Quran Recitation - Hashem Nabil | تلاوة القرآن - هاشم نبيل

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم

اللهم صل على محمد وال محمد

الحَمْدُ للهِ الَّذِي لَيْسَ لِقَضائِهِ دافِعٌ وَلا لِعَطائِهِ مانِعٌ 

وَلا كَصُنْعِهِ صُنْعُ صانِعٍ وَهُوَ الجَوادُ الواسِعُ

فَطَرَ أجْناسَ البَدائِعِ وَأَتْقَنَ بِحِكْمَتِهِ الصَّنائِعِ 

لا تَخْفى عَلَيْهِ الطَلائِعِ وَلا تَضِيعُ عِنْدَهُ الوَدائِعُ 

جازي كُلِّ صانِعٍ وَرايِشُ كُلِّ قانِعٍ

وَراحِمُ كُلِّ ضارِعٍ ومُنْزِلُ المَنافِعِ 

وَالكِتابِ الجامِعِ بِالنُّورِ السَّاطِعِ 

وَهُوَ لِلدَّعَواتِ سامِعٌ وَللْكُرُباتِ دافِعٌ 

وَلِلْدَّرَجاتِ رافِعٌ وَلِلْجَبابِرَةِ قامِعٌ

فَلا إِلهَ غَيْرُهُ وَلا شَيَ يَعْدِلُهُ 

وَلَيْسَ كَمِثْلِهِ شَيْ

وَهُوَ السَّمِيعُ البَصِيرُ اللَّطِيفُ الخَبِيرُ 

وَهُوَ عَلى كُلِّ شَيٍ قَدِيرٌ

اللّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَرْغَبُ إِلَيْكَ 

وَأَشْهَدُ بِالرُّبُوبِيَّةِ لَكَ 

مُقِرَّا بِأَنَّكَ رَبِّي 

وأن َإِلَيْكَ مَرَدِّي 

إِبْتَدأتَنِي بِنِعْمَتِكَ قَبْلَ أَنْ أَكُونَ شَيْئاً مَذْكُوراً 

وَخَلَقْتَنِي مِنَ التُرابِ ثُمَّ أسْكَنْتَنِي الأصْلابَ 

آمِنَاً لِرَيْبِ المَنُونِ 

وَاخْتِلافِ الدُّهُورِ وَالسِّنِينَ

فَلَم أَزَلْ ظاعِناً مِنْ صُلْبٍ إِلى رَحِمٍ

فِي تَقادُمٍ مِنْ الأيَّامِ الماضِيَةِ وَالقُرُونِ الخالِيَةِ

لَمْ تُخْرِجْنِي لِرأْفَتِكَ بِي وَلُطْفِكَ لِي وَإِحْسانِكَ إِلَيَّ 

فِي دَوْلَةِ أَئِمَّةِ الكُفْرِ الَّذِينَ نَقَضُوا عَهْدَكَ وَكَذَّبُوا رُسُلَكَ

لكِنَّكَ أَخْرَجْتَنِي لِلَّذِي سَبَقَ لِي مِنَ الهُدى الَّذِي لَهُ يَسَّرْتَنِي وَفِيهِ أَنْشّأْتَنِي 

وَمِنْ قَبْلِ ذلِكَ رَؤُفْتَ بِي بِجَمِيلِ صُنْعِكَ وَسَوابِغِ نِعَمِكَ

فَابْتَدَعْتَ خَلْقِي مِنْ مَنِيٍّ يُمْنى 

وَأَسْكَنْتَنِي فِي ظُلُماتٍ ثَلاثٍ بَيْنَ لَحْمٍ وَدَمٍ وَجِلْدٍ 

لَمْ تُشْهِدْنِي خَلْقِي وَلَمْ تَجْعَلْ إِلَيَّ شَيْئاً مِنْ أَمْرِي 

ثُمَّ أَخْرَجْتَنِي لِلَّذِي سَبَقَ لِي مِنَ الهُدى إِلى الدُّنْيا تآمّاً سَوِيّاً 

وَحَفِظْتَنِي فِي المَهْدِ طِفْلاً صَبِيّاً وَرَزَقْتَنِي مِنَ الغِذآءِ لَبَناً مَرِيّاً

وَعَطَفْتَ عَلَيَّ قُلُوبَ الحَواضِنِ وَكَفَّلْتَنِي الاُمَّهاتِ الرَّواحِمَ

وَكَلأتَنِي مِنْ طَوارِقِ الجآنِّ وَسَلَّمْتَنِي مِنَ الزِّيادَةِ وَالنُّقْصان

فَتَعالَيْتَ يا رَحيمُ يا رَحْمنُ 

حَتَّى إِذا اسْتَهْلَلْتُ ناطِقا بِالكَلامِ 

أَتْمَمْتَ عَلَيَّ سَوابِغَ الإنِعْامِ 

وَرَبَّيْتَنِي زائِداً فِي كُلِّ عامٍ

حَتَّى إِذا اكْتَمَلَتْ فِطْرَتِي وَاعْتَدَلَتْ مِرَّتِي أَوْجَبْتَ عَلَيَّ حُجَّتَكَ

بِأَنْ أَلْهَمْتَنِي مَعْرِفَتَكَ وَرَوَّعْتَنِي بِعَجائِبَ حِكْمَتِكَ

وَأيْقَظْتَنِي لِما ذَرَأْتَ فِي سَمائِكَ وَأَرْضِكَ مِنْ بَدائِعِ خَلْقِكَ 

وَنَبَّهْتَنِي لِشُكْرِكَ وَذِكْرِكَ 

وَأَوْجَبْتَ عَلَيَّ طاعَتَكَ وَعِبادَتَكَ 

وَفَهَّمْتَنِي ما جاءتْ بِهِ رُسُلُكَ 

وَيَسَّرْتَ لِي تَقَبُّلَ مَرْضاتِكَ 

وَمَنَنْتَ عَلَيَّ فِي جَمِيعِ ذلِكَ بِعَوْنِكَ وَلُطْفِكَ

ثُمَّ إِذْ خَلَقْتَنِي مِنْ خَيْرِ الثَّرى لَمْ تَرْضَ لِي يا إِلهِي نِعْمَةً دُونَ اُخْرى 

وَرَزَقْتَنِي مِنْ أَنْواعِ المَعاشِ وَصُنُوفِ الرِّياشِ بِمَنِّكَ العَظِيمِ الأَعْظَمِ عَلَيَّ وَإِحْسانِكَ القَدِيمِ إِليَّ

حَتَّى إِذآ أتْمَمْتَ عَلَيَّ جَمِيعَ النِّعَمِ وَصَرَفْتَ عَنِّي كُلَّ النِّقَمِ

لَمْ يَمْنَعْكَ جَهْلِي وَجُرْأَتِي عَلَيْكَ أَنْ دَلَلْتَنِي إِلى ما يُقَرِّبُنِي إِلَيْكَ 

وَوَفَّقْتَني لِما يُزْلِفُنِي لَدَيْكَ

فَإِنْ دَعَوْتُكَ أَجَبْتَنِي

وَإِنْ سَأَلْتُكَ أَعْطَيْتَنِي

وَإِنْ أَطَعْتُكَ شَكَرْتَنِي

وَإِنْ شَكَرْتُكَ زِدْتَنِي

كُلُّ ذلِكَ إِكْمالٌ لأنْعُمِكَ عَلَيَّ وَإِحْسانِكَ إِلَيَّ 

فَسُبْحانَكَ سُبْحانَكَ مِنْ مُبْدِئٍ مُعِيدٍ حَمِيدٍ مَجِيدٍ 

وَتَقَدَّسَتْ أَسْماؤُكَ وَعَظُمَتْ آلآؤُكَ

فَأَيُّ نِعَمَكَ يآ إِلهِي أوحْصِيِ عَدَداً وَذِكْراً

أَمْ أَيُّ عَطاياكَ أَقُومُ بِها شُكْراً

وَهِي يارَبِّ أَكْثَرُ مِنْ أَنْ يُحْصِيَهَا العآدُّونَ

أَوْ يَبْلُغَ عِلْماً بِها الحافِظُونَ

ثُمَّ ما صَرَفْتَ وَدَرَأْتَ عَنِّي اللّهُمَّ مِنَ الضُّرِّ وَالضَّرَّآءِ أَكْثَرُ مِمَّا ظَهَرَ لِي مِنَ العافِيَةِ وَالسَّرَّاءِ

وَأنا أَشْهَدُ يآ إِلهِي بِحَقِيقَةِ إِيْمانِي 

وَعَقْدِ عَزَماتِ يَقِينِي 

وَخالِصِ صَرِيحِ تَوْحِيدِي 

وَباطِنِ مَكْنُونِ ضَمِيرِي 

وَعَلائِقِ مَجارِيِ نُورِ بَصَرِي 

وَأَسارِيرِ صَفْحَةِ جَبِينِي 

وَخُرْقِ مَسارِبِ نَفْسِي 

وَخَذارِيفِ مارِنِ عِرْنِينِي

وَمَسارِبِ سِماخِ سَمْعِي 

وَما ضُمَّتْ وَأَطْبَقَتْ عَلَيْهِ شَفَتايَ 

وَحَرَكاتِ لَفْظِ لِسانِي 

وَمَغْرَزِ حَنَكِ فَمِي

وَفَكّي وَمَنابِتِ أَضْراسِي 

وَمَساغِ مَطْعَمِي وَمَشْرَبِي

وَحِمالَةِ اُمِّ رَأْسِي 

وَبُلوعِ فارِغِ حَبَائِلِ عُنُقِي 

وَما اشْتَمَلَ عَلَيْهِ تامُورُ صَدْرِي 

وَحَمائِلُ حَبْلِ وَتِينِي

وَنِياطِ حِجابِ قَلْبِي

وَأَفْلاذِ حَواشِي كَبِدِي

وَماحَوَتْهُ شَراسِيفُ أضْلاعِي

وَحِقاقُ مَفاصِلِي

وَقَبْضُ عَوامِلِي

وَأَطْرافِ أَنامِلِي

وَلَحْمِي وَدَمِي

وَشَعْرِي وَبَشَرِي

وَعَصَبِي وَقَصَبِي

وَعِظامِي وَمُخِّي

وَعُرُوقِي وَجَمِيعُ جَوارِحِي

وَما انْتَسَجَ عَلى ذلِكَ أَيّامَ رِضاعِي

وَما أَقَلَّتِ الأَرْضُ مِنِّي

وَنَوْمِي وَيَقْظَتِي وَسُكُونِي

وَحَرَكاتِ رُكُوعِي وَسُجُودِي 

أَنْ لَوْ حاوَلْتُ وَاجْتَهَدْتُ مَدى الأعْصارِ وَالأحْقابِ 

لَوْ عُمِّرْتُها أَنْ اُؤَدِّيَ شُكْرَ وَاحِدَةٍ مِنْ أَنْعُمِكَ 

ما اسْتَطَعْتُ ذلِكَ إِلاّ بِمَنِّكَ المُوجَبِ عَلَيَّ بِهِ شُكْرُكَ أَبَداً جَدِيداً

وَثَناءً طارِفاً عَتِيداً

أَجَل

وَلَوْ حَرَصْتُ أَنا وَالعآدُّونَ مِنْ أَنامِكَ

أَنْ نُحْصِيَ مَدى إِنْعامِكَ سالِفِهِ وَآنِفِهِ 

ما حَصَرْناهُ عَدَداً وَلا أَحْصَيْناهُ أَمَداً

هَيْهاتَ أَنَّى ذلِكَ 

وَأَنْتَ المُخْبِرُ فِي كِتابِكَ النَّاطِقِ وَالنَّبَأِ الصَّادِقِ

وَإِنْ تَعُدُّوا نِعْمَةَ الله لا تُحْصُوها

صَدَقَ كِتابُكَ اللّهُمَّ وَأَنْباؤُكَ

وَبَلَّغَّتْ أَنْبِياؤُكَ وَرُسُلُكَ ما أَنْزَلْتَ عَلَيْهِمْ مِنْ وَحْيِكَ 

وَشَرَعْتَ لَهُمْ وَبِهِمْ مِنْ دِينِكَ 

غَيْرَ أَنِّي يآ إِلهِي 

أَشْهَدُ بِجُهْدِي وَجِدِّي وَمَبْلَغِ طاعَتِي وَوُسْعِي

وَأَقُولُ مُؤْمِناً مُوقِناً

الحَمْدُ للهِ الَّذِي لَمْ يَتَّخِذْ وَلَداً فَيَكُونَ مَوْرُوثاً 

وَلَمْ يَكُنْ لَهُ شَرِيكٌ فِي مُلْكِهِ فَيُضآدُّهُ فِيما ابْتَدَعَ 

وَلا وَلِيٌّ مِنَ الذُّلِّ فَيُرْفِدَهُ فِيما صَنَعَ

فَسُبْحانَهُ سُبْحانَهُ 

لَوْ كان فِيهما آلِهَةٌ إِلاّ اللهُ لَفَسَدَتا وَتَفَطَّرَتا

سُبْحانَ اللهِ الواحِدِ الأحَدِ الصَّمَدِ 

الَّذِي لَمْ يَلِدْ وَلَمْ يُولَدُ 

وَلَمْ يَكُنْ لَهُ كُفُوا أَحَد

الحَمْدُ للهِ حَمْداً يُعادِلُ حَمْدَ مَلائِكَتِهِ المُقَرَّبِينَ 

وَأَنْبِيائِهِ المُرْسَلِينَ 

وَصَلّى الله عَلى خِيَرَتِهِ مُحَمَّدٍ خاتَمِ النَّبِيِّينَ 

وَآلِهِ الطَيِّبِينَ الطَّاهِرِينَ المُخْلِصِينَ وَسَلَّمَ

اللّهُمَّ اجْعَلْنِي أَخْشاكَ كَأَنِّي أَراكَ 

وَأسْعِدْنِي بِتَقْواكَ 

وَلا تُشْقِنِي بِمَعْصِيَتِكَ 

وَخِرْ لِي فِي قَضائِكَ 

وَبارِكْ لِي فِي قَدَرِكَ حَتَّى لآ اُحِبَّ تَعْجِيلَ مآ أَخَّرْتَ 

وَلا تَأْخِيرَ ما عَجَّلْتَ

اللّهُمَّ اجْعَلْ غِنايَ فِي نَفْسِي 

وَاليَّقِينَ فِي قَلْبِي 

وَالإخْلاصَ فِي عَمَلِي 

وَالنُّورَ فِي بَصَرِي 

وَالبَصِيرَةَ فِي دِينِي 

وَمَتِّعْنِي بِجَوارِحِي 

وَاجْعَلْ سَمْعِي وَبَصَرِي الوارِثَيْنِ مِنِّي

وَانْصُرْنِي عَلى مَنْ ظَلَمَنِي 

وَأَرِنِي فِيهِ ثأرِي وَمَأرَبِي وَأَقِرَّ بِذلِكَ عَيْنِي

اللّهُمَّ اكْشُفْ كُرْبَتِي 

وَاسْتُرْ عَوْرَتِي 

وَاغْفِرْ لِي خَطِيئَتِي

وَأخْسَأ شَيْطانِي 

وَفُكَّ رِهانِي 

وَاجْعَلْ لِي يا إِلهِي الدَّرَجَةَ العُلْيا فِي الآخرةِ وَالأوّلى

اللّهُمَّ لَكَ الحَمْدُ كَما خَلَقْتَنِي فَجَعَلْتَنِي سَميعاً بَصِيراً

وَلَكَ الحَمْدُ كَما خَلَقْتَنِي فَجَعَلْتَنِي خَلْقا سَوِيّاً رَحْمَةً بِي 

وَقَدْ كُنْتَ عَنْ خَلْقِي غَنِيّاً

رَبِّ بِما بَرَأْتَنِي فَعَدَّلْتَ فِطْرَتِي

رَبِّ بِما أَنْشَأْتَنِي فَأَحْسَنْتَ صُورَتِي

رَبِّ بِما أَحْسَنْتَ إِلَيَّ وَفِي نَفْسِي عافَيْتَنِي 

رَبِّ بِما كَلأتَنِي وَوَفَّقْتَنِي 

رَبِّ بِما أَنْعَمْتَ عَلَيَّ فَهَدَيْتَنِي 

رَبِّ بِما أَوْلَيْتَنِي وَمِنْ كُلِّ خَيْرٍ أَعْطَيْتَنِي 

رَبِّ بِما أَطعمتني وَسَقَيْتَنِي 

رَبِّ بِما أَغْنَيْتَنِي وَأقْنَيْتَنِي 

رَبِّ بِما أعَنْتَنِي وَأَعْزَزْتَنِي 

رَبِّ بِمآ أَلْبَسْتَنِي مِنْ سِتْرِكَ الصَّافِي وَيَسَّرْتَ لِي مِنْ صُنْعِكَ الكافِي 

صَلِّ عَلى مُحَمَّدٍ وَآلِ مُحَمَّدٍ 

وَأَعِنِّي عَلى بَوائِقِ الدُّهُورِ 

وَصُرُوفِ اللَّيالِي وَالأيَّامِ 

وَنَجِّنِي مِنْ أَهْوالِ الدُّنْيا وَكُرُباتِ الآخرةِ 

وَاكْفِنِي شَرَّ مايَعْمَلُ الظَّالِمُونَ فِي الأَرْضِ

اللّهُمَّ مآ أَخافُ فَاكْفِنِي وَمآ أَحْذَرُ فَقِنِي 

وَفِي نَفْسِي وَدِينِي فَاحْرُسْنِي 

وَفِي سَفَرِي فَاحْفَظْنِي 

وَفِيِ أَهْلِي وَمالِي فَاخْلِفْنِي 

وَفِيما رَزَقْتَنِي فَبارِكْ لِي

وَفِي نَفْسِي فَذَلِّلْنِي 

وَفِيِ أَعْيُنِ النَّاسِ فَعَظِّمْنِي 

وَمِنْ شَرِّ الجِنِّ وَالإنْسِ فَسَلِّمْنِي 

وَبِذُنُوبِي فَلا تَفْضَحْنِي 

وَبِسَرِيرَتِي فَلا تُخْزِنِّي 

وَبِعَمَلِي فَلا تَبْتَلِنِي 

وَنِعَمَكَ فَلا تَسْلُبْنِي 

وَإِلى غَيْرِكَ فَلا تَكِلْنِي

إِلهِي

إِلى مَنْ تَكِلْنِي 

إِلى قَرِيبٍ فَيَقْطَعُنِي 

أَمْ إِلى بَعِيدٍ فَيَـتَـجَهَّمُنِي 

أَمْ إِلى المُسْتَضْعِفِينَ لِي وَأَنْتَ رَبِّي وَمَلِيكُ أَمْرِي

أَشْكُو إِلَيْكَ غُرْبَتِي 

وَبُعْدَ دارِي وَهَوانِي عَلى مَنْ مَلَّكْتُهُ أَمْرِي

إِلهِي

فَلا تُحْلِلْ عَلَيَّ غَضَبَك

فَإِنْ لَمْ تَكُنْ غَضِبْتَ عَلَيَّ فَلا أُبالِي 

سُبْحانَكَ غَيْرَ أَنَّ عافِيَتَكَ أَوْسَعُ لِي

فَاسْأَلُكَ يارَبِّ بِنُورِ وَجْهِكَ الَّذِيِ أَشْرَقَتْ لَهُ الأَرْضُ وَالسَّماواتُ

