Summary of Recitation of each night's Taraweeh Salaah

"Blessed is He Who hath revealed unto His slave the FURQAN [the Criterion of Right and Wrong], that He may be a warner to mankind. He unto Whom belongeth the Sovereignty of the heavens and the earth, He hath chosen no son nor hath He any partner in the Sovereignty. He Who created all things, and ordered them in due proportion". [Surah Al-Furqan: Verses 1 and 2].

In the spirit of the above verses these notes are being prepared in order to foster an interest in understanding the Most Glorious and Noble Qur'an with the sincere intention of recognizing it as a practical Divine Book with which to influence our lives. How much more inspiring would it have been if only all of us would have understood a minute portion of its Divine Message. It is hoped Insha'Allah that that we can all derive full advantage of this humble effort. It is humbly suggested that this brief synopsis of the Surah/Surahs as recited each night during Ramadan be explained to the Jamaat prior to commencing the Tarawee prayers.

The prayers and invocations with which our Beloved Nabee Sallallahoo Alayhi Wasallam began a prayer-service would appear to be little else than the acknowledgement and affirmation before Almighty Allah Subahanahoo Wata'ala of His Glory, His Unity, His Majesty and His Greatness and of one's own humbleness."O Allah! With Thy glorification and Thy Praise; Blessed is Thy name, and great is Thy Glory, and there is no god save Thee."O Allah! I seek refuge in Thee from the enticement, the whisper and the spit of Shaytaan Lanathulahi Alay." Refuge is then sought from Shaythaan and in order to keep the Salaat and reverence for the Most Holy and Glorious Qura'n safe from his evils it is begun with Bismillah, in accordance with the Quranic dictum: Verse 98 of Surah An-Nahl:

Let us now take Surah Al- Fatihah. Our Beloved Nabee Sallallahoo Alayhi Wassallam said that Surah Al- Fatihah is the greatest and most virtuous in the Most Holy and Glorious Qura'n and declared: "By Him Who is in possession of my life, a 'Surah' like this one has neither been revealed in the Taura'h, nor in the Zaboor, nor in the Injeel nor even in the rest of the Most Holy Qura'n." Hazrat Hassen Al- Basri Rahmatullahi Alay reports the saying of our Beloved Nabee Sallallahoo Alyhi Wasallam "that whoever reads Surah Fateha with total and complete understanding is like one who has read the Taura'h, the Zaboor, the Injeel and the Most Holy and Glorious Qura'n. It is also reported in a Hadith that Shaytaan Lannatulahi Alay lamented, wept and threw dust on his head on four different occasions; first when he was cursed; secondly when he was cast out of Jannah; thirdly when our Beloved Nabee Sallallahoo Alayhi Wasallam received his Prophethood and fourthly, when Surah Al-Fatihah was revealed. Surah Al- Fatihah is without any doubt, a priceless gem of the Holy Qura'n. If the scholars, moral teachers and spiritual mentors of the world were to get together to produce a text which could suffice for all of mankind, irrespective of the diversity of their needs and circumstances, and through which they could express in their prayers what lay at the bottom of their hearts they could not bring forth the like of it.

Since Surah Al-Fatihah is the first chapter of the Holy Qura'n, it has been referred to as Fatihatul-Kitaab or the opening of the Qura'n. Because of its intrinsic value, it has been assigned a place of honour in the Most Holy and Glorious Qura'n and allowed to appear at the very beginning of the opening chapter. Indeed, the Most Holy and Glorious Qura'n endorses its importance in the following terms as declared by Almighty Allah Subahanahoo Wata'ala in verse 87 of Surah Al-Hijr: "O Prophet! It is a fact that We have given thee seven oft-repeated verses and the great Qura'n."

These Seven oft-repeated verses are the Opening Surah and they sum up the entire teaching of the Holy Qur'an. What can be a more precious gift to a Muslim than the Glorious Qur'an or any Surah of it? All the wealth in the world, honour and material possessions sinks into insignificance in comparison with it. Surah Al-Fatihah is also called "Umm-ul-Qur'an " (the core of the Qur'an), "Al-Kafia" (the Sufficient), "Al-Kanz" (the Treasure House), "Asasul-Qur'an" (the basis of the Qur'an) and "Sab'a-al-Mathani" (The oft-repeated seven), each emphasizing a particular aspect of its great and paramount importance. To style this chapter as "Umm-ul-Qur'an" (the core of the Qur'an) is to acknowledge that in its tense comprehensiveness, it concentrates within its ambit the thought-content of the entire Qur'an, and that, on that account, it rightly deserves the place of honour among its chapters. If any one of us were to read nothing but Surah Al-Fatihah out of the Qur'an and grasp its true meaning, we would understand all the essentials of the Faith which form the subject of detailed exposition by the Qur'an. Hence, knowledge of the contents of Surah Al-Fatihah is regarded as indispensable to a Muslim. According to Sahih Bukhari and Muslim, our Beloved Nabee Muhammad Sallallahoo Alayhi Wasallam is reported to have said that "there is no Salaat for him who does not recite Surah Fatihah." What plainer view can be taken of human devotion to Almighty Allah Subahanahoo Wata'ala and all that it implies than what is presented in Surah Al-Fatihah?

Here are but seven brief phrases, each one of not more than five words, every word crystal clear and impressive. Almighty Allah Subahanahoo Wata'ala is here invoked in His Attributes, the manifestations of which mankind beholds day in and day out, however much he may, through indifference, neglect to reflect over them. Here you have mankind's admission of his absolute dependence on none other than Almighty Allah Subahanahoo Wata'ala, his acknowledgement of the Divine Kindness shown to him, his earnest yearning to be saved from the pitfalls of life and to be led along the straight path i.e. The Path of Seerathal Mustaqeem By way of Surah Al-Fatiha - Almighty Allah Azza Wajjal teaches us and He introduces Himself to us and He tells us with words of wisdom and with the expression of Truth of His Sovereignty, His Qualities and His relationship with mankind and with the rest of His creation. He tells us to commit ourselves totally and completely to Him Alone if we want to succeed in this life as well as in the Aghirah. The essence of Surah Al-Fatiha is that mankind is crying out to the Glorious Creator and Sustainer: "O Almighty Rabbul Ala'meen! Help me and show me the Right Path, the Royal highway leading to the Path of Seerathal Mustaqeem".

Surah Al-Baqara sums up the teachings of the Most Glorious Qur'an. When mankind is crying out to the Glorious Creator and Sustainer: "O Almighty Rabbul Ala'meen! Help me and show me the Right Path, the Royal highway leading to the Path of Seerathal Mustaqeem" - Almighty Allah Jallah Wa'ala replies with Surah Al-Baqara. The revelation of Surah Al-Baqara is when Almighty Rabbul Ala'meen Exalted replies by saying: "Here is the help that you asked for." Surah Al- Baqara discusses the creation of mankind, his ultimate fall from Grace as well as the Divine promise of forgiveness in spite of his wrong doing. We are told the story of the Bani Isra'eel and how they transgressed the Divine Will of Almighty Allah Subhanahu Wata'ala and how they persisted in their evil ways.

Surah Al Baqara also covers the story of Nabee Moosa Alayhis Salaam and Nabee Esa Alayhis Salaam, and how they had to deal with the corruption and evil ways of their people. We are also told how the Yahood and Nasara despite been blessed with divine scriptures and prophets rejected Nabee Muhammad Ibn Abdullah Sallallahoo Alayhi Wasallam and the Din of Islam out of pride and jealousy. Which Muslim, Christian or Jew does not know the name of Nabee Ebrahim Alayhis Salatu Wassallam? Two thirds of mankind revere him as their leader. Nabee Moosa A.S., Nabee Esa A.S. and our Beloved Nabee Muhammad Sallalahoo Alayhi Wassallam are all his descendants. It is the lamp of Taqwa and Imaan lit by him that has for so long illuminated the entire world. Nabee Ebrahim A.S. was born in the city of Ur in what is now Iraq over four thousand years ago. At that time the people had completely forgotten Almighty Allah Subahanahoo Wata'ala. No one recognized Almighty Allah as the Master and Supreme Creator and no one lived in surrender and obedience to Him or to His Laws.

Together with his illustrious son - Hazrat Isma'il Alayhis Salaam they built the Ka'bah in the Holy City of Makkah and purified it, thus establishing the one and only true and complete Din of Islam for mankind. The Holy Ka'bah was to be the very centre and home of Taqwa and Tawhid. The name of this Surah i.e. Surah Al-Baqara [The Cow - Verses 67 to 71] deals with the hypocrisy and evil deeds of people who have gone astray. This is when people reach the abyss of a spiritual death and referred to by Almighty Allah Subhanahu Wata'ala as "deaf", "dumb" and "blind" despite the fact that they are physically alive.

The final summation of Surah Al-Baqara confirms to us that our honesty and upright conduct are not mere matters of policy or convenience: all our life in this world must be lived as in the presence of Almighty Allah Jallah Wa'ala. The finest example of Faith we have in our Beloved Nabee Sallallahoo Alayhi Wasallam's life; full of faith. Let us render willing obedience to the Will of Rabbul Ala'meen Exalted. Our responsibility though great, is not a burden greater than any one of us can bear. Let us pray for Almighty Allah's assistance, and He will Insha'Allah, surely help and assist us. Ameen.

In the very first Sipara, we are told how Nabee Ebrahim Alayhis Salaam, together with his son Hazrat Isma'il Alayhis Salaam built the Holy Ka'bah, which stood for the centre of Tawhid and the Unity of Islam. Nabee Ebrahim Alayhis Salaam prayed upon completing the construction of the Holy Ka'bah: "O our Lord! Make us among those who submit to Your Will and make our offspring an Ummah that bows down to Your Will." Upon this, the brotherhood of the Muslim Ummah was established and the symbol of that unity was the Holy Ka'bah.

The rules of of Huqooq-ul-la and Huqooq-ul-Ibad were laid down for the Muslim Ummah. Huqooq-ul-la dealt with mankind's relationship with Almighty Allah Azza Wajjal while Huqooqul-Ibad dealth with man's relationship with his fellow man. The Most Glorious and Noble Qur'an emphasizes that righteousness does not by any stretch of the imagination mean that doing things whose importance cannot be comprehended, but in faith, (Imaan), kindness, prayer, Ibadah, Charity, Zakaat, patience, Sabr, caring and sharing, adversity under suffering and good moral conduct and behaviour in general.

