to those[19] who hate what Allah has sent down, “We will obey you in some matters[20].” But Allah knows their secret schemes. ——— [19] i.e., the Jews of Madīnah. [20] i.e., your hostility to the Prophet (ﷺ) and hindering people from participation in Jihad.

How will they feel when the angels take their souls, striking their faces and their backs?

That is because they follow what incurs Allah’s wrath and they hate what pleases Him, so He will render their deeds worthless.

Do those in whose hearts is sickness think that Allah will never expose their malice?

If We willed, We could show them to you [O Prophet], so you would recognize them by their faces, but you will surely recognize them by the manner of their speech. And Allah knows all what you do.

We will certainly test you so as to reveal those of you who struggle [in Allah’s way] and remain patient, and We will test the sincerity of your assertions.

Those who disbelieve and prevent others from Allah’s way, and oppose the Messenger after guidance had become clear to them, they will never harm Allah in the least, and He will render their deeds worthless.

O you who believe, obey Allah and obey the Messenger, and do not cause your deeds to be nullified.

Those who disbelieve and prevent others from Allah’s way, and then die as disbelievers, Allah will never forgive them.

Do not lose heart or call for peace, for you will have the upper hand and Allah is with you. And He will never detract [the reward of] your deeds.

The life of this world is only play and amusement. But if you believe and fear Allah, He will give you your rewards, and He does not ask you for all your wealth[21]. ——— [21] He only asks you for zakah (obligatory charity).

If He were to ask you for it[22] and insist that you give it, you would greedily withhold, and He would expose your resentment [for spending]. ——— [22] i.e., all your wealth.

O you who are being called to spend in Allah’s way; among you are some who greedily withhold, but whoever withholds, he in fact withholds against himself, for Allah is the Self-Sufficient, whereas you are in need [of Him]. If you turn away, He will replace you with other people, then they will not be like you.

Indeed, We have given you [O Prophet] a clear conquest[1], ——— [1] This surah takes its name "Surah al-Fath" (Surah of Conquest) from the clear conquest mentioned in this verse. This treaty was signed in 6 A.H./628 C.E. Ibn Mas‘ūd said, "You [people] consider the conquest to be that of Makkah, but we consider it to be the Treaty of al-Hudaybiyyah." Al-Barā’ bin ‘Āzib said something similar to this as reported by Al-Bukhāri. Although the companions initially regarded this treaty as a setback, yet in effect, it helped promote the spread of Islam, as thousands of people from different tribes accepted Islam during that truce. This treaty was in fact a precursor to the conquest of Makkah two years later.

so that Allah may forgive you your previous and future sins[2], complete His favor upon you, and guide you to a straight path, ——— [2] i.e., sins before this conquest and sins after it. See footnote 40:55, 47:19.

and so that Allah may help you with a mighty victory.

It is He Who sent down tranquility into the hearts of the believers so that they may increase in faith along with their faith. To Allah belong the soldiers of the heavens and earth. And Allah is All-Knowing, All-Wise.

So that He may admit the believing men and women to gardens under which rivers flow, abiding therein forever, and absolve them of their sins; that is a supreme triumph before Allah.

And so that He may punish hypocrite men and women and polytheist men and women, who harbor about Allah evil thoughts[3]. An evil fate will befall them. Allah is angry with them and has cursed them and prepared for them Hell. What a terrible destination! ——— [3] i.e., that Allah will not support His religion and His Prophet (ﷺ) and that the believers will end up with misfortune and defeat.

To Allah belong the soldiers of the heavens and earth, and Allah is All-Mighty, All-Wise.

Indeed, We have sent you [O prophet] as a witness, a bearer of glad tidings, and a warner,

so that you may believe in Allah and His Messenger, support and revere him, and glorify Him morning and evening.

Those who pledge allegiance to you [O Prophet] are indeed pledging allegiance to Allah; Allah’s Hand is over their hands[4]. Whoever breaks his pledge, he only breaks it to his own detriment, but whoever fulfills his covenant with Allah, He will give him a great reward. ——— [4] i.e., Allah Almighty approved their pledge.

Those of the Bedouins who lagged behind will say to you, “We were preoccupied with our wealth and our families, so ask for forgiveness for us.” They say with their tongues what is not in their hearts. Say, “Then who can prevent Allah if He intends to harm or benefit you? Indeed, Allah is All-Aware of what you do.

But you thought that the Messenger and the believers would never return to their families ever, and that was made appealing in your hearts. You harbored evil thoughts, for you are a doomed people.”

Whoever does not believe in Allah and His Messenger, We have certainly prepared for the disbelievers a Blazing Fire.

To Allah belongs the dominion of the heavens and earth. He forgives whom He wills and punishes whom He wills, and Allah is All-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

Those who lagged behind will say when you set out to collect the spoils of war, “Let us follow you.” They wish to change the word of Allah[5]. Say, “You will never follow us; this is what Allah has already decreed.” They will then say, “Rather, you are jealous of us[6].” Rather, they do not understand but a little[7]. ——— [5] Allah promised those of the believers who pledged allegiance at Hudaybiyah that the spoils of war obtained from the Jews of Khaybar be exclusively for them. [6] i.e., you only ask us not to go with you to the spoils of Khsybar to deprive us of our share. [7] i.e., they do not understand but the material aspects of life.

Say to the Bedouins who lagged behind, “You will be called against a people of great might[8], whom you will fight unless they submit[9]. Then if you obey, Allah will give you a goodly reward, but if you turn away as you turned away before, He will afflict you with a painful punishment. ——— [8] Referring to the two pagan Arab tribes: Hawāzin and Thaqīf. [9] i.e., accept Islam.

There is no blame on the blind, nor on the lame, nor on the sick [for remaining behind]. Whoever obeys Allah and His Messenger, He will admit him into gardens under which rivers flow. But whoever turns away, He will afflict him with a painful punishment.

Allah was much pleased with the believers when they pledged allegiance to you [O Prophet] under the tree. He knew what was in their hearts, so He sent down tranquility upon them and rewarded them with an imminent conquest[10], ——— [10] The conquest of Khaybar occurred in 7 A.H./628 C.E, which preceded that of Makkah.

and abundant spoils of war they will gain. And Allah is All-Mighty, All-Wise.

Allah has promised you abundant spoils of war that you will gain, and He has hastened for you this [conquest][11], and He has restrained people’s hands from you, so that it may be a sign for the believers, and so that He may guide you to a straight path. ——— [11] i.e., the spoils of Khaybar.

And there are other [spoils] that you have not yet been able to gain, but Allah has full control over them[12], for Allah is Most Capable of all things. ——— [12] i.e., Allah has prepared or decreed them for you.

If the disbelievers were to fight you, they would surely turn their backs, then they would not have any protector or helper.

Such was the way of Allah in the past, and you will not find any change in Allah’s way.

It is He Who restrained their hands from you and your hands from them near Makkah[13], after giving you the upper hand over them. And Allah is All-Seeing of what you do. ——— [13] A group of pagans of Makkah who were around eighty people came to attack the Muslims in Hudaybiyyah on their way to Makkah, but Muslims were able to take them as captives, then released them.

It is they who disbelieved and prevented you from the Sacred Mosque and detained the sacrificial animals[14] from reaching their place of sacrifice. If it had not been for the believing men and women whom you could not identify, you might have trampled over them, thus incurring guilt unknowingly, [We would have let you march to Makkah]. [This was] so that Allah may admit to His mercy whom He wills[15]. If they had been distinct [from the disbelievers], We would surely have inflicted on those who disbelieved among them a painful punishment. ——— [14] i.e., The Prophet (ﷺ) had brought along with him seventy camels to be sacrificed after completing the rituals of ‘Umrah (the minor pilgrimage). [15] Thus, not only the Muslims in Makkah who were not known to their fellow believers were safe, but also those pagans who later embraced Islam were safe too.

When the disbelievers harbored pride in their hearts – the pride of ignorance[16] – then Allah sent down His tranquility upon His Messenger and upon the believers, and caused them to adhere to the word of piety[17], for they were more deserving and worthy of it. And Allah is All-Knowing of everything. ——— [16] This was when the pagans of Makkah prevented the Prophet (ﷺ) and the believers from entering the Sacred House to perform ‘Umrah for fear that Arabs would consider this a shame and insult to the pagans for allowing Muslims to enter Makkah. [17] That none has the right to be worshiped except Allan, and that Muhammad is His messenger (declaration of faith).