وَكُشِفَتْ بِهِ الظُّلُماتُ وَصَلُحَ بِهِ أَمْرُ الأوَّلِينَ وَالآخِرِينَ

أَنْ لا تُمِيتَنِي عَلى غَضَبِكَ

وَلا تُنْزِلْ بِي سَخَطَكَ 

لَكَ العُتْبى لَكَ العُتْبى حَتَّى تَرْضى قَبْلَ ذلِكَ

لا إِلهَ إِلاّ أَنْتَ

رَبَّ البَلَدِ الحَرامِ وَالمَشْعَرِ الحَرامِ 

وَالبَيْتِ العَتِيقِ الَّذِيِ أَحْلَلْتَهُ البَرَكَةَ 

وَجَعَلْتَهُ لِلنَّاسِ أَمْنا

يا مَنْ عَفا عَنْ عَظِيمِ الذُّنُوبِ بِحِلْمِهِ 

يا مَنْ أَسْبَغَ النَّعَماءِ بِفَضْلِهِ 

يا مَنْ أَعْطى الجَزِيلَ بِكَرَمِهِ 

يا عُدَّتِي فِي شِدَّتِي 

يا صاحِبِي فِي وَحْدَتِي 

يا غِياثِي فِي كُرْبَتِي 

يا وَلِيِّي فِي نِعْمَتِي 

يا الهِي وَإِلهَ ابائِيِ إِبْراهِيمَ وَإِسْماعِيلَ

وَإِسْحاقَ وَيَعْقُوبَ وَرَبَّ جِبْرائِيلَ

وَمِيكائِيلَ وَإِسْرافِيلَ 

وَرَبَّ مُحَمَّدٍ خاتَمِ النَّبِيِّينَ وَآلِهِ المُنْتَجَبِينَ 

وَمُنْزِلَ التَّوْراةِ وَالإنْجِيلِ وَالزَّبُورِ وَالفُرْقانِ 

وَمُنَزِّلَ كهيَّعَصَّ

وَطهَ وَيَّس 

وَالقُرْآنِ الحَكِيم

أَنْتَ كَهْفِيِ

حِينَ تُعْيِينِي المَذاهِبُ فِي سِعَتِها 

وَتَضِيقُ بِيَ الأَرْضُ بِرُحْبِها 

وَلَوْلا رَحْمَتُكَ لَكُنْتُ مِنَ الهالِكِينَ

وَأَنْتَ مُقِيلُ عَثْرَتِي 

وَلَوْلا سَتْرُكَ إِيَّايَ لَكُنْتُ مِنْ المَفْضُوحِينَ 

وَأَنْتَ مُؤَيِّدِي بِالنَّصْرِ عَلى أَعْدائِي 

وَلْولا نَصْرُكَ إِيَّايَ لَكُنْتُ مِنَ المَغْلُوبِينَ

يامَنْ خَصَّ نَفْسَهُ بِالسُّمُوِّ وَالرِّفْعَةِ 

فَأَوْلِيآؤُهُ بِعِزِّهِ يَعْتَزُّونَ 

يامَنْ جَعَلَتْ لَهُ المُلُوكُ نَيْرَ المَذَلَّةِ عَلى أَعْناقِهِمْ 

فَهُمْ مِنْ سَطَواتِهِ خآئِفُونَ 

يَعْلَمُ خائِنَةَ الأعْيُنِ وَما تُخْفِي الصُّدُورِ 

وَغَيْبَ ما تَأْتِي بِهِ الأزْمِنَةُ وَالدُّهُورِ 

يا مَنْ لا يَعْلَمُ كَيْف هُوَ إِلاّ هُوَ 

يا مَنْ لا يَعْلَمُ ماهُوَ إِلاّ هُوَ 

يا مَنْ لا يَعْلَمُ ما يَعلَمُه إِلاّ هُوَ 

يا مَنْ كَبَسَ الأَرْضَ عَلى الماءِ 

وَسَدَّ الهَواءَ بِالسَّماء

يا مَنْ لَهُ أَكْرَمُ الأسَّماء

يا ذا المَعْرُوفِ الَّذِي لا يَنْقَطِعُ أَبَداً 

يا مُقَيِّضَ الرَّكْبِ لِيُوسُفَ فِي البَلَدِ القَفْرِ 

وَمُخْرِجَهُ مِنْ الجُبِّ وَجاعِلَهُ بَعْدَ العُبُودِيَّةِ مَلِكا 

يا رآدَّهُ عَلى يَعْقُوبَ بَعْدَ أَنْ ابْيَضَّتْ عَيْناهُ مِنَ الحُزْنِ فَهُوَ كَظِيمٌ

يا كاشِفَ الضُّرِّ وَالبَلْوى عَنْ أَيُّوبَ 

وَمُمْسِكَ يَدَيّْ إِبْراهِيمَ عَنْ ذَبْحِ ابْنِهِ بَعْدَ كِبَرِ سِنِّهِ وَفَناءِ عُمُرِهِ

يا مَنِ اسْتَجابَ لِزَكَرِيَّا فَوَهَبَ لَهُ يَحْيى وَلَمْ يَدَعْهُ فَرْداً وَحِيداً

يا مَنْ أَخْرَجَ يُونُسَ مِنْ بَطْنِ الحُوتِ

يا مَنْ فَلَقَ البَحْرَ لِبَنِي إِسْرائِيلَ فَأَنْجاهُمْ 

وَجَعَلَ فِرْعَوْنَ وَجُنُودَهُ مِنَ المُغْرَقِينَ 

يا مَنْ أَرْسَلَ الرِّياحَ مُبَشِّراتٍ بَيْنَ يَدَيْ رَحْمَتِهِ 

يا مَنْ لَمْ يَعْجَلْ عَلى مِنْ عَصاهُ مِنْ خَلْقِهِ 

يا مَنْ اسْتَنْقَذَ السَّحَرَةَ مِنْ بَعْدِ طُولِ الجُحُودِ 

وَقَدْ غَدَوا فِي نِعْمَتِهِ يَأْكُلُونَ رِزْقَهُ وَيَعْبُدُونَ غَيْرَهُ

وَقَدْ حادُّوهُ وَنادُّوهُ وَكَذَّبُوا رُسُلَهُ

يا الله 

يا الله 

يا بَدِيءُ يابَدِيعُ 

لآ نِدَّ لك 

يا دآئِم

لانَفادَ لَكَ 

يا حَيّاً حِينَ لاحَيَّ

يا مُحْيِيَ المَوْتى

يا مَنْ هُوَ قائِمٌ عَلى كُلِّ نَفْسٍ بِما كَسَبَتْ

يا مَنْ قَلَّ لَهُ شُكْرِي فَلَمْ يَحْرِمْنِي 

وَعَظُمَتْ خَطِيئَتِي فَلَمْ يَفْضَحْنِي

وَرَآنِي عَلى المَعاصِي فَلَمْ يَشْهَرْنِي 

يا مَنْ حَفِظَنِي فِي صِغَرِي 

يامَنْ رَزَقَنِي فِي كِبَرِي 

يامَنْ أَيادِيهِ عِنْدِي لا تُحْصى 

وَنِعَمُهُ لا تُجازى 

يا مَنْ عارَضَنِي بِالخَيْرِ وَالإحْسانِ

وَعارَضْتُهُ بِالإِساءَةِ وَالعِصْيانِ 

يامَنْ هَدانِي لِلإيمانِ مِنْ قَبْلِ أَنْ أَعْرِفَ شُكْرَ الإِمْتِنانِ

يامَنْ دَعَوْتُهُ مَرِيضاً فَشَفانِي

وَعُرْياناً فَكَسانِي 

وَجائِعاً فَأَشْبَعَنِي 

وَعَطْشاناً فَأَرْوانِي 

وَذَلِيلاً فَأَعَزَّنِي

وَجاهِلاً فَعَرَّفَنِي 

وَوَحِيداً فَكَثَّرَنِي 

وَغائباً فَرَدَّنِي 

وَمُقِلاً فَأَغْنانِي 

وَمُنْتَصِراً فَنَصَرَنِي 

وَغَنِيّاً فَلَمْ يَسْلُبْنِي

وَأَمْسَكْتُ عَنْ جَمِيعِ ذلِكَ فَابْتَدَأَنِي 

فَلَكَ الحَمْدُ وَالشُّكْرُ يامَنْ أَقالَ عَثْرَتِي

وَنَفَّسَ كُرْبَتِي 

وَأَجابَ دَعْوَتِي

وَسَتَرَ عَوْرَتِي 

وَغَفَرَ ذُنُوبِي 

وَبَلَّغَنِي طَلَبِي

وَنَصَرَنِي عَلى عَدُوِّي

وَإِنْ أَعُدَّ نِعَمَكَ وَمِنَنَكَ وَكَريِمَ مِنَحِكَ لا اُحْصِيها

يامَوْلايَ

أَنْتَ الَّذِي مَنَنْتَ 

أَنْتَ الّذِي أَنْعَمْتَ

أَنْتَ الَّذِي أَحْسَنْتَ 

أَنْتَ الَّذِي أَجْمَلْتَ 

أَنْتَ الَّذِي أَفْضَلْتَ 

أَنْتَ الَّذِي أَكْمَلْتَ 

أَنْتَ الَّذِي رَزَقْتَ 

أَنْتَ الَّذِي وَفَّقْتَ

أَنْتَ الَّذِي أَعْطَيْتَ 

أَنْتَ الَّذِي أَغْنَيْتَ 

أَنْتَ الَّذِي أَقْنَيْتَ 

أَنْتَ الَّذِي آوَيْتَ 

أَنْتَ الَّذِي كَفَيْتَ

أَنْتَ الَّذِي هَدَيْتَ

أَنْتَ الَّذِي عَصَمْتَ

أَنْتَ الَّذِي سَتَرْتَ 

أَنْتَ الَّذِي غَفَرْتَ 

أَنْتَ الَّذِي أَقَلْتَ 

أَنْتَ الَّذِي مَكَّنْتَ 

أَنْتَ الَّذِي أَعْزَزْتَ 

أَنْتَ الَّذِي أَعَنْتَ 

أَنْتَ الَّذِي عَضَدْتَ 

أَنْتَ الَّذِي أَيَّدْتَ 

أَنْتَ الَّذِي نَصَرْتَ

أَنْتَ الَّذِي شَفَيْتَ 

أَنْتَ الَّذِي عافَيْتَ

أَنْتَ الَّذِي أَكْرَمْتَ

أَنْتَ الَّذِي تَبارَكْتَ وَتَعالَيْتَ 

فَلَكَ الحَمْدُ دائِماً 

وَلَكَ الشُّكْرُ وَاصِباً أَبَداً

ثُمَّ أَنا يا إِلهِي 

المُعْتَرِفُ بِذُنُوبِي فَاغْفِرْها لِي

أَنا الَّذِي أَسَأْتُ

أَنا الَّذِي أَخْطَأْتُ

أَنا الَّذِي هَمَمْتُ

أَنا الَّذِي جَهِلْتُ

أَنا الَّذِي غَفَلْتُ 

أَنا الَّذِي سَهَوْتُ

أَنا الَّذِي اعْتَمَدْتُ

أَنا الَّذِي تَعَمَّدْتُ

أَنا الَّذِي وَعَدْتُ 

أَنا الَّذِي أَخْلَفْتُ 

أَنا الَّذِي نَكَثْتُ

أَنا الَّذِي أَقْرَرْتُ

أَنا الِّذِي اعْتَرَفْتُ بِنِعْمَتِكَ عَلَيَّ وَعِنْدِي

وَأَبُوُء بِذُنُوبِي فَاغْفِرْها لِي

يامَنْ لاتَضُرُّهُ ذُنُوبُ عِبادِهِ 

وَهُوَ الغَنِيُّ عَنْ طاعَتِهِمْ

وَالمُوَفِّقُ مَنْ عَمِلٍ صالِحاً مِنْهُمْ بِمَعُونَتِهِ وَرَحْمَتِهِ

فَلَكَ الحَمْدُ إِلهِي وَسَيِّدِي

أَمَرْتَنِي فَعَصَيْتُكَ 

وَنَهَيْتَنِي فَارْتَكَبْتُ نَهْيَكَ 

فَأَصْبَحْتُ لا ذا بَرائةٍ لِي فَأَعْتَذِرُ 

وَلا ذا قُوَّةٍ فَأَنْتَصِرُ

فَبِأَيِّ شَيٍ أَسْتَقْبِلُكَ يامَوْلايَ 

أَبِسَمْعِي

أَمْ بِبَصَرِي

أَمْ بِلِسانِي

أَمْ بِيَدِي

أَمْ بِرِجْلِي

أَلَيْسَ كُلِّها نِعَمُكَ عِنْدِي

وَبِكُلِّها عَصَيْتُكَ يامَوْلايَ

فَلَكَ الحُجَّةُ وَالسَّبِيلُ عَلَيَّ 

يامَنْ سَتَرَنِي مِنَ الآباءِ وَالاُمَّهاتِ أَنْ يَزْجُرُونِي 

وَمِنَ العَشائِرِ وَالإِخْوانِ أَنْ يُعَيِّرُونِي 

وَمِنَ السَّلاطِينِ أَنْ يُعاقِبُونِي

وَلَوْ اطَّلَعُوا يا مَوْلايَ عَلى ما اطَّلَعْتَ عَلَيْهِ مِنِّي إِذاً مآ أَنْظَرُونِي 

وَلَرَفَضُونِي وَقَطَعُونِي

فَها أَنا ذا يا إِلهِي بَيْنَ يَدَيْكَ

يا سَيِّدِي خاضِعٌ ذَلِيلٌ

حَصِيرٌ فَقِيرٌ 

لا ذو بَرائةٍ فَأَعْتَذِرُ 

وَلا ذو قُوَّةٍ فَأَنْتَصِرُ 

ولا حُجَّةٍ فَأحْتَجُّ بِها

وَلاقائِلٌ لَمْ اجْتَرِحْ وَلَمْ أَعْمَلْ سُوُء

وَما عَسى الجُحُودُ وَلَوْ جَحَدْتُ يا مَوْلايَ يَنْفَعُنِي

كَيْفَ

وَأَنَّى ذلِكَ

وَجَوارِحِي كُلِّها شاهِدَةٌ عَلَيَّ بِما قَدْ عَمِلْتُ

وَعَلِمْتُ يَقِينا غَيْرَ ذِي شَكٍّ أَنَّكَ سائِلِي مِنْ عَظائِمِ الأمُورِ

وَأَنَّكَ الحَكَمُ العَدْلُ الَّذِي لا تَجُورُ 

وَعَدْلُكَ مُهْلِكِي

وَمِنْ كُلِّ عَدْلِكَ مَهْرَبِي 

فَإِنْ تُعَذِّبْنِي يا إِلهِي فَبِذُنُوبِي بَعْدَ حُجَّتِكَ عَلَيَّ 

وَإِنْ تَعْفُ عَنِّي فَبِحِلْمِكَ وَجُودِكَ وَكَرَمِكَ

لا إِلهَ إِلاّ أَنْتَ سُبْحانَكَ إِنِّي كُنْتُ مِنَ الظَّالِمِينَ

لا إِلهَ إِلاّ أَنْتَ سُبْحانَكَ إِنِّي كُنْتُ مِنْ المُسْتَغْفِرِينَ

لا إِلهَ إِلاّ أَنْتَ سُبْحانَكَ إِنِّي كُنْتُ مِنَ المُوَحِّدِينَ

لا إِلهَ إِلاّ أَنْتَ سُبْحانَكَ إِنِّي كُنْتُ مِنَ الخآئِفِينَ

لا إِلهَ إِلاّ أَنْتَ سُبْحانَكَ إِنِّي كُنْتُ مِنَ الوَجِلِينَ

لا إِلهَ إِلاّ أَنْتَ سُبْحانَكَ إِنِّي كُنْتُ مِنَ الرَّاجِينَ

لا إِلهَ إِلاّ أَنْتَ سُبْحانَكَ إِنِّي كُنْتُ مِنَ الرَّاغِبِينَ

لا إِلهَ إِلاّ أَنْتَ سُبْحانَكَ إِنِّي كُنْتُ مِنَ المُهَلِّلِينَ

لا إِلهَ إِلاّ أَنْتَ سُبْحانَكَ إِنِّي كُنْتُ مِنَ السَّآئِلِينَ

لا إِلهَ إِلاّ أَنْتَ سُبْحانَكَ إِنِّي كُنْتُ مِنَ المُسَبِّحِينَ

لا إِلهَ إِلاّ أَنْتَ سُبْحانَكَ إِنِّي كُنْتُ مِنَ المُكَبِّرِينَ

لا إِلهَ إِلاّ أَنْتَ سُبْحانَكَ رَبِّي وَرَبُّ آبآئِيَ الأوّلِينَ

اللّهُمَّ هذا ثَنائِي عَلَيْكَ مُمَجِّداً 

وَإِخْلاصِي بذِكْرِكَ مُوَحِّداً

وَإِقْرارِي بآلآئِكَ مُعَدِّداً

وَإِنْ كُنْتُ مُقِرّاً أنّى لَمْ أُحْصِها لِكَثْرَتِها وَسُبوغِها

وَتَظاهُرِها وَتَقادُمِها إِلى حادِثٍ ما لَمْ تَزَلْ تَتَعَهَّدُنى بِهِ مَعَها مُنْذُ خَلَقْتَنى 

وَبَرَأتَنى مِنْ أَوَّلِ الْعُمْرِ مِنَ الإِغْنآءِ مِنَ الْفَقْرِ

وَكَشْفِ الضُّرِّ وَتَسْبِيبِ الْيُسْرِ

وَدَفْعِ الْعُسْر وَتَفريجِ الْكَرْبِ

وَالْعافِيَةِ فِى الْبَدَنِ وَالسَّلامَةِ فِى الدّينِ

وَلَوْ رَفَدَنى عَلى قَدْرِ ذِكْرِ نِعْمَتِكَ جَميعُ الْعالَمينَ مِنَ الأوَّلينَ وَالآخِرينَ ما قَدَرْتُ وَلا هُمْ عَلى ذلِكَ

تَقَدَّسْتَ وَتَعالَيْتَ مِنْ رَبٍّ كَريم

عَظيمٍ رَحيم

لا تُحْصى آلاؤُكَ

وَلا يُبْلَغُ ثَنآؤُكَ

وَلا تُكافئُ نَعْمآؤُكَ

فَصَلِّ عَلى مُحَمَّدٍ وَآلِ مُحَمَّد

وَأَتْمِمْ عَلَيْنا نِعَمَكَ

وَاَسْعِدْنا بِطاعَتِكَ

سُبْحانَكَ لا اِلهَ اِلاّ أَنْتَ

اَللَّهُمَّ اِنَّكَ تُجيبُ الْمُضْطَرَّ وَتَكْشِفُ السُّوءَ

وَتُغيثُ الْمَكْرُوبَ وَتَشْفِى السَّقيمَ

وَتُغْنِى الْفَقيرَ وَتَجْبُرُ الْكَسيرَ

وَتَرْحَمُ الصَّغيرَ وَتُعينُ الْكَبيرَ

وَلَيْسَ دُونَكَ ظَهيرٌ وَلا فَوْقَكَ قَديرٌ

وَأنْتَ الْعَلِىُّ الْكَبيرُ

يا مُطْلِقَ الْمُكَبِّلِ الأسيرِ

يا رازِقَ الطِّفْلِ الصَّغيرِ

يا عِصْمَةَ الْخآئِفِ الْمُسْتَجيرِ

يا مَنْ لا شَريكَ لَهُ وَلا وَزيرَ

صَلِّ عَلى مُحَمَّد وَآلِ مُحَمَّد

وَأَعْطِنى فى هذِهِ الْعَشِيَّةِ اَفْضَلَ ما اَعْطَيْتَ وَاَنَلْتَ اَحَداً مِنْ عِبادِكَ

مِنْ نِعْمَة تُوليها وَآلآءٍ تُجَدِّدُها

وَبَلِيَّةٍ تَصْرِفُها

وَكُرْبَةٍ تَكْشِفُها

وَدَعْوَةٍ تَسْمَعُها

وَحَسَنَةٍ تَتَقَبَّلُها

وَسَيِّئَةٍ تَتَغَمَّدُها

اِنَّكَ لَطيفٌ بِما تَشاءُ خَبيرٌ وَعَلى كُلِّ شَىء قَديرٌ

اَللَّهُمَّ اِنَّكَ اَقْرَبُ مَنْ دُعِىَ

وَاَسْرَعُ مَنْ أجابَ

وَأكْرَمُ مَنْ عَفى

وَاَوْسَعُ مَنْ اَعْطى

وَاَسْمَعُ مَنْ سُئِلَ

يا رَحمنَ الدُّنْيا والآخِرَةِ وَرحيمُهُما

لَيْسَ كَمِثْلِكَ مَسْؤولٌ

وَلا سِواكَ مَأمُولٌ

دَعَوْتُكَ فَأَجَبْتَنى

وَسَأَلْتُكَ فَاَعْطَيْتَنى

وَرَغِبْتُ اِلَيْكَ فَرَحِمْتَنى

وَوَثِقْتُ بِكَ فَنَجَّيْتَنى

وَفَزِعْتُ اِلَيْكَ فَكَفَيْتَنى

اَللَّهُمَّ فَصَلِّ عَلى مُحَمَّدٍ عَبْدِكَ وَرَسُولِكَ وَنَبِيِّكَ

وَعَلى آلِهِ الطَّيِّبينَ الطّاهِرينَ اَجْمَعينَ

وَتَمِّمْ لَنا نَعْمآءَكَ

وَهَنِّئْنا عَطآءُكَ

وَاكْتُبْنا لَكَ شاكِرينَ

وَلآلآئِكَ ذاكِرينَ

آمينَ

آمينَ

رَبَّ الْعالَمينَ

اَللّهُمَّ يا مَنْ مَلَكَ فَقَدَرَ

وَقَدَرَ فَقَهَرَ

وَعُصِىَ فَسَتَرَ

وَاسْتُغْفِرَ فَغَفَرَ

يا غايَةَ الطّالِبينَ الرّاغِبينَ

وَمُنْتَهى أَمَلِ الرّاجينَ

يا مَنْ أحاطَ بِكُلِّ شَىء عِلْماً

وَوَسِعَ الْمُسْتَقيلينَ رَأفَةً وَحِلْماً

اَللّهُمَّ إِنّا نَتَوَجَّهُ اِلَيْكَ فى هذِهِ الْعَشِيَّةِ الَّتى شَرَّفْتَها وَعَظَّمْتَها بِمُحَمَّد نَبِيِّكَ وَرَسُولِكَ

وَخِيَرَتِكَ مِنْ خَلْقِكَ

وَاَمينِكَ عَلى وَحْيِكَ

الْبَشيرِ النَّذيرِ

السِّراجِ الْمُنيرِ

الَّذى اَنْعَمْتَ بِهِ عَلَى الْمُسْلِمينَ

وَجَعَلْتَهُ رَحْمَةً لِلْعالَمينَ

اَللَّهُمَّ فَصَلِّ عَلى مُحَمَّدٍ وَآلِ مُحَمَّدُ يا عَظيم 

كَما مُحَمَّدٌ اَهْلٌ لِذلِكَ مِنْكَ

فَصَلِّ عَلَيْهِ وَعَلى آلِهِ الْمُنْتَجَبينَ الطَّيِّبينَ الطّاهِرينَ اَجْمَعينَ