Rules and regulations are laid down relating to Halal and Haram foods, Laws of inheritance, fasting, Jihad, Drinking and gambling; treatment of orphans, and women, prohibition from taking interest (Ribah) etc. In short, if one desires to be a good Muh'min, he or she must follow the Divine Commandments of Almighty Allah Exalted. Nothing short of this can make a Muh'min a true and confirmed Muslim.

The subject of Jihad is discussed with reference to Nabee Dawood Alayhis Salaam battle with Jalut (Goliath) and his ultimate victory. Nabee Dawood Alayhis Salaam was blessed with great physical strength. He was a true and mighty defender of Almighty Allah's Din. We are also told about Nabee Isa Alayhis Salaam and how he was strengthened with the "Divine Word of Rabbul Ala'meen". We learn how Nabee Moosa Alayhis Salaam called upon the Bani Isra'eel to cease their evil ways.

References to Nabee Isa and Nabee Moosa Alayhim Salaam regarding the question of Jihad was covered the first night of Tarawee. From the examples of these three great prophets - Alayhim Salaam, we are informed how the three levels of Jihad work: (1) Arming oneself with nothing but the truth (2) fighting and overcoming the evils within ourselves and replacing it with true Imaan (3) Defending the Glorious Din of Al-Islam.

In conclusion we are told that true goodness lies in practical deeds of Muhabbat, kindness, strong Imaan and manliness. Almighty Allah's Nature is discussed in the most beautiful, eloquent and sublime Ayat-ul-Kursi - the Verse of the Throne. There are two major aspects remaining before the Surah comes to an end. The first is an announcement from Almighty Rabbul Ala'meen to mankind urging man to have true faith in the Divine Commandments and that our faith must be proven by our personal responsibilities as true believers. Secondly, man is taught a beautiful prayer and that he should forever turn to none other than the Most Glorious Creator and Sustainer for all his needs.

Surah Al-i-Imran is cognate to Surah Al-Baqara, but the matter is here treated from a different point of view. The reference to the Battle of Badr (Ramadan A.H.2) and the Battle of Uhud (Shawwal A.H. 3) gives us a clue to the dates of these passages. Like Surah Al-Baqara, Surah Al-i-Imran takes a general view of the religious history of mankind, with special reference to the People of the Book, proceeds to explain the birth of the new Ummah of Islam and their ordinances, insists on the need of struggle and fighting in the cause of Truth, and exhorts those who have been blessed with Islam to remain constant in Faith, pray for guidance, and maintain their spiritual hope for the future.

The new points of view developed are: (1) The emphasis here is laid down on the duty of the Christians to accept the new light; the Christians are specially appealed to, as the Jews were specially appealed to in Surah Al-Baqara; (2) the lessons of the Battles of Badr and Uhud are set out for the Muslim community; and (3) the responsibilities of that community are insisted on both internally and in their relations to those outside. The People of the Book had only a portion of the Book, and if they reject the complete Book, the People of Imaan must part company with them, and their day is done. The story of the Family of Imran (the father of Nabee Moosa Alayhis Salaam) leads us from the Mosaic Dispensation to the miracles connected with the birth of Nabee Esa Alayhis Salaam and his ministry.

Allah's revelation being continuous, all people are invited to accept its completion in Islam, and controversies are deprecated. The Muslims are asked to hold together in union and harmony, and are promised security from harm from their enemies, and enjoined to seek friendship among their own people. The great Battle of Badr showed how Almighty Allah helps and upholds the virtuous and how patience, perseverance, and discipline find their reward; on the other hand, the lessons of Uhud must be learnt, not in despair, but in the exercise of the higher virtues and in contempt of pain and death. The misfortunes at Uhud are shown to be due to the indiscipline of some, the indecision and selfishness of others, and cowardice on the part of the hypocrites, but no enemy can hurt Allah's Cause. The taunts of the enemy should be disregarded, and sincere prayer offered to Allah Who would grant His servants success and prosperity.

The Holy Quran's revelation has, step by step, confirmed the Laws of Nabee Moosa and the Gospel of Nabee Esa Alayhim Salaam. It is a guide from Almighty Allah, and appeals to reason and understanding. Let us understand it rightly, in reverence and truth, unswayed by those who reject faith, and seeking ever the reward of the Pleasure of Allah, through firmness, patience, discipline, and charity, and offering others the Light which we have ourselves received.

Tonight's Tarawee consists of the last quarter of Lantana(Juz 4) to the end of Wal-Muh'sanat(Juz 5). The Surah covers three quarter of Surah An-Nisaa. This Surah is closely related with the previous Surah and deals with the social problems that the Muslim community had to face immediately following the Battle of Uhud.

The principals laid down in this Surah have always been regarded as Muslim Law and social practice for The Muslim Ummah for all times. This Surah can be divided into two different parts: (1) Dealing with general family life, the rights of women in Islam; treatment towards orphans and the rights of orphans; laws dealing with inheritance and marriage; (2) Dealing with the Muslim community in Madinah as well as dealing with the hypocrites and the Jews. Hence in this Surah, we find the regulations laid down for both our private law as well as our attitude towards our territorial neighbours.

The Surah begins with an appeal to the unity of mankind since Almighty Allah Azza Wajjal created mankind from "a single soul". Women and orphans have certain rights which must always be fulfilled. We are asked to treat women and orphans in a just manner. Husband and Wife must honour each other. Close family relationships that are blessed with offspring are healthy and are a great source of Allah's Pleasure. This leads to the discussion of Laws and Inheritance, indicating that justice must extend to the distribution of wealth to all family members. We must follow Allah's Commandments towards family while they are alive as well as when they have departed from this Doonya.

The Bani Isra'eel are accused of indulging in twisting words and making fun of the Divine Commandments and believing in magic and evil. The hypocrites are also warned. The only salvation left for these misguided people is to accept Nabee Muhammad Sallallahoo Alayhi Wasallam as the true Messenger of Allah and to accept the Holy Qur'an as the final revealed message with complete confidence. Muslims are told to be well prepared against their enemies as well as against the hypocrites. The lives of Muslims are sacred and a believer should never kill another believer. If one slays a believer in error, full compensation should be made to his family.

Do not judge those who offer Salaam to you; instead investigate the matter thoroughly before passing judgement. Do not live in a place that is hostile towards Islam - if you are able to migrate to a safer place. We are asked to shorten our Salaat in times of danger and on journeys. Do not go astray but follow the Laws of Allah as laid down in the Holy Qur'an. Muslims are told that the best form of charity is charity that is given secretly; restore brotherhood and peace between quarreling Muslims. Shirk is not forgiven.

Being just to orphans and women is part of Imaan. Practice justice even if the verdict is against yourself or your family members. Strengthen your faith by rejecting evil deeds and hypocrisy. Speak truthfully and avoid hurting the feelings of others. All the Prophets of Allah Alayhim Salaam brought the same message of Truth...the Message of Islam thus do not say: "We believe in (the teachings of) some but reject (the teachings of) others."

The Surah's covered are: the last quarter of Surah Al- Nisa and Surah Ma'ida completely. The final portion of Surah Al-Nisa deals with the wrongdoings of the Ahle-Kitaab and also makes mention of those people who were honourable exceptions. The outcome of both these two groups of people are discussed and brought to light.

Surah Ma'ida retells us how the Jews and Christians had corrupted themselves and how Islam came to show mankind perfect guidance once more. It refers to the Christians with whom Almighty Allah Subhanahu Wata'ala took a covenant,"but they forgot a significant portion of the Divine Message that was sent to them," i.e. they rejected the order that Nabee Esa Alayhis Salam (Jesus P.B.O.H.) gave to them whereby he advised them of the coming of Nabee Muhammad Sallallahoo Alayhi Wasallam and that they should accept him as the Beloved Messenger sent as a mercy to them from Almighty Allah Exalted.

In contrast to the corruption of Christianity and Judaism, the rules of Islam pertaining to Halal and Haraam foods, cleanliness and justice are recapitulated. The fourth (4th) Verse contains the most beautiful and memorable verse by Almighty Allah Jallah Wa'ala: "This day have I perfected for you Islam as your religion." This was the very last verse to be revealed. This most memorable verse was revealed to our Beloved Nabee Sallallahoo Alayhi Wasallam in 10 A.H. during our Beloved Nabee Sallallahoo Alayhi Wasallam's last Haj.

This Surah commences with an appeal to mankind. All obligations whether they are human or Divine, are holy and should therefore be fulfilled. Rules relating to partaking of food are laid down. Dead meat [carrion], blood, and the meat of swine [i.e. pig, pork etc] are all forbidden for health reasons. Any animal slaughtered in the name of a deity other than in the name of Almighty Allah Azza Wajjal is forbidden (Haraam). All things good, pure and wholesome are Halal. Laws are laid down in our dealings and relations with the Ahle Kitaab, to show that a true Muslim should be tolerant towards people of other faiths.

Cleanliness of the body, justice, uprightness and honesty in our dealings are emphasized since all these are acts of piety. The Most Glorious Qur'an now also discusses the Jews and the Christians who broke their covenant with Almighty Allah Rabbul Ala'meen. As a result of this, Almighty Allah withdrew His favours and they were left wondering in the wilderness. In spite of all this, Allah Most Gracious sent His Apostle - "the bringer of Glad Tidings and warner [from evil]" as a guidance to all of humanity. The murder of the pious and loving Abel by his evil brother Cain shows the type of vicious treatment that a just man suffers from envy and jealousy. But Almighty Allah Exalted will punish the wicket; that is why a just man will not grieve or experience sorrow.

Muslims must be fair-minded always because truth and justice is an agreement with Almighty Allah's Divine Laws. At the same token, Muslims must not take as friends and/or protectors those in whose hearts there is a disease to whom Islam is a joke. Piety, humility and good deeds among the Christians must be appreciated. Muslims must enjoy all that is good and lawful, and must forever be thankful to Almighty Allah for His favours. Swearing, drinking, gambling, killing of game in the Sacred Territory (Haram Sharif}, superstitions, black magic and giving false evidence are condemned and forbidden.