Indeed, Allah has fulfilled His Messenger’s dream in truth: that you will surely enter the Sacred Mosque if Allah wills, in peace and safety, and you will have your heads shaved or shortened[18], without any fear. He knew what you did not know, and He granted you prior to that an imminent conquest[19]. ——— [18] Shaving or trimming hair is from the requirements upon completing the rites of pilgrimage. [19] Referring to the Treaty of Hudaybiyyah and subsequently the conquest of Khaybar prior to the fulfillment of the Prophet’s dream regarding entering Makkah for pilgrimage.

It is He Who has sent His Messenger with guidance and the religion of truth, to make it prevail over all religions, and sufficient is Allah as a Witness.

Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah, and those who are with him are firm against the disbelievers[20] and compassionate among themselves. You see them bowing and prostrating [in prayer], seeking Allah’s grace and pleasure. Their distinguishing sign is on their faces from the effects of prostration. Such is their description in the Torah[21]. And their description in the Gospel is like that of a seed that sprouts its shoot, then makes it strong; then it grows thick and stands straight on its stem[22], which delights the sowers – so that He may enrage thereby the disbelievers. Allah has promised those among them who believe and do righteous deeds forgiveness and a great reward. ——— [20] It should be understood in its historical context. Muslims are urged here to be firm with the Arab disbelievers who were at war with Muslims. However, Muslims are encouraged to treat peaceful and non-combatant disbelievers with kindness and fairness. See 60:8-9. [21] The description of the Prophet (ﷺ) and his companions is mentioned in the previous scriptures. See Deuteronomy 33:1-3. [22] See Matthew 13:3-9, Mark 4:26-28.

O you who believe, do not decide [any matter of importance] before Allah and His Messenger[1], and fear Allah, for Allah is All-Hearing, All-Knowing. ——— [1] Show complete obedience to Allah and the Prophet (ﷺ).

O you who believe, do not raise your voices above the voice of the Prophet, nor speak loudly to him as you speak loudly to one another[2], lest your deeds become worthless without you realizing it. ——— [2] Or do not call him by his name as you call one another; do not call him, ‘O Muhammad.’ rather, call him, ‘O Prophet.’

Indeed, those who lower their voices in the presence of the Messenger of Allah are those whose hearts Allah has tested for righteousness; for them there is forgiveness and a great reward[3]. ——— [3] Once the Prophet (ﷺ) was taking a nap in the afternoon when a group of people from the tribe of Bani Tamīm came to see him. They started calling him out loud while standing outside the chambers of his wives.

As for those who call out to you [O Prophet] from behind the chambers, most of them have no understanding.

If they had been patient until you came out to them, it would have been better for them. But Allah is All-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

O you who believe, if an evildoer brings you some news, verify it, lest you harm a people unknowingly, then you become regretful for what you did[4]. ——— [4] The Prophet (ﷺ) sent Al-Walīd ibn ‘Uqbah ibn Abi Mu‘ait to collect zakah (alms-tax) from the tribe of Bani Al-Mustaliq. They went out to receive Al-Walīd but he thought that they wanted to harm him. So, he quickly came back to the Prophet (ﷺ) with the bad news, so he wanted to punish them. After a while, a delegation from Bani Al-Mustaliq came to clear the misunderstanding.

Know that the Messenger of Allah is among you. If he were to obey you in many matters, you would surely suffer[5]. But Allah has endeared faith to you and made it pleasing to your hearts, and has made disbelief, wickedness, and disobedience hateful to you. Such are the rightly guided, ——— [5] Things would be difficult for you.

by Allah’s grace and favor. And Allah is All-Knowing, All-Wise.

If two groups of the believers fight one another, make peace between them. If one of them transgresses against the other, fight against the transgressing group until they submit to the rule of Allah. Then if they submit, make peace between them with fairness, and be just, for Allah loves those who are just.

The believers are but brothers, so make peace between your brothers. And fear Allah, so that you may be shown mercy.

O you who believe, let not some men ridicule others, for it may be that they are better than them; nor let some women ridicule others, for it may be that they are better than them. Do not speak ill of one another, nor call one another by [offensive] nicknames. How evil is the name of wickedness after having faith! And whoever does not repent, it is they who are the wrongdoers.

O you who believe, avoid much suspicion, for some suspicions are sin. Do not spy on one another, nor backbite one another. Would any of you like to eat the flesh of his dead brother[6]? You would surely abhor it. So fear Allah. Indeed, Allah is Accepting of Repentance, Most Merciful. ——— [6] Backbiting people is likened to eating their dead bodies, for the dead do not feel the pain if their flesh is eaten; likewise, the one who is absent does not feel the pain of backbiting. So, backbiting someone is like eating his flesh while he is dead.

O people, We have created you from a male and a female and made you into nations and tribes so that you may recognize one another. Indeed, the most noble of you before Allah is the most righteous[7] among you. Indeed, Allah is All-Knowing, All-Aware. ——— [7] Lit., "the one who has the most taqwā among you," i.e., consciousness, piety, and fear of Allah.

The Bedouins say, “We have believed.” Say, “You have not believed, but say, ‘We have submitted,’ for faith has not yet entered your hearts[8]. But if you obey Allah and His Messenger, He will not detract anything from the reward of your deeds. Indeed, Allah is All-Forgiving, Most Merciful.” ——— [8] There is a distinction between Islam and Imān (faith). Imān is a higher degree than Islam. This distinction is mentioned in an authentic Hadīth of the Prophet (ﷺ), known as the Hadīth of Gabriel.

Indeed, the believers are those who believe in Allah and His Messenger, then they do not have doubt, but fight with their wealth and their lives in the way of Allah. It is they who are the truthful.

Say, “Do you inform Allah of your faith, when Allah knows all that is in the heavens and all that is on earth? And Allah is All-Knowing of everything.”

They think that they have done you a favor by embracing Islam. Say, “Do not consider your Islam as a favor to me. Rather, it is Allah Who has done you a favor by guiding you to faith, if you are truthful.

Indeed, Allah knows all that is unseen of the heavens and earth, and Allah is All-Seeing of what you do.”

Qāf[1]. By the Glorious Qur’an! ——— [1] See footnote 2:1.

But they wonder that a warner has come to them from among themselves, so the disbelievers say, “This is something strange!

What! Is it when we die and become dust [will we return to life]? That is a far-fetched return.”

We certainly know what the earth consumes of them [after their death], and with Us is a Preserved Record[2]. ——— [2] Or a Record that preserves everything.

Rather they rejected the truth when it came to them, so they are in a state of confusion[3]. ——— [3] They are in confusion concerning the Qur’an, claiming that it is poetry, magic, or ancient fables. They are also in confusion concerning the Prophet (ﷺ), claiming that he is a poet, a fabricator, or insane.

Have they not then looked at the sky above them – how We built it and adorned it [with stars], and it has no rifts?

And We have spread out the earth and set therein firm mountains, and caused to grow therein plants of every pleasant kind,

as a source of insight and a reminder to every slave who turns [to Allah].

And We send down from the sky blessed rain, with which We cause to grow gardens and grain for harvest,

and towering palm trees having clustered fruit,

as a provision for people, and We revive thereby a dead land; likewise will be the resurrection.

The people of Noah rejected [the truth] before them[4], as well as the companions of the Well[5] and Thamūd, ——— [4] i.e., before the pagans of Makkah. [5] i.e., people of prophet Shu‘ayb or other people. See footnote 25:38.

and so did ‘Ād, Pharaoh, the people of Lot,

and the dwellers of the Forest[6], and the people of Tubba‘[7]. All of them rejected the messengers, so My warning was fulfilled. ——— [6] i.e., the people of Shu‘ayb (عليه السلام). [7] Tubba‘ al-Himyari, an ancient righteous Yemeni king. See 44:37.

Were We wearied by their first creation? No indeed, yet they are in confusion concerning the second creation.

We have created man and know what his soul whispers within him, for We are closer to him than his jugular vein[8]. ——— [8] i.e., We have absolute knowledge of everything about him, or Our angels are closer to him, as mentioned in the next verse.

When the two angel scribes, constantly accompanying him[9], one on the right, and the other on the left[10]. ——— [9] Recording each word and deed. [10] There are two angle scribes: one on the right of each person, recording the good deeds, while the other on the left, recording evil deeds. They accompany humans all the time, except when one is intimate with their spouse or uses the bathroom.

Not a single word he utters but there is with him a vigilant watcher, ready [to record it].

The throes of death will come with the truth[11]. This is what you were trying to avoid. ——— [11] When a disbeliever or a heedless person is in death throes, he will realize that resurrection and reckoning are true.

And the Trumpet will be blown[12]; that is the Day of [the given] warning. ——— [12] i.e., the second blow that will bring all back to life for judgment.