وَتَغَمَّدْنا بِعَفْوِكَ عَنّا

فَاِلَيْكَ عَجَّتِ الاْصْواتُ بِصُنُوفِ اللُّغاتِ

فَاجْعَلْ لَنا اَللّهُمَّ فى هذِهِ الْعَشِيَّةِ نَصيباً مِنْ كُلِّ خَيْرٍ تَقْسِمُهُ بَيْنَ عِبادِكَ

وَنُورٌ تَهْدى بِهِ وَرَحْمَة تَنْشُرُها

وَبَرَكَةٍ تُنْزِلُها

وَعافِيَةٍ تُجَلِّلُها

وَرِزْقٍ تَبْسُطُهُ

يا اَرْحَمَ الرّاحِمينَ

اَللَّهُمَّ اقْلِبْنا فى هذَا الْوَقْتِ مُنْجِحينَ مُفْلِحينَ 

مَبْرُورينَ غانِمينَ

وَلا تَجْعَلْنا مِنَ الْقانِطينَ

وَلا تُخْلِنا مِنْ رَحْمَتِكَ

وَلا تَحْرِمْنا ما نُؤَمِّلُهُ مِنْ فَضْلِكَ

وَلا تَجْعَلْنا مِنْ رَحْمَتِكَ مَحْرُومينَ

وَلا لِفَضْلِ ما نُؤَمِّلُهُ مِنْ عَطآئِكَ قانِطينَ

وَلا تَرُدَّنا خآئِبينَ 

وَلا مِنْ بابِكَ مَطْرُودينَ

يآ أَجْوَدَ الأجْوَدينَ

وَاَكْرَمَ الأَكْرَمينَ

اِلَيْكَ اَقْبَلْنا مُوقِنينَ

وَلِبَيْتِكَ الْحَرامِ آمّينَ قاصِدينَ

فَاَعِنّا عَلى مَناسِكَنا

وَأكْمِلْ لَنا حَجَّنا وَاْعْفُ عَنّا وَعافِنا

فَقَدْ مَدَدْنا اِلَيْكَ اَيْديَنا 

فَهِىَ بِذِلَّةِ الإْعْتِرافِ مَوْسُومَةٌ

اَللَّهُمَّ فَاَعْطِنا فى هذِهِ الْعَشِيَّةِ ما سَأَلْناكَ

وَاكْفِنا مَا اسْتَكْفَيْناكَ

فَلا كافِىَ لَنا سِواكَ

وَلا رَبَّ لَنا غَيْرُكَ

نافِذٌ فينا حُكْمُكَ

مُحيطٌ بِنا عِلْمُكَ

عَدْلٌ فينا قَضآؤُكَ

إقْضِ لَنَا الْخَيْرَ

وَاجْعَلْنا مِنْ أهْلِ الْخَيْرِ

اَللَّهُمَّ أوْجِبْ لَنا بِجُودِكَ عَظيمَ الأَجْرِ

وَكَريمَ الذُّخْرِ وَدَوامَ الْيُسْرِ

وَاغْفِرْ لَنا ذُنُوبَنآ أَجْمَعينَ

وَلا تُهْلِكْنا مَعَ الْهالِكينَ

وَلا تَصْرِفْ عَنّا رَأفَتَكَ وَرَحْمَتَك يآ أَرْحَمَ الرّاحِمينَ

اَللّهُمَّ اجْعَلْنا فى هذَا الْوَقْتِ مِمَّنْ سَألَكَ فَأَعْطَيْتَهُ

وَشَكَرَكَ فَزِدْتَهُ

وَتابَ اِلَيْكَ فَقَبِلْتَهُ

وَتَنَصَّلَ اِلَيْكَ مِنْ ذُنُوبِهِ كُلِّها فَغَفَرْتَها لَهُ

يا ذَا الْجَلالِ وَالإِكْرامِ

اَللّهُمَّ وَنَقِّنا وَسَدِّدْنا 

واقْبَلْ تَضَرُّعَنا

يا خَيْرَ مَنْ سُئِلَ

وَيآ أَرْحَمَ مَنِ اسْتُرْحِمَ

يا مَنْ لا يَخْفى عَلَيْهِ إِغْماضُ الْجُفُونِ

ولا لَحْظُ الْعُيُونِ

وَلا مَا اسْتَقَرَّ فِى الْمَكْنُونِ

وَلا مَا انْطَوَتْ عَلَيْهِ مُضْمَراتُ الْقُلُوبِ

اَلا كُلُّ ذلِكَ قَدْ اَحْصاهُ عِلْمُكَ وَوَسِعَهُ حِلْمُكَ 

سُبْحانَكَ وَتَعالَيْتَ عَمّا يَقُولُ الظّالِمُونَ عُلُوّاً كَبيراً

تُسَبِّحُ لَكَ السَّماواتُ السَّبْعُ وَالأَرَضُونَ وَمَنْ فيهِنَّ

وَاِنْ مِنْ شَىءٍ اِلاّ يُسَبِّحُ بِحَمْدِكَ

فَلَكَ الْحَمْدُ وَالْمجْدُ وَعُلُوُّ الْجَدِّ

يا ذَا الْجَلالِ وَالاْكْرامِ

وَالْفَضْلِ وَالإِنْعامِ

وَالاْيادِى الْجِسامِ

وَاَنْتَ الْجَوادُ الْكَريمُ

الرَّؤُوفُ الرَّحيم

اَللَّهُمَّ أوْسِعْ عَلَىَّ مِنْ رِزْقِكَ الْحَلالِ

وَعافِنى فى بَدَنى وَدينى

وَآمِنْ خَوْفى وَأعْتِقْ رَقَبَتى مِنَ النّارِ

اَللّهُمَّ لا تَمْكُرْ بى وَلا تَسْتَدْرِجْنى وَلا تَخْدَعْنى

وَادْرَأ عَنّى شَرَّ فَسَقَةِ الْجِنِّ وَالاْنْسِ

يآ أَسْمَعَ السّامِعينَ

يآ أَبْصَرَ النّاظِرينَ

وَيآ أَسْرَعَ الْحاسِبينَ

وَيآ أَرْحَمَ الرّاحِمينَ

صَلِّ عَلى مُحَمَّدٍ وَآلِ مُحَمَّدٍ السّادَةِ الْمَيامينَ

وَاَسْأَلُكَ اَللَّهُمَّ حاجَتِى اَّلتى اِنْ اَعْطَيْتَنيها لَمْ يَضُرَّنى ما مَنَعْتَنى

وَاِنْ مَنَعْتَنيها لَمْ يَنْفَعْنى مآ أَعْطَيْتَنى

اَسْأَلُكَ فَكاكَ رَقَبَتى مِنَ النّارِ

لآ اِلهَ اِلاّ أَنْتَ

وَحْدَكَ لا شَريكَ لَكَ

لَكَ الْمُلْكُ وَلَكَ الْحَمْدُ

وَاَنْتَ عَلى كُلِّ شَىء قَديرٌ

يا رَبِّ يا رَبِّ ... 

 

اِلهى 

اَنَا الْفَقيرُ فى غِناىَ فَكَيْفَ لآ اَكُونُ فَقيراً فى فَقْرى

اِلهى

اَنَا الْجاهِلُ فى عِلْمى فَكَيْفَ لآ اَكُونُ جَهُولاً فى جَهْلى

اِلهى

اِنَّ اخْتِلافَ تَدْبيرِكَ وَسُرْعَةَ طَوآءِ مَقاديرِك مَنَعا عِبادَكَ الْعارِفينَ بِكَ عَنْ السُّكُونِ اِلى عَطآء

وَالْيأْسِ مِنْكَ فى بَلاء

اِلهى

مِنّى ما يَليقُ بِلُؤُمى وَمِنْكَ ما يَليقُ بِكَرَمِكَ

اِلهى

وَصَفْتَ نَفْسَكَ بِاللُّطْفِ وَالرَّأْفَةِ لى قَبْلَ وُجُودِ ضَعْفى

اَفَتَمْنَعُنى مِنْهُما بَعْدَ وُجُودِ ضَعْفى

اِلهى

اِنْ ظَهَرَتِ الْمحاسِنُ مِنّى فَبِفَضْلِكَ

وَلَكَ الْمِنَّةُ عَلَىَّ

وَاِنْ ظَهَرْتِ الْمَساوئُ مِنّى فَبِعَدْلِكَ

وَلَكَ الْحُجَّةُ عَلَىَّ

اِلهى

كَيْفَ تَكِلُنى وَقَدْ تَكَفَّلْتَ لى

وَكَيْفَ اُضامُ وَاَنْتَ النّاصِرُ لى

اَمْ كَيْفَ اَخيبُ وَاَنْتَ الْحَفِىُّ بى

هآ اَنَا اَتَوَسَّلُ اِلَيْكَ بِفَقْرىِ إِلَيْكَ

وَكَيْفَ اَتَوَسَّلُ اِلَيْكَ بِما هُوَ مَحالٌ اَنْ يَصِلَ اِلَيْكَ

اَمْ كَيْفَ اَشْكُوُ إِلَيْكَ حالى وَهُوَ لا يَخْفى عَلَيْكَ

اَمْ كَيْفَ اُتَرْجِمُ بِمَقالى وَهُوَ مِنَكَ بَرَزٌ اِلَيْكَ

اَمْ كَيْفَ تُخَيِّبُ آمالى وَهِىَ قَدْ وَفَدَتْ اِلَيْكَ

اَمْ كَيْفَ لا تُحْسِنُ اَحْوالى وَبِكَ قامَتْ

اِلهى

ما اَلْطَفَكَ بى مَعَ عَظيمِ جَهْلى

وَما أَرْحَمَكَ بى مَعَ قَبيحِ فِعْلى

اِلهى

ما أَقْرَبَكَ مِنّى وَاَبْعَدَنى عَنْكَ

وَما أرْاَفَكَ بى فَمَا الَّذى يَحْجُبُنى عَنْكَ

اِلهى

عَلِمْتُ بِاِخْتِلافِ الاْثارِ

وَتَنقُّلاتِ الأَطْوارِ

اَنَّ مُرادَكَ مِنّىِ أَنْ تَتَعَرَّفَ اِلَىَّ فى كُلِّ شَىء

حَتّى لآ أَجْهَلَكَ فى شَىء

اِلهى

كُلَّما اَخْرَسَنى لُؤْمىِ أَنْطَقَنى كَرَمُكَ

وَكُلَّمآ أيَسَتْنىِ أَوْصافىِ أَطْمَعَتْنى مِنَنُك

اِلهى

مَنْ كانَتْ مَحاسِنُهُ مَساوِئَ فَكَيْفَ لا تَكُونُ مُساوئهِ مَساوِئَ

وَمَنْ كانَتْ حَقائِقُهُ دَعاوِىَ فَكَيْفَ لا تَكُونُ دَعاوِيَهِ دَعاوِىَ

اِلهى

حُكْمُكَ النّافِذُ وَمَشِيَّئتُكَ الْقاهِرَةُ لَمْ يَتْرُكا لِذى مَقال مَقالاً

وَلا لِذى حال حالاً

اِلهى

كَمْ مِنْ طاعَةٍ بَنَيْتُها

وَحالَةٍ شَيَّدْتُها

هَدَمَ اِعْتِمادى عَلَيْها عَدْلُكَ

بَلْ اَقالَنى مِنْها فَضْلُكَ

اِلهى

اِنَّكَ تَعْلَمُ اَنّى وَاِنْ لَمْ تَدُمِ الطّاعَةُ مِنّى فِعْلاً جَزْماً فَقَدْ دامَتْ مَحَبَّةً وَعَزْماً

اِلهى

كَيْفَ اَعْزِمُ وَاَنْتَ الْقاهِرُ

وَكَيْفَ لآ أَعْزِمُ وَاَنْتَ الاْمِرُ

اِلهى

تَرَدُّدى فِى الاْثارِ يُوجِبُ بُعْدَ الْمَزارِ

فَاجْمَعْنى عَلَيْكَ بِخِدْمَةٍ تُوصِلُنىِ إِلَيْكَ

كَيْفَ يُسْتَدَلُّ عَلَيْكَ بِما هُوَ فى وُجُودِهِ مُفْتَقِرٌ اِلَيْكَ

اَيَكُونُ لِغَيْرِكَ مِنَ الظُّهُورِ ما لَيْسَ لَكَ

حَتّى يَكُونَ هُوَ الْمُظْهِرَ لَكَ

مَتى غِبْتَ حَتّى تَحْتاجَ اِلى دَليلٌ يَدُلُّ عَليْكَ

وَمَتى بَعُدْتَ حَتّى تَكُونَ الاْثارُ هِىَ الَّتى تُوصِلُ اِلَيْكَ

عَمِيَتْ عَيْنٌ لا تَراكَ عَلَيْها رَقيباً

وَخَسِرَتْ صَفْقَةُ عَبْد لَمْ تَجْعَلْ لَهُ مِنْ حُبِّكَ نَصيباً

اِلهى

اَمَرْتَ بِالرُّجُوعِ اِلَى الاْثارِ فَاَرْجِعْنى اِلَيْكَ بِكِسْوَةِ الأنْوارِ

وَهِدايَةِ الإِسْتِبصارِ

حَتّىَ أَرْجِعَ اِلَيْكَ مِنْها كَما دَخَلْتُ اِلَيْكَ مِنْها

مَصُونَ السِّرِّ عَنِ النَّظَرِ إِلَيْها

وَمَرْفُوعَ الْهِمَّةِ عَنِ الإِعْتِمادِ عَلَيْها

اِنَّكَ عَلى كُلِّ شَىء قَديرٌ

اِلهى

هذا ذُلّى ظاهِرٌ بَيْنَ يَدَيْكَ

وَهذا حالى لا يَخْفى عَلَيْكَ

مِنْكَ اَطْلُبُ الْوُصُولَ اِلَيْكَ

َوِبَكَ اَسْتَدِلُّ عَلَيْكَ

فَاهْدِنى بِنُورِكَ اِلَيْكَ

وَاَقِمْنى بِصِدْقِ الْعُبُودِيَّةِ بَيْنَ يَدَيْكَ

اِلهى

عَلِّمْنى مِنْ عِلْمِكَ الْمخْزُونِ

وَصُنّى بِسِتْرِكَ الْمَصُونِ

اِلهى

حَقِّقْنى بِحَقائِقِ اَهْلِ الْقُرْبِ

وَاسْلُكْ بى مَسْلَكَ اَهْلِ الْجَذْبِ

اِلهى

اَغْنِنى بِتَدْبيرِكَ لى عَنْ تَدْبيرى

وَبِاخْتِيارِكَ عَنِ اخْتِيارى

وَاَوْقِفْنى عَلى مَراكِزِ اضْطِرارى

اِلهى

اَخْرِجْنى مِنْ ذُلِّ نَفْسى

وَطَهِّرْنى مِنْ شَكّى وَشِرْكى

قَبْلَ حُلُولِ رَمْسى

بِكَ أنْتَصِرُ فَانْصُرْنى

وَعَلَيْكَ اَتَوَكَّلُ فَلا تَكِلْنى

وَاِيّاكَ اَسْأَلُ فَلا تُخَيِّبْنى

وَفى فَضْلِكَ اَرْغَبُ فَلا تَحْرِمْنى

وَبِجَنابِكَ اَنْتَسِبُ فَلا تُبْعِدْنى

وَبِبابِكَ اَقِفُ فَلا تَطْرُدْنى

اِلهى

تَقَدَّسَ رِضاكَ اَنْ يَكُونَ لَهُ عِلَّةٌ مِنْكَ

فَكَيْفَ يَكُونُ لَهُ عِلَّةٌ مِنّى

اِلهى

اَنْتَ الْغِنىُّ بِذاتِكَ اَنْ يَصِلَ اِلَيْكَ النَّفْعُ مِنْكَ

فَكَيْفَ لا تَكُونُ غَنِيّاً عَنّى

اِلهى

اِنَّ الْقَضآءَ وَالْقَدَرَ يُمَنِّينِى

وَاِنَّ الْهَوى بِوَثائِقِ الشَّهْوَةِ أَسَرَنِى

فَكُنْ اَنْتَ النَّصيرَ لى حَتّى تَنْصُرَنى وَتُبَصِّرَنى

وَأَغْنِنى بِفَضْلِكَ حَتّى اَسْتَغْنِىَ بِكَ عَنْ طَلَبى

اَنْتَ الَّذى اَشْرَقْتَ الاأَنْوارَ فى قُلُوبِ اَوْلِيآئِكَ حَتّى عَرَفُوكَ وَوَحَّدوكَ

وَاَنْتَ الَّذىِ أَزَلْتَ الأَغْيارَ عَنْ قُلُوبِ اَحِبّائِكَ حَتّى لَمْ يُحِبُّوا سِواكَ

وَلَمْ يَلْجَأواُ إِلى غَيْرِكَ

اَنْتَ الْمُؤْنِسُ لَهُمْ حَيْثُ اَوْحَشَتْهُمُ الْعَوالِمُ

وَاَنْتَ الَّذى هَدَيْتَهُمْ حَيْثُ اسْتَبانَتْ لَهُمُ الْمَعالِمُ

ماذا وَجَدَ مَنْ فَقَدَكَ

وَمَا الَّذى فَقَدَ مَنْ وَجَدَكَ

لَقَدْ خابَ مَنْ رَضِىَ دُونَكَ بَدَلاً

وَلَقَدْ خَسِرَ مَنْ بَغَى عَنْكَ مُتَحَوِّلاً

كَيْفَ يُرْجى سِواكَ وَاَنْتَ ما قَطَعْتَ الإْحْسانَ

وَكَيْفَ يُطْلَبُ مِنْ غَيْرِكَ وَاَنْتَ ما بَدَّلْتَ عادَةَ الإِْمْتِنانِ

يا مَنْ اَذاقَ اَحِبّآءَهُ حَلاوَةَ الْمُؤانَسَةِ فَقامُوا بَيْنَ يَدَيْهِ مُتَمَلِّقينَ

وَيا مَنْ اَلْبَسَ اَوْلِيآءَهُ مَلابِسَ هَيْبَتِهِ فَقامُوا بَيْنَ يَدَيْهِ مُسْتَغْفِرينَ