Tonight's Tarawee consists of three quarters of Wa-ith Sami-U(Juz 7) and the first half Wallow-Annana(Juz 8). The Surah covered is Surah An'am in its entirety. This is a Surah of the late Makkan period. A great part was revealed in its entirety. The reason for placing this Surah in this section of the Most Holy Qur'an is simply because this Surah is a continuation of the spiritual history of mankind from where the previous Surah left off. Up until now, the Most Glorious Qur'an has discussed the creation of man, leading onto the history of the Ahle Kitaab and how they corrupted and adulterated the Divine Message of Almighty Allah, the advent of Islam, and the Rules, Laws and regulations governing the Muslim Ummah. The next step is to contrast the teachings of Islam with the beliefs of the Pagan Arabs [or the Mushrikeen).

The nature of Almighty Allah Exalted is discussed. He alone is the Creator, Sustainer and the All-Truth. Why does man disobey Him? He Alone is the Lord of the heavens and the earth. Next comes the the weakness of paganism. "They reject the Truth when it reaches them" - for they claim that "this is nothing more than magic." Here Almighty Allah invites the unbelievers to "travel through the earth and see what remains of those earlier nations who rejected the Truth." - they were all completely destroyed and they will be the losers in the Hereafter as well. The life of the world is "but play and amusement, but the best is the home in the Hereafter".

All the Messengers Alayhim Salaam are not discouraged if the people reject Almighty Allah's Message. They want to be deaf, dumb and blind even though they witness Almighty Allah's magnificent handiwork in all creation. Everything in the heavens and earth conforms to the Will of the Glorious Creator for He alone is the Knower of the Unseen.

The most wonderful perfection in Creation must convince mankind that all this is only Allah's doing and everything in His creation is under His care and guidance. This is the argument that Nabee Ebrahim Alayhis Salaam put forward in his dispute with those worshippers of false idol whom they worshipped as gods. A very important point is brought out against the worshippers of the sun and the moon: Nabee Ebrahim Alayhis Salaam rejected them in toto as his gods because the sun disappears when the day is over and it cannot offer its radiance and warmth all the time. Similarly the moon whose radiance is so splendid, cannot offer any radiance once it sets. In short, it would be futile to accept either of them as gods because they themselves have been created for a purpose and there are limits to their abilities. The Creator is surely Almighty Allah Rabbul Ala'meen, because His Light - the Most Glorious Qur'an shines all the time to offer us Divine Guidance.

The succession of prophets after Nebee Ebrahim Alayhis Salaam kept Almighty Allah's Truth alive and led up to the birth of Rahmatul Liel Ala'meen and the revelation of the Most Holy and Noble Qur'an. The knowledge of the existence and understanding of Almighty Rabbul Ala'meen, His Majesty, His Goodness and His Greatness can be gained by studying His Creation and by studying His Divine Messages to mankind. The stubborn and evil deceived and are been led astray therefore they should be avoided. Though they turn for assistance to one another, Allah will not aid them. They will receive their punishment is due time.

Tonight's Tarawee commences from the second half of Wallow Annana(Juz 8) and covers up to a third of Qa-lal Mala u(Juz 9). Tonight's Tarawee covers Surah Al A'raf in its entirety. This Surah is closely related to the previous Surah in two respects (1) It was revealed during the same period, and (2) its argument is similar to the previous Surah. It pertains to the spiritual history of mankind from Nabee Adam Alayhis Salaam to our Beloved Nabee Muhammad Sallallahoo Alayhi Wasallam. It also highlights the accounts of various prophets Alayhim Salaam and brings to light the struggles of Nabee Moosa Alayhis Salaam.

An important lesson that is brought to light is "to learn from the past." Divine revelation can and will forever assist us in this regard. The struggle between Good and Evil is illustrated by the story of Nabee Adam Alayhis Salaam and Iblis when he (Iblis) refused to bow down to Nabee Adam Alayhis Salaam as commanded by Almighty Allah Azza Wajjal. Iblis was full of pride because how could he bow down to something created from clay when he was created out of fire. He was overcome with jealousy because of the high status given to Nabee Adam Alayhis Salaam by Almighty Allah Exalted. Iblis proved his rebelliousness after tempting Nabee Adam Alayhis Salaam to commit a wrong deed. Iblis was banished and asked for and was granted respite by Almighty Allah till the Day of Kiyamah. Nabee Adam Alayhis Salaam begged for forgiveness and was forgiven for his wrongful deed.

The Power, the Goodness and the Glory of Almighty Allah Subhanahu Wata'ala are made manifest. We are told to adorn our lives with good deeds and to shun evil, to submit to Divine Justice and to be moderate in our eating habits etc. The reward, the peace, the happiness and contentment of the righteous servants are shown a picture of the life awaiting them in the Aghirah. The Majesty, the Goodness and the Power of Almighty Allah throughout the world is shown to us. Almighty Allah reminds us to shun all evil and to partake of all the good and wholesome things that He has created for our enjoyment.

We also told about Nabee Nuh (Noah) Alayhis Salaam and how he was rejected, ridiculed and taunted by his people and how they were ultimately destroyed by the great Flood. Nabee Hud Alaiyhis Salaam was defied by his people - the 'Ad so they were punished and were swept away by devastating tornado of hot wind. Their successors - the Thamud were equally as bad and treated Nabee Salih Alayhis Salaam with, contempt, pride and injustice. They were completely destroyed and buried by an earthquake. Nabee Lut )Lot) Alayhis Salaam warned his people to refrain from their evil ways, their lusts and heinous deeds. They disobeyed and continued to reject the warnings and were eventually destroyed when fire and brimstone rained upon them. The people of Midian indulged in fraud and evil deeds. Nabee Shu'aib Alayhis Salaam's warning too were totally ignored and they too severely punished and perished when they were buried by an earthquake.

The story of Nabee Moosa Alayhis Salaam is now recounted. His struggles to free his oppressed people - the Bani Isra'eel from Fir'aun (Pharoah) and his eventual success by leading them towards the Promised Land. [This is an illustration of the struggles, the sacrifices, the trials and tribulations of our Beloved Nabee Sallallahoo Alayhi Wasallam and his ultimate victory against the unbelievers]. The people of Nabee Moosa Alayhis Salaam corrupted the Divine Laws and Commandments of Almighty Allah and continued to ridicule and break their covenants with Almighty Allah because they rejected Nabee Muhammad Sallallahoo Alayhi Wasallam after he brought the Divine Light and Guidance to them as well. The truthful ones from among them accepted Islam while those who rejected were "broken into different sections" and were scattered throughout the world.

Tonight's Tarawee consists of the remaining quarter of Qa-lal Mala-u(Juz 9) and the whole of Wa'lamu Annama(Juz 10). In this evening's Tarawee we will Insha'Allah cover Surah Al Anfal and three quarters of Surah Al-Tawbah. In the previous introductions to the Surahs we have seen how each Surah is a step or gradation in the teaching of the Most Holy Qur'an. The first seven Surahs, comprising a little less than one third of the Holy Qur'an, form a gradation, sketching the early spiritual history of man and leading up to the formation of the new Muslim Ummah or Community of Rahmatul Liel Ala'meen. Now we begin another gradation, consolidating that Ummah and directing us as to various phases in our new collective life.

Tonight we have the lessons of the Battle of Badr enforced in their larger aspects: (1) the question of war booty; (2) the true virtues necessary for fighting the good fight; (3) victory against all odds; (4) clemency and consideration for one's own and for others in the hour of victory. As regards booty taken in battle, the first point to note is that that should never be our aim in war. It is only an adventitious circumstance, a sort of windfall. Secondly, no soldier or troop has any inherrent right to it. A righteous war is a community affair, and any accessions resulting from it belongs to Allah, or community or Cause. Thirdly, certain equitable principles of division should be laid down to check human greed and selfishness. A fifth share goes to the Commander and he can use it at his discretion; for his expenses, and for the relief of the poor and suffering, the orphans and the widows. The remainder was always divided, according to our Beloved Nabee Sallallahoo Alayhi Wasallam's practice.

These principles are followed in the best modern practice of civilised nations. All acquisitions of war belong absolutely to the Sovereign as representing the commonwealth. In the distribution of booty not only the actual captors but also the "joint captors" and the "constructive captors" share. As regards the military virtues, which are the types of virtues throughout life, we are shown by an analysis of the incidents of Badr how against the greatest odds, Almighty Allah's help will give victory if men are fighting not for themselves but for the Sacred Cause of Almighty Allah. Directions are given for the treatment of prisoners and for maintaining the solidarity of the Muslim Ummah. The date of this Surah is shortly after the Battle of Badr, which was fought on Friday the 17th of Ramadan in the second year of the Hijrah. Obedience and intelligent discipline, zeal, faith and gratitude to Almighty Allah, are the true passports to success and protection from the assaults of evil for evil will be piled up with evil and will be destroyed.

Surah Al-Tawbah follows up the argument of the previous Surah. It was revealed seven years after the previous Surah. Surah Al-Tawbah is also the only Surah that begins without the prefixing of Bimillah. It was among the last Surahs to be revealed. Verses 1 to 29 show the State Policy of our Nabee Sallallahoo Alayhi Wasallam. which came into effect during the month of Shawwal in the ninth year of the Hijrah. Our Nabee Sallallahoo Alayhi Wasallam instructed Sayyidina Ali R.A. to announce it two months later during Hajj in order to give it the widest possible publicity. The remainder or Surah Al-Tawbah was revealed a little earlier during the month of Ramadan in the Ninth year after the Hijrah and also sums up the lessons of the Tabuk expedition which was undertaken during Summer of the same year. The Surah also deals with an important question on what must be done if the enemy breaks a peace treaty and is guilty of wrong-doing. Do not indulge in wrong-doing like the hypocrites. No help should be sought from them neither should we aid them for aid should only go to the poor and needy. Strive hard against the unbelievers because they are y bound to reach a stage where they will not be forgiven by Almighty Allah. Shun all evil as unclean because evil goes against Truth and mocks everything that is Good.