Everyone will come, accompanied by an angel to drive him and another to testify[13]. ——— [13] i.e., one driving him for Judgment and another as a witness for his deeds.

“You were heedless of this; now We have removed your veil[14], so your vision is sharp Today.” ——— [14] Of heedlessness by seeing the punishment and hardships.

His angel-companion will say, “Here is the record ready with me.”

[It will be said to the two angels], “Throw into Hell every obstinate disbeliever,

every withholder of good, transgressor, and doubter,

who set up with Allah another god. Throw him into the severe punishment.”

His [devil] companion will say, “Our Lord, I did not mislead him, but he himself was far astray.”

Allah will say, “Do not argue in My presence, for I had already given you the warning.

My Word cannot be changed, nor am I unjust to My slaves.”

[Beware of] the Day when We will say to Hell, “Have you reached your fill?” It will say, “Are there any more?”

Paradise will be brought near to the righteous, not far off.

[It will be said], “This is what you were promised; this is for everyone who constantly turned [to Allah] and was dutiful,

who feared the Most Compassionate unseen[15], and came with a devoted heart. ——— [15] Or while he is in private.

Enter it in peace. This is the Day of eternity.”

They will have therein all what they wish for, and We have yet more[16]. ——— [16] Of unimaginable pleasures such as looking at the Face of Allah Almighty. See 10:26 and 75:22-23.

How many nations We destroyed before these [Makkans] who were stronger than them in might! They sought refuge in the land. Did they find any escape?

Indeed, in that is a reminder for anyone who has a [mindful] heart or lends an attentive ear.

Indeed, We created the heavens and earth and all that is between them in six days, and no weariness touched Us[17]. ——— [17] It is believed that this verse came in response to the Jews who claimed that after the Lord made the heavens and the earth in six days, He rested on the seventh day. See Exodus 31:17.

So bear patiently [O Prophet] what they say, and glorify the praise of your Lord before sunrise and before sunset[18]. ——— [18] This and the following verse refer to the times of the five daily prayers; before the sun rises and sets (i.e., the Fajr, Zuhr, and ‘Asr prayers).

And glorify Him in the night[19] and after the prayers. ——— [19] The night (the Maghrib, ‘Isha’ prayers).

And listen! On the Day when the Caller will call out from a nearby place[20], ——— [20] The angel who will blow the second trumpet for the Resurrection.

the Day when they will hear the Blast [of the second Trumpet] in truth[21]. That is the Day of Resurrection. ——— [21] See footnote below 50:20.

Indeed, it is We Who give life and cause death, and to Us is the final return.

On the Day when the earth will be rent asunder for them as they hasten forth [from their graves]; that is an easy gathering for Us.

We know best what they say, and you are not there to compel them to believe. But remind with the Qur’an those who fear My warning.

By the winds that scatter [dust],

and by the clouds carrying loads of water,

and by the ships that sail with ease,

and by the angels who distribute [blessings] by His command.

Indeed, what you are promised is true,

and the Judgment will surely come to pass.

By the heaven with its pathways[1], ——— [1] i.e., tracks or orbits.

Indeed, you [Makkans] have conflicting views[2]. ——— [2] Concerning the Prophet (ﷺ) and the Qur’an.

He who is diverted from it is destined to be diverted.

Doomed[3] are those who base their beliefs on conjecture. ——— [3] May they be destroyed.

those who are steeped in ignorance heedlessly.

They ask [mockingly], “When is the Day of Judgment?”

It is the Day when they will be punished by the Fire.

[It will be said], “Taste your punishment! This is what you were seeking to hasten.”

Indeed, the righteous will be in gardens and springs,

receiving what their Lord will give them, for they were indeed doers of good beforehand.

They used to sleep only a little at night[4], ——— [4] i.e., spending most of the night in prayer, reciting the Qur’an, and in supplication.

and before dawn they would seek forgiveness[5], ——— [5] Supererogatory prayers and supplications are recommended before dawn.

and in their wealth, there was a share for the beggar and the destitute.

On earth there are signs for those who are certain in faith,

and also within yourselves. Do you not see?

And in the heaven is your provision and all that you are promised.

By the Lord of the heaven and earth, this [resurrection] is certainly as true as the fact that you can speak.

Has there come to you the story of Abraham’s honored guests[6]? ——— [6] Honorable angels with Allah.

When they came to him and said, “Peace.” He said, “Upon you be peace.” [saying to himself] “Unknown people!”

Then he went quickly to his household, and came with a fat [roasted] calf,

and placed it before them and said, “Will you not eat?”

He felt apprehensive about them[7]. They said, “Do not be afraid,” and gave him glad tidings of a knowledgeable son. ——— [7] In their culture, if a guest refused to eat the food provided, it was considered a sign of ill will. See footnote 11:70.

His wife cried out loud, and struck her face [in astonishment] and said, “[I am] a barren old woman!”

They said, “This is what your Lord said. Indeed, He is the All-Wise, the All-Knowing.”

Abraham said, “Then what is your mission, O messengers?”

They said, “We have been sent to a wicked people,

to send down upon them stones of clay,

marked by your Lord for the transgressors.”

We brought out those believers who were there,

but We only found in it one Muslim household[8]. ——— [8] Lot's family except his wife.

And We left there a sign[9] for those who fear the painful punishment. ——— [9] i.e., the ruins of Sodom or the Dead Sea in Palestine, as a lesson for people.

And [there is a sign in the story of] Moses when We sent him to Pharaoh with compelling proofs,

But he and his supporters turned away, and he said about [Moses], “A magician or a madman!”

So We seized him and his soldiers and cast them into the sea while he was blameworthy[10]. ——— [10] For his disbelief and arrogance.

And [there is a sign in the story of] ‘Ād, when We sent against them the devastating barren wind[11]. ——— [11] Devoid of all goodness such as carrying rain or fertilizing trees.

It spared nothing it came upon except that it reduced it to ruin and decay.

And [there is a sign in the story of] Thamūd, when they were told, “Enjoy yourselves for a while[12].” ——— [12] i.e., only three days. See 11:65.

But they rebelled against the command of their Lord, so the thunderbolt seized them, while they were looking on.

They could not withstand it, nor could they ward it off.

And the people of Noah [were also destroyed] before them. They were indeed a rebellious people.

We built the heaven with might[13], and We are indeed expanding it. ——— [13] ’Ayd does not mean "hands" here. This is not from the verses of Allah's attributes, for Allah Almighty did not add it to Himself, i.e., He did not say, "My ’ayd, or Our ’ayd".

And We spread out the earth. How well did We smooth it out[14]! ——— [14] The earth was spread out to accommodate the creatures. Its spherical shape is mentioned in 39:5.

And We have created everything in pairs[15], so that you may take heed. ——— [15] Such as day and night, male and female, light and darkness, sweet and bitter, hot and cold, etc.

So flee to Allah[16]. Indeed, I am a clear warner to you from Him. ——— [16] From His punishment to His reward by shunning disbelief and sin and by obeying Him.

And do not set up another god with Allah. Indeed, I am a clear warner to you from Him.”

Likewise, no messenger came to those before them without being told: “A magician, or a madman!”

Did they suggest this to one another[17]? Rather they are transgressing people. ——— [17] i.e., Did the previous disbelievers pass on these false allegations to the pagans of Makkah so they repeat their words?

So turn away from them [O Prophet], for you are not to blame[18]. ——— [18] After you have delivered the message.

But keep reminding them, for reminder benefits the believers.

I have not created the jinn and mankind except to worship Me.

I seek no provision from them, nor do I want them to feed Me.

Indeed, it is Allah Who is the All-Provider[19], Lord of Power, the Mighty. ——— [19] He Provides His creatures with everything they need. Among His provisions is guidance.

Indeed, those who do wrong will have a share [of punishment] like that of their predecessors, so let them not ask Me to hasten it.

So woe to those who disbelieve from [the punishment of] the Day which they are promised.

By the mount of Tūr[1], ——— [1] Where Allah Almighty communicated with Moses (عليه السلام).

and by the Book inscribed[2] ——— [2] i.e., the Qur’an.

on an unrolled parchment[3], ——— [3] i.e., a spread-out scroll.

and by the much-frequented House[4], ——— [4] Which is frequented by angels or the Ka‘bah in Makkah which is frequented by pilgrims.

and by the canopy raised high,

and by the sea set on fire[5]. ——— [5] On the Day of Resurrection, or "by the overflowed sea."

The punishment of your Lord will surely come to pass;

there is none who can avert it.