اَنْتَ الذّاكِرُ قَبْلَ الذّاكِرينَ

وَاَنْتَ الْبادى بِالإْحْسانِ قَبْلَ تَوَجُّهِ الْعابِدينَ

وَاَنْتَ الْجَوادُ بِالْعَطآءِ قَبْلَ طَلَبِ الطّالِبينَ

وَاَنْتَ الْوَهّابُ ثُمَّ لِما وَهَبْتَ لَنا مِنَ الْمُسْتَقْرِضينَ

اِلهى

اُطْلُبْنى بِرَحْمَتِكَ حَتّىَ أَصِلَ اِلَيْكَ

وَاجْذِبْنى بِمَنِّكَ حَتّىَ أُقْبِلَ عَلَيْكَ

اِلهى

اِنَّ رَجآئى لا يَنْقَطِعُ عَنْكَ وَاِنْ عَصَيْتُكَ

كَما اَنَّ خَوْفى لا يُزايِلُنى وَاِنْ اَطَعْتُكَ

فَقَدْ دَفَعْتَنِى الْعَوالِمُ اِلَيْكَ

وَقَدْ اَوْقَعَنى عِلْمى بِكَرَمِكَ عَلَيْكَ

اِلهى

كَيْفَ اَخِيبُ وَاَنْتَ اَمَلى

اَمْ كَيْفَ اُهانُ وَعَلَيْكَ مُتَكَّلى

اِلهى

كَيْفَ أسْتَعِزُّ وَفِى الذِّلَّةِ أَرْكَزْتَنى

اَمْ كَيْفَ لا أَسْتَعِزُّ وَاِلَيْكَ نَسَبْتَنى

اِلهى

كَيْفَ لآ أَفْتَقِرُ وَاَنْتَ الَّذى فِى الْفُقَرآءِ اَقَمْتَنى

اَمْ كَيْفَ اَفْتَقِرُ وَاَنْتَ الَّذى بِجُودِكَ أَغْنَيْتَنى

وَاَنْتَ الَّذى لا اِلهَ غَيْرُكَ

تَعَرَّفْتَ لِكُلِّ شَىءٍ فَما جَهِلَكَ شَىءُ

وَاَنْتَ الَّذى تَعَرَّفْتَ اِلَىَّ فى كُلِّ شَىء

فَرَاَيْتُكَ ظاهِراً فى كُلِّ شَىء

وَاَنْتَ الظّاهِرُ لِكُلِّ شَىء

يا مَنِ اسْتَوى بِرَحْمانِيَّتِهِ فَصارَ الْعَرْشُ غَيْباً فى ذاِتِهِ

مَحَقْتَ الاْثارِ بِالاْثارِ

وَمَحَوْتَ الاْغْيارَ بِمُحيطاتِ اَفْلاكِ الاْنْوارِ

يا مَنِ احْتَجَبَ فى سُرادِقاتِ عَرْشِهِ عَنْ اَنْ تُدْرِكَهُ الأَبْصارُ

يا مَنْ تَجَلّى بِكَمالِ بَهآئِهِ

فَتَحَقَّقتْ عَظَمَتُهُ مَنْ الاْسْتِوآءَ

كَيْفَ تَخْفى وَاَنْتَ الظّاهِرُ

اَمْ كَيْفَ تَغيبُ وَاَنْتَ الرَّقيبُ الْحاضِرُ

اِنَّكَ عَلى كُلِّ شَىء قَدير

وَالْحَمْدُ للهِ وَحْدَهُ

واللهم صل على محمد وال محمد

دعاء الجوشن الكبير دعاء رفيع الشأن، عظيم المنزلة، جليل القدر، مروي عن السجاد زين العابدين، عن أبيه، عن جده علي بن ابي طالب عليه السلام عن النبي صلى الله عليه وآله نزل به جبرئيل عليه السلام على النبي صلى الله عليه وآله وهو في بعض غزواته وقد اشتدت، وعليه جوشن ثقيل آلمه ، فدعا الله تعالى، فهبط جبرئيل عليه السلام، وقال : يا محمد ربك يقرأ عليك السلام ويقول لك: اخلع هذا الجوشن واقرأ هذا الدعاء، فهو أمان لك ولامتك فمن قرأه عند خروجه من منزله، أو حمله حفظه الله وأوجب الجنة عليه، ووفقه لصالح الاعمال، وكان كأنما قرأ الكتب الاربع، وأعطي بكل حرف زوجتين في الجنة، وبيتين من بيوت الجنة، وأعطي مثل ثواب إبراهيم وموسى وعيسى، وثواب خلق من خلق الله في أرض بيضاء خلف المغرب: يعبدون الله تعالى ولا يعصونه طرفة عين، قد تمزقت جلودهم من البكاء من خشية الله، ولا يعلم عددهم إلا الله، ومسيرة الشمس في بلادهم أربعون يوما. يا محمد وإن البيت المعمور في السماء السابعة يدخله سبعون ألف ملك في كل يوم ويخرجون منه ولا يعودون إليه إلى يوم القيامة ، وإن الله تعالى يعطي لمن قرأ هذا الدعاء ثواب تلك الملائكة، ويعطيه ثواب المؤمنين والمؤمنات ، من خلق الله إلى يوم القيامة، ومن كتبه وجعله في منزله لم يسرق ولم يحترق . ومن كتب في رق غزال أو كاغذ وحمله كان آمنا من كل شيء، ومن دعا به ثم مات مات شهيدا، وكتب له ثواب تسعمائة ألف شهيد من شهداء بدر، ونظر الله إليه وأعطاه ما سأله، ومن قرأه سبعين مرة بنية خالصة على أي مرض كان، لزال من جنون أو جذام أو برص. ومن كتب في جام بكافور أو مسك ثم غسله ورشه على كفن ميت أنزل الله تعالى في قبره الف نور، وآمنه من هول منكر ونكير، ورفع عنه عذاب القبر، وبعث سبعين ألف ملك إلى قبره يبشرونه بالجنة، ويونسونه، ويفتح له بابا إلى الجنة ويوسع عليه قبره مدى بصره، ومن كتبه على كفنه استحيى الله تعالى أن يعذبه بالنار، وإن الله تعالى كتب هذا الدعاء على قوائم العرش قبل أن يخلق الدنيا بخمسين ألف عام ومن دعا به بنية خالصة في أول شهر رمضان أعطاه الله تعالى [ثواب] ليلة القدر، وخلق له سبعون ألف ملك يسبحون الله ويقدسونه، وجعل ثوابهم لمن دعا به. يا محمد من دعا به لم يبق بينه وبين الله تعالى حجاب، ولم يطلب من الله تعالى شيئا إلا أعطاه وبعث الله إليه عند خروجه من قبره سبعين ألف ملك في يد كل ملك زمامة نجيب من نور، بطنه من اللؤلؤ، وظهره من الزبرجد، وقوائمه من الياقوت، على ظهر كل نجيب قبة من نور، لها أربعمائة باب على كل باب ستر من السندس والاستبرق في كل قبة ألف وصيفة ، على رأس كل وصيفة تاج من الذهب الاحمر تستطع منهن رائحة المسك الاذفر، فيعطى جميع ذلك ثم يبعث الله إليه بعد ذلك سبعين ألف ملك مع كل ملك كأس من لؤلؤ بيضاء، فيها شراب من الجنة، مكتوب على كل كاس منها: لا إله إلا الله وحده لا شريك له، هدية من البارئ عزوجل لفلان بن فلان، ويناديه الله تعالى يا عبدي ادخل الجنة بغير حساب.يا محمد ومن دعا به في شهر رمضان ثلاث مرات أو مرة واحدة، حرم الله جسده على النار، ووجبت له الجنة، ووكل الله به ملكين يحفظانه من المعاصي وكان في أمان الله تعالى طول حياته، وعند مماته. يا محمد ولا تعلمه إلا لمؤمن تقي ولا تعلمه مشركا فيسأل به ويعطى. قال الحسين عليه السلام: أوصاني أبي عليه السلام بحفظه وتعظيمه، وأن أكتبه على كفنه، وأن أعلمه أهلي وأحثهم عليه وهو ألف اسم، واسم. الدّعاء يحتوي على مائة فصل وكلّ فصل يحتوي على عشرة أسمآء مِن أسماء الله تعالى وتقول في آخر كلّ فصل : سُبْحانَكَ يا لا اِلـهَ إلاّ اَنْتَ الْغَوْثَ الْغَوْثَ الْغَوْثَ خَلِّصْنا مِنَ النّارِ يا رَبِّ

is an invocation recounted from the Islamic prophet Muhammad . "al-Jawshan al-Kabir" literally means the Great Shield . This invocation contains a thousand of God's attributes and names. The invocation has one hundred sections and each section contains 10 of God's names. The prophet received the call from the archangel Gabriel during a war. Gabriel told the prophet, who was wearing a very heavy shield, that God told him to take off the shield and recite this invocation instead as it is a protection for him and his nation. Both Sunni and Shia Muslims recite this invocation during Laylat al-Qadr . 

The main division of the Quran is into chapters and verses, however it is also divided into 30 roughly equal parts.  Each part is known in Arabic as a juz.  Because each juz is not usually divided along chapter lines, each one is sometimes referred to by its first word.  The thirtieth part is known as juz amma, and it is named after the first word of its first chapter; chapter 78, The Great News.  This is the first of the short chapters found towards the end of the Quran.  It is generally accepted that most of these chapters were revealed in Mecca during the first years of the mission of Prophet Muhammad, may the mercy and blessings of God be upon him.

During this period, the people of Mecca who had not already embraced Islam, mocked and expressed doubt in the doctrine of the Hereafter.  The title of the chapter is taken from the second verse, and its name denotes its subject matter.  The word naba implies the news of the Resurrection and the Hereafter and the entire 40 verses are devoted to this theme.  The Great News opens by listing God’s gifts to humankind; it then gives a stern warning about a day of resurrection and an accounting for one’s deeds and behavior. 

Verses 1 – 4 A question of belief

God asks a question.  What do they ask one another? What is it that they are talking about?  It is a rhetorical question asked in order to produce an effect in us.   He provides us with the answer; they are talking about the great news.  (It is the certainty of the Resurrection and the Hereafter.) Are they really talking and arguing about this event when they should be preparing for it?  It will not be long before they understand; very soon they will come to know that the Day of Resurrection and the Hereafter are real.  This is an emphasized and a confirmed warning for those who persist in denying the inevitability of this day.

Verses 5 – 16 God’s generosity towards humankind

God gives evidence of His power.  He made the earth smooth and the mountains secure.  They are pegged into the earth for stability and balance.  He created people in pairs, male and female, and created sleep in order that people may rest.  God made the night as a mantle, a cover or concealment, and the day so that humankind may earn their livelihood.  In a perfectly designed universe, the earth is in its own orbit spinning around a life-sustaining sun.  And He has sent down rain in abundance in order to facilitate the growth of vegetation of all kinds, from grain to luxurious gardens.

Verses 17- 30 A description of the Day of Resurrection and Hell

God clarifies that the date for the Day of Resurrection has already been set.  On that momentous day the trumpet will be blown, and all of humankind will rise out of their graves.  They will come in crowds as the sky opens up wide as if it were doors or gateways.  The mountains will shake until they become a mirage.  These things will happen.  Hell is lying in wait for those who disbelieve or transgress the commandments of God.  It is there that they will live for an unending time.  They will feel no cool breeze nor have cool water to drink.  Those who dwell in Hell will be offered nothing but scalding water and decaying filth.  It will be an appropriate recompense, in proportion to their crimes.

The disbelievers did not expect to be called to account.  They blithely denied the revelations.  They did not fear a reckoning and described the messages as lies.  However, everything was documented in a clear record.  Now they will taste and experience the fruits of their labor.  The inmates of Hell can expect nothing but an increase in the torment they feel.

Verses 31 – 37 Gifts for the righteous

The righteous, those who were aware of God and their commitment to Him, will find success, reward and safety from the fires of Hell.  They will achieve their heart’s desires, beautiful gardens and vineyards.  They will have perfect companions, and they will both drink from overflowing cups.  In this beautiful garden, they will hear no vain talk nor will they be told any lies. 

This is a gift from the boundless generosity of the Merciful God to the righteous.   They will not only be given what is due to them but even more, because He is the Lord of the heavens and the earth and all that lies between them.  The Day will be so awe-inspiring that no one will be capable of speaking to God without His permission.

Verses 38 – 40 On the Day of Truth

The Day of Resurrection is the day on which Angel Gabriel and the angels with will stand together in ranks, row after row.  Nobody will speak except those to whom the compassionate God grants permission.  Even then they will only be capable of speaking the truth because this is the Day of Truth.  This day will become a reality so whoever desires to be successful should seek a way to God through correct beliefs and righteous deeds. 

The people have been warned of an imminent punishment.  On the Day of Resurrection, everybody will see the truth of their actions and deeds.  They will see what their hands have sent forth, and many will wish that they had remained in the earth as nothing but dust.  The cry of the unbeliever will be, "If only I were dust."
_______________________________________
By Aisha Stacey (© 2017 IslamReligion.com)
Copyright © 2006 - 2021 IslamReligion.com. All rights reserved.
Used with permission.
The source of this article is: www.IslamReligion.com

The chapter begins with the mention of God’s kingdom (‘mulk’ in Arabic) thereby giving it the name.  Revealed in Mecca in the initial stages of opposition after Prophet Muhammad’s mission had just begun, the surah (chapter) challenges the disbelievers with declarations of God’s total power over them, and everything else, in this world and the next.  It describes the regret the disbelievers will express on the Day of Resurrection (verses 9–10, 27).  It alarms those who are ignorant of God and the life to come.

Prophet Muhammad, may the mercy and blessings of God be upon him, used to recite it every night before going to sleep.[1]  There are several reports attributed to Prophet Muhammad that speak of the fine qualities of this chapter.  The most reliable one is as follows:

"There is a surah of the Quran, no more than thirty verses long, that will argue in favor of anyone (who knew it) until it will usher him into Paradise.  It is Surah Tabarak (Mulk)"[2]

Verses 1-5 Some manifestations of the power of God

‘Who has power over all things,’ liberates us from fearing others.  When this is recited every night we remind ourselves that ultimate goodness is only with God and this will nurture our love for Him.  When we remind ourselves that He is in control of our world then we will fear only Him.  We will not be bothered about people’s expectations but our worry will be, ‘How does God want me to live?’. 

God gave us this cycle of life and death, so that He may test us to see who amongst us is best in deeds.   If our life is a test and the results depend on beautiful deeds, then we must constantly remind ourselves that any action becomes beautiful in God’s sight when done purely for His sake and according to the way of our Prophet.  Only in obedience can we find peace and tranquility.  Simply look at the skies and see how they are in complete submission to their Creator.  The signs of God are everywhere but we are too involved in our own affairs.  Most people do not seriously think about the Hereafter.

Verses 6-11 End of disbelievers and their confession of sins

God says that when the disbelievers will be thrown into the Fire, the guardians of Hell will ask them if they were not warned.  They will confess their biggest error was that instead of taking advice they used to mock those who warned them as the misguided ones.  The fact is that when you don’t want to face the reality then even your senses stop working.  The ears don’t hear and the hearts don’t ponder.  In this world we never want to admit our faults, but in the Hereafter everyone will recognize their sins.  Unfortunately, it will be of no use then.  They shall confess their sins and the dwellers of Hell will be far away from divine mercy.

Verses 12-15 God’s promise, knowledge and bounties

Faith is valuable only when you believe even when you cannot see.  God is warning us here that if you just make claims of faith and your heart does not believe then remember that He knows everything.  We make claims that we have surrendered our lives to God.  Do we even realize what it means to surrender? As an example, look at the earth and its submission.  We will be buried in this earth and from it we will be raised again, but most of us forget death and resurrection and then go about the earth living in a fool’s paradise.

Verses 16-22 Challenging and rebuking the polytheists

God desires for us to come out of our arrogance and realize that the same earth that God has made subservient for us can be the means of our punishment.  If today we think that it is so unlikely to happen then we can look into the history of the previous nations and see how they were rooted out of this world due to their misdeeds. 

If we don’t have time to go into the details of the past then simply look at the birds in the sky.  Have you ever noticed how they fly so effortlessly in the air? Who is holding them against the gravity of the earth? Just as the compassionate God holds the birds in the air, similarly the same God holds us tightly to this earth.  Otherwise if He wills He can stop giving the earth its gravity and we would all be scattered into the atmosphere.  Do we think anyone other than God can save us? If he stops giving us food, who will nourish us?

Why do these simple truths come to us like new discoveries? Because we have taken everything for granted and have stopped thinking beyond the obvious.  So generation after generation people blindly follow the trends of their families and friends and still think that they are on the right track.  God gave us all the senses, all the faculties with which we should have recognized Him and He gave us such sensitive hearts but what have we done?

Verses 23-27 Power of God in terms of creation and gathering people in Hereafter

God gave us an appointed  term in this world and free choice to do as we please. In other words, we choose to believe or disbelieve; whatever we choose, we shall all be gathered before Him on the Day of Resurrection.

God alone has settled billions on earth to try them in their worldly life.  On the Final Day of Judgement, He will assemble all of them before Him to take account of their deeds.  The knowledge of when that Day will be rests with God alone.  The Prophet is only a warner.   

Verses 28-30 Deliverance and provisions are in the Hands of God

The whole chapter is about changing our thoughts.  We tend to live on autopilot.  We do our work, even acts of worship, and we hardly think of God.  We forget that each breath comes with His permission.  Each drop of water that we drink is from His mercy.  The question is, are we grateful?

Let Surah Al-Mulk be a regular part of your life so that it should strike you daily in such a way that you start looking at life with the eyes of the heart.  Love God more than any other thing and fear Him more than all other things.  The feeling will lead to the most beautiful deeds that will make us beautiful in the eyes of God.
_______________________________________
By Imam Mufti (© 2015 IslamReligion.com)
Copyright © 2006 - 2021 IslamReligion.com. All rights reserved.
Used with permission.
The source of this article is: www.IslamReligion.com

Verses 1-10 tell about the exile of Jewish tribe of Bani Nadir because of their opposition towards God and His Prophet. Cutting of Palm trees is by God's will. Spoils that believers get without battle are not there’s and are not Fay. These belong to God and His prophet and have 5 shares. Verses 11-12 describe the conspiracy of hypocrites together with people of the Book and Bani Nadir. God told believers that they cannot fight with you even if they unite together as they have division in between themselves. Hypocrites are like the example of Satan when he says to man disbelieve, and when man disbelieves, he says, indeed, I am not associated with you in this act. If Quran was sent on a mountain it would have humbled and come apart from fear of God. Glory be to God and the concluding verse describe 17 attributes of God.
___________________________

By Muhammad Farooq and Nagina Kanwal (© 2019 Muhammad Farooq and Nagina Kanwal)
All rights reserved. 
Used with permission.
The source of this article is: Summary of Holy Quran: An Ultimate Guide Series

Verses 1-18 Affirming the authenticity of revelation and commending the Messenger

In the first verse, God has taken an oath of the stars to prove to the non-believers that Prophet Muhammad, may the mercy and blessings of God be upon him, was exactly on the right path.  The people of Mecca were witness to the fact that all throughout his life, Prophet Muhammad had never been involved in any indecent activity.  His honesty was a recognized fact; so why now, when he had brought to them the true religion of God, were they doubting him and spreading false propaganda against him?

The oath of the stars and their setting is also a proof, that just as stars have a fixed orbit and they never deviate from their path, similarly the Prophet was firmly following the revelation from God.  Therefore, just as people take guidance from the stars to find direction in the darkness of the land or sea, similarly we should follow the Prophet with complete confidence, and with the belief that He is the best person in the entire history of humanity, who practically demonstrated the pure and complete religion of God.

The disbelievers of Mecca were labelling the Quran as a mere fabrication, but God warns those who think along these lines.  Unlike common human beings, Prophet Muhammad was never influenced by his own desires to such an extent that He could have done or said anything which was against the truth.

God tells us that it was not a one-time incident that Prophet Muhammad saw Gabriel, and therefore the deniers of truth cannot make this excuse that maybe the Prophet was mistaken.  He saw Gabriel another time when he was taken to the journey of the heavens, which is commonly known as the incident of "Miraj" or the "Night Journey." God made him see many signs of His power, including Paradise and Hell, so that when He spread God’s message to people and warned them about the realities of life and death, he could speak from first-hand knowledge and experience.

Verses 19-31 Mere conjecture avails nothing against the truth

Lat, Uzza, and Manat were the deities of ancient Arabia.  Laat was located in Taif, Uzza near Mecca, and Manat near Madina.  According to popular belief, they were daughters of god, and hence, worshipped.

Making deities of stone and worshipping them, calling angels ‘daughters of God’ and hoping to enter Paradise on the basis of recommendations are all non-serious beliefs that are a product of a mind that does not fear God’s wrath.  There is no arguing with such people, as they pay no attention to reason.  The only possible way to deal with them is to shun them. 

Verses 32-41 Clarifying the qualities of the good doers and censuring the polytheists

We must always stay away from major sins as well as indecent behavior, except what is called "lamam" which means small and momentary.  For example, you happen to look at something which you were not supposed to see.  Then in this case, you should immediately turn your gaze and ask forgiveness from God.  In other words, it could be stated as a slight lapse from your efforts of goodness.  We must try our utmost to reduce these lapses too, but we should remember that we cannot become perfect humans and hence we should always be positively hopeful of God’s forgiveness and never give up our struggle of becoming the best representatives of Islam.  Next God has reminded us that even if we become successful in this struggle, we should never think of ourselves as pure because after all, we are just humans and only God truly knows what our true worth is. 

The polytheists of Mecca and the Jews in Madina stubbornly resisted the teachings of Prophet Muhammad and refused to accept him as a prophet of God.  On the other hand, they called themselves followers of Ibrahim and Musa respectively.  However, if they really knew what their prophets had taught them, then it should not have been difficult for them to recognize that Prophet Muhammad was also calling them to the same religion.  They warned them about accountability in the life after death. 

Did they not know that they only get from this life what they strive for? If all their investments are for this world and they don’t put in any efforts for the life to come, how can they expect to be rewarded for things they did not do?

Verses 42-62 Allah alone is the One Who manages the affairs of the universe

Every event in this world arises from supernatural causes and nobody but God is capable of causing them to occur.  Happiness, sorrow, life, death, the procreative system, riches, and poverty - all these are the feats of a superpower.  He is the one who gave us life and He is the one who will take it back, so what should be our objective if not to spend this life for Him? There is not much time left; we have to turn to God while we still can, otherwise the Day of Judgement is very close upon us.  This Day is drawing near and no one can save us from its torment except God. 
_________________________________________________________________________

By Imam Mufti (© 2016 IslamReligion.com)
Copyright © 2006 - 2021 IslamReligion.com. All rights reserved.
Used with permission. The source of this article is: www.IslamReligion.com

The verses from 1-14 tell that all things are created with truth and for a specified term. God owns all the powers. Say O’Muhammad, I am not a new messenger, this the same old message which has been given to previous nations. I have no knowledge of unseen. I don’t know even about my own future. Quran confirms the revelation of the Torah, which was given to Moses.

From verses 15-20 God commands to treat parents kindly. It also describes that the gestation and weaning period is 2.5 years.

From 21-28 there is story of Ad who lived in region of Ahkaf. Before prophet Hud, they were warned by many other warners but denied their message and were destroyed.

From verses 29-31 tell about the story of a group of unseen spirits that heard Quran and became the preacher to their nation.

verses 32-35 tell that God is able to give life to the dead. He is competent over all things. So, be patient. On the last day people will think, that they stayed on earth only for an hour of the day.
_______________________________________
By Muhammad Farooq and Nagina Kanwal (© 2019 Muhammad Farooq and Nagina Kanwal)
All rights reserved. 
Used with permission.
The source of this article is: Summary of Holy Quran: An Ultimate Guide Series

The Consultation is a fifty-three verse chapter revealed in Mecca. The name is derived from the word consultation that is mentioned in verse thirty-eight describing the characteristics of a community of believers. Being a Meccan chapter revealed before the migration to Medina it concentrates on the fundamentals of faith, in this case, God’s all prevailing power and wisdom. Prophet Muhammad, may the mercy and blessings of God be upon him, is reminded that he cannot force people to believe and that he is only required to deliver the message.

Verses 1 – 9 All power belongs to God

The first two verses are Arabic letters. Ha Mim, Ayn Seen Qaf. They are five letters from among various combinations of fourteen letters that open twenty-nine chapters of the Quran. God did not reveal what meanings they may or may not have.  Usually after these letters we learn something about the Quran. In this case, God says that He sent His revelation (Quran) to Prophet Muhammad, as He sent revelation to other messengers before him.

The heavens almost break apart because of their awe of God’s majesty.  The angels glorify and praise God; while begging forgiveness for the people on earth. As for those who worship other than God, God is watching what they do, and Prophet Muhammad is not responsible for them.