The vanguard of Faith think nothing of self-sacrifice. Their reward is Almighty Allah's Good Pleasure. Even those who do wrong but repent will obtain His Mercy: not so those who do persist in Unfaith, Hypocrisy, and Mischief. Allah's Grace is free and abounding for the righteous. Even if they waver or fail. He will turn to them in Mercy if only they repent and come back unto Him. To be true in word and deed is to hold our selfish desires at bay, and follow Allah's Call: in this is our fullest satisfaction and reward. But our striving should include study and teaching, for the Ummah's benefit for Allah's Message increases our Imaan and leads us to love Him and Trust Him - the Lord of the Throne of Glory Supreme.

This Surah and the five that follow i.e. Surahs 11, 12, 13, 14, and 15 are closely connected, and were revealed in the late Makkan period, as the great event of the Hijrah was gradually approaching. Surahs 8 and 9 were mainly concerned with the first questions that arose on the formation of the new and organised Community of Islam, in its conflict with those who wished to suppress or destroy it or use force to prevent its growth and the consolidation of its ideals. How does revelation work? What is the meaning of Divine Grace and its withdrawal? How do the Messengers of Allah (Alayhim Salaam) deliver their Message? How should we receive it?

The wonderful working of the Spirit through man by revelation seems like magic to men; yet they could find Signs and Messages from Him in the sun and the moon and the constantly varying yet regular phenomena of nature, from which men should take a lesson of constancy and Faith. All the goodness or beauty that man meets in the life around him proceeds from Almighty Allah, yet man is blind and will not understand. As all beings proceed from Allah, so will they return to Him, and He is ever true. Why then does man make untrue phantoms for himself instead of rejoicing in the good news which He sends? Allah revealed Himself through Hazrat Nuh (Noah) Alayhis Salaam but his people rejected him and perished. He spoke through Nabee Moosa Alayhis Salaam to Fir'aun (Pharaoh), but Fir'aun was stiff-necked and arrogant, and when he repented at all, it was too late. Everywhere want of faith causes people to perish. But the people of Nabee Yunus Alayhis Salaam repented, and Allah saved them by His wonderful Grace. So Allah will deliver the Believers. When the Truth comes from Allah, follow it and be patient, for Allah is the most Righteous of Judges.

We discussed Allah's Mercy in the last Surah. Emphasis is laid on His punishment for sin to show that true justice includes both Justice and Mercy for Almighty Allah is Most Merciful and Patient while man is ungrateful, loves falsehood and is dishonest. Nabee Nuh (Noah) Alayhis Salaam walked righteously and humbly as in the Sight of Allah. With unselfish love for his people he warned them and taught them. But they did flout and reject his message with scorn and insults. Allah gave him directions to build an ark against the impending Flood which was to purify the world from sin and unrighteousness. In it were saved Nabee Nuh Alayhis Salaam and those who believed. So were promised salvation and Allah's Peace, and Blessings to the righteous evermore.

Awful were the fates of the 'Ad and Thamud, two mighty people of ancient Arabia. They rejected Almighty Allah and His Message and carried on in their evil ways. The 'Ad in their superstitions and arrogance, and the Thamud in their entrenched selfishness, denying to others the gifts of Almighty Allah's spacious earth! When the Mala'eeka, on a mission to Sodom and Gomorrah, Cities of the Plain, passed by Nabee Ebrahim Alayhis Salaam, he entertained them and received the Good News from them of the line of prophets to spring from his loins, he tried to intercede for the two wicked cities of sin and evil. These cities were steeped in sin and had past all hopes of repentance. Hazrat Lut Alayhis Salaam preached to them but they flouted him and went to their fate, as did Midian, the people of Nabee Shu'ayb Alayhis Salaam who destroyed their commerce by fraudulent dealings and love of brute force. Marvellous are Allah's Mercies, and strange are the ways of ungrateful men. How the arrogant Fir'aun (Pharaoh) misled his people in resisting Almighty Allah's Message through Nabee Moosa Alayhis Salaam. Thus did they ruin themselves! It was they who wronged themselves: for Allah and His punishment are just: All men will be brought to the Seat of His Judgement.

This Surah deals with the story of Nabee Yusuf Alayhis Salaam - and the 12 sons of Nabee Yaqoob Alayhis Salaam. This story is called one of "the most beautiful of stories" for three reasons: (1) It is the most detailed story in the Most Glorious Qur'an (2) It covers the trials and tribulations - the peaks and valleys, the ups and downs in human fortunes (3) it describes in detail with moral meanings, the attitudes and behaviour of people i.e. the great love of a father for his young son, the jealousy of the older half brothers, their plots, their aged father's sorrow, the sale of their young brother into slavery to a merchant for a "miserable price", sexual love, contrasted with purity, honesty, modesty, false charges, prison and interpretation of dreams, innocence raised to honour, the "sweet revenge of forgiveness and kindness, high matters dealing with the ruling of a country, constant remembrance of Allah combined with the beauty of piety and truth. The merchant took him to Egypt, where a high court official ('Aziz) bought and adopted him. 'Aziz's wife tried without success to seduce Nabee Yusuf Alayhis Salaam. For refusing to succumb to her sexual advances she laid false charges against him and he was jailed.

The King had a dream, which Nabee Yusuf Alayhis Salaam successfully interpreted. The King was going to release him but he insisted that all Fithnah and false charges against him should be cleared. The King was impressed and made him his Chief Minister. His half brothers came to Egypt to buy corn because of the draught in Canaan. He treated them kindly without revealing his identity to them. He requested them to bring him his full brother Binyamin the youngest son. He detained Binyamin and then accused his half-brothers of their hatred and crime against him. He revealed his identity to them and forgave them all. He asked them to bring their father to Egypt where the entire settled down. Allah's Name was glorified for Allah's Truth lasts forever and His purpose will be fully revealed in the Aghirah.

This Surah deals with how Almighty Allah shows Himself to mankind. Despite all the wonderful Signs around us, why does man continue to disbelieve? Firstly, Allah reveals His Message through His creation and the laws ruling nature; He also reveals His Message by revelation. We witness life and death all around us. We are witness to the the trees and all vegetation dying in winter and coming back to life through Divine Providence in Spring. But the unbelievers ask: "When we are dust, shall we actually then be in a new creation?" They mock at the idea that Allah will punish them because they have not been punished for their evil deeds. They want to see the signs of His Power rather than His Mercy but they are too dumb and ignorant to know that Allah's Power, Glory and Mercy can be seen in thunder and lightning. Allah is All-Knowing. Good will triumph and evil will be defeated.

The mockery of Allah's Messengers is an old game of the world. But Allah's Truth will come to its own in good time. The end of the Righteous is their Home of Bliss, and they rejoice in the revelations they receive. The Messengers of Allah take their due share in the life of the world; they win through by Allah's Grace against all the plots of the world. Their witness is from Allah, through His revelation.

The special subject matter of this Surah is a continuation of the concluding portion of the last Surah, which explained how Allah's revelation gains ground in spite of selfish men's opposition. Here illustrations are given from the story of Nabee Moosa and Nabee Ebrahim Alayhim Salaam and Nabee Ebrahim's prayer for Makkah forms the core of this Surah. Revelation leads man from darkness to light. It comes to each nation in its own language and for its own special circumstances. So was it with Nabee Moosa Alayhis Salaam and other Prophets Alayhim Salaam. There was a conflict of evil with good, but evil was destroyed. Why will men not receive Allah's Grace? Why will they choose to go astray? Nabee Ebrahim Alayhis Salaam prayed to be saved from infidelity for himself and for his posterity, and he prayed for Makkah, the city of the new revelation through Arabia. Good and evil will find their proper retribution, and Allah's Plan of Unity will prevail. It is evil that will be wiped out for Allah's Truth is a goodly tree, firmly established on its roots, stretching its branches high and wide, and bearing good fruit at all times.

The special subject matter of this Surah is the protection of Allah's Revelation and Allah's Truth. Evil arose from Pride and warping of man's will, but Allah's Mercy is the antidote, as was proven in the case of Nabee Ebrahim Alayhis Salaam and Nabee Lut Alayhis Salaam, and might have been proved by the people of the Aykah and Hijr if they had only attended to Allah's "Signs". The Qur'an, beginning with the "Seven Oft Repeated Verses" is the precious vehicle for the Praises of Allah. Allah's Truth makes all things clear, and He will guard it. But His Signs are not for those who mock. Who fails to see the Majesty, the Beauty, the Order, and the Harmony blazoned in His Creation, and His Goodness to all His creatures, in the heavens and on earth? With Him are the sources of all things, and He doth freely give His gifts in due measure. He holds the Keys of Life and Death, and He will remain when all else passes away.

Chronologically this Surah, like the six which preceded it, belongs to the late Makkan period except perhaps verse 110 and some of the verses that follow. But the chronology has no significance. In subject matter it sums up, from a new point of view, the arguments on the great questions of Allah's dealings with man. His Self-revelation to man, and how the Messengers and the Message are writ large in every phrase of Allah's creation and the life of man. The new point of view is that Nature points to Nature's God. Everything in Creation proclaims the Glory of Allah. To man is given dominion over Nature, that man may recognize Allah's Unity and Allah's Truth. Man should never lose sight of his goal, which is the good, or dispute with the great Teachers who are sent to all peoples, to bring about Unity; all creatures serve Allah.

Allah's favours and man's ingratitude recounted, His Signs in the rain bearing clouds, the cattle that give milk, the bee that produces honey, the wonderful relations of family and social life, and the refinements and comforts of civilisation. The Messengers of Truth will bear witness against those who reject the Truth. Allah will judge us according to our faith and deeds. The Qur'an is true: it guides and gives glad tidings. Believe, and make the most of life in all things good and lawful. Follow the example of Nabee Ebrahim Alayhis Salaam: be true in Faith and righteousness and do good.

Allah's Prophets, if rejected, will be witnesses against those who reject Allah's Truth! And all false gods will disappear. A life of justice and righteousness is enjoined by Allah, and the strictest fidelity, in intent and action. For Allah will judge us by our faith and deeds, and no evil shall have power over those who believe and put their trust in Allah their Lord. Allah's Truth may come in stages, but it gives strength, guidance, and glad tidings, and should be held fast when once received. Be not like those who get puffed up with pride in worldly good, and scorn the Truth. Enjoy the good things in life, but render thanks to Allah and obey His Law. Be true in faith, and proclaim His Word with gentle, patient wisdom: for Allah is with those who live in self-restraint a pure, good, and righteous Life.