On the Day when the heaven will convulse violently[6], ——— [6] The heavens will be shaken violently, indicating the occurrence of the Hour. The word "maur" originally means turning round, rotating, swinging, swaying, etc.

and the mountains will move a horrible movement[7]. ——— [7] They will turn into dust, moving as clouds.

Then woe to the deniers on that Day,

those who amuse themselves in falsehood.

On the Day when they will be shoved into the Fire forcefully,

[They will be told,] “This is the Fire which you used to deny.

Is this [punishment] magic, or do you not see?

Burn in it, whether you bear it patiently or impatiently, it makes no difference to you[8]; you are recompensed only for what you used to do.” ——— [8] He who is patient during afflictions in the life of this world will be rewarded. As for the Hereafter, suffering patiently in Hell will not bring any reward or benefit.

Indeed, the righteous will be in gardens and bliss,

enjoying what their Lord has given them, and their Lord protected them from the punishment of the Blazing Fire.

“Eat and drink pleasantly for what you used to do,

reclining on couches all lined up”. And We will marry them to houris with wide beautiful eyes.

As for those who believe and their offspring follow them in faith, We will cause their offspring to join them, and will not detract anything from [the reward of] their deeds. Everyone will be accountable for what he earned[9]. ——— [9] i.e., None will be held responsible for the burden of another.

And We will provide them with whatever fruit and meat they desire.

They will pass around to one another a glass [of pure wine] which does not lead to idle talk or sin.

They will be served by their servant boys, as if they were well-protected pearls.

They will turn to one another with questions[10]. ——— [10] They will probably ask one another about their worldly lives and what led them to Paradise.

They will say, “Before this, we used to be in awe [of Allah] when we were living among our people.

Therefore Allah conferred favor upon us and protected us from the punishment of the Scorching Fire.

Indeed, we used to call upon Him before. He is indeed the Most Kind, the Most Merciful.”

So keep exhorting [O Prophet], for you are not, by the grace of your Lord, a soothsayer or a madman.

Or do they say: “He is a poet for whom we await a misfortune[11]”? ——— [11] i.e., inevitable death or so.

Say, “Wait, I too am waiting with you.”

Do their minds[12] prompt them to say such things, or are they transgressing people? ——— [12] The leaders of pagans in Makkah claimed to be of great minds. Here it questions their intelligence, arguing that a man cannot be a madman and a poet at the same time.

Or do they say, “He has made this [Qur’an] up”? Rather, they are not willing to believe.

Then let them produce a discourse like this, if they are truthful[13]. ——— [13] Arab pagans were challenged to produce the like of this Quran, ten surahs, or one surah, but the challenge has never been met until the present day. See 2:23, 11:13, 52:34.

Were they created by none, or were they the creators [of themselves]?

Or did they create the heavens and earth? Rather, they are not certain in faith.

Or do they possess the treasures of your Lord, or do they have full control [of everything]?

Or do they have a stairway [to the heaven] by which they eavesdrop? Then let those who eavesdrop produce a compelling proof.

Or does He have daughters while you have sons[14]? ——— [14] See footnote 37:149.

Or are you asking them [O Prophet] for a reward so they are overburdened by debt?

Or do they have [the knowledge of] the unseen so they are writing it down?

Or do they intend a plot [against the Prophet]? But the plot of the disbelievers will rebound against themselves.

Or do they have a god other than Allah? Glory be to Allah far above what they associate with Him.

If they were to see pieces of the sky falling down[15], they would still say, “[This is only] a mass of clouds.” ——— [15] As a sign of the punishment that they requested.

So leave them alone until they encounter their Day in which they will be struck down[16], ——— [16] i.e., they will be punished on the Day of Judgment.

the Day their plots will not avail them in the least, nor will they be helped.

And for the wrongdoers, there will be another punishment before that[17], but most of them do not know. ——— [17] In this world such as famine, droughts, or defeat at the battle, or punishment in the grave.

Be patient [O Prophet] with your Lord’s decree, for indeed you are under Our [Watchful] Eyes. And glorify the praises of your Lord when you rise.

And glorify Him at night and when the stars fade away[18]. ——— [18] i.e., the early hours of the morning when the stars set; the time of the Fajr Prayer.

By the star when it sets,

Your companion [i.e., the Prophet] has neither strayed nor is he deluded.

Nor does he speak out of his own desire.

It is but a revelation sent down [to him].

He was taught by [an angel of] mighty power[1], ——— [1] i.e., the angel Gabriel.

and of great perfection[2], who manifested himself [in his true form][3] ——— [2] i.e., the strength of body and mind. [3] Archangel Gabriel appeared to the Prophet (ﷺ) only twice in his angelic form: once at the outset of the Prophet’s mission (as he manifested himself, filling the horizon, so the Prophet (ﷺ) lost his consciousness), and another time during the Prophet’s ascension to the seventh heaven where he directly received from Allah the order to pray five times a day. See 17:1.

when he was on the higher horizon[4]. ——— [4] i.e., above the eastern horizon in the sky where the sun rises.

Then he approached [the Prophet] and descended,

until he was only two bow-lengths away or even closer.

Then he revealed to His slave[5] what he had to reveal. ——— [5] i.e., the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ).

The [Prophet’s] heart[6] did not deny what he saw. ——— [6] i.e., his mind or perception.

Do you dispute with him concerning what he saw?

He certainly saw him a second time[7] ——— [7] i.e., During his ascent (al-Mi‘rāj) to the heavens, he saw Gabriel in his true angelic form.

at the Lote Tree of the Utmost Boundary [in the seventh heaven]

near which is the Garden of Abode,

when the Lote Tree was overwhelmed with [divine] splendors.

His gaze did not wander, nor did it look beyond the limit.

He certainly saw some of the greatest signs of his Lord.

Have you [O disbelievers] thought about [the idols of] Lāt and ‘Uzzā,

and Manāt, the third one as well[8]? ——— [8] These were three well-known idols or goddesses worshiped by Arab pagans before the advent of Islam.

Do you choose for yourselves males and for Him females?

That is then an unfair division!

These [idols] are no more than names you and your forefathers have made up[9], for which Allah has not sent down any authority. They follow nothing but conjecture and what their souls desire, although there has come to them guidance from their Lord. ——— [9] i.e., You have considered them gods while in fact, they are not.

Is it that man can get whatever he wishes for[10]? ——— [10] The pagans worshiped these idols wishing that they would intercede for them on the Day of Resurrection. See 39:3.

Rather, to Allah belongs the Hereafter and this world.

How many angels there are in the heavens whose intercession will be of no avail except after Allah’s permission to whom He wills and pleases.

Indeed, those who do not believe in the Hereafter give the angels female names.

They have no knowledge about it. They only follow conjecture, but conjecture is of no avail against the truth.

So pay no heed to those who turn away from Our message[11] and who only seek the life of this world. ——— [11] i.e., the Qur’an.

That is the limit of their knowledge. Indeed, your Lord knows best who has strayed from His Way, and He knows best who is guided.

To Allah belongs all that is in the heavens and all that is on earth, so that He may recompense the evildoers for what they did, and reward those who do good with the best reward[12], ——— [12] i.e., Paradise.

those who avoid major sins and shameful acts, except for minor lapses. Indeed, your Lord is ample in forgiveness. He knows you best, as He created you from the earth[13] and when you were fetuses in the wombs of your mothers[14]. So do not claim purity for yourselves, for He knows best who is truly righteous. ——— [13] i.e., created your father, Adam. [14] See footnote 31:34.

Have you seen the one who turned away [from Islam],

who gave a little, and then stopped?

Does he have knowledge of the unseen, so he has insight[15]? ——— [15] i.e., the knowledge that his wealth will be exhausted if he spends on the poor, while Allah has promised that it nourishes wealth.

Or has he not been informed of what is in the Scriptures of Moses,

and of Abraham, who fulfilled his duty?

That no bearer of burden will bear the burden of another,

and that man will not receive except what he strives for,

and that his efforts will be examined,

then he will be recompensed in full,

and that to your Lord is the final return,

and that He is the One Who makes people laugh and weep[16], ——— [16] i.e., brings happiness or sadness to people.

and that He is the One Who causes death and gives life,

and that He created the pairs, male and female,

from a drop of sperm when it is emitted,

and it is upon Him to bring about the second creation.

And He is the One Who enriches and bestows wealth,

and that He is the Lord of Sirius[17]. ——— [17] i.e., a star worshiped by some pagans before Islam.

And that He destroyed the earlier ‘Ād[18], ——— [18] i.e., the people of Prophet Hūd.

and Thamūd[19], sparing none, ——— [19] i.e., the people of Prophet Sālih, who are called second Ād.

and [He destroyed] the people of Noah before them; they were indeed more wicked and more rebellious.