Thus this Quran is revealed in Arabic.[1]  It warns the residents of Mecca and surrounds that there will be a Day of Judgement when some will go to Paradise and others will go to the blazing Fire. If God wanted He could have made you a single nation, but He did not. He takes into His mercy those who desire His guidance and the wrongdoers have no one to help them. God gives life to the dead, and He has power over all things.

Verses 10 – 19 The truth is made clear

God judges all disputes. He makes mates for you from among yourselves (and the animal kingdom too) in order to multiply your numbers. The keys to the heavens and the earth belong to Him. And He gives abundantly or sparingly to whomever He wills.

God has ordained for you, the same way of life (Islam) that he ordained for Prophets Noah, Abraham, Moses, and Jesus. Those who associate others with God find it difficult to accept what you (Prophet Muhammad) invite them to. Long ago they were one religion but became divided out of rivalry. So invite them back to God.

Tell them (Prophet Muhammad) that you believe in what God has revealed and say that there is no need for argument, the truth has been made clear and those who refuse do so out of stubbornness and worldly desires. Those who argue with the truth will have a terrible punishment. God has sent down the Quran in truth and justice so what will make you understand that the Hour is near. It is only those who do not believe in it that want to hasten its coming. Those who believe in it are fearful.

Verses 20 – 31 A harvest in the Hereafter

Those who desire Paradise in the Hereafter will have their rewards increased many times over, but those who desire the luxuries of this world with no thought of the Hereafter will have what they desire but they will have no share in Paradise. Or have those that they worship besides God ordained a religion God does not know about? They think they are living a great life, free of morals and manners, but on the Day of Judgment their punishment will be a painful one. Those who believe and do good deeds will be in the gardens of Paradise. This is good news and a great bounty. Prophet Muhammad asks for no reward for this good news, and those who do good deeds will be repaid many times over.

How can people say Muhammad has invented a lie about God? God blots out falsehood and vindicates the truth. He knows what is in the hearts, accepts repentance, answers prayers, and gives more to those who believe and do good deeds. If God sent plentiful provision for everyone some would act insolently, so He provides in due measure. He sends relief after people have lost hope and He spreads mercy.  The creation of the heavens and the earth and the living creatures are among His signs. He can gather them together at any time. You cannot escape God and He is your only Protector.

Verses 32 – 43 Forgiveness is better

Ships sailing on the seas are among His signs. They drive through the ocean like mountains, but He can bring them to a standstill or sink them with violent winds. Whatever pleasure you have been given is no more than a fleeting enjoyment of this worldly life—what is in the Hereafter is better and more lasting.  It is for those who believe and put their trust in Him, avoid major sins, forgive when they are angry, establish prayer, determine their affairs by consultation, spend from what God has given them, and defend themselves from tyranny.

The retribution for an evil act is one like it, but forgiveness and reconciliation are better. But those who avenge themselves are not blamed. The blameworthy are those who oppress others and act with injustice. They will have a painful punishment.

Verses 44 – 53 Only deliver the message. God retains all control

There is no protection for those God sends astray.[2]  They will face the punishment and hope there is a way back. But they will remain in lasting torment and have no allies to help them. So respond to your Lord before this Day comes and the punishment cannot be averted. But if they turn away Muhammad, you are not responsible; your duty is only to deliver the message.

God does not speak to human beings except through inspiration, or from behind a veil, or through a messenger such as the angel Gabriel. And so We have revealed to you Muhammad, an inspired book, this Quran. You did not know of this Book and faith before, but We made it a light by which to guide whoever We choose. And Muhammad, you guide to a straight path, the path of God, Who owns everything in the heavens and on the earth. Everything will return to God.
_______________________________________
By Aisha Stacey (© 2019 IslamReligion.com)
Copyright © 2006 - 2021 IslamReligion.com. All rights reserved.
Used with permission.
The source of this article is: www.IslamReligion.com

It is generally accepted that this chapter was revealed directly after chapter thirty-nine.  Thus, it was revealed in Mecca and is one of the chapters that examine the fundamentals of faith.  It reminds us of God’s signs and favors and gives glimpses from the story of Moses and Pharaoh with life-changing lessons for us.  It also provides reassurance to Prophet Muhammad, may the mercy and blessings of God be upon him.

Verses 1 – 23 Signs and revelations

This chapter begins with the Arabic letters Ha and Mim.  The placement of Arabic letters at the beginning of a chapter is a narrative device used in this and 28 other chapters of the Quran.  The reason and the meaning for this is the subject of much scholarly debate, however, the answer is known only to God. 

This Book is sent down by God, the Almighty, the Forgiver of sins, the Accepter of repentance, and the One Who Bestows blessings.  None has the right to be worshipped but Him.  Only the disbelievers dispute His revelation, so do not be deceived by their prosperity and luxurious life.  In the past, the people of Noah and other communities tried to destroy their messengers and refute the message.  But it was God Who destroyed them with a terrible punishment, condemning them to the Fire. 

The angels who carry and surround the Throne celebrate the praise of their Lord and ask for forgiveness for the believers, and that they be admitted to Paradise and kept safe from the Fire. 

God shows His signs such as sending water down to sustain life, yet no one learns a lesson from this except those who turn to Him.  So be sincere no matter how much the disbelievers dislike it.  He is the Lord of the Throne and sends revelations to whomever He wills.  On the Day of Judgement each soul will account for their actions and no injustice will be done.

Have they not traveled and seen what happened to those who were mightier in strength and numbers? God destroyed them and they had no one to defend them because they repeatedly rejected their messengers.

Verses 24 – 38 An excellent speech

Moses was sent to Pharaoh, Haman, and Korah with God’s authority but they called him a magician and a liar.  They rejected the truth and ordered the sons of the believers to be killed.  Finally, Pharaoh said he wanted to kill Moses himself.  And Moses sought refuge with God.  A believer among the relatives of Pharaoh advised him to think carefully about why he would kill a man who might be speaking the truth.  Pharaoh knew Moses was right but lied and said he was only saying what he believed to be right and that he was guiding to the right way.  The believing advisor warned his people against how previous disbelieving nations were destroyed.  He reminded them about Joseph who came with clear signs, but their doubt remained.  Rejecting the truth with clear signs is a despicable attitude, and God seals the heart of the arrogant ones.  Pharaoh persisted in his rejection and defiance, and his schemes led only to destruction. 

The believing advisor urged people to follow the right way.  He said that this life was only temporary while the home in the Hereafter was permanent.  He invited them to Paradise while they invited him to the Fire.  God saved him from their terrible plots, and the people of Pharaoh were taken over by a terrible scourge.

Verses 46 – 60 God’s promise is true

On the Day of Judgement, the people of Pharaoh will enter the severest part of the Fire.  They will argue with each other about who led who to destruction and beg for relief.  They will be reminded about their messengers and told their pleas would be in vain.  God supports the messengers and the believers.

Certainly the creation of the heavens and the earth is a much greater creation than the creation of humankind.  Yet most people do not understand.  Those who can see and those who cannot are not the same.  Good and wicked deeds are not the same and the Hour will come!

Verses 61 – 85 God’s creation

God made the night for rest and the day bright to make our day to day activities easy.   He is the Creator of all things; none has the right to be worshipped except Him.  Why then are you deluded? The earth is a settlement place and the sky a canopy.  God molded your form and perfected it, then provided you with good things.  He is One and there is no deity but Him, so call on Him and be sincere to Him.  O Prophet, tell your followers that you have been forbidden to worship what they worship and you have been commanded to submit to the Lord of all the worlds. 

God created you from dust (referring to Adam), then from a sperm-drop, then developed you into a clinging clot, then you are born from the womb of your mother, and He allows you to grow to your full strength and maturity before you reach old age and the appointed term of your life, although some of you may die sooner.  God gives life and death.  He only says ‘Be’ and it is.

Those who deny the Quran and that which the messengers brought, will soon know the consequences of their deeds when they are punished in Hell with chains around their necks being dragged through scalding water.  They will be asked about those they associated with God and will admit that they have failed them. 

Prophet Muhammad is advised to be patient because God’s promise is true.  There are stories of the messengers he knows and stories he does not know.  But all messengers could not bring a sign unless it was by the permission of God.

The people of the past who were destroyed were mightier than you in strength and numbers.  Their power was of no avail.  When God’s scourge overcame them, they cried out that they now believe! But it was of no use to them.
_______________________________________
By Aisha Stacey (© 2019 IslamReligion.com)
Copyright © 2006 - 2021 IslamReligion.com. All rights reserved.
Used with permission.
The source of this article is: www.IslamReligion.com

Those Ranged in Rows was revealed in Mecca.  Those chapters revealed before the migration to Medina tended to concentrate on monotheism; the Oneness of God.  This one is no exception and thus establishing a firm faith is its aim.  In 182 short verses this chapter also covers other issues; it affirms the Prophethood of Muhammad, may the mercy and blessings of God be upon him, and refutes pagan beliefs. 

Verses 1 – 10 God is One

Three groups are mentioned in the form of an oath confirming God’s Oneness.  The first are angels standing in rows, the second are the angels that reprimand and thirdly those angels that recite God’s words.  God then mentions something about Himself that attests to His Oneness that He is the Lord of the heavens and the earth, and all that is in-between including every point from which the sun rises.  God has fortified the sky closest to the earth with celestial bodies that guard against the devils who try to eavesdrop on the conversations of the angels.  They are attacked from all sides with flaming meteors.

Verses 11 – 39 The disbelievers

The Prophet is then instructed to question the disbelievers of Mecca about whether they considered their own creation to be more difficult or the creation of the heavens, earth and all creation in the universe.  The Prophet marvels that humankind was made from clay but the disbelievers mock and call him a sorcerer, once again denying the Resurrection.  It is an undeniable fact that after just one shout they will be resurrected on the Day of Judgment.

The angels are ordered to gather the disbelievers and wrongdoers together and drive them towards Hell.  Along the way they will be questioned about why they did not help each other towards the truth.  The disbelievers will accuse their deities who are also being ushered along but they will deny any power over the disbelievers.  It does not matter because on this day they will be partners in the punishment meted out.  They denied God and the message and will get what they deserve.

Verses 40 – 74 Paradise or Hell?

The happiness and bliss that God’s true servants will experience in the gardens of delight is described, including flowing rivers of wine and beautiful companions.  The inhabitants of Paradise will converse with each other.  One person will ask about a friend who did not believe and will be able to see him in the midst of the Fire.  Then they will realize how blessed they are for they have achieved the supreme triumph.   This should be everyone’s goal.

To contrast the difference between Paradise and Hell, God asks what is better this (the Gardens of Delight) or the Zaqqum tree? This tree growing devils’ heads in the midst of the Fire will be the food of those in Hell together with scalding water to drink.  The disbelievers made fun of a tree growing in a fire but it will become their reality because they followed their forefathers into disbelief even though they were warned.  Listen to what happened to those before you.

Verses 75 – 148 Scenes from the past

Prophet Noah is given as an example of how well God rewards the righteous.   Noah was a believer and God saved him and his people from great distress.  The non-believers were warned but they made the wrong choice, then they were drowned.  Prophet Abraham was also a man of faith, devoted to God.  He asked his father and his people why they worshipped false gods.  When his people were going for the festival, Abraham said he felt ill and stayed behind.  He went to their temple and asked the carved gods questions, why do you not eat why do you not speak.  They did not reply so he pushed them over.  Abraham’s people were angry and intended to burn him in fire but God had a different plan and kept him safe.

Prophet Abraham left trusting God to guide him to a better place.  He asked for more, a righteous son which God provided.  When the boy (Ishmael) was old enough to work with his father, Abraham had a troubling dream in which he was called upon to sacrifice Ishmael.  He told Ishmael and they both were willing to submit to God’s will.  Abraham put Ishmael upon the stone but God called out for him to stop.  It was a test and Abraham passed it due to his complete submission to God’s command.  Abraham is remembered by the following generations as a righteous man.  He was given news of another righteous son called Isaac.  Among their descendants were the righteous but also those who wronged themselves.

God also favoured and supported Prophet Moses and his brother Aaron.  They too were delivered from distress and guided on the straight path.  God gave them the Torah.  Prophet Elias was one of those devoted to God.  He questioned his people about the false god Ba’l but they ignored him and faced the consequences.  Lot was another Prophet who was delivered from harm along with his whole family, except his wife; she was left to face the punishment with the wrongdoers.  Their city is a constant reminder but many people do not take heed. 

In the next scene is Prophet Jonah.  He fled from his disbelieving people to an overloaded ship where they drew lots in order to stay on board.  Being swallowed by a whale was his just punishment but he was delivered from harm because he had been one of God’s devoted believers.  He was cast ashore and God protected him from the elements and a serious illness.  God then provided him with a large nation who believed in him and they were permitted to live out their lives.

Verses 149 – 182 Superstitions denied

Many people from Mecca claimed that the angels were the daughters of God.  God refutes this superstition.  Next they claim that God is kin to the jinn.  How could this be possible when the jinn themselves have to appear before God and account for their deeds?  God is far above these superstitions and only those destined for the Hellfire would believe such things.

The angels are ranged in ranks and glorify God.  Previously the disbelievers asked for a Messenger and said they would follow the guidance, yet when the best Messenger and the best revelation are sent to them they resort to disbelief.  But they will come to know and understand.  God assures Prophet Muhammad that he will see their downfall as sure as they will see his victory.  God is far above what they attribute to Him.  The chapter closes with a blessing on God’s Messengers and declares that all praise is for God.
_______________________________________
By Aisha Stacey (© 2017 IslamReligion.com)
Copyright © 2006 - 2021 IslamReligion.com. All rights reserved.
Used with permission.
The source of this article is: www.IslamReligion.com

The Originator is a forty-five verse chapter.  It was revealed during the period in which the small fledgling band of Muslims was suffering from persecution and oppression at the hands of the Meccan elite.  The title comes from the first verse in which God’s power of creation is affirmed.  This chapter is alternatively known as The Angels, also from the first verse where God mentions the wings of the angels.  God’s power is confirmed and contrasted with the powerlessness of idols.  The idolaters receive a warning and the Prophet is comforted.

Verses 1 – 10 God has power over all things

All praises belong to God.  He is the one who created the heaven and the earth.  He also created angels, with two, four, or six pairs of wings, to be His messengers.  God creates whatever He pleases.  When He wants to give blessings no one can withhold them but if He wants to withhold His blessings no one is able to release them.  Remember God’s graces because there is no god who is able to provide the sustenance you require.  Why are you deluded about this matter?

God addresses Prophet Muhammad, may the mercy and blessings of God be upon him, saying, do not be upset if the people call you a liar and deny you.  Many messengers before you were treated in this way.  Then God address the people saying that His promise is true and warning them not to be deceived by Satan who is the great Deceiver.  Satan is your enemy so treat him as an enemy.  He only wants you to follow him into the Fire.  Those who disbelieve will be punished but those who do good deeds will find forgiveness and rewards.

Oh Muhammad, are you able to guide the people whose evil deeds are made alluring to them? The truth is that God chooses who will be guided and who will be left to wander in the dark so do not feel regret.  God is aware of everything they do.  He is the one who revives the earth with winds and clouds after it has been dead; in much the same way the Resurrection will take place.  All power belongs to God and a severe torment belongs to those who plot and plan.  Their plans will come to nothing.

Verses 11 – 14 God the Creator

It is God who created humankind; first from dust and then from a drop of fluid.  He made you into pairs, and no female conceives or gives birth without His knowledge.  And no person grows old or has his life cut short except that it is in accordance with what is written in God’s record.  There are two bodies of water but they are not alike.  One is sweet and pleasant to drink but the other is salty and bitter.  From each you can extract food and ornaments.  And the ships move through them.  God makes the night and the day and they merge into each other, and the sun and the moon rise and fall at appointed times.   The things you worship other than God cannot even control something as small as the skin on a date stone.  If you invoked them they would not hear and if they heard they would not respond.  And on the Day of Judgement they will deny you.

Verses 15 – 26 God is free of all needs

Humankind, you need God but He does not need you.  He is free of all wants or needs.  If He so desired he could destroy you and replace you with a new creation.  No one can carry another person’s burden.  Prophet Muhammad is only able to warn those who already fear their Lord and establish the prayer.  Those who purify themselves do so for their own benefit, not to benefit God. 

The seeing and the blind are not the same, nor are darkness and light, or heat and shade.  The living and the dead are not equal.  There is a difference between those who are guided and those who refuse.  Prophet Muhammad is a warner who has been sent with the truth.  Every community was sent a warner, and many of them were called liars even though they came with clear signs, scriptures and enlightening revelations.  In the end God seized the disbelievers and His disapproval was terrible.

Verses 27 – 37 Abundant blessings

God sends down rain from the sky and from it the earth brings forth fruits and vegetables and plant life.  The mountains are made up of streaks and tracts of various hues and colors.  Humankind and animals are also made up of different colors, shades and hues.  Those who have knowledge stand in awe of God.  Those who recite from the Book, establish the prayer and give generously from what God has provided them with should expect a reward that does not perish.

The Quran is the truth and it confirms the scriptures that came before it.  God has given the Quran as an inheritance for those He has chosen.  The believers will enter Paradise and they will praise God.  However, those who reject the truth will be in the Hellfire where they will never find relief.  They will cry out to be given another chance but they have already had many chances.

Verses 38 – 45 God knows the unseen and sees everything

God knows the unseen and all your secrets.  You forget that He made you vicegerent on this planet.  You are a representative of God and should act accordingly.  Those who deny the truth will bear the consequences.  Have you thought about those you invoke others besides God? What have they created? Do they have a Book? No, they do not; their promises are delusions.  It is God who holds the heavens and the earth together.   If they should slip no one could hold them in place except God.

They swore that if a warner came to them they would have believed.  The warner did come but they treated him with hostility.  Evil plots only entrap the plotters.  Are they waiting for the same end as the end that came to previous more superior nations? God’s methods have not changed.  If God were to punish the people for their sins, there would not be a single person left on the planet.  But He gives them respite, and on the Day of Resurrection mankind will be brought to account.  Each person will be rewarded or punished according to what they did. 
_______________________________________
By Aisha Stacey (© 2018 IslamReligion.com)
Copyright © 2006 - 2021 IslamReligion.com. All rights reserved.
Used with permission.
The source of this article is: www.IslamReligion.com

Chapter 31 of the Quran is 34 verses in length and called Luqman. It is named after the sage Luqman, whose advice to his son features in verses 13 to 19. The chapter opens with a description of the believers and strongly condemns those who attempt to lead others astray. Luqman was revealed in Mecca at the height of the Muslim persecution and the young Muslims are extolled to disobey parents when they try to lead them away from Islam. The disbelievers are warned about the consequences of their actions and Prophet Muhammad, may the mercy and blessings of God be upon him, is told not to be saddened by their actions.

Verse 1

These are among the fourteen opening letters which occur in various combinations at the beginning of twenty-nine chapters of the Quran. Throughout the centuries there has been much speculation as to their meaning however God never revealed that any specific meaning is attached to them.

Verses 2-7 Traits and distractions

These are the verses of the Quran. It is guidance and a mercy for those who lead a God-conscious life and with the Hereafter as their main focus. These are the ones who will be successful. However there are some people who are without knowledge and pay for distracting tales to lead others away from God. Those who distract a believer will find a humiliating torment waiting for them. When the verses are recited they turn away disdainfully as if the words are nothing but heaviness in their ears. God repeats His warning saying; tell them there will be a painful torment.

Verses 8-11 A truthful promise

Those who believe and do righteous deeds will stay in Gardens of bliss. It is a truthful promise for He is Mighty and Wise. He created the heavens without visible pillars, set the mountains upon the earth firmly so that they will not shift and spread animals of all sorts throughout the earth. He sends rain from the sky that causes all sorts of vegetable life to grow. This is the creation of God; what have others that you worship created!? The disbelievers are clearly in error.

Verses 12-15  Advice to the youth

God says that He gave wisdom to Luqman so that he would be grateful. Whoever is grateful and gives thanks to God does so for his own welfare. Those who are ungrateful and deny God’s favors upon them should understand that God has no need of their thanks. Luqman counsels his son saying do not attribute partners to God, it is a terrible error.

God commands that people be good to their parents, their mothers carry their offspring with great difficulty and usually feed them from their own bodies for two years.  God associates gratitude towards Him with gratitude towards parents.  He says be grateful and obey them but stresses not to obey them when they ask you to commit the greatest sin of associating others with God.  We should not obey them in matters that go against the commandments of God, and do what is right, but at the same time we are expected to treat our parents with care and respect.

Verses 16 -19 Wise counsel

Nothing can escape God’s knowledge says Luqman to his son.  Even if it is as small as a mustard seed, or hidden inside a rock or is a minute speck in a vast universe, God can see it clearly and is able to expose it.   Luqman then advises his son to lead a moral and upstanding life and tells him how; establish the prayer, enjoin the good, forbid the evil and bear the trials and afflictions of life with patience.  Do not turn your nose up at people contemptuously; do not walk about the land arrogantly for God does not like the boastful.   Thus walk at a moderate pace and talk in a low voice because God does not like harsh voices like the braying of donkeys.  This is all sage advice for moral behaviour and interaction between people.

Verses 20-26 An admonition

God asks, do you not see that everything in the heavens and earth is for the benefit of humankind.  It is self-evident but there are still those who would argue about it.  When they are told to follow God’s guidance they respond by saying that they will not but will instead follow the path trodden by their forefathers.  They say this even when Satan is inviting them to step into the Fire.  Those who submit to the will of God and live a righteous life have grasped the most trustworthy handhold, because the outcome of every matter is with God.