This Surah begins with with the mystic Vision of the Ascension of the Holy Prophet Sallallahoo Alayhi Wasallam: he was transported from the Sacred Mosque in Makkah to the Farthest Mosque of Jerusalem in a night and shown some of the Signs of Allah. The Nabee Sallallahoo Alayhi Wasallam was first transported to the seat of the earlier revelations in Jerusalem, and then taken through the seven heavens even to the Sublime Throne, and initiated into the spiritual mysteries of the human soul struggling in Space and Time. The reference to this great mystic story of the Mi'raj is a fitting prelude to the journey of the human soul in its spiritual growth in life. The first steps in such growth must be through moral conduct - the reciprocal rights of parents and children, kindness to our fellow men, courage and firmness in the hour of danger, and sense of personal responsibility, and a sense of Allah's Presence through prayer and praise. The Mi'raj is usually dated to the 27th night of the month of Rajab (though other dates e.g. 17th Rabi'1, are also given) in the year before the Hijrah. This fixes the date of the opening verse of the Surah, though portions of the Surah may have been a little earlier.

Our service to Allah is shown also in our human relations, goodness to parents and kinsmen and strangers in want, as well as kindness to children, purity in sex relations, justice and respect for human life, protection of orphans, probity in all dealings, and avoidance of arrogance. Allah's Glory is above all comparison, and the reception of His Revelation marks off the man of faith from those who do not believe. But the Believers should speak fair and avoid dissentions, for Allah doth encompass all men. Pride caused the fall of Iblis, but the children of Adam have been raised in excellence above other Creation. They will be judged by their deeds. Prayer is good at stated times and at night, and the Qur'an is offered as healing and mercy. Inspirations (the Holy Qur'an) is a Sign of Allah's Grace, and men should accept it without making carping excuses. Be humble in prayer and praise.

This particular Makkan Surah may be called a lesson in the brevity and mystery of Life. First there is the story of the Companions of the Cave who slept therein for a long period, and yet thought they had been there only a day or less. Then there is the story of the mysterious Teacher who shows Nabee Moosa Alayhis Salaam how life itself is a parable. And further there is the story of Dhu al Qarnayn, the two horned one, the powerful ruler of west and east, who made an iron wall to protect the weak against the strong. The parables refer to the brevity, uncertainty, and vanity of life; to the many paradoxes in it, which can only be understood by patience and the fullness of knowledge; and to the need of guarding our spiritual gains against the incursions of evil.

Summary: - The Qur'an is a direction and a warning. This life is brief and subject to vicissitudes. Our ideas of Time are defective, as shown in the story of the Companions of the Cave, who had faith, truth, patience, and other virtues. But their life was a mystery that can be fathomed but by a few. Knowledge is for Allah: be on your guard against idle and cocksure hopes. Learn from the Qur'an the Parable of the man who is puffed up with this world's goods and is brought to nought,. This life is uncertain and variable: goodness and virtue are better and more durable. For the Day of Reckoning will come, with its Mercy and with its Wrath. Nabee Moosa Alayhis Salaam in his thirst for knowledge forgot his limitations. Patience and faith were enjoined on him, and he understood when the paradoxes of Life were explained. Dhu al Qarnayn had a wide dominion: he punished the guilty and rewarded the good; he protected the weak from the lawless; but he had faith, and valued the guidance of Allah. Allah is One, and His service is Righteousness.

Nabee Moosa Alayhis Salaam was up against mysteries which he wanted to explore. He searched out a man endued with knowledge derived from the divine springs from which flow the paradoxes of life. He is shown three such paradoxes and how human impatience is inconsistent with their true understanding. The highest knowledge comes not except by divine gift, and a constant, patient striving, with faith, to apprehend something of the purpose of the All- Wise Allah. This story of Nabee Moosa Alayhis Salaam is meant to illustrate four points

(1) He was learned in all the wisdom of the Egyptians. Even so that wisdom did not comprehend everything, even as the whole stock of the knowledge of the present day, the sciences and the arts, and the literature, (if it could be supposed to be gathered in one individual), does not include all knowledge. Divine knowledge, as far as man is concerned, is unlimited. Even after Nabee Moosa Alayhis Salaam received his divine mission, his knowledge was not so perfect that it could not receive further additions. (2) Constant effort is necessary to keep our knowledge square with the march of time, and such effort Nabee Moosa Alayhis Salaam is shown to be making. (3) The mysterious man he meets to whom tradition assigns the name Khidr (literally, Green), is the type of that knowledge which is ever in contact with life as it is actually lived. (4) These are paradoxes in life: apparent losses may be real gain; apparent cruelty may be real mercy; recurring good for evil may really be justice and not generosity. Allah's Wisdom transcends all human calculation.

Three episodes in the life of a great king, Dhu al Qarnayn illustrated how power and opportunities should be used in the service of Allah; he punished the guilty; he left primitive people their freedom of life; and he protected industrious people from grasping neighbours. But he relied upon Allah, and he made them remember the Day of Judgement; when all will see the Truth and receive the punishments and rewards earned in their present life.

We now pass on the story of individual Messengers of Allah in their personal relations with their environment - Hazrat Yahya A.S. with his father Hazrat Zakariya A.S., Nabee Esa A.S. (Jesus) with his mother Bibi Maryam R.A.; Nabee Ebrahim A.S. with his unbelieving father, Nabee Moosa A.S. with his brother Nabee Haroon A.S. (Aaron), Nabee Isma'il A.S. with his family and Nabee Idris A.S. in the high station to which he was called. Seeing how these great ones fitted into the scheme of life, man is condemned for his want of faith, or for degrading his faith to superstition, and warned of the Hereafter.

Summary - Zakarriya Alayhis Salaam was anxious to have an heir to carry on Allah's work in a world of unrighteousness, and Yahya Alayhis Salaam was given to him. Hazrat Maryam R.A. the mother of Nabee Esa (Jesus) Alayhis Salaam was maligned by her people, but Nabee Esa Alayhis Salaam comforted her and was good to her. Nabee Ebrahim Alayhis Salaam was persecuted for his Faith by his people, including his unbelieving father, but he withdrew from them, and was blessed; Nabee Moosa Alayhis Salaam was helped by his brother Nabee Haroon (Aaron) Alayhis Salaam; Nabee Isma'il brought up his family in piety; and Nabee Idris Alayhis Salaam was truthful and pious in a high station; they showed the way; yet men will not learn the good of life.Man should not disbelieve in the Hereafter, nor sully his faith by false notions about Almighty Allah.

The chronology of the Surah has some significance: it has some relation to the spiritual lesson which it teaches. It was used with great effect in that remarkable scene which resulted in Hazrat Umar's conversion, and which took place about the seventh year before the Hijrah. Hazrat Umar R.A. had previously been one of the greatest enemies and persecutors of Islam and like his blood thirsty kinsmen the Quraysh, he meditated killing our Nabee Sallallahoo Alayhi Wasallam. Upon being told that he had very close relations of his who had embraced Islam, he proceeded to the home of his sister Fatima and her husband Sa'id. They had both embraced Islam but in those days of persecution they kept their faith secret. As he approached his sister's house, he heard them reciting this Surah from a written copy they had. Umar attacked his sister and her husband, but the bore the attack with exemplary patience, and declared their faith to him. Hazrat Umar R.A. was struck with their sincerity and fortitude and asked to see the leaf from which they had been reading. It was given to him: his soul was touched so much so that that he not only embraced Islam but became one of the strongest supporters and champion.

Summary: The revelation of Allah (The Holy Qur'an) is not an occasion of distress, but is a gift of mercy from Allah Most Gracious. How Nabee Moosa Alayhis Salaam was first chosen, and led to his mission to Fir'aun with his brother Hazrat Haroon Alayhis Salaam. How the mother of Nabee Moosa Alayhis Salaam was directed to cast the infant Moosa into the river, to be brought up in Fir'aun's palace under Allah's own supervision, in order to preach to Fir'aun and declare Allah's Glory. How Nabee Moosa Alayhis Salaam was directed to lead his people and quell their rebellious spirit, and how that spirit was stirred up by Samiri. On the Day of Judgement personal responsibility will be enforced, and Allah's Truth acknowledged: man should guard against Nabee Adam's enemy, Iblis, and should renounce vanities, purify himself with prayer and praise, and await the call to Allah.

This Surah begins with the external obstacles placed by evil against purification of the soul with prayer and praise and gives the assurance of Allah's power to defend men, illustrating this with reference to Nabee Ebrahim A.S.'s fight against idolatry, Hazrat Lut's fight against injustice and failure to proclaim Allah's glory by making full use of man's God-given faculties and powers, that of Nabee Ayub A.S. against impatience and want of self-confidence, that of Hazrats Isma'il, Idris, and dhul Kifl against want of steady perseverance, that of Dha al Nun against hasty anger, that of Zakarriya against spiritual isolation, and that of Bibi Maryam R.A. against the lusts of this world. In each allusion there is a special point about the soul's purification. The common point is that the Prophets A.S. were not, as the vulgar suppose, just irresistible men. They had to win their ground inch by inch against all kinds of resistance from evil.

The great exemplars of virtue conquered evil, each according to his circumstances. Nabee Ebrahim Alayhis Salaam stood staunch in the fire of persecution, unhurt; Hazrat Lut Alayhis Salaam was bold in reproving abominations; Hazrat Nuh Alayhis Salaam survived the Great Flood by his faith, in a world of Unbelief. Hazrat Dawood Alayhis Salaam sought justice, and sang Allah's praises; Hazrat Sulayman Alayhis Salaam by wisdom subdued the refractory; Hazrat Ayoub Alayhis Salaam was patient in suffering; Hazrat Ismail Alayhis Salaam, Hazrat Idris Alayhis Salaam, Hazrat Dhu al Kifl [Isaiah] Alayhis Salaam, were true in constancy amid temptation; Hazrat Yunus Alayhis Salaam turned to Allah after a short misunderstanding; Hazrat Zakariya Alayhis Salaam and his family were examples of devoutness; and Bibi Maryam Alayhis Salaam of chastity. All men and women of Allah are from one united Brotherhood.