And He toppled the cities[20] upside down, ——— [20] Of Sodom and Gomorrah whose dwellers defied Prophet Lot (عليه السلام).

and they were utterly covered [by stones][21]. ——— [21] They were rained by stones.

Then which of the favors of your Lord do you doubt?

This [Prophet] is a warner like the earlier warners.

The imminent Hour has drawn near,

none but Allah can disclose it.

Do you find this discourse astonishing,

and you laugh [at it] and not weep,

while heedlessly lost in amusement?

So prostrate to Allah and worship [Him].

The Hour has drawn near and the moon has split asunder[1]. ——— [1] The Quraysh pagans challenged the Prophet (ﷺ) to split the moon in two so that they believe in him. The moon was split as they requested and then re-joined, and the incident was reported by several eyewitnesses in different parts of the land; however, they still refused to believe, considering it magic.

Whenever they see a sign[2], they turn away and say, “Same old magic!” ——— [2] The prophets were given signs or miracles as a proof that they were commissioned by Allah. Moses (عليه السلام) was given the miracles of staff and a bright hand. Jesus (عليه السلام) would give life to the dead and heal the blind and the leper. Muhammad (ﷺ) was given the Qur’an, a literary miracle, challenging the masters of Arabic eloquence. Nonetheless, he (ﷺ) performed other miracles such as splitting the moon, increasing food and water, and healing some ailments.

They deny [the truth] and follow their desires, but every matter will reach its inevitable end.

There have already come to them stories [of destroyed nations] that are sufficient to deter them,

which contain extensive wisdom, but the warnings are of no avail.

So turn away from them [O Prophet]. On the Day when the caller[3] will summon them to a horrific event[4], ——— [3] Isrāfīl, the angel assigned to blow the Trumpet and call all for resurrection. [4] i.e., Judgment Day.

with eyes downcast, they will come out of the graves like scattered locusts,

rushing headlong towards the caller. The disbelievers will say, “This is a hard Day!”

The people of Noah rejected [the truth] before them; they rejected Our slave and said, “He is a madman,” and he was intimidated.

So he called upon his Lord, “I am overpowered, so help me!”

So We opened the gates of the sky with water pouring down in torrents,

and We caused the earth to burst forth with springs, then the waters met for a preordained purpose.

We carried him on an [Ark made] of planks and nails,

sailing under Our [Watchful] Eyes; as a reward for the one [they] denied.

We have certainly left it[5] as a sign; is there anyone to take heed? ——— [5] i.e., the punishment, the Flood, or the Ark.

Then how were My punishment and My warnings[6]? ——— [6] As a warning to those who came after them.

We have certainly made the Qur’an easy to understand and remember; is there anyone to take heed?

‘Ād disbelieved. Then how were My punishment and My warnings?

We sent against them a furious wind[7] on a day of continuous misfortune, ——— [7] i.e., a tumultuous and screaming wind.

sweeping people away[8], as if they were trunks of uprooted palm trees. ——— [8] i.e., extracting them from the earth.

Then how were My punishment and My warnings?

We have certainly made the Qur’an easy to understand and remember; is there anyone to take heed?

Thamūd rejected the warnings,

They said, “Shall we follow a single human being[9] from among us? Then we would surely be in error and insanity! ——— [9] i.e., Prophet Sālih (عليه السلام).

Has the revelation been sent down upon him out of all of us? Rather, he is an insolent liar.”

Tomorrow they will know who the insolent liar is.

We are sending the she-camel as a test for them, so watch them [O Sālih] and be patient,

and tell them that the water is to be shared between them[10]; each should take its drink in turn. ——— [10] i.e., one day for the tribe of Thamūd and one day for the she-camel.

But they called their companion[11], and he undertook the task[12] and hamstrung her. ——— [11] i.e., the worst among them. [12] Or took his sword.

Then how [terrible] My punishment and My warnings were!

We sent against them a single blast, leaving them like trampled hedge-building twigs[13]. ——— [13] The people of Thamūd were crushed like trampled and trodden twigs and pieces of bush lying around an enclosure for cattle.

We have certainly made the Qur’an easy to understand and remember; is there anyone to take heed?

The people of Lot rejected the warnings.

We sent against them a storm of pebbles, except the family of Lot whom We saved before dawn,

as a blessing from Us. Thus do We reward those who give thanks.

He had already warned them of Our punishing assault, but they doubted the warnings.

They even demanded that he let them have their way with his angel-guests[14], so We blinded their eyes, [saying], “Taste My punishment and My warnings!” ——— [14] Whom Allah sent in the form of handsome young men.

By the early morning a lasting torment overtook them.

Taste My punishment and My warnings!

We have certainly made the Qur’an easy to understand and remember; is there anyone to take heed?

Indeed, warnings came to the people of Pharaoh.

But they rejected all of Our signs, so We seized them with the grip of the All-Mighty, Most Powerful.

Are your disbelievers [O Makkans] superior to those[15] or have you been granted immunity in divine Scriptures? ——— [15] i.e., those destroyed peoples.

Or do they say, “We are a united front, bound to prevail.”?

Soon their united front will be defeated, and they will flee[16]. ——— [16] This foretold event was fulfilled in the Battle of Badr.

But the Hour is their appointed time, and the Hour is more catastrophic and more bitter.

Indeed, the wicked are in error and blazes[17]. ——— [17] i.e., will burn in the Hellfire.

On the Day when they will be dragged into the Fire on their faces, [they will be told], “Taste the agony of Hell[18]!” ——— [18] "Saqar" is one of the names of Hell.

We have surely created everything in a determined measure[19]. ——— [19] Or perfectly preordained.

Our command is but a single word[20], which is fulfilled in the blink of an eye. ——— [20] Our command when We want something, We only say, "Be," and it is.

We have destroyed many like you [O Makkans][21]; is there anyone to take heed? ——— [21] In rejecting Allah's messengers.

Everything they did is in the written records,

and everything, small or big, is written down.

Indeed, the righteous will be in gardens and rivers[22], ——— [22] Rivers of water, honey, milk, and wine. See 47:15.

seated in honor in the presence of the Most Powerful Sovereign.

The Most Compassionate,

has taught the Qur’an,

He created man,

and taught him speech.

The sun and the moon follow their precise courses,

and the stars[1] and trees prostrate [to Allah][2]. ——— [1] "Najm" is also a vegetation without a trunk, stalk, or stem. [2] i.e., they obediently submit to the laws of Allah. See 22:18.

He raised the heaven and enjoined justice

so that you may not transgress the limits of justice.

Therefore establish weights in justice, and do not give short measure.

He has spread out the earth for all creatures,

in which there are fruits and palm trees with date stalks,

and grain having chaff, and fragrant plants.

Then which of the favors of your Lord will you[3] deny? ——— [3] i.e., men and jinn.

He created man from dry clay like pottery,

and He created the jinn from a smokeless flame of fire.

Then which of the favors of your Lord will you deny?

[He is] Lord of the two sunrises and Lord of the two sunsets[4]. ——— [4] i.e., the points of sunrise in the east and sunset in the west in both summer and winter.

Then which of the favors of your Lord will you deny?

He merges the two seas meeting together[5], ——— [5] Two bodies of water or two sea waters of fresh and salty water.

yet between them is a barrier so that they do not cross[6]. ——— [6] See footnote 25:53.

Then which of the favors of your Lord will you deny?

Out of both of them emerge pearls and coral.

Then which of the favors of your Lord will you deny?

To Him belong the sailing ships raised up in the sea like mountains.

Then which of the favors of your Lord will you deny?

Everyone on earth will perish,

but there will remain the Face of your Lord[7], full of Majesty and Honor. ——— [7] i.e., your Lord Himself.

Then which of the favors of your Lord will you deny?

All those in the heavens and earth ask of Him; every day He is engaged in some matters[8]. ——— [8] Such as giving life and causing death, enriching some and impoverishing others, elevating some and debasing others, etc.

Then which of the favors of your Lord will you deny?

We will attend to you, O two multitudes [of men and jinn].

Then which of the favors of your Lord will you deny?

O assembly of jinn and mankind, if you are able to pass beyond the realms of the heavens and earth, then pass; you cannot pass without [Our] authority.

Then which of the favors of your Lord will you deny?

There will be sent against you a flame of fire and smoke[9], and you will not be able to defend yourselves. ——— [9] It could also mean liquefied brass or copper.

Then which of the favors of your Lord will you deny?

When the heaven is split asunder and becomes crimson like [burnt] oil[10]. ——— [10] Or like tanned skin or molten brass.