 If they disbelieve, do not let it grieve you (O Muhammad) for to Us (God) is their return and We will then inform them of the reality of their deeds. God knows what their hearts contain. We (God) grant them enjoyment for a little while but in the Hereafter they will be driven to an unrelenting punishment. If you ask them who created the heavens and the earth they would say ‘God’, but then they associate partners with God in worship. By acknowledging that God is the creator of everything, and then worshiping created objects, they establish proof against themselves! God is the Creator and Owner of all that is in the heavens and the earth. He needs nothing from His creation and is the Only One worthy of praise.

Verses 27-30  The Most Great

If all the trees on earth were pens, and the oceans were ink, replenished by seven more oceans, the writing of God’s Words (signs and creations) would not be exhausted. It is as easy for God to create and resurrect every living being as it is to create and resurrect a single soul. God is All-Hearing and All-Seeing. Do you not see that God makes the day follow the night, one after the other, over and over in a precise pattern? The sun and the moon also spin in their orbits according to God’s plan. God knows very well what you do. God is the truth and what they call upon besides Him is falsehood. He is the most High and the most Great.

Verses 31 -34 Beware of Satan and the delusion of this world

The ships sail through the ocean by the grace of God. Surely there are signs in this for any grateful person. When the waves loom over them they call out to God with sincere devotion but when He (God) brings them safely to land some falter between belief and disbelief. O humankind, fear your Lord and fear the Day that no family member will avail another family member. Do not let the life of this world delude you or let Satan deceive you. It is God alone who has knowledge of the Hour and sends down the rain and knows what is in the wombs – nothing escapes His knowledge. We humans don’t know what will happen the next moment; God knows all this and is aware of everything.
_______________________________________
By Aisha Stacey (© 2015 IslamReligion.com)
Copyright © 2006 - 2021 IslamReligion.com. All rights reserved.
Used with permission.
The source of this article is: www.IslamReligion.com

The Narration is an eighty-eight verse chapter revealed in Mecca.  It takes its name from the twenty-fifth verse in which the Arabic word for narration is used.  The Narration is also a suitable title because the chapter tells a detailed story about Prophet Moses.  Its main theme is the punishment that comes to those who are arrogant and spread corruption.  This chapter and the two preceding it go together to tell the complete story of Prophet Moses.  Polytheism is condemned, and Prophet Muhammad, may the mercy and blessings of God be upon him, is reminded that he cannot make the people believe but nevertheless he must remain steadfast in his mission.

Verses 1 – 21 Prophet Moses and Pharaoh

Chapter twenty-eight begins with the combination of letters ta, seen, meem.  They are three letters from amongst various combinations of fourteen letters that open twenty-nine chapters of the Quran.  God did not reveal any specific meaning regarding them.  Immediately after these letters we are informed that these verses from the Quran make things clear and understandable.  The story of Prophet Moses and Pharaoh is true beyond doubt.  Pharaoh consolidated his leadership by dividing the people into groups and setting them against one another.  He loved to spread corruption and oppressed one group in particular.  God however wanted to favour those who were oppressed, to make them leaders and establish them in the land, and Pharaoh and Haman, and those like them would then face their greatest fears. 

Moses’ mother was inspired by God.  He made her understand that she should suckle her baby but when the time comes when she is afraid for him she should put him in the river.  She must not grieve or be afraid because God will return the baby to her and he will grow up to be one of His messengers.  A member of Pharaoh’s family found baby Moses little realizing that later he would become a source of grief for the evildoers.  Pharaoh’s wife was able to convince her husband to adopt the baby and they took him into the family.

The following day Moses’ mother was bereft but God strengthened her.  She sent Moses’ sister to find out what happened.  God had ordained that Moses would refuse to feed from any of the palace wet nurses so Moses’ sister was able to tell them about her mother that could feed the baby.  In this way Moses was restored to his mother so she would feel comforted and know that God’s promise was true.

Moses reached full maturity and was wise and intelligent.  One day when walking in the city he came upon two people fighting.  One was from his own people and appealed to Moses for help.  Moses did help and killed the person with one blow.  He realised that Satan must have had a hand in this and appealed to God for forgiveness.  When forgiven, he promised never to support evildoers.  The next day he came upon the same man fighting and realised he was a troublemaker.  Moses was reluctant to be drawn into another fight but was going to attack the troublemaker who was accusing Moses of being a tyrant.  At that moment a man rushed up to Moses and told him that the authorities were looking for him, possibly intending to kill him.  So Moses left the city.  He was fearful and wary and prayed to God to save him from the wrongdoers.

Verses 22 –43 Return to Egypt

Moses made his way to Midian.  When he arrived at the waterhole there he found a group of men watering their livestock while two women were standing back fearful of watering their sheep whilst the men were there.  Moses watered the sheep for them and then sat in the shade and prayed to God for assistance.  He asked God for any good thing at all and just then one of the two women returned saying that their father wanted to speak to him and reward him. 

Moses went with the woman and met her father, Prophet Shuaib.  The old man listened to Moses’ story and reassured him.  One of the daughters encouraged her father to hire Moses, and so Prophet Shuaib offered one of his daughters in marriage if Moses worked for him for eight years adding that ten would be better though.  Moses agreed to fulfil one of the terms.

And when the agreed upon term had been completed Moses set out to travel with his family.  One night he noticed a fire on the side of a mountain.  He told his family to wait while he went to find the source of the fire and perhaps learn some news or in the very least bring back a flaming branch so that they could light their own fire.  When Moses reached the fire a voice called out to him.

The voice seemed to come from the right side of the valley, from a tree.  The voice said, "I am God, Lord of the worlds".  Throw down your staff the voice commanded.  When Moses did so the staff slithered away like a snake.  Moses fled in fear.  God called him back telling him he had nothing to fear.  Moses was then told to put his hand inside his shirt.  When he withdrew it, it was white and shinning.  God informed him that these two things would be signs Moses was to deliver from Him to Pharaoh and his ministers.

Moses then told God about the man he had killed and that he feared he would be killed himself if he returned to Egypt.  He also asked that his eloquent brother Aaron be able to accompany him on his mission.  God replied that he would strengthen Moses with his brother, and that they would not be harmed and would triumph.

When Moses and Aaron presented themselves before Pharaoh they were accused of trickery and sorcery because they had never seen such a thing before.  Moses said that God knows best who is guided and who will have the best home in the Hereafter.  Arrogantly Pharaoh told Haman to build a high tower so that he could climb up and see this God of Moses, and accused Moses of lying.  Pharaoh and his armies were arrogant, thinking they would never have to face God.  God seized them and flung them into the sea and that was an end to them.  They were the leaders calling only to the Hellfire but on the Day of Resurrection they will have no help.  They were cursed in this world and on the Day of Resurrection they will be despised.  Moses was given the scripture to provide insight, guidance and mercy.   

Verses 44 – 50 Prophet Muhammad does not narrate from himself

God tells Prophet Muhammad, may the mercy and blessings of God be upon him, that he was not present there on the mountain when He (God) gave Moses the law, nor was he among the people of Midian.  Prophet Muhammad was also not there when God spoke to Moses on the side of Mount Sinai.  You (Prophet Muhammad) had no direct means of obtaining the information of earlier nations; all this is being revealed to you.   You were sent as an act of grace and mercy to warn a people that had never been warned before, that they must take heed and never be able to say that a warner did not come to them.  Now that the truth has come to them they ask why Prophet Muhammad was not given a law like Moses’ law.  They call the Torah and the Quran sorcery and refuse to accept either of them.  Ask these disbelievers to bring forth a scripture that is more guiding.  If they do not respond you will know that they only follow their own desires.  God does not guide the wrongdoers.

Verses 51 – 61 In Mecca

The disbelievers of Mecca have repeatedly been given the words of the Quran.  Some of those who were given the scripture before the Quran had no trouble believing in it (the Quran), and said that we already believed in One God and were sincerely responding to His commands even before the Quran came.  They will be given their reward twice because they have endured.  They repel evil with good, give in charity from what has been provided for them, and turn away when they hear frivolous speech.  Oh Muhammad you do not decide who will be guided; God guides whoever He pleases and knows which people will accept guidance.  They do not wish to be guided.  They say that if they accept guidance they will be driven from the land.  But God has already given them a sanctuary (Mecca) and provided everything they could possibly need. 

In your travels you (Meccans) have seen the cities that God destroyed.  And God would never destroy a city or its people without first sending a messenger.  Whatever you have in this world is temporary and that which is with God is better and more lasting.  So why not use your power of reasoning? Is the person who strives for the Hereafter and is rewarded with eternal bliss like the one who merely enjoys a few days of this life and is then punishment in the next?

Verses 62 – 70 Polytheists will be left helpless on Judgement Day

A Day will come when God will ask, where are the ones you called My partners? Those waiting for punishment will point them out, but the accused will say we did not compel them to obey; they followed their own desires and inclinations.  They will try to invoke their gods but they will not respond, and then they will see the punishment and wished they had followed guidance.  God will ask them how they responded to the messengers but all their previous arguments will seem obscure and they will not be able to talk with one another.  However, those who repented, believed, and acted righteously will be successful.  God creates and chooses, you do not choose for yourselves.  
Glory to God, He is far above the partners ascribed to Him.  And God knows what their hearts conceal and what they reveal.  He is God; there is no deity except Him.  All praise in this life and in the Hereafter belongs to Him.  His is the Judgement and everyone will be brought back to Him.

Verses 71 – 75 Who can create other than God?

Oh Prophet Muhammad, ask them what would happen if God made the night perpetual.  Who other than God could bring light? If God were to make the day perpetual who other than God could bring night? Out of His Mercy God made the night for rest and the day a time in which to seek bounty.  The Day of Judgement will come, and God will ask about the whereabouts of the partners you ascribed to Him.  A witness from every nation will be asked to produce proof of the false deities.  And then they will know that the truth belongs to God and the gods they invented have forsaken them.

Verses 76 – 82 The story of Qarun

Qarun was one of Moses’ people but he rebelled against them.  God gave him so many treasures that even the keys to open the containers the treasures were kept in would have been heavy for strong men to carry.  The people said to him do not gloat because God does not like those people who gloat.  Use what God has given you to attain a good abode in the Hereafter.  Be good to others as God has been good to you, and do not cause mischief; God does not love the mischief makers.  But Qarun replied all that I have is only because of my own knowledge and ability.  Did he not understand that God has destroyed many people before him, many that were mightier in strength and richer in wealth? But criminals are not always called immediately to account.

One day he came out of his house in all his worldly adornment.  Some people wished they had what he had while others said the reward from God is better but we can only attain it with patience and gratitude.  God caused the earth to swallow him and his house.   There was nobody to help him and he was unable to defend himself.  Then the same people who had envied Qarun changed their minds.  They said, we had forgotten that it is God who enlarges provision and it is God that can take it away.  If it was not for God’s graciousness He could have caused the earth to swallow us all.  Those who deny the truth will never prosper.

Verses 83 – 88 Reassurance

The home of the Hereafter is for those who seek neither glory nor spread corruption.  The best outcome is for those who are mindful of God.  Those who come to God on the Day of Judgment with good deeds will be rewarded with what is better.  Those who come with bad deeds will be recompensed only to the extent of their bad deeds.  Prophet Muhammad is reassured that he will be brought to the best destination.  God knows that Prophet Muhammad brought guidance to those who were in manifest error.  Prophet Muhammad did not expect the Quran to be revealed but it is a mercy.  Do not help the disbelievers by giving them concessions in their religion and do not let any of them try to turn you away from what has been revealed to you.  Call the people to God and never become one of those who ascribe partners to Him.  Do not call out to any other deity besides Him; none has the right to be worshipped except God. Everything will be destroyed except Him.  The Judgment belongs to God and you will be returned to Him. 
_______________________________________
By Aisha Stacey (© 2018 IslamReligion.com)
Copyright © 2006 - 2021 IslamReligion.com. All rights reserved.
Used with permission.
The source of this article is: www.IslamReligion.com

This chapter of 227 short verses was revealed in Mecca.  Like all Meccan chapters it is primarily concerned with the Oneness of God.

Verses 1 – 9 Clear revelations

The Poets is one of twenty-nine chapters that begin with a combination of Arabic letters.  This combination is Ta Sin Mim.   God did not reveal any meaning for these letters; however, over the course of Islamic scholarship many theories have been suggested.

These verses make things clear, yet Prophet Muhammad, may the mercy and blessings of God be upon him, is worrying himself to death over people who refuse to believe.  God could have sent them a sign that was undeniable, but they turn away from every revelation.  Now the Quran has come, they will soon experience the reality of what they mock.  They need only to look around to see God’s creation; a sign that God is Mighty and Merciful.

Verses 10 – 68 Moses and Pharaoh

Moses was sent to the people of Pharaoh but feared he would be rejected because of his speech.  God reassured him by making Aaron his helper.   Moses asked that the Israelites be released from bondage.  Pharaoh reminded Moses of his time in Egypt and called him ungrateful.   Moses spoke about the glory of God, and Pharaoh threatened him with prison while mocking him and God.  Moses demonstrated the miracles God allowed him to perform.  He threw his staff which became a snake and from his robes he drew his hand, shining and white.  He was called a sorcerer and Pharaoh and his advisers arranged a competition with their sorcerers. 

At the assembly the sorcerers threw their ropes, but Moses’ staff devoured their illusions.  The sorcerers prostrated to God and Pharaoh had them crucified.  God inspired Moses to flee at night with all the Israelites.  Pharaoh sent an army to prevent their emigration.  By sunrise Pharaoh’s people had the Israelites trapped at the edge of the Red Sea.  Moses struck the sea with his staff and the waves parted allowing them to escape.  The pursuers were drowned.  This is a sign for those who believe.  God is Mighty and Merciful.

Verses 69 – 104 Prophet Abraham

Abraham asked his father and his people about their idol worship.  He pointed out that idols could not benefit or harm them, but his people replied that they followed the practice of their ancestors.  Abraham denounced them all and pledged his allegiance to God, the one who guides him, sustains him, cures him and will resurrect him.  Abraham supplicated that God join him with the righteous, give him honor amongst later generations and grant him repose in the Gardens of Paradise; he also asked that his father be forgiven.  Children and wealth will not avail on that Day.  Only those who come before God with a pure heart will benefit.

Paradise will be brought close to the righteous and Hell will be visible to those who have gone astray.  They will be asked about what they worshipped apart from God and will be flung into Hell with their idols including all the armies of Iblees (Satan).  They will argue with one another and wish longingly to return to their worldly life for another chance.  This story reveals a great lesson.  God is Mighty and Merciful. 

Verses 105 – 140 Noah and Hud

The people of Noah also rejected their Messenger.  He was gentle and mild, and asked for no payment, but they considered him and those who followed him to be poor and worthless.  Noah said he would never drive away a believer; he was nothing but a warner.  They asked him to desist or he would be stoned.  Noah called out to God asking for a decisive judgement.   God saved Noah and the believers in a ship, the others were drowned.  This is a great lesson, but most do not believe.  God is Mighty and Merciful. 

The people of Ad disbelieved in their Messenger Hud.  He asked them to fear God and requested no payment.  They built strong, tall buildings as if they expected to live forever and were cruel tyrants.  Hud reminded them that God provided them with their sustenance.  Hud’s people replied that they had no fear of torment and such talk was nothing but an ancient myth.  God utterly destroyed them.  He is Mighty as well as Merciful.

Verses 141 – 191 Saleh, Lot and Shuaib

The people of Thamud denied their Messenger.  When Saleh asked them to fear God they accused him of being affected by magic.  He asked for no reward and reminded them of their provisions from God, and told them to stay away from transgressors, but it was not enough, they wanted a sign.   Saleh brought forth a she-camel who was to share their water; each drinking on alternate days.  The people were warned not to hurt her, but they hamstrung her.  In the morning they were full of regret because the punishment fell upon them.  God is Mighty and Merciful. 

The people of Lot also disbelieved.  He asked them for no reward and warned them to fear God.  Lot admonished them and cautioned them not to partake in unnatural acts.  They responded by threatening Lot with expulsion.  Lot asked God to save him and his family and He did; all except his wife who was destroyed with the rest.  A rain of destruction poured down on those who had been forewarned.  Another lesson the people failed to learn.  God is Mighty and Merciful. 

Shuaib’s people disbelieved even though he was a trustworthy Messenger who asked for no reward.  He warned his people to weigh with correct scales, to give full measure, and not spread corruption, but they accused him of being bewitched.  They called him a liar and asked him to cause fragments of the sky to fall upon them if he was truthful.  Due to their stubborn denial the torment seized them, a scourge from the dark clouds.  Most do not learn the lesson and become believers.  God is Mighty and Merciful.

Verses 191 – 227 Revelation

This Quran comes from God, brought down to Prophet Muhammad through the Angel Gabriel, as a warning to the people in plain Arabic language.  The former scriptures foretold this, why is that not sufficient proof? If it was revealed to a non-Arab who recited to them in Arabic they would still not believe.  God puts unbelief in the hearts of the guilty.  They will not believe until they see the torment, and at that time they will ask for respite.   Past enjoyment is no protection from the torment.  God never destroyed a population without a warner.  He is never unjust.  The jinn did not bring down the Quran.  Do not worship anything other than God.  Warn your close kin (oh Muhammad) and show kindness to the believers.  If they disobey then you are not accountable for their actions.  Put your trust in God.  The devils descend upon the liars and only the lost follow the poets; except the poets who believe and are righteous.  And the oppressors will know to what they will return.   
_______________________________________
By Aisha Stacey (© 2018 IslamReligion.com)
Copyright © 2006 - 2021 IslamReligion.com. All rights reserved.
Used with permission.
The source of this article is: www.IslamReligion.com

Verses 1-11 Qualities and the reward of the believers

In this world of God, success is for one who is a true believer, one who devotes himself fully to God and not to anybody other than God and who leads a God-oriented life.  Realization of God is not a simple matter.  It brings about a revolution in the life of a person.  He becomes a worshipper of God and bows down before Him in submission.  His sincerity and seriousness increase to the extent that wasting time in useless pursuits appears fatal to him.  He sets aside a portion of his earnings in the Name of God and with that he helps the needy.  He exercises control over his sexual desires and gives free rein to them only within the limit prescribed by God.  He lives his life in this world as a responsible person and never misappropriates whatever is entrusted to him.  Such a person never dishonors any pledge undertaken by him.  Those who possess these qualities are the favored servants of God.  God has kept ready the gardens of Paradise for these people.  After death they will be sent into this new ‘world’ so that they may savor its joys forever.

Verses 12-22 Manifestations of the power of God and affirmation of life after death

The young human being grows in the womb of his mother.  In ancient times, the period from conception until child-birth was shrouded in mystery.  It was only in the twentieth century that modern scientific developments made it possible to observe the development of a baby in the mother’s womb and obtain direct information about it.  The vivid Quranic description of the various developmental stages of the formation and birth of human beings, is surprisingly identical with modern scientific findings.  This provides a clear proof of the fact that the Quran is the Book of God.  Had it not been so, such similarity between the findings of modern research and the statements of the Quran, revealed fourteen hundred years ago, would not have possible.

The development of the embryo in the mother’s womb shows that the Creator of this world is the most perfect Being.  Our knowledge of human creation compels us to believe that a second creation is certainly possible.

Man is a small creature.  Compared to him, the universe is so large that it strikes terror into man.  In the vastness of space, innumerable stars and planets revolve at high speed.  Yet, the most wonderful aspect of the universe is that it is highly favorable to the existence of human beings.  Moreover, the planet has been made to cater to all of man’s needs.  For example, man is able to domesticate a variety of animals and put them to various uses.  The cow’s belly, for instance, is a wonderful factory that gives out a valuable commodity – milk.  All these factors warrant man’s recognition of his Kind and Merciful God and his remaining ever grateful to Him.

Verses 23-56 Prophet’s call to God’s path

Prophet Noah admonished his community for a long time, but they were not ready to accept his call.  When the limit of human effort has been reached, divine action begins, it is time for reckoning, not advice.  God’s retribution appeared in the shape of a storm which drowned his entire community with the exception of some believers.  A few who had faith in Noah entered the ark, God saved them from the grim consequences of the Flood which would have been their fate had they rejected the truth.

After being delivered in the ark, the generation of believers in Noah flourished, but with the passage of centuries, they plunged into the same evils in which their predecessors had indulged.

Verses 63-92 Polytheists

Those completely devoted to the life of this world are not interested in any discourse about God or the Hereafter.  They ignore all such talk and are lost in worldly pursuits.  With the onset of God’s retribution, such people forget their recklessness and arrogance and start pleading humbly.

Truth is what is in consonance with reality.  But, those given to self-indulgence want truth to be subservient to their desires.  The truth appears strange to them, and they are, therefore, unable to recognize the real position of the preacher and they try to prove him wrong.

The universe appears to be in perfect harmony, whereas the world of human beings is in turbulence everywhere.  That is because the universe is running on the basis of truth (laws of nature).  If it were to run on the basis of human desires, it would also become turbulent like the human world.

In the Meccan period of Islam when the Quraish rejected Prophet Muhammad, may the mercy and blessings of God be upon him, God sent famine on them for several years.  In accordance with God’s scheme, when a community adopts an arrogant attitude and does not accept good advice, He gives a warning punishment in order to soften their hearts and make them pay attention to the Truth.