We now come to a new series of four Surahs, dealing with the environment and methods contributing to our spiritual progress, as the last five Surahs dealt with the Messengers who came in various ways to proclaim the Truth and conquer evil. The subject matter of this particular Surah is concerned mainly with the spiritual implications of the Sacred House, the Hajj, the Sacrifice, the striving and Fighting in defence of Truth when attacked, and other acts that make for Unselfishness and uproot Falsehood. On the chronology of this Surah, opinion is divided. Some parts were probably revealed in the latter Makkan period, and some in Madinah. But the chronological question has no significance here.

Purity, Prayer, Humility, and Faith are implied in the Hajj; in solemn Sacrifice we express our gratitude and reverence to Allah, and our desire to share food with other poorer brethren; Striving and Fighting in defence of Truth when attacked are necessary as tests of self-sacrifice. The promptings of Evil may hinder the work of Allah's Prophet, but that work must triumph, and the Mercy and Truth of Allah must be established; therefore serve Allah humbly, and He will protect and help you. The power of Evil is in insidious suggestions. They are only a trial to those who hearts are inclined to evil, but Truth does shine the nobler for the Believers, by the Grace and guidance of Allah. Do not dispute about rites and ceremonies : Follow the Straight Path. Seek for worship the Only Creator and Sustainer, and strive in His service, that you may be witness among men to Allah's Truth, as the Nabee S.A.W. is a witness to you.

Summary: - Faith, coupled with humility in prayer, charity, abstinence from vanity and from indulgence in appetites, and strict probity, must lead to final success, even though people mock and accuse the righteous of false motives, as did the contemporaries of Nabee Nuh, of Nabee Moosa and Nabee Esa Alayhim Salaam. The prophets of Allah and the righteous form one Brotherhood, but those who make schims and refuse to believe have ample evidence pointing to Truth and the goodness and greatness of Allah. Evil must be repelled by goodness and faith in Allah; for the future life is sure, and those who disbelieve will wish for another chance when it is too late. Let us eschew evil, but not pay back evil in its own coin, however great the temptation: no chance will there be to retrieve our conduct, once death cuts us off. Then we shall only have to wait for Judgement: none can pass that barrier: Our deeds will be weighed, And happy will be those whose good weighs more in the scale than ill. Only faith and Goodness will prevail in the end. So Glory be to the Lord of the Throne exalted, of Mercy and Honour.

The environmental and social influence which most frequently wreck our spiritual ideals have to do with sex and especially with its misuse, whether in the form of unregulated behaviour, or false charges or scandals, or breach of the refined conventions of personal or domestic privacy. Our complete conquest of all pitfalls in such matters enables us to rise to the higher regions of Light and of Allah-created Nature. This subject continues in the next Surah. As the reprobation of false slanders about women is connected with an incident that happened to Hazrat A'ishah R.A. in A.H. 5-6 that fixes the chronological place of this Madinah Surah.

Summary: - Sex offenders should be severely punished, but strictest evidence should be required, and false slanderers are also worthy of punishment. Light talk about women is reprobated. Privacy should be respected, and the utmost decorum should be observed in dress and manners. Parable of Light and Darkness: order and obedience in Nature point to the spiritual duty of man. Domestic manners and manners in public or collective life in all contribute to the highest virtues, and are part of our spiritual duties leading up to Allah.

Chastity is a virtue, for men and and women, whether joined in marriage, or single, or widowed. The punishment for offences in such matters should be public. No less. Grave is the launching of false charges or rumours against the fair reputation of women, or the spreading of such slanders, or the facile belief in them. Evil is spreading its net. Good men and women should ever be on their guard, and pray for Allah's Grace and Mercy.

Allah is the Light of the heavens and the earth. High above our petty evanescent lives, He illumines our souls with means that reach our inmost being. Universal is His Light, so pure and so intense that grosser beings need a veil to take His rays: His elect are forever absorbed in prayer and praise and deeds of love, unlike the children of Darkness struggling in depths profound of vanities false.All Nature sings to the Glory of Allah, and men of fraud and hypocrisy are but rebels in the Kingdom of Allah. For a self-respecting life on earth, respect for other's privacy is most essential, in the home and abroad: but superstitions are not met in intercourse amongst kin or true friends. In public council never fail to observe the most punctilious form and order: your self-respect demands that you should give your leader sincere respect and all obedience. You may not know but Allah does know the inwardness of things both great and small.

This Surah further develops the contrast between Light and Darkness, as symbolical of knowledge and ignorance, righteousness and sin, spiritual progress and degradation. It closes with a definition of the deeds by which the righteous are known in the environment of this world. It is an early Makkan Surah, but its date has no significance.

Summary: Allah's highest gift to mankind is that He has furnished a Criterion for judgement between Right and Wrong - in His Revelation, which teaches us the true significance of our eternal Future. Those who do not use that Criterion will be full of woe when the Judgement comes, for Allah gave full warning at all times. In the contrast of shade and sun, night and day, death and life, and the whole ordering of Allah's Creation, men may learn of Allah Most Gracious; and the virtues of the righteous respond to Allah's care for them. Woe to the misbelievers who arrogantly demand to see Allah, yet reject His Signs! His Judgement will come, and when they will see, too late, how evil casts nothing but treacherous snares for man. Slowly comes Allah's revelation, in ways most conducive to man's enlightenment. Men in their folly reject the most obvious Signs of Allah. Let them mock! Soon will they know! Alas! men ruled by self-impulse are worse than brute beasts to guide or control.

This Surah begins a new series of four Surahs, which illustrate the contrast between the spirit of Prophecy and spiritual Light and the reactions to it in the communities among whom it appeared, by going back to old Prophets and the stories of the Past. In this particular Surah we have the story of Nabee Moosa A.S. and his fight with Fir'aun and of Fir'aun's discomfiture. The other Prophets mentioned are Nabee Ebrahim A.S; Nabee Hud A.S; Nabee Salih A.S; Nabee Lut A.S; and Nabee Shu'ayb A.S. The lesson is drawn that the Qur'an is a continuation and fulfillment of previous Revelations, and is pure Truth, and the Whole Truth, unlike poetry of vain poets. Chronologically the Surah belongs to the middle Makkan period, when the contrast of the Light of Prophecy with the milieu of Pagan Makkah was testing the Makkans in their most arrogant mood.

Summary: - The conflict of Unbelief with Truth is vain: so was the conflict of Fir'aun with Nabee Moosa A.S.: Fir'aun's magicians bowed to the Truth, and Fir'aun and his hosts were drowned. Nor did Nabee Ebrahim A.S.'s people gain anything by their resisting of the Truth he preached, and Nabee Nuh A.S,'s people perished by their Unbelief. Nabee Hau A.S. warned his people against reliance on their material strength and Nabee Salih A.S. against sacrilege, but in both cases the evil ones were brought low. Nabee Lut A.S. had to deal with unspeakable crimes, and Hazrat Shu'ayb A.S. against dishonest dealings and mischief: their teaching was rejected, but the rejecters were wiped out. So when the spirit of Prophecy came to Makkah, it was resisted by the votaries of evil: but Truth is not like vain poetry, and must triumph at last. Allah's Plan works unceasingly: His Light shines none the less brightly, because some reject it or mock at it. Nabee Moosa A.S. was freed from all fear when Allah gave him His Signs and sent him to Fir'aun: he boldly proclaimed the Message, and won the wise ones of Egypt: the rejecters, with Fir'aun, perished, and their heritage passed to worthier hands.

This Surah is cognate in subject to the one preceding it and the two following it: Its chronological place is also in the same group of four, in the middle Makkan period. Here there is much mystic symbolism. Wonders in the physical world are types of greater wonders in the spiritual world. The Fire, the White Hand, and the Rod, in the story of Nabee Moosa A.S.; the speech of the birds, the crowds of Jinns and men pitted against a humble ant, and the Hoopoe and the Queen of Sheba, in Hazrat Sulayman A.S.'s story; the defeat of the plot of the nine wicked men in the story of Hazrat Salih A.S; and the crime of sin with open eyes in the story of Hazrat Lut A.S. - lead up to the lessons of true and false worship and the miracles of Allah's Grace and Revelation.

Summary: - Wonderful in Revelation, like the Fire which Nabee Moosa A.S. saw, which was a glimpse of Allah's Glory, and His Miracles, which searched out those who refused Faith in spite of the light they had received. Nabee Sulayman A.S. knew the speech of Birds and had hosts of Jinns and men; yet the wise ant had ample defence against them: the Hoopoe who was absent at his master, was yet serving him: the Queen of Sheba had a kingdom, but it submitted with conviction to the Wisdom of Nabee Sulayman A.S. and the Kingdom of Allah.

Fools ascribe ill luck to godliness as in Hazrat Salih A.S.'s story, or fall into the lusts with their eyes open, as in the story of Hazrat Lut A.S.; but their plots and their rage will be foiled by Allah. Allah's Glory and Goodness are supreme over all Creation: Unfaith will yield to Faith in the final adjustments of values: so follow Revelation, serve Allah. At the end of all things shall we know how small is our state, but for Allah's Grace: let us bow to His Will and accept His True Guidance: Let us Praise Him Alone and Trust Him - now and forever.

This Surah continues with the subject of Revelation and its reception by those to whom it is sent. But it emphasises new points: how the recipient of inspiration is prepared for his high destiny, even in the growth of his ordinary life, and how the rejection of Allah's Message by groups of men or by individuals is caused by overweening arrogance or avarice. The plight of those who reject the Truth is contrasted with the reward of the righteous. With the possible exception of a few verses, it belongs to the late Makkan period, just preceding the Hijrah.

Summary: - Fir'aun was arrogant and unjust, but Allah's Plan was to strengthen the weak: in infancy Nabee Moosa A.S. was prepared for his mission; in youth he trusted in Allah and was guided; in his exile he found help and love; and when he was called, he was supported by Allah. So was the Holy Nabee Sallallahoo Alayhi Wasallam fed spiritually by Allah's Grace, and his Revelation was recognised by those who knew the earlier Revelations: it came to an old sacred Centre, to warn those seduced by the glitter of this worldly life. The future is with those who repent, have faith, and do good: for all Mercy and Truth are with Allah. But men puffed up with wealth, like Qarun, will come to an evil end, while the lowly and the righteous will attain Allah's Mercy. Let nothing keep your eyes back from that end: Then, and only then, shall you reach the Eternal Reality, the Glorious Reality, Which is Almighty Allah, Who endureth forever!