Then which of the favors of your Lord will you deny?

On that Day no human or jinn will be asked about his sin[11]. ——— [11] For Allah knows their sins; they will only be interrogated as a form of punishment.

Then which of the favors of your Lord will you deny?

The wicked will be known by their marks and will be seized by their forelocks and their feet.

Then which of the favors of your Lord will you deny?

[They will be told] “This is the Hell that the wicked used to deny.”

They will go round between it and scalding water.

Then which of the favors of your Lord will you deny[12]? ——— [12] Warning of the punishment in Hell is listed here as a favor as a reminder that the believers should be cautious of it and be saved of it on the Day of Judgment.

For those who fear of standing before their Lord[13] will be two Gardens. ——— [13] On the Day of Judgment.

Then which of the favors of your Lord will you deny?

Shaded by spreading branches.

Then which of the favors of your Lord will you deny?

In each there are two flowing springs.

Then which of the favors of your Lord will you deny?

In each there are two kinds of every fruit.

Then which of the favors of your Lord will you deny?

They will recline on couches lined with rich brocade, with the fruits of both gardens within reach.

Then which of the favors of your Lord will you deny?

In them there will be maidens of restrained gaze[14], untouched[15] before them by any man or jinn. ——— [14] To their own mates, being chaste and modest. [15] Lit., the maidens have not been caused to bleed by loss of virginity.

Then which of the favors of your Lord will you deny?

As if they were rubies and pearls[16]. ——— [16] In purity and beauty.

Then which of the favors of your Lord will you deny?

Is the reward for goodness anything but goodness?

Then which of the favors of your Lord will you deny?

And besides these two there will be two other gardens.

Then which of the favors of your Lord will you deny?

Both of the deepest green.

Then which of the favors of your Lord will you deny?

In each there are two gushing springs.

Then which of the favors of your Lord will you deny?

In each there are fruits, palm trees, and pomegranates.

Then which of the favors of your Lord will you deny?

In them there are beautiful noble women.

Then which of the favors of your Lord will you deny?

Maidens with gorgeous eyes, reserved in pavilions.

Then which of the favors of your Lord will you deny?

No human or jinn has ever touched them before.

Then which of the favors of your Lord will you deny?

[They will be] reclining on green cushions and splendid carpets.

Then which of the favors of your Lord will you deny?

Blessed is the Name of your Lord, the Lord of Majesty and Honor.

When the Inevitable Event comes to pass,

there will be none to deny its occurrence;

it will bring some low and raise others up[1]. ——— [1] According to their deeds rather than wealth and social position, as is the case in this world. The righteous will be elevated in Paradise and the wicked will be debased in Hell.

When the earth is shaken violently,

and the mountains crushed to pieces,

and turn to scattered dust,

then you are sorted into three groups:

the people of the right – how blessed will be the people of the right[2]! ——— [2] i.e., those who receive their record of deeds in the right hand and are destined for Paradise.

The people of the left – how miserable will be the people of the left[3]! ——— [3] i.e., those who receive their record of deeds in the left hand and are destined for Hell.

And the forerunners [in faith] are the forerunners [in Paradise].

They are the nearest ones [to Allah],

in Gardens of Bliss,

many from the early generations,

and a few from the later generations.

[They will be seated] on jeweled couches,

reclining on them, facing one another.

They will be served by immortal youths

with cups, pitchers, and glasses [of wine] from a flowing spring,

which will neither cause any headache nor intoxication,

along with fruits of their choice,

and flesh of birds that they may desire.

And [they will have] maidens with wide gorgeous eyes,

like pristine pearls,

as a reward for what they used to do.

They will not hear therein any idle talk or sinful speech,

except the words of peace, peace[4]. ——— [4] i.e., only exchanging greetings of peace.

The people of the right – how blessed will be the people of the right!

[They will be] in the midst of thornless lote trees,

and clusters of bananas,

and extended shade,

and flowing water,

and abundant fruit –

neither ceasing nor restricted –

and elevated mattresses [on beds].

Indeed, We have perfectly created them [i.e., their spouses],

and have made them virgins,

loving and of equal age,

for the people of the right,

many from the earlier generations,

and many from the later generations.

And the people of the left – how wretched will be the people of the left!

[They will be] in scorching wind and scalding water,

in the shade of black smoke,

neither cool nor refreshing.

Indeed, they used to be in luxuries before,

and persisted in the gravest sin[5]. ——— [5] i.e., Shirk (associating partners with Allah) or disbelief.

They used to say, "When we die and become dust and bones, will we really be raised again?

And our forefathers as well?”

Say, [O Prophet], “Indeed, the former and later generations

will be gathered on a predetermined Day.

Then you, O misguided deniers,

will surely eat from the tree of zaqqūm[6], ——— [6] See footnote 44:43-46.

filling your bellies with it,

and drinking scalding water on top of it,

drinking like thirsty camels do.”

This will be their welcome on the Day of Judgment.

It is We Who created you; why do you not then believe [in resurrection]?

Have you thought about the semen that you emit?

Is it you who create it, or is it We Who are the Creators?

We have ordained death among you, and nothing can overcome us

from transforming you and recreating you in forms that you do not know[7]. ——— [7] Or "from replacing you by others like yourselves [in this life] and creating you [in the Hereafter] in that which you do not know."

You are well aware of the first creation; why do you not then take heed?

Have you thought about what you sow?

Is it you who cause it to grow, or is it We Who make it grow?

If We willed, We could reduce your harvest to rubble, leaving you to wonder and lament,

“We suffered loss,

rather, we are deprived.”

Have you thought about the water that you drink?

Is it you who bring it down from the clouds, or is it We Who bring it down?

If We willed, We could make it salty; will you not then give thanks?

Have you thought about the fire that you kindle?

Is it you who produced its trees[8], or is it We Who produced it? ——— [8] Referring to Arabian trees, markh and ‘afār, which produce fire when their green branches are rubbed against each other.

We made it a reminder [of the Hellfire] and a benefit for the travelers[9]. ——— [9] By which they ignite fire. Travelers are mentioned in particular because it is of special convenience to them, although it is of use for all people in general.

So glorify the Name of your Lord, the Most Great.

I do swear[10] by the positions of the stars – ——— [10] The negative article "la" (nay) means: The truth is not what is said or thought by disbelievers or others. The oath refutes certain objections of the disbelievers with regard to the Qur’an.

and this is indeed a great oath, if only you knew –

that this is indeed a noble Qur’an,

in a well-preserved Record[11], ——— [11] i.e., the Preserved Tablet.

that none can touch except the purified ones[12] – ——— [12] i.e., angels. It refutes the claim of the pagans that the Qur’an was sent down by devils. (See 26:210-212). Based on this verse, many Muslim jurists held that one should perform ablution prior to reading the Qur’an.

a revelation from the Lord of the worlds.

Do you take this discourse lightly,

and instead [of thanking Allah] for the provision you are given, you show ingratitude?

Then why [are you helpless] when the soul reaches the throat,

while you are looking on,

when We are closer[13] to him than you, but you do not see? ——— [13] We are closer to him in terms of Knowledge and Power; Our angels are closer in person.

If you are not subject to retribution, then why do you not

bring that [soul] back, if you are truthful?

If that dying person is one of those who will be brought near to Allah,

then [he will have] comfort, fragrance[14], and a Garden of Bliss. ——— [14] lit., fragrant basil. Paradise is described in the Qur’an as being pleasant to the eye, the heart, and the ear. Here it also emphasizes the scent.

If he is one of the people of the right,

[He will be told], “Peace be to you, for being one of the people of the right.”

But if he is one of the misguided deniers,

then he will be welcomed with scalding water,

and he will burn in Blazing Fire.

This is indeed the absolute truth.

So glorify the name of your Lord, the Most Great.

All that is in the heavens and earth glorifies[1] Allah, for He is the All-Mighty, the All-Wise. ——— [1] By praising and exalting Him far above any deficiency or imperfection.

To Him belongs the dominion of the heavens and earth; He gives life and causes death, and He is Most Capable of all things.

He is the First[2] and the Last[3], the Manifest[4] and the Hidden[5], and He is All-Knowing of everything. ——— [2] Before Whom nothing existed; the foremost; the uppermost. [3] Eternal after Whom nothing remains. [4] High, nothing is above Him. [5] Nothing is nearer than Him by way of His knowledge; concealed from our physical senses.

It is He Who created the heavens and earth in six days, and then rose over the Throne. He knows all that goes into the earth and all that comes out of it, and all that descends from the heaven and all that ascends to it. He is with you[6] wherever you are, and Allah is All-Seeing of what you do. ——— [6] By His Knowledge - observing and witnessing all.