Verses 93-119 Conclusion

The prayer shows that a believer is always a God-fearing person.  Even when God’s punishment is directed towards others, he starts trembling with fear.  He starts addressing God in all humility, because he knows that, if he is to be saved, it will not be solely by his deeds, rather with God’s mercy.
_______________________________________
By Imam Mufti (© 2016 IslamReligion.com)
Copyright © 2006 - 2021 IslamReligion.com. All rights reserved.
Used with permission.
The source of this article is: www.IslamReligion.com

Chapter 21, The Prophets, is one of the longer chapters of the Quran.  It contains 112 verses and its title comes from the subject matter from verses 48 to 91, stories, and lessons from the lives of many of the more notable prophets.  This chapter was revealed in Mecca and thus it stresses that Prophet Muhammad, may the mercy and blessings of God be upon him, was a human being like all the earlier prophets and that his message was the same, the oneness or unity of God.  It also warns, as do many chapters, of the inevitability of the Day of Judgement.

Verses 1 – 9  Accusations and lies

God warns that the Day of Accountability is getting closer, yet many people are heedless.  They ridicule the warnings and warners that come to them and continue to play, their hearts preoccupied with worldly affairs.  In their private conversations, they say that Muhammad is a just human being like themselves, and that he is trying to trick them with witchcraft.  God says to Prophet Muhammad, tell them that I (God) hear everything they think is said in secrecy.  Many accuse Prophet Muhammad of having muddled dreams, or making up false stories, or being a poet.  The disbelievers ask for a sign, but God mentions that all the cities and towns destroyed previously asked for and received signs yet they did not believe.  The disbelievers dispute as to how a human being can be a prophet yet the previous prophets were all mortal men.  God fulfilled His promise to them, they were saved, as were those who believed in them but many were destroyed for their disbelief. 

Verses 10- 24  Falsehood blown away

We (God) have sent you a reminder.  Prior nations were destroyed because of their iniquities.  Other communities were raised up in their place.  They tried to escape when they felt Our (Gods) wrath upon them.  (They were told) Go back to your houses and play.  They admitted their wrongdoing and continued to do so until they were extinguished, just like a fire.  Heaven and earth and all that lies between them were not created to be a playground.  Falsehood is blown away by the truth, so woe to those who have created false gods.  Those who are with God worship and praise him tirelessly.  Do your false deities have the power to raise the dead? There is proof and there is the reminder (the Quran) yet most people do not recognise the truth and turn away.

Verses 25- 47  Every soul will taste death

All the prophets were sent with the same message; there is no deity but God, so worship Him alone.  Despite having received the true message people tell lies against God.  These evil doers are rewarded with Hell.  Do the disbelievers not consider the world around them? The heavens and the earth were once one mass split asunder by God; all living creatures have their origin in water.  The earth is covered with firm mountains and broad pathways and the sky is a canopy.  God created the night and the day; the celestial bodies move in their orbits.  Every soul will taste death.  Everyone is tested and then they will return to God.  The Day will arrive suddenly and the disbelievers will be powerless to turn it away.  The previous messengers were ridiculed but in the end those who ridiculed were overcome by what they mocked.   Invented gods cannot defend themselves so how will they defend the disbelievers? They are warned but refuse to hear, and then if even a breath of punishment touches them they cry to God.  Be warned that on the Day of Judgement the scales will be set up and God will take account.

Verses 48 – 70 Brief stories of the prophets

God says He gave Moses and his brother Aaron the scripture that distinguishes between right and wrong and the Quran is also a blessed message.  God sends it down yet some people continue to deny it.   Long ago right judgment was bestowed upon Abraham.  He questioned his father and his people about their clear idolatry but they answered that they only followed the ways of their ancestors.  Abraham said to them that their true Lord was the Lord of the heavens and the earth that had created them and that he (Abraham) would plot against the idols as soon as he could find the opportunity.  Abraham destroyed all the idols except the largest one.  He left it whole.  When they returned to find the carnage the people remembered Abraham’s threats so they called him and questioned him.  He asked them to question instead the remaining idol, pointing out the absurdity of their beliefs.  At first Abraham’s people admitted their errors but then they were seized with pride and obstinacy.  They threw Abraham into the midst of a fire but God kept the fire cool.   They planned to hurt Abraham but God made them the losers.

Verses 71 – 77 God saves those who believe

Prophet Abraham and his nephew Lot were delivered from harm and sent to a land that God had blessed for the entire world.  Here Abraham was blessed even more with his righteous son Isaac and his grandson Jacob.  They were righteous, doing good deeds, establishing the prayer, giving alms and worshipping in the correct way.  Lot was given sound judgment and knowledge and God saved him from the city of wicked deeds.  Even further back in the past Noah called out to God and God accepted his prayer against the unbelievers.  Prophet Noah and the believers were saved from the great calamity (the flood) but those who had denied the warnings were drowned.

Verses 78 – 88 …And those who cry to Him in distress

God blessed Prophet David and Solomon with wisdom.  God was watching them when they were trying to judge a case about sheep straying a night and He made Solomon understand the case in a better way.  However both were given wisdom in abundance.  It was God who made the mountains and the birds sing His (God’s) praises with David and it was also God who taught David to make coats of armour for protection in battle.  God harnessed the wind for Solomon and made some of the jinn subservient to him.   God asks us to remember Job, who cried to his Lord when he was afflicted.  God heard his cry and removed his suffering.  And remember Ishmael, Idris, and Dhu’l- Kifl.  They were all steadfast and were admitted into God’s mercy.  And remember the man in the whale? He was angry but admitted his wrong and God saved him from his distress.  God saves the faithful.

Verses 89 – 112  Great news for the believers

God blessed Zachariah and accepted his prayer for a child.  He was given John (the Baptist).  Remember the one who guarded her chastity (Mary, mother of Jesus).   God made her and her son a sign for all people.  God calls all the prophets a single community and says worship Me alone.  If a believer does righteous deeds the angels will record it.  Towards the end of time the people of Gog and Magog will be let loose to swarm across the land.  On the Day of Judgement the eyes of the disbelievers will stare in horror and say, "We were wrong".  But the people destined for Paradise will be kept far away from Hell; they will not even hear a sound of it.  This day of great terror will not grieve them and the angels will greet them.  Surely this is great news for the believers.  My (God’s) righteous servants will inherit the earth.

Muhammad has been sent as a blessing for all the worlds and was told to warn them (humankind) asking them to affirm their belief that God is one.   
_______________________________________
By Aisha Stacey (© 2015 IslamReligion.com)
Copyright © 2006 - 2021 IslamReligion.com. All rights reserved.
Used with permission.
The source of this article is: www.IslamReligion.com

The name of this chapter is taken from the story of Mary, mother of Jesus (verses 16–35).  It begins with an account of the birth of John and of Jesus, the last representatives of prophecy in the house of Israel.  The claim that Jesus is the son of God is firmly denied, as is the assertion of the pagans of Mecca that the angels are God’s daughters.  It then mentions the missions of some earlier prophets, showing that only human beings are raised to reform the world.  Consisting of 93 verses, this is one of the early Meccan chapters, and was recited to Negus (Christian king of Abyssinia) in the presence of hostile ambassadors of Quraish, in the fifth year of Prophet Muhammad’s advent, nine years before Hijrah, by Ja’far, the head of the Muslim refugees, whereupon, according to the earliest Muslims chroniclers, the king and the bishop wept saying, ‘Indeed, this revelation and that of Moses proceed from one and the same source.’

The Quran makes us believe in the power of God in such a way that it enables us to see beyond the predictability of cause and effect.  Although God has made this universe in such a way that for everything there is physical reasoning but at the same time God has also made miracles happen which make us realize that God is not dependent on these laws.  We find in the Quran such examples which make us "see" this power, so that the closer we come towards Him with love and submission, the more belief we have in our hopes and dreams turning into reality.

Verses 1-11 Story of Prophet Zechariah

In the Bible, Zechariah is husband of Elisabeth who is the cousin of Mary.  The Quran tells us that Zechariah was also the guardian of Mary, the mother of Jesus.

Zechariah was a prophet of God whose office was in the temple in Jerusalem.  He was in charge of services at the temple.  Zechariah’s wife was barren and both were very old.  Zechariah began to worry over who would carry on the daily services of the temple and preach the message of God after his death.  In response to Zechariah’s earnest prayer to God for a son, an angel announced that God will provide him a son whose name will be John (Yahya).

Verses 12-15 Prophet John

God made John compassionate, wise, pure, and kind to his parents who diligently practiced the commandments of the Torah.

Verses 16-22 Mary and her pregnancy with Jesus

An angel appears to Virgin Mary in the form of a man to convey the birth of a son – a mercy and a miracle from God.  Fearing reaction from people toward an unmarried pregnancy, she goes to Bethlehem.

Verses 23-26 Birth of Jesus

Supported by an angel at the time of childbirth, God provides her fresh water and ripe dates at the time of delivery.

Verses 27-33 Jesus speaking in the cradle

The baby Jesus miraculously speaks from the cradle in defense of his mother when Mary is probed about the child, announcing that he is God’s blessed servant and prophet, and has been commanded to pray, give charity, and be kind to his mother.

Verses 34-36 Reality of Jesus

God does not take a son and has no need for one.  The above narrative is the truth about Jesus who declared that God is his Lord, so worship Him.

Verses 37-40 Disagreement of factions over Jesus and their status on the Day of Resurrection

Remind all the sects who still differ about Jesus of the dreadful "Day of Remorse" when all will return to God.

Verses 41-47 Story of Abraham and his father

The truthful prophet, Abraham, gently reminds his father not to worship idols that cannot hear, see, or benefit themselves.  Threatened by physical violence and expelled from home, Abraham, vows to pray for his father.

Verses 48-50 Abraham’s leaving his people and those who invoked other than God

Leaving home with continued prayers for his father and others, Abraham is later gifted with two prophets by God - Isaac and Jacob.

Verses 51-55 Characteristics of Moses and Ishmael

Moses was a chosen prophet called into close communion by God next to Mt.  Tur (the burning bush).  Ishmael was also a sincere prophet and messenger of God who was true to his word and cared for his family’s spiritual well-being; he reminded them to pray and be charitable.

Verses 56-57 Characteristics of Prophet Idris

Idris (probably Enoch of the Bible) was a sincere, prophet of God, elevated in status.

Verse 58 Other prophets from among the descendants of Adam, Noah, Abraham, and Israel

God favored the prophets listed above and they would fall weeping in prostration before Him.

Verses 59-65 Conditions of the successors that came after the prophets

A distinctive attribute of those whose character is molded by the teachings of the prophets, is that they are no longer slaves of their base desires, but rise above them.  They turn into people who remember God, the organized expression of which is prayer (salah).

The generations that came after the prophets became negligent of God and started following their base desires.  Being affiliated to a prophet shall be of no use to them.  They shall receive what they deserve.  Of them, only those shall be spared who return to the original religion and adopt a life of faith and virtuous deeds.

Verses 66-75 Deniers of resurrection, their punishment, and attitudes

The Arabs, who were first addressed by the Quran, accepted life after death, but their acceptance was purely formal and as such had no impact on their lives.  This indifference persists because people do not give serious consideration to this matter.  If they did, they would realize that the initial, first birth is in itself an argument in support of re-birth.

Verse 76 Reward of the guided

Just as one who keeps worldly interests in view, progresses in this world, similarly, one who acts with the afterlife in view, keeps accumulating his good deeds. 

Verses 77-95 Annulling plurality of the deities and the ascription of sons to God

Man wants to be able to do as he likes in this world, but he does not want to suffer the consequences of his wrongdoings.  Therefore, man courts beings supposedly near and dear to God who could plead his case to Him.  Such useless pleading are based on false assumptions.  Those beings whom he ritually worshipped will disown him on Judgment Day, showing him nothing but hatred.

Belief in existence of God’s children can be explained in one of two ways: that God needs assistants like ordinary people or He desires having children.  Both propositions are baseless.

Verses 96-98 Conclusion

God loves those who believe and act righteously.

Quran is only in the Arabic language, but has been made easy for one to learn and memorize.

Those who oppose the call for Truth err in thinking that, in doing so, they will not come to any harm.  There is evidence of the opponents of Truth being wiped out, but they do not take any lesson from it. 

Let us wake up to the reality of our powerlessness by acknowledging the power of God.  Total submission is the real strength in this world and a hope for everlasting success and happiness in the Hereafter.
_______________________________________
By Imam Mufti (© 2015 IslamReligion.com)
Copyright © 2006 - 2021 IslamReligion.com. All rights reserved.
Used with permission.
The source of this article is: www.IslamReligion.com

This is a Meccan chapter of 111 verses.  It is named for the miraculous night journey, from Mecca to Jerusalem, which Prophet Muhammad, may the mercy and blessings of God be upon him, undertook in the space of a single night.  This journey is mentioned in the first verse and again in verse 60.  Chapter 17 contains an articulate and easy to understand set of God’s commandments.  The bulk of the Night Journey deals with two things, the Quran and Prophet Muhammad and the nature of his prophecy.  The Children of Israel are also mentioned.

Verses 1- 8 A journey by night

Glory be to God.  He took Prophet Muhammad on a journey, over one night, from the sacred House in Mecca to the blessed area in Jerusalem surrounding the mosque.  This was in order to show him some signs.  God also gave Moses, who was a thankful servant, a book as a guide for the Children of Israel.  They are the descendants of Noah, and were warned not to take any Protector other than Him.

God warned the Children of Israel that twice they would become arrogant transgressors and that twice they would be punished.  After the promised punishment for the first transgression, God allowed them to prosper.  When the second transgression came, God allowed their enemies to destroy the temple as punishment.  God wants to be merciful but if the behaviour is repeated the punishment will be repeated, and Hell will become their prison in the Hereafter.

Verses 9 – 21 God sees everything

The Quran guides us on a straight path.  It leads those who do well to a magnificent reward and warns those who do not believe in the Hereafter of a painful punishment awaiting them.  Humankind prays fervently for things that will lead him to evil as easily as he prays for that which is good.  Humankind is impatient and acts without thinking things through. 

God made night and day as two signs.  The night is enshrouded in darkness and is followed by the light of day in order that humankind might seek his bounty; and to count the years in order to calculate time.  Every person is responsible for his own destiny and on the Day of Judgment he will be confronted by his book of deeds.  Read this record, he will be told, and know what your destiny will be.

Everyone who is guided does so for his own benefit but if he sins he harms nothing but himself.   No person bears the burden of another person and no one will be punished until a Messenger has come to show the true path.  If the corrupted persist in disobedience they will be utterly destroyed.  Many past generations have been destroyed because God sees everything.  Those who wish only for this worldly life, are granted their wish but in the end they will be condemned to Hell.  The person who strives for a good life in the Hereafter will be accepted.  Both parties receive their Lord’s bounties and some are given more than others, but the final reward is the one that counts.

Verses 22 – 40 Some commandments

Do not associate anything with God or you will be disgraced and forsaken.  God commands that you worship nothing but Him, and that you are kind to your parents.  As they grow older, do not be impatient or harsh rather be humble towards them and pray that God treats them mercifully as they treated you when you were young.  God knows exactly what is in your heart and He is most forgiving towards those who turn to Him in repentance. 

Give your relatives their rights but also spend on the needy and the travellers.  Do not be wasteful, squandering your money.  If you cannot assist needy people then at least be courteous to them.  Do not be miserly or extravagant, instead take a middle path.  God gives abundantly to some and sparingly to others, He knows and observes everyone.

Do not kill your children because you think you cannot provide for them, it is a great sin.  It is God who provides for them; they cannot cause poverty; that is the will of God.  Do not even come near to committing adultery; do not take a life, except within the laws of God.  If anyone is killed unjustly, God has granted a right of retribution but do not be vengeful and take things too far.  Do not deal with the property of orphans except with good intentions.

Honour your commitments because you will be questioned about them.  Conduct your business fairly, give full measure and do not balance your scales incorrectly.  Do not pursue that of which you have no knowledge - use your heart, eyes and ears to confirm the things you hear.  Do not walk about the earth arrogantly.  A human being is just a small and weak creature; don’t act as if you are something more than that. 

The evil deeds mentioned above are hateful to God and He knows the wisdom in their prohibition.  Again, do not set up something other than God to be worshipped or you will be thrown into Hell.  Do not say that God has taken the angels as daughters.  That is a monstrous statement with grave consequences.

Verses 41 – 52 Explanations

The Quran explains things in many different ways but that makes some people turn even further away.  If there really was some other deity, why does it not dethrone the Master of the Throne?! He is exalted and far above what they say about Him.  Everything in the heavens and earth glorifies Him, but you do not understand how they glorify.

When you recite the Quran there is a barrier between you and those who do not believe in the Hereafter.  They do not understand it and when God’s Oneness is mentioned they turn away.  God is aware of what they (the unbelievers of Mecca) want to hear (from Prophet Muhammad), and He knows that privately they call Prophet Muhammad a man bewitched.  They dispute that they will be raised up after they become bones and dust.  God says, even if they were stones and iron they would be bought back and tells Prophet Muhammad to say that.  When they ask who will do this, say, the One who created you in the first place, and when they ask when this will take place remind them that this might well be very soon.  On the Day you are raised up you will imagine that you had been dead for only a very short time.

Verses 53 – 60 God advises Prophet Muhammad

God directs Prophet Muhammad, may the mercy and blessings of God be upon him.  Tell the believers to speak in the best way and remind them that Satan is their sworn enemy.  God knows everything about them and will be merciful or punish them according to His will.  Prophet Muhammad is not supposed to be in charge of everybody.  Some Prophets were given more than others.  Prophet David was given the book of Psalms.  The deities the unbelievers call upon have no power whatsoever to help or remove harm.  Have hope in His Mercy and fear His punishment, for it is terrible indeed.  There is no community of evildoers that will not be destroyed or severely punished before the Day of Resurrection.

God does not send signs for those who demand them because previously His signs were denied.  The people of Thamud were given the she-camel but they mistreated her.  God made the Night Journey and the accursed tree mentioned in the Quran as tests.  Humankind is warned but it does nothing except increase their transgressions. 

Verses 61 – 65 Adam & Iblees

Remember and mention the time when God told the angels to prostrate before Adam.  They all obeyed except Iblees.[1]  He was arrogant and asked why he should worship someone made from clay.  Iblees said that if God delayed his death until the Day of Resurrection he would lead most of the descendants of Adam astray.  God told him to go away because Hell would be the reward for him and any that follow him.  Iblees was told to do whatever he could to tempt and destroy humankind but to be aware that he would never have power over the true believers.

Verses 66 – 70 Humanity is ungrateful

It is God who allows humankind to sail ships across the ocean in order to seek their bounty.  And when adversity strikes, whatever they worship besides God disappears from their hearts and minds and they call only Him for help.  And when God brings them safely to land, they turn their backs on Him.  Humankind is ungrateful; what makes them so sure that they will not fall victim to natural disasters? Who do you think protects you? Humankind has been honoured and favoured above many of God’s creations.

Verses 71 – 84 The truth

On the Day of Resurrection, when every community is gathered with their leader, those who receive their book in their right hand will read it with pleasure.   Those who pretended to be blind to the Hereafter will be worse than blind in the Hereafter.   People tried to entice Prophet Muhammad to fabricate revelations but God strengthened his heart.  If he had inclined even a little towards them, he would have received a double punishment in this life and in the Hereafter.  It was that way with all the Messengers.  So establish the prayer from when the sun is at its zenith until the darkness of the night (four obligatory prayers fall during this time) and recite the Quran at the time of the Morning Prayer.  The recitation at the time of dawn is always witnessed by the angels.  Truth has come and falsehood has departed.   The Quran was sent as a healing and a mercy for the believers but the disbelievers gain nothing from it except loss.  Humankind can be strange; when God bestows favours upon him, he turns away instead of coming towards Him, and then when things go wrong he falls into despair.  Everyone does things in their own way but God knows who is following the best way.

Verses 85- 96 A man with a message

If people ask about the soul, Prophet Muhammad must say that is the concern of God and that we (humankind) have been given very little knowledge about it.  If God wanted He could take away that which has been revealed and then humankind would never be able to get it back.  The revelations are a mercy.  Even if all of humankind and the jinn came together they could not produce anything like the Quran no matter how much they helped each other.  The Quran is full of different examples to help people understand the message but still most people persist in their disbelief. 

Many say to Prophet Muhammad that they will not believe until he performs miracles to their demands such as making water rush from the ground or causing rivers to appear in gardens or making pieces of the sky fall down or bringing God and the angels down in front of them.  Even then, they say, we will not believe in your ascension[2] unless you bring down for us a book that we can read.  God says to tell them that you (Prophet Muhammad) have never claimed to be anything other than a human being with a message.

They didn’t believe because they queried why God would send a human being.   Thus they should be told that if there had been angels walking about on earth then an angel would have been sent.  God is witness to what we say to each other and He knows and understands everybody well. 

Verses 97 – 100 Resurrection

Anyone guided by God is truly guided but the ones He leads astray will never find a protector.  On the Day of Resurrection the disbelievers will be gathered together.  They will be lying on their faces blind, dumb and deaf.  Their home will be Hell and if ever the fire dies down it will be made to blaze fiercely again.  This is their reward for rejecting the revelations.  They would not believe that God could raise them again from dust and bones but of course the One who created them in the first place can do it a second time.  There is a written time for their lives to end yet the wrongdoers refuse to do anything about it except continue in their disbelief.  If humankind was in charge of God’s mercy he would withhold it because human beings have always been stingy.