This Surah is the last of the series in which the growth of the spiritual man as an individual is considered, especially illustrated by the way in which the great Prophets were prepared for their work and received their mission, and the nature of Revelation in relation to the environments in which it was promulgated. It also closes sub-series which is concerned with the spiritual Light, and the reactions to it at certain periods of spiritual history. The last Surah closed with a reference to the doctrine of the Ma'ad, or final Return of man to Allah. This theme is further developed here, and as it is continued in the subsequent three Surahs all bearing the Abbreviated Letters, "Alif Lam Mim", it forms a connecting link between the present series and those three Surahs. Emphasis is laid here on the necessity of linking actual conduct with the reception of Allah's Revelation, and reference is again made to the stories of Nabee Nuh, Nabee Ebrahim and Nabee Lut Alayhim Salata Wasallam among the Prophets and the stories of Madyan, 'Ad, Thamud, and Fir'aun among the rejecters of Allah's Message. This worldly life is contrasted with the real Life of the Hereafter.

Summary: - Belief is tested by trial in life and practical conduct: though Nabee Nuh A.S. lived 950 years, his people refused Faith, and Nabee Ebrahim A.S.'s generation threatened to burn him. Hazrat Lut A.S.'s people not only rejected Allah's Message bur publicly defied him in sin: the 'Ad and the Thamud had intelligence but misused it, and Qarun, Fir'aun, and Haman perished for their overweening arrogance: they found their worldly power as frail as a spider's web. The Glorious Qur'an as a revelation stands on its own merit and as a Sign: it teaches the distinction between Right and Wrong, Good and Evil, and shows the importance and excellence of the Hereafter. Worldly power cannot through sin defy the right, as was proved in the ministry of Hazrat Lut A.S; nor can Intelligence misused stand in the place of Allah's Light; nor can boastful insolence do aught but dig its own grave. The strength and skill, the beauty and power, of this world's life are no more than a Spider Web, Flimsy before the force of the eternal verities that flow from Almighty Allah Exalted and Supreme!

This Surah deals with the question of Ma'ad or the Final End of Things, from various points of view. In the last Surah, we saw that Revelation was linked up with Life and Conduct, and Time (looking backwards and forwards) figured forth the frailty of this Life. In this Surah the Time theme and its mystery are brought into re3lation with human history in the foreground and the evolution of the world in all its aspects in the background. The corruption introduced by man is cleared away by Allah, Whose Universal Plan points to the Hereafter. This Surah was revealed about the 7th or 6th year before the Hijrah, corresponding to 615-616 of the Christian era, when the tide of Persian conquest over the Roman Empire was running strong. The Christian Empire of Rome had lost Jerusalem to the Persians, and Christianity had been humbled in the dust. The pro-Persian Pagan Quraysh rejoiced exceedingly, and redoubled their taunts and persecution against the Nabee Sallallahoo Alayhi Wasallam, whose Message was a renewal of the Message of Nabee Esa A.S. preached in Jerusalem. There is no doubt about the prophecy and its fulfillment. For the exulting Pagans of Makkah laid a heavy wager against the fulfillment of the prophecy with Hazrat Abu Bakr. and they lost it on its fulfillment.

Summary: - The ebb and flow of worldly power - as symbolised in the conflict of the Persian and Roman Empires - are but outward events: the deeper meaning is in the working of Allah's Universe - how Good and Evil reach their final end. The changes and changing variety in Allah's Creation, physical, moral, and spiritual, yet point to the Unity in Nature and Religion: man should not break away from that Unity, but glorify Him, the One, for there is none like unto Him. The hands of men have wrought corruption and mischief: but Allah purifies the moral world as He does the world of physical nature, strengthening the weak and pulling down the pulling down the mighty in due season: wait therefore in patience and constancy, and be not depressed.

The argument of the Final End of Things is here continued from another point of view. What is Wisdom? Where shall it be found? Will it solve the mysteries of Time and Nature, and the world higher than the physical Nature, which brings us nearer to Allah? "YES", is the answer: "If, as in the advice of Luqman the Wise, human wisdom looks to Allah in true worship, ennobles every aspect of life with true kindness, but avoids the false indulgences that infringes the divine law - and in short follows the golden mean of virtue." And this is indicated by every Sign in nature. This Surah belongs to the late Makkan period.

Summary: - The earnest seekers after righteousness receive guidance, unlike the seekers after vanity, who perish: all Creation bears witness to this: Wisdom, as expounded by Luqman the Wise, is true service to Allah, and consists in moderation. True Wisdom is firm and enduring, and discerns Allah's Law in the working of His Creation: it looks to the Final End of Things, whose mystery is only known to Allah.

This short Surah closes the series of the four Alim, Lam, Mim Surahs, which began with the 29th. Its theme is the mystery of Creation, the mystery of Time and the mystery of Ma'ad (THE FINAL END) as viewed through the Light of Allah's Revelation. The contemplation of these two mysteries should lead to Faith and the adoration of Allah. This Surah belongs to the middle Makkan period and is therefore a little earlier than the last, but its chronology has no significance.

Summary: - The mystery of Creation, the mystery of Time and the mystery of the End of Things are but known by external symbols to man: Revelation brings faith and humble adoration, and is a blessing like Rain, which brings life to dead soil. Clear are the Signs and the Revelation of Allah - in nature, history, and the Message of His living Prophets. If they learn not now, alas! It will be too late when the Wings of Time are furled.

The story of Al Ahzab or the Confederates, who tried to surround and annihilate the Muslim Community in Madinah, is full of underhand intrigues on the part of such diverse enemies as the Pagan Quraysh, the Jews (Banu al Nadir) who had been already expelled from Madinah for their treachery, the Ghatfan tribe of Bedouin Arabs from the interior, and the Jewish tribe of Banu Qurayzah in Madinah. This was the unholy Confederacy against Islam. But though they caused a great deal of anxiety and suffering to the beleaguered Muslims, Islam came triumphantly out of the trial and became more firmly established than ever. It was a well organised and formidable attack but the Muslims had made preparations to meet it. One of the preparations, which took the enemy by surprise, was the TRENCH (Khandaq) dug around Madinah by the Prophet S.A.W.'s orders and under the supervision of Hazrat Salman Farsi R.A. The siege and battle are therefore known as the Battle of the Trench or the Battle of the Confederates. The position and dignity of the ladies of the Nabee S.A.W.'s Household and the Muslim women generally, salutary principles are laid down to safeguard their homes and protect them from slander and insult.

Summary: - The pagan customs in human relationship should be abandoned, and men and women should be held in honour according to natural relationships and spiritual positions. High position and seemly conduct for the wives of the Nabee Sallallahoo Alayhi Wasallam to be treated kindly and gently. Respect due to the Nabee S.A.W. and his family, slander to be avoided and punished: guard your words and your responsibilities.

The Nabee Sallallahoo Alayhi Wasallam's household is not for worldly ends: his consorts have a place and dignity beyond ordinary women. They must recite and proclaim the Signs of Allah. For women have spiritual values and duties like unto men. Allah decrees, no unhappy wedlock; fear not to dissolve such and provide what is right and fitting for the service of Allah. High is the Nabee S.A.W.'s position, and he must order his household as best befits his work and duties. Allah does watch all things. The Hour will come when all Evil will be punished. Fear Allah, and always speak the word that leads to Right. Let man but strive in Faith, and fulfil Allah's Trust - by the Grace and Mercy of Allah.

This Surah leads off with emphasis on Allah's Mercy and Power and Truth. We are told how Angels manifest the Power of Allah, and how different is Good from Evil and Truth from Falsehood. No good or Truth is ever lost. Human power and prosperity are fleeting; but Allah's Power and Justice endure, and will enforce personal responsibility on man on the Last Day. Faith and Unfaith will eventually find their true places and true values; Falsehood has no power; Truth is with Allah. Man should understand and not resist Allah's Revelation. Human wisdom and Power, as given to Nabee Dawood A.S., were only for establishing righteousness. Human glory, like Nabee Sulayman A.S.'s rested on slender foundations. Saba (Sheba) but enjoyed her fair and prosperous state as long as she obeyed the Law of Allah, but perished for unrighteousness. Learn then, that the Mercy and Power, Wisdom and Justice, of Allah are beyond all comparison. Do right and prepare for the Final Day.

This Surah deals with the mystery of Creation and its maintenance, with various forces typified, with various forces typified by the wings of Angels. Whether we look to outer nature or to man. Allah's Grace proclaims His Glory, and protects His votaries from Evil. It is an early Makkan Surah, but its chronology has no significance. The forces which maintain Creation, as typified by Angels, were themselves created by Allah, to Whom Alone all praise is due: all else is naught. All good is from Allah: who then will choose Evil, and reach the doom that goes with Evil? Allah is the Source of all things: all Power, Wisdom, Beauty, and Truth from from Him. It is Evil that deceives and plots in the dark. All knowledge is with Allah. The things that are good and pure and true are not as the things that are evil, deceitful, and false. Allah is free of all needs: it is we that need Him: let us seek His love and live. His Message will save us from wrong, while dark is the fate of those who reject Him. Praise and Glory to Him, the Cherisher of all! Man can see by his own experience what infinite shades and grades of colour there are in nature. So there are grades in the spiritual world. The Good and the True understand Allah, Who knows and watches over all His Creation. The Good will reach Eternal Bliss, while Evil will find no helper. Arrogance and plotting will be the undoing of Evil: its doom is sure, if it fails to profit by the respite granted by the All-Merciful Allah.

This particular Surah is devoted to the Beloved Nabee Sallallahoo Alayhi Wasallam and the Revelation which he brought. The abbreviated letters Ya Sin are usually construed as a title of the Nabee S.A.W. But it is not permissable to be dogmatic about the meaning of abbreviated letters. This Surah is considered to be "the heart of the Qur'an", as it concerns the central figure in the teaching of Islam and the central doctrine of Revelation and the Hereafter. As referring to the Hereafter, it is appropriately read in solemn ceremonies after death. In chronology it belongs to the middle or early Makkan period.