To Him belongs the dominion of the heavens and earth, and to Allah will return all matters.

He causes the night to merge into the day and the day to merge into the night, and He is All-Knowing of what is in the hearts.

Believe in Allah and His Messenger, and spend [in Allah’s cause] out of what He has entrusted you with. For those among you who believe and spend[7], there will be a great reward. ——— [7] In the way of Allah.

Why is it that you do not believe in Allah when the Messenger is calling you to believe in your Lord, and He has already taken a covenant from you[8], if you will ever believe? ——— [8] See 7:172.

It is He Who sends down clear verses to His slave to bring you out of the depths of darkness into the light. Indeed, Allah is Ever Gracious and Most Merciful to you.

Why is it that you do not spend in the cause of Allah, when Allah alone will inherit the heavens and earth? Those of you who spent and fought before the conquest [of Makkah and those who did not] are not equal. They are much greater in rank than those who spent and fought afterward[9]. Yet Allah has promised each a fine reward, and Allah is All-Aware of what you do. ——— [9] Muslims were perceived as weak before the conquest of Makkah. Therefore, those believers who donated and fought in times of weakness and hardship deserve more rewards than those who did so when Muslims were victors and had an upper hand against the enemies.

Who is there to lend Allah a goodly loan, so He will multiply it for him, and for him there will be a generous reward[10]? ——— [10] i.e., Paradise.

[Remember] the Day when you will see the believing men and women, with their light streaming ahead of them and on their right. [They will be told], “Glad tidings for you Today: gardens under which rivers flow, abiding therein forever.” That is the supreme triumph.

On that Day the hypocrite men and women will say to those who believe, “Wait for us, so that we may have some of your light.” It will be said, “Go back and seek light elsewhere[11].” Then a wall will be placed between them, which will have a gate[12], on the inside of which there will be mercy and on the outside there will be punishment. ——— [11] i.e., the worldly life from where the light was acquired. [12] This wall is said to be the barrier between Paradise and Hell, which is called Al-A‘rāf (the heights). See 7:46-49.

The hypocrites will call out to the believers, “Were we not with you?” They will say, “Yes, but you allowed yourselves[13] to succumb to temptations, you awaited [some misfortune to befall us], you doubted, and you were deceived by false hopes, until Allah’s decree came to pass. Thus the deceiver [i.e., Satan] deceived you concerning Allah. ——— [13] By hypocrisy.

So this Day no ransom will be accepted from you or from the disbelievers. Your abode is the Fire; it is a fitting place for you – what a wretched destination!”

Has the time not yet come for those who believe that their hearts should be humbled at the remembrance of Allah and the truth that has been revealed? And that they should not be like those who were given the Scripture before, whose hearts grew hard after the passage of a long time, and many of them were evildoers.

Know that Allah revives the earth after its death[14]. We have made the signs clear to you so that you may understand. ——— [14] Similarly, it is easy for Allah to soften the hearts and guide after misguidance.

Indeed, those men and women who give in charity and lend to Allah a goodly loan, it will be multiplied for them, and for them there will be a generous reward[15]. ——— [15] i.e., Paradise.

Those who believe in Allah and His messengers, it is they who are the people of the truth. And the martyrs will have their reward and their light with their Lord. As for those who disbelieve and reject Our verses, they are the people of the Blazing Fire.

Know that the life of this world is no more than play, amusement, adornment, boasting among yourselves, and competition in wealth and children. It is like plants that flourish after rain, pleasing the sowers, then they wither and you see them turning yellow, and then they crumble. And in the Hereafter there will be severe punishment, or forgiveness from Allah and His pleasure. For the life of this world is no more than a fleeting enjoyment.

Race one another towards forgiveness from your Lord and Paradise the width of which is like the width of the heaven and earth, prepared for those who believe in Allah and His messengers. That is the bounty of Allah which He gives to whom He wills, for Allah is the Lord of great bounty.

No calamity befalls the earth or yourselves but it is already written in a Record[16] before We bring it into existence. That is indeed easy for Allah – ——— [16] i.e., the Preserved Tablet.

so that you may not grieve over what you have missed, nor exult over what He has given you, for Allah does not love anyone who is conceited and boastful –

those who are stingy and promote stinginess among people. And those who turn away[17], then Allah is the Self-Sufficient, the Praiseworthy. ——— [17] Refuse to spend in the way of Allah or refuse obedience to Him.

We have sent Our messengers with clear proofs, and sent down with them the Scripture and the criteria of justice, so that the people may uphold justice. And We sent down iron, in which there is great might and benefits for people, so that Allah may make known those who help His cause and His messengers without seeing Him. Indeed, Allah is All-Powerful, All-Mighty.

We sent Noah and Abraham, and gave prophethood and Scripture to their offspring: some among them are guided, but most of them are evildoers.

Then We sent Our messengers in their footsteps, and We sent after them Jesus, son of Mary; We gave him the Gospel and instilled kindness and mercy in the hearts of those who followed him. As for monasticism, they invented it – We did not prescribe it for them – seeking thereby Allah’s pleasure, yet they did not observe it faithfully. So We gave those who believed among them their reward, but most of them are evildoers.

O you who believe, fear Allah and believe in His Messenger; He will give you a double share of His mercy and will give you a light by which you walk, and forgive you, for Allah is All-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

[This is] so that the People of the Book may know that they have no power over anything of Allah’s bounty and that all bounty is in the Hands of Allah; He gives it to whom He wills, for Allah is the Lord of great bounty.

Indeed, Allah has heard the words of the woman who was arguing with you [O Prophet] concerning her husband and was complaining to Allah. Allah has heard the discussion between the two of you, for Allah is All-Hearing, All-Seeing[1]. ——— [1] Khawlah bint Tha‘labah and her husband Aws ibn As-Sāmit had a disagreement. She came to the Prophet (ﷺ) and said that her husband made her unlawful to himself as the zahr (back) of his mother, which was a famous type of divorce in Arabia, called zihār. He (ﷺ) told her that he had not received any revelation in this regard. Finally, this Madinian surah was revealed, and abolished this ancient practice.

As for those among you who divorce their wives by likening them to their mothers[2], they are not their mothers; their mothers are none but those who gave birth to them. They utter words that are abhorrent and false, but Allah is Most Pardoning, Most Forgiving. ——— [2] By saying to one's wife, "You are to me like the back of my mother," meaning unlawful to approach, which was abolished by the revelation of these verses.

But those who divorce their wives by likening them to their mothers then retract what they said, they must free a slave before they are intimate with each other. This is what you are admonished, and Allah is All-Aware of what you do.

But whoever cannot afford this must fast for two consecutive months[3] before the couple have intimate relations with each other. But if he is unable to do that, he must feed sixty needy people. This is so that you may truly believe in Allah and His Messenger. These are the limits ordained by Allah, and for the disbelievers there will be a painful punishment. ——— [3] See footnote 4:92.

Indeed, those who oppose Allah and His Messenger will be debased, just as those who came before them were debased, for We have surely sent down clear signs. And for the disbelievers there will be a humiliating punishment.

On the Day when Allah will resurrect them all together and will inform them of what they did; Allah has kept their complete record, while they have forgotten it. For Allah is a Witness over all things.

Do you not see that Allah knows all that is in the heavens and all that is on earth? No secret consultation takes place between three, but He is their fourth, or between five, but He is their sixth, or between fewer or more than that, but He is with them wherever they may be[4]. Then He will inform them of what they did on the Day of Resurrection. Indeed, Allah is All-Knowing of everything. ——— [4] He is with them by His knowledge.

Have you not seen those who were forbidden from holding secret talks, yet they go back to do what they were forbidden from, conspiring in sin and aggression, and in disobedience to the Messenger? When they come to you, they greet you[5] other than the way Allah greets you, and they say to one another, “Why does Allah not punish us for what we say?” Sufficient is Hell for them; they will enter it. What a terrible destination! ——— [5] This is referring to the Jews who used to play with words while addressing the Prophet (ﷺ) to ridicule him, saying "Asāmu ‘alaikum" (death be upon you) instead of "Asalamu ‘alaikum" (peace be upon you).

O you who believe, when you hold secret counsel, do not do so in sin and aggression, and in disobedience to the Messenger, rather do so in righteousness and piety. And fear Allah, to Whom you will be gathered.

Secret talks are only prompted by Satan to grieve the believers, but he cannot harm them[6] in the least except with Allah’s permission. So let the believers put their trust in Allah. ——— [6] Referring to the sinful type of secret talks, as mentioned in the previous verses, or two persons speaking in private in the presence of a third, leading him to assume that he is the subject of their talk.