Verses 100 – 111 Truth in the form of the Quran

Prophet Moses was sent nine clear signs but Pharaoh believed it was magic.   When Moses told him he was doomed, Pharaoh intended to drive him and the Israelites off the face of the earth.  God drowned Pharaoh and those with him.  The Children of Israel were told to settle down and when the appointment of the Hereafter comes they will all be resurrected in one gathering.

The truth has been sent down in the form of the Quran.   Prophet Muhammad was sent only as a bearer of good news that comes with a warning.  The Quran has been sent down little by little and the righteous people who were given knowledge before the Quran recognise the truth of it and weep falling down in prostration.  Tell them to call on God by his best names.   Do not speak too loudly nor too softly, but seek a middle way.  Praise God, the One with no son or partner.  He has no need of protection, so glorify Him greatly.
_______________________________________
By Aisha Stacey (© 2017 IslamReligion.com)
Copyright © 2006 - 2021 IslamReligion.com. All rights reserved.
Used with permission.
The source of this article is: www.IslamReligion.com

An-Nahl is the 16th chapter of the Quran. It is named after the bee mentioned in verses 68 and 69.The bee is one of many examples mentioned in this chapter of God’s grace towards His creation. An-Nahl was revealed in Mecca and contains 128 verses. Up to verse 88 its contents are addressed to the idolaters and polytheists. In the concluding verses Prophet Muhammad and his companions are instructed how to act in the face of antagonism and persecution.

Verses 1-9 There is no true deity but God

The Day of Judgement is coming so do not be impatient to experience it.  God sends down angels to inspire some people to warn others that there is no true deity but God.  Fear Him for He is far above anything they associate with Him. People are created from a tiny drop of sperm but soon they become strong and openly challenge God. For the benefit of humankind God created cattle for food, clothing and to carry burdens. He also created horses, mules and donkeys to ride and other things that are beyond the comprehension of humankind.  For some, God distinguishes the right path from the wrong paths and He could have done this for everybody had it been His desire to do so.

Verses 10 – 21  God’s blessings for humankind

God sends down rain. It provides drinking water and it nourishes crops and fruit including olives, date palms and vines. This is a sign for those who ponder. God has made the day, the night, the sun, the moon and stars for the benefit of humankind. These are signs for those who think. The Earth is filled with things of many different colours; these are signs for those seeking to learn a lesson from them. God has made the sea for the benefit of humankind; it is a source of food and adornment.  Ships to sail through it so that humankind may seek God’s bounties and perhaps give thanks.  God has also set the mountains firmly into the earth to prevent it from shaking and He has made rivers and paths with landmarks and stars to guide people through the lands.

This is a reminder of His power and generosity and if a person wanted to count all the blessings that God had sent down he could not do so. God is Forgiving and Merciful and He knows what people keep hidden. The deities that are invoked along with God are unable to create anything for they are creations themselves, who do not even know when they will be resurrected.

Verses 22 – 29  Punishment for arrogance

God is One, those who do not believe in the Hereafter are arrogant and their hearts contain no faith. God does not like the arrogant because He knows what they keep hidden and what they say or do openly. When they are asked about what God has revealed they say that it is nothing but fairy tales from the old days. On the Day of Resurrection they will bear their own burdens plus some of the burdens of those they led astray.

People from earlier times felt the punishment come upon them from out of nowhere. On the Day of Judgment they will be humiliated once again. Those with knowledge know that it will be a day of misery for the disbelievers. Those who die doing wrong will deny their wrongdoing but God is aware of what they were doing. So they enter Hell and will remain there in the evil home of the arrogant.

Verses 30 – 40 The good are rewarded and God’s promise is true

Those who feared God and were righteous will be asked about what God sent down and they will describe it as good. There are rewards in this world for the righteous but their home in the Hereafter is even better, it is an excellent abode. They will be rewarded with gardens under which rivers flow and they will have whatever they desire. When the pious people die the angels greet them with words of peace and show them into the gardens of reward.

God was not unjust to the disbelievers, they were unjust to themselves. They will be struck by the consequences of their actions and will be swallowed up by what they used to mock and ridicule. Those who face the punishment say they would have worshipped God alone if that is what God had willed; their forefathers said that too. Messengers were sent to every nation and their only duty was to warn. If anyone travels through the earth they can see what happened to those who did not heed the warning. Those who God led astray cannot be guided. God’s promise to raise the dead to life is true. Everything will be made clear and the disbelievers will realise how wrong they were. When God intends anything to happen He need only say, "Be", and it is.

Verses 41 – 50 Reflection

Those who had to leave their homes in order to worship God will find a home in a good place but the home they have in the Hereafter will be even better. A very happy end awaits those who are steadfast and put their trust in God. All the messengers God sent were human beings, the people of the scripture (Jews and Christians) know this, so ask them if you need to. Now this Quran has come so that Prophet Muhammad can explain things clearly and the people can think and reflect. Are those who do wrong really sure that the punishment will not come upon them suddenly, or perhaps it will sneak up on them gradually. The disbelievers have not truly reflected on what God has created - everything humbly fulfilling its purpose, fearing God and doing what He commands.

Verses 51- 60 False worship

God says do not worship two deities because there is only One God and He has dominion over everything in the heavens and the earth. All blessings are from God and it is to God that the distressed person turns. Yet as soon as the relief comes some people turn to something other than God. There will be consequences for the ingratitude. Even the sustenance God provides is sometimes spent on false deities but anyone who does this will be called to account. They wrongly say that God has daughters but they themselves want to have only sons. When the birth of a female child is announced the father is consumed with grief and has to decide whether to bear their perceived humiliation or bury the girl alive. Those who do not believe in the Hereafter set the worst example to follow.

Verses 61-69  A warning to make things clear

If God punished humankind for the evil that they do there would not be one person left on the earth.  Instead He gives them respite, until an appointed time.  It is a time that cannot be delayed or bought forward.  They attribute to God the daughters that they themselves dislike.  They think they will have a good reward but their reward is Hell and they will be among the first to be sent there.  The followers of Satan will face a painful punishment.  The Quran was revealed in order to make the things they argue about clear and it is a guidance and a mercy for those who believe.

God has sent down rain to revive the earth.  The cows produce milk and the vines and gardens grow wholesome foods of all kinds.  These things are a sign of God’s bounty; in them is a lesson to be learned.  And God created the bee, which feeds on all kinds of fruit and produces honey for the benefit of humankind.  It comes in many colours and has healing properties.  This is another sign for those who think.

Verses 70 – 81  God gives examples

God created you and it is He that will cause you to die.  Some people will live well into old age and will lose their faculties.  Some people have been given more provision than others and many of them do not share their wealth.  Is that a way of rejecting the blessings of God? God has given you spouses and children and grandchildren, yet still some people deny His blessings.  Those deities worshipped other than God have no power.

God gives examples.  Are slaves and those who have been provided with everything equal? Is a person unable to care for himself equal to one who is righteous and dispenses justice? The Day of Judgment is coming.  Babies emerge from their mother’s wombs knowing nothing but God provides them with hearing, sight and minds so that they can be thankful to Him.  God has made the birds able to fly without falling.  He provides humankind with shelter and warmth and everything you need for the term of your lives.  You have garments that protect you from the heat and the cold and other garments that protect you in battle.  He bestows the favours so that you will submit to Him. 

Verses 82 – 89 The disbelievers will feel no respite

The Prophet’s duty is only to deliver the message.  Most people understand but are ungrateful and turn away.  On the Day of Judgment there will be a witness (their Messenger) from every nation.  Then it will be too late for excuses.  The disbelievers will see what awaits them and there will be no respite.  When the disbelievers appeal to their false gods, the gods will call them liars and disassociate themselves from the ones who worshipped them.  Those who disbelieve and prevent others from believing will have their punishment increased.  God will bring a witness from every nation and Prophet Muhammad will be the witness over the Muslims.  And the Quran has been sent down as guidance, mercy and good tidings.

Verses 90 – 100 God commands righteousness

God commands humankind to be just and behave with righteousness whilst being supportive of their relatives.  He forbids immorality and oppression.  This is a reminder.  Fulfil any oaths you take in the name of God, and do not deceive each other or conspire against others.  This is a test.  On the Day of Judgement the things you argued about will be made clear.

God could have made everybody one nation but He allows people to practice their free will – however you will be responsible for your actions.  Do not deceive each other or hinder other people from worshipping God.  To do so will result in a great punishment.   Do not break agreements and oaths.  Worldly things are transitory but what is from God is everlasting.  The righteous will have a new life in the Hereafter.  Whenever you recite from the Quran seek refuge in God from the accursed Satan.  Satan has no power over those who are submitted to God; his power only affects those who align themselves with him (Satan) and worship something other than God.

Verses 101 – 111 God does not guide the disbelievers

When God substitutes one verse for another they say that Prophet Muhammad has invented lies but they do not understand that angel Gabriel has brought the verses down piecemeal in order to gradually strengthen the believers.  They say that a human being has taught Prophet Muhammad the revelations but this Quran is in clear Arabic.  If people do not believe, God does not continue to guide them and a painful punishment will be the end result.  They love this world more than the Hereafter.  God has sealed the hearts, ears and eyes of the heedless, but those who must flee persecution or are compelled to say words of disbelief will feel God’s mercy and forgiveness.  Anyone who denies the correct faith willingly will feel the wrath of God.  On the Day of Judgement everyone will be dealt justly with and get what they deserve.

Verses 112- 117 Eat from the good things provided

God presents an example of a town that was secure with provisions in abundance.  The people became ungrateful so they were afflicted with famine and fear.  They denied their Messenger and the punishment overtook them.  So eat from the good things God has provided and be grateful.  God has forbidden only carrion, blood, pig meat and that which has been dedicated to something other than God.  But if a person must eat these things out of necessity God will be forgiving.  Do not invent lies about what is lawful and what is unlawful because those who tell lies about God will have only a little enjoyment before the punishment overtakes them.

Verses 118 – 128 Follow the example of the righteous and use wisdom when you talk about God

The Jews were prohibited certain things but it was not a hardship upon them, they turned it into a hardship.  God is most forgiving to those who do wrong out of ignorance and then repent.  Prophet Abraham is a good example, he was devout and obedient.  He was grateful and did not associate anything with God.  He had a good life and will be amongst the righteous in the Hereafter.  The Sabbath day was made obligatory because they argued and differed about it and on the Day of Judgment God will judge between them.

Call the people to God with wisdom and good advice.  Reason with them in a courteous manner.  God knows best who will be guided and who will go astray.  If you must retaliate make your response proportionate to how you were harmed, however it is better to be patient.  Prophet Muhammad is told to be patient and not to grieve or be distressed by the conspiracies of the disbelievers.  God is with those who are mindful of Him and have an attitude of righteousness.
_______________________________________
By Aisha Stacey (© 2016 IslamReligion.com)
Copyright © 2006 - 2021 IslamReligion.com. All rights reserved.
Used with permission.
The source of this article is: www.IslamReligion.com

The story of Joseph was revealed after an Israelite asked Prophet Muhammad, may the mercy and blessings of God be upon him, what he knew about Prophet Joseph.  The story of Joseph was not known to the Arabs at the time and it was part of a test the Jews concocted to test Prophet Muhammad’s claim to prophethood.[1]  Stories in the Quran are usually told in small bites and revealed over several chapters; the story of Joseph however, is different.  It was revealed in one chapter, from the beginning to the end.   

The story of Joseph is framed by a three verse introduction and a 10 verse epilogue.  It is generally agreed that it was revealed in Mecca in a year that is known as the Year of Sorrow.  Prophet Muhammad lost two of his closest supporters, his uncle Abu Talib and his beloved wife Khadijah.  The story of Joseph confirms unconditionally that God has total control over all affairs.  It is a story of patience in the face of adversity and trust in the face of sorrow.

Verses 1-3  The best story

The Quran is a book revealed to make things clear, it is revealed in the Arabic language and contains information that Muhammad did not know.  This story is called the best of stories meaning that it contains information relevant to events happening at the time of revelation and it contains lessons for all humankind.

Verses 4-18  Dreams and deception

Joseph has a dream in which he sees the sun, moon and eleven stars prostrating before him.  This is interpreted as men bowing down to him.  He confides in his father who advises him to keep it secret from his brothers. 

Joseph and Benjamin were the sons of Jacob’s second wife.  The older boys considered themselves men.  They were older, they were stronger and saw in themselves many good qualities.  Blinded by jealousy they plan to kill Joseph.  One of the brothers convinces the other brothers to throw him in a well instead.  They carry out their devious plan and using their father’s worst fear (a wolf attack) and a blood stained shirt, they try to convince him of Joseph’s death.   Meanwhile, God eases Joseph’s fear.   God inspires him that one day he will inform his brothers of their deed while they do not realize who he is.  Joseph’s father Jacob sensed treachery but turned to God and accepted the news with trust and patience.

Verses 19-22 Joseph is established in Egypt

Joseph is rescued from the well and sold into slavery.  He is sold for a small price to an influential man from Egypt, who comments to his wife that Joseph may be of some service to them.  God remarks that He established Joseph in the land and provided him with sustenance in order to teach him the interpretation of dreams.  God has full power and control over all affairs but most people are blind to this.   Joseph grows up in comfortable conditions and God bestows upon him good judgment and knowledge.  He is in the house of a politician learning how to negotiate and make wise decisions.

Verses 23-30 The failed seduction

The wife of the Egyptian politician watches Joseph grow to manhood and is attracted to him.  She tries to seduce him but he seeks refuge in God.  The wife chases Joseph to the front door just as her husband is entering the house.  The wife tries to blame Joseph but a member of the household points out that his shirt was torn from the back.   The women of the city began to gossip about Joseph and the politician’s wife.

Verses 31-35 Joseph prefers prison

After she hears the gossip, she invites the women to her house in order to show them how beautiful and attractive Joseph is.  She hands each of them a knife and calls for Joseph to show himself.  The women are astounded and cut their hands.  She explains that she tried to seduce him but he resisted.  She threatens that if he does not obey now he will go to prison.  Joseph is afraid that he will let himself be seduced so he asks God to protect him, saying he would prefer prison to what the women are planning. 

Verses 36-40  More Dreams

He is imprisoned along with two other men.  The two other prisoners discuss their dreams with Joseph and ask him to interpret them.  One of them said, ‘I dreamed that I was pressing grapes’; the other said, ‘I dreamed that I was carrying bread on my head and that the birds were eating it.’  Joseph mentioned their next meal reminding them that God provides their sustenance then replies that he is able to interpret dreams because God has taught him to do so.  He spells out his belief in God and in the Day of Judgement.  Joseph asserts that his family, the family of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob hold the knowledge of the Oneness of God, and that his religion and family do not attribute partners to God.  Most people however do not realise this.

Verses 41-42 Joseph languishes in prison

Joseph interprets the dream.  One will serve wine to his master; the other will be crucified and the birds will peck at his head.  Joseph asks the one to be saved to mention him (Joseph) to his master.  But Satan makes the man forget and Joseph languishes in prison for more time.

Verses 43-57 Joseph’s innocence is established

The King (of Egypt) asks his counsellors to interpret his dream.  ‘I dreamed about seven fat cows being eaten by seven lean ones; seven green ears of corn and [seven] others withered.’ They were unable to do so and the ex-prisoner remembered Joseph.  He ran to Joseph, Joseph interprets the dream and the King asks for Joseph to be brought into his presence.  The ex-prisoner goes back to Joseph but Joseph asks him to ask his master (the King) about the women who cut their hands.  The King establishes Joseph’s innocence.  Joseph says he wanted his master, the politician to know that he did not betray him or abuse his trust.  Joseph appears before the King who offers him a position of high rank.  Joseph asks to be put in charge of the storehouses.  In this way God settles Joseph in the land.  God points out that He grants mercy to whomever He wishes, and does not fail to reward good.  The reward in the Hereafter, He points out, is the best. 

Verses 58–66 A dream prediction fulfilled

Joseph’s brothers present themselves asking for their measure of grain.  Joseph recognizes them but they do not recognize him.  He asks them to come again, this time with their younger brother.  Without him they will not be permitted to have the grain.  They reply that they will try to persuade their father and get his permission.  Joseph tells his servants to put the goods his brothers traded for grain back in their saddle bags in order to make them eager to return.  The brothers ask Jacob to let them take their younger brother but he is wary asking "Am I to entrust him to you as I did his brother before?" The brothers open the saddle bags and find their good returned to them.  Jacob says he will not send the boy unless the brothers swear they will do everything humanly possible to keep him safe.  They gave their pledge and Jacob said, ‘Our words are entrusted to God.’

Verses 67-76 The brothers return

Jacob advises his sons to not all enter the city by the same gate as a precaution but at the same time tells them that this will not help them against the will of God.  All power is in God’s hands, says Jacob. 

The sons of Jacob present themselves to Joseph and he draws his youngest brother (Benjamin) aside and reveals his identity to him.  Joseph gives his brothers their portion of grain but places his drinking cup in his youngest brother’s pack.   Someone calls out and accuses the caravan of thievery.   ‘What is lost?’ the brothers ask.  ‘The King’s drinking cup’, is the reply, and ‘whoever returns it will be given a camel’s load of grain’. 

The brothers respond that they did not come to make mischief.  Joseph’s men ask the brothers what penalty should apply if they are found to be lying.  They answered, ‘the penalty will be the enslavement of the person in whose bag the cup is found: this is how we punish wrongdoers.’ Joseph did not want his brother punished under the laws of Egypt but wanted the opportunity to keep his brother with him while the others returned to their father Jacob.  The bags are searched and the cup is found in the youngest brother’s belongings.  God explains that He devised a plan for Joseph and that He will raise the status of whomsoever He wills.

Verses 77-82

The brothers allude to Benjamin’s brother (Joseph) being a thief, but Joseph controls himself and does not disclose his identity.  The brothers beg that one of them be allowed to stay in his brother’s stead; this is refused.   Finally the eldest brother, remembering the pledge he gave to his father, vows to stay in Egypt until Jacob gives him permission to leave or God decides on another course of action.  The remaining brothers return to their father Jacob saying, we tried to keep our pledge but we could not have foreseen that your son would steal.   Ask the people we travelled with if you need proof.

Verses 83-86

Their father said, ‘No! Your souls have prompted you to do wrong!’ He turned away from them saying ‘Alas, my grief for Joseph!’.  Jacob’s eyes went white with grief (he was blind) and the brothers said, ‘If you don’t stop thinking about Joseph you will ruin your health or even die.’ He said, "I only complain of my suffering and my grief to God, and I know from God that which you do not know’.  When this new sorrow overwhelmed Jacob, his first reaction was to be patient.   He knew, without a shred of doubt, that the affairs of his beloved youngest sons were controlled by God.

Verses 87-98

Jacob said, ‘My sons, go and seek news of Joseph and his brother and do not despair of God’s mercy– only disbelievers despair of God’s mercy.’ So they presented themselves before Joseph without knowing his real identity.  They explained that misfortune had afflicted their family and asked Joseph to be charitable towards.  God, they said, rewards the charitable.  Joseph replied by ‘Do you now realize what you did to Joseph and his brother when you were ignorant?’ The brothers were astounded and asked if he was Joseph and he said, ‘I am Joseph’.  They said God really did favour you over all of us; we were in the wrong.  Joseph replied that no reproach would be on them and may God forgive them.

Joseph then handed them his own shirt telling them to lay it over their father’s face and all would be well, then he asked them to come back altogether.  Back at home Jacob was saying that he could smell Joseph, and those around him looked upon him with derision thinking him lost in an old illusion.  When the shirt was placed on Jacob’s face his eyesight returned and he said, ‘Did I not tell you that I have knowledge from God that you do not have?’ The brothers asked their father to ask God to forgive them and he replied that his Lord is the Most Forgiving and the Most Merciful.

Verses 99-101

Later when the whole family was presented before Joseph he drew his parents close to him and welcomed them telling them that, God willing they will be safe.  They all bowed down to Joseph and he commented to his father that this was the fulfilment of the dream he had so long ago.   Joseph said that God had been gracious towards him after Satan had sowed discord between he and his brothers.  Joseph prays to God acknowledging his blessings and asking to live and die as a Muslim and be joined with the righteous.

The story of Joseph is a lesson for all of humankind.   True patience and the ability to forgive are lofty characteristics worthy of inculcating.

Verses 102-111

That concludes the story of Joseph and in this final 10-verse epilogue God tells Muhammad, may the mercy and blessings of God be upon him, that this was the story of which he had no previous knowledge and that he was not present when the brothers made their evil plans.  God then tells him that he cannot make the people believe no matter how much he desires to do so.  God also mentions that Muhammad asks for no reward yet people ignore the signs in the heavens and the earth and only believe in God while joining partners with Him.  How can they be so sure that an overwhelming punishment or the Last Hour will not come upon them when they least expect it?  Can the people not see the lessons all around them; how can they travel and see the signs of what happens to the disbelievers and still not understand, do they not have a mind? Here is a lesson for those who understand, this is no fabrication; it a confirmation of the truth and an explanation for everything (‘everything’ refers to either the story of Joseph or the religion as a whole, or perhaps both).

In this chapter God was advising Prophet Muhammad that the road may be long and difficult but the ultimate victory belongs to those with God-consciousness and patience.
_______________________________________
By Aisha Stacey (© 2015 IslamReligion.com)
Copyright © 2006 - 2021 IslamReligion.com. All rights reserved.
Used with permission.
The source of this article is: www.IslamReligion.com