Summary: - The Qur'an is full of wisdom, and those are unfortunate who cannot profit by it. The Wisdom of Revelation - the Qur'an received through the Nabee S.A.W. - is a guide to the Straight Path, and a warning against the terrible state in which the yokes of sin are enslave us. The righteous receive it with joy, for they believe in the Hereafter. Behold, there was once a City, to which came two righteous men with the Gospel of Truth. But they were rejected and persecuted: they were joined by a third, But the City refused to believe or to turn from iniquity. Only one man was found in its outskirts to be witness to Truth, Faith and Righteousness, and he did suffer Martyrdom. He attained Peace, but mourned for his people, in that they shut their gates of salvation and Allah's Mercy on themselves. Alas for man's short-sighted folly in defying The Grace that would shield and deliver him!

Are there not enough Signs around you to bear witness to Allah, and His saving Grace? The earth dies and revives: there are mysteries of Life and Sex, of Light and the Stars and Planets in heaven, that follow their orbits by Law and in harmony! There are the ships and the modes of transport by which man can conquer the forces around him with Allah-given Gifts! Learn the Laws of Goodness from them and believe in the Hereafter, it will come when least expected. Be prepared for Allah! When the Day comes, men will be taken aback. The Judgement Seat will be established. Blessed will be those who attain Salvation: Their Joy, Satisfaction, and Peace will be crowned with nearness to their Lord! Alas for the sinful, who deliberately followed evil: their own nature and actions will speak against them. They will face the realities of Punishment! Both Revelation and Nature are eloquent in instructing man for his own good in the Hereafter, which will come as a certainty. Praise and Glory to Allah.

This is the fourth in a series of Surahs in which the mysteries of the spiritual world are manifested in different ways, tending to the defeat and final extirpation of Evil. The defeat of Evil is throughout connected with Revelation, and here the ranged fight is illustrated by a reference to the Angels in heaven and to the earlier Prophets in our earthly history from Nabee Nuh A.S; to Nabee Yunus A.S. This Surah belongs to the early middle Makkan period.

Summary: - Through all the mysteries of the heavens and earth, there is a sorting out of the evil against the good: their final destinations contrasted. Peace and victory came to Nabee Nuh A.S; Nabee Ebrahim A.S; Nabee Moosa and Nabee Haroon Alayhim Salaam, to Nabee Ilyas A.S. and Nebee Lut A.S. in their conflict with Evil. So was it with Nabee Yunus A.S. when he glorified Allah. But men will ascribe to Allah what is unworthy of Him. Allah's Prophets strive for His Glory, and shall be victorious. Allah is One, the Source and Centre of all Affairs. High is He above all creatures. The ranks of Angels and Messengers stand firm in His Service. Evil is sure to be overcome. So Praise and Glory to Allah, the Lord of Honour and Power, and Peace to His Messengers.

This Surah, both in chronology and subject matter is cognate to Surah Al Saffat and carries forward the same argument. But here the emphasis is laid on the working of earthly power when combined with spiritual power, and it is pointed out how much more significant (and real) spiritual power is. For this reason the illustrative stories are mainly those of Nabee Dawood A.S. and Nabee Sulayman A.S. who were kings as well as Prophets, and a parallel is suggested with the unfolding public life of our Beloved Nabee Sallallahoo Alayhi Wasallam.

Summary: - Worldly and evil men are surprised at the renewal of Truth and Righteousness; but righteousness has more power than worldly strength, as is seen in the story of kings like Nabee Dawood A.S., who had both. Nabee Sulayman also loved Allah more than worldly power, which may be good but may be misused by evil men of power and insight, chose the path of final bliss rather than final misery. So also is the case of Nabee Muhammad S.A.W. the final Messenger; his Gospel of Unity must triumph over all jealousy and Arrogance in Allah's good time. The Gospel of Unity is the True Cure for Evil for it gives the good news of Allah's Power

This is the last of the series of Surahs which deal with the mysteries of the spiritual world, as leading up to the Ma'ad, or the Hereafter. Its subject matter is how Creation in its great variety is yet sorted out in Groups or Classes, all governed by one Plan, and created and sustained by One Creator, Who will separate Good from Evil at the Last Day. The words Zumar occurs in verses 71 and 73. It belongs to the later Makkan period.

Summary: - The variety in Creation yet points to the Unity of Plan: there is only One Creator: to Him is due all worship and from Him flow all Justice and Grace. There is Unity in Revelation, and Guidance comes from Almighty Allah alone. Turn to Him only, for all else is false. Allah's Mercy is all-embracing: despair not: seek it before it is too late: for Judgement and Justice will come for certain. To Allah is due sincere devotion, and to Him Alone. There is none like unto Him. All nature obeys His Laws, and our own Growth and Life proclaim Him Lord and Cherisher. How can we blaspheme? We must serve Him, the One, the True, with sincere devotion, and follow His Law in its highest meaning or else the loss is our own. All nature proclaims aloud His Grace and Loving Kindness.

What distance separates the man whose heart is melted by the Message of Allah and enlightened by His Light, and let him who rejects Revelation! Allah teaches men by Parables. Straight is His Word and clear. Any doubts in the minds of men will be resolved after Death. Even now Allah's Signs are enough. No other can guide. Death and his twin brother sleep, are in the hands of Allah; to Him is our Goal. He Alone will judge in the end. His Will is all-in-all. No other thing can be of any account before His Law. But no soul need be in despair because of its sin. Allah's Forgiveness and Mercy are Unbounded. Turn to Allah in repentance now, for at Judgement it will be too late. Unity in worship and life is commanded by Allah. Go not astray. When Judgement comes, it will be a new World. In perfect justice will the followers of Evil be sorted out from the Good. And the righteous will rejoice, singing Praises to Allah with the Angels on high.

This Surah is called Ghafir (Forgiver). It is also called Al Mu'min (The Believer) from the story of the individual Believer among the people of Fir'aun, who declares his faith and looks to the future. Here it is about the Individual's witness to Faith and Virtue, and his triumph in the End. As to the precise meaning Ha Mim no authoritative explanation is available . If Mim here has a signification similar to Mim in Alif, Lam, Mim, it means the End of Things, the Last Day, and all these Surah's direct our special attention to the Ha, the emphatic guttural. in contrast with the softer breathing of Alif, may be meant to suggest that the Beginning is only for the End, the Present for the Future, and to emphasize the eschatological element in Faith. But this is mere conjecture, and should be taken for no more than it is worth.

Summary: - Faith is ever justified, for Allah forgives. Evil deeds must have Evil fruits for Allah knows and is Just. In all history Evil came to Evil; the protest of Faith, in the midst of Evil, may be ignored; but Faith is protected by Allah while Evil perishes. No doubt is there of the Future Judgement; the Power, Goodness, and Justice of Allah are manifest. Will man dispute or will he accept the Signs before it is too late? Travel in space and time, and you will see that Evil came to nothing but evil. Mighty men of old in arrogance plotted against Allah's Truth, but were brought low. A humble believer in Fir'aun's Court stood up for Truth, and counselled his People to obey the Right: In earnest humility did he address them. They heard him not. But he was saved, and they were engulfed in the Wrath of Allah. The keys of Life and Death are in the hands of Allah. Dispute not the Signs of Allah, but learn from History and the world around you. Science and skill avail you not if the soul is dead.

To prevent confusion with other Surahs of the Ha Mim Series, the word Sajdah is sometimes added to the title, making it Ha Mim al Sajdah, the title being necessary as there is another Surah called Al Sajdah. To avoid the double title it is sometimes called Fussilat, from the occurrence of the word in verse 3. For this particular Surah the theme is that the basis of Faith and Revelation is Allah's Power and Goodness, and the fruit of both is man's righteousness and healing.

Summary: - What is Revelation and Faith, and what is man's attitude to both, and what are its consequences? Revelation explains, and makes things clear. It gives the message of hope and mercy, and it warns men against the snares of Evil. Do not deny Allah, the Lord of the World's, Whose Glory and power are shown in Creation, and His Mercy in Revelation. Learn from the fate of the peoples of old! Learn from the warnings of our own nature. Your very limbs and faculties, if misused, bear witness against you. Repent before it is too late. The best of men is the man of faith, who calls all men to share his Faith. Knowledge belongs to Allah, but Falsehood deprives man of hope, humility, and clear sight, and drives him to hypocrisy. So turn to Truth, and live.

Summary: - The Contrast of blasphemy against Revelation, Unity and Faith as relying on the Signs and Mercy of Allah. Evil comes through men's own deeds, of which they cannot avoid the consequences, but Guidance comes through Allah's Mercy and Revelation. Inspiration is part of the Glory and Goodness of Allah. His Unity is shown in His Creation. Yet man will turn to false gods, and dispute about Religion. Faith has been one at all times. But sects and divisions rose through selfish contumacy. Let all contention cease, and conduct weighed by the just balance of Allah's Word. The Just and the Unjust will all be brought before Allah, Whose Mercy and Bounty are writ large in the Signs in His Marvellous Creation - one, yet diverse! What we call the ills of life is due to our own ill deeds; and many of them are forgiven by Allah. His Plan can never be frustrated. This life is but a stage of conscience. Live true and resist all wrong, but learn the best way to do so. Rely only on Allah, else no protector will you find. Allah's Revelation comes as a Guide and Mercy. It shows the Straight Way, the Way of Allah All-Wise.

This Surah deals with the contrasts between the real glory of Truth and Revelation and the false glitter of what people like to believe and worship. It cites the examples of Nabee Ebrahim A.S; Nabee Moosa A.S; and Nabee Esa A.S. as exposing the False and holding up the Truth. The keyword [Zukhruf, Gold Adornments) occurs in verse 35, but the idea occurs all through the Surah.

Summary: -The Book of Revelations makes things clear, even though the ignorant and foolish mock at it and ignore Allah's Signs: it will last, while its rejecters will perish will perish. Nabee Ebrahim exposed the falsehood of traditional worship: the glitter and adornments of this world will not last: what was the end of Fir'aun in his arrogant fight with Nabee Moosa A.S.? If Christians go back to Nabee Esa A.S.. he was but a man and a servant of Allah. He came to to still the jarring sects, not to