O you who believe, when you are told to make room in your gatherings, then make room; Allah will give you abundance[7]. And when you are told to rise, then rise; Allah will raise in ranks those who believed from among you and those who are given knowledge. And Allah is All-Aware of what you do. ——— [7] In this life or in the Hereafter.

O you who believe, when you consult the Messenger in private, give something in charity before your consultation; that is better for you and more conducive to purity. But if you do not have the means, then Allah is All-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

Are you afraid of giving charities before your consultations with him? If you are unable to do so, and Allah has pardoned you, then establish prayer and give zakah, and obey Allah and His Messenger. And Allah is All-Aware of what you do.

Do you not see those [hypocrites] who take as allies people who have incurred Allah’s wrath? They are neither of you nor of them, and they swear falsely while they know.

Allah has prepared for them a severe punishment. Evil is indeed what they do.

They have taken their oaths as a shield, in order to hinder people from the way of Allah. For them there will be a humiliating punishment.

Neither their wealth nor their children will avail them anything against Allah. They are the people of the Fire; they will abide therein forever.

On the Day when Allah will raise them all, they will swear to Him as they swear to you, thinking that they have something to stand on[8]. Indeed, it is they who are the liars. ——— [8] Thinking that their lies will be believed and that they will escape punishment.

Satan has taken hold of them and has thus caused them to forget the remembrance of Allah. They are the party of Satan. Indeed, the party of Satan will be the losers.

Indeed, those who oppose Allah and His Messenger, they are among the most debased.

Allah has decreed, “I and My messengers will surely prevail.” Indeed, Allah is All-Powerful, All-Mighty.

You will not find any people who believe in Allah and the Last Day taking as allies those who oppose Allah and His Messenger, even if they were their parents, their children, their brothers, or their kindred. It is they in whose hearts Allah has instilled faith and strengthened them with a spirit[9] from Him. He will admit them to gardens under which rivers flow, abiding therein forever. Allah is pleased with them and they are pleased with Allah. They are the party of Allah. Indeed, it is the party of Allah that will be successful. ——— [9] Spirit here means His revelation, light, or His help.

All that is in the heavens and all that is on earth glorifies Allah, for He is the All-Mighty, the All-Wise.

It is He Who expelled the disbelievers of the People of the Book[1] from their homes as the first banishment[2]. You did not think that they would leave, and they thought that their fortresses would protect them from Allah. But [the punishment of] Allah came upon them from where they did not expect and He cast dread in their hearts, destroying their homes with their own hands[3] and the hands of the believers. So take a lesson, O you people of insight. ——— [1] It refers to the Jews of Banū Nadīr, who broke their pact with the Prophet (ﷺ). [2] This was the first time ever that they were gathered and expelled from Madinah to the Levant. [3] In order that the believers do not benefit from their homes.

Had Allah not decreed exile for them, He would have surely punished them in this world. And in the Hereafter, there will be for them the punishment of the Fire.

That is because they opposed Allah and His Messenger. And whoever opposes Allah, Allah is truly severe in punishment.

Whatever palm trees you cut down[4] or left standing on their trunks[5], it was by Allah’s Will, so that He might disgrace the evildoers[6]. ——— [4] To enrage the enemies of Allah. [5] To benefit from them. [6] When the Muslim army was about to enter the fort of Banū Nadīr, they cut down some of their palm trees, so the Jews were terrified and alleged that this was corruption. So the Muslims disagreed about it; some of them said not to cut the trees, for these are gains that Allah has bestowed upon us, while some others said that we cut them off to enrage them. Hence, this verse was revealed to appease both parties of the Muslims, proclaiming that all this happened by the will of Allah. They were treated as such for their betrayal as they broke their pact with the Prophet (ﷺ).

Whatever gains Allah has bestowed upon His Messenger from them, you did not spur on any horses or camels for that[7], but Allah gives authority to His messengers over whom He wills, and Allah is Most Capable of all things. ——— [7] i.e., they went through no hardship (i.e., war) to gain it.

Whatever gains Allah has bestowed upon His Messenger from the people of the towns belongs to Allah and the Messenger, and to his close relatives[8], orphans, the needy, and stranded wayfarers[9], so that wealth should not circulate only among those of you who are rich. Whatever the Messenger gives you, accept it, and whatever he forbids you, refrain from it. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is severe in punishment. ——— [8] Those of Banū Hāshim and Banū Muttalib, the close relatives of the Prophet (ﷺ), as compensation for them being prohibited from accepting zakah. [9] This ruling concerning properties abandoned by disbelievers without engaging in war varies from that in Surat al-Anfāl, verse 41, which refers to spoils of war in which four-fifths is distributed among those believers who participated in the war.

For the poor emigrants [there is a due share] who were driven out of their homes and their properties, seeking Allah’s bounty and pleasure, and helping the cause of Allah and His Messenger. It is they who are the truthful.

As for those who were settled in the city [of Madinah][10] and embraced Islam before them, they love those who migrated to them and find no covetous desire in their hearts for what they were given. Rather they give them preference over themselves even though they may be in dire need. Whoever is protected from the covetousness of their souls, it is they who are successful. ——— [10] Referring to the dwellers of Madinah, Ansār (the Helpers) who helped the believers and the Islamic cause since the inception of the Prophet’s mission.

And those who came after them say, “Our Lord, forgive us and our brethren who preceded us in faith, and do not let there be any ill feelings in our hearts towards those who believe. Our Lord, indeed, You are All-Gracious, Most Merciful.”

Have you not seen the hypocrites who say to their fellow disbelievers from the People of the Book[11], “If you are expelled, we will surely leave with you, and we will never obey anyone concerning you, and if you are attacked, we will surely come to your aid.” But Allah bears witness that they are truly liars. ——— [11] i.e., the Jews of Banu Nadīr.

If they are expelled, they will not leave with them, and if they are attacked, they will not come to their aid. Even if they come to their help, they will certainly turn and flee, then they will not be helped.

Indeed, your fear in their hearts is greater than their fear of Allah. That is because they are a people devoid of understanding.

They will not fight you all together but in fortified towns or from behind walls. Their valor among themselves is great; you think they are united, but their hearts are divided. That is because they are people who do not understand.

They are like those who were shortly before them[12], who tasted the evil consequence of their deeds, and for them there will be a painful punishment. ——— [12] Referring to the defeat of the pagans of Makkah at the Battle of Badr or the exile of the Jews of Banu Qaynuqā‘.

They are like Satan when he says to man, “Disbelieve,” then when he disbelieves, he says, “I have nothing to do with you. I surely fear Allah, the Lord of the worlds.”

So they will both end up in the Fire, abiding therein forever. That is the recompense of the wrongdoers.

O you who believe, fear Allah, and let every soul consider what it has sent forth for tomorrow[13]. And fear Allah. Indeed, Allah is All-Aware of what you do. ——— [13] i.e., for the Hereafter.

Do not be like those who forgot Allah, so He made them forget themselves. It is they who are the evildoers.

The people of Hell and the people of Paradise are not equal. It is the people of Paradise who will triumph.

Had We sent down this Qur’an upon a mountain, you would have seen it humbled and break asunder out of awe of Allah[14]. Such are the similitudes We set forth for people so that they may reflect. ——— [14] i.e., The disbelievers’ hearts are harder than the mountains in regard to the Qur’an.

He is Allah; none has the right to be worshiped except Him, Knower of the unseen and the seen; He is the Most Compassionate, the Most Merciful.

He is Allah; none has the right to be worshiped except Him, the Sovereign[15], the Most Holy[16], the Most Perfect[17], the Granter of Security[18], the Watcher over all, the All-Mighty, the Compeller[19], the Supreme[20]. Glory be to Allah far above what they associate with Him. ——— [15] i.e., the Owner of everything in existence. [16] i.e., Transcendent above any imperfection and attributes related to His creation. [17] Lit., "Free" from any fault. It also means, "Peace" or "Soundness." [18] And grants safety; reassurance; bestows faith. [19] Who compels the creation according to His will. Also, "the Amender" or "the Rectifier" Who restores, or sets something right once again. [20] i.e., the Complete and Perfect in His essence, attributes, and actions.

He is Allah, the Creator[21], the Maker[22], the Fashioner[23]. He has the most beautiful names. All that is in the heavens and earth glorifies Him, for He is the All-Mighty, the All-Wise. ——— [21] i.e., the Creator of everything. [22] i.e., the Inventor of everything. [23] i.e., He Who gave everything its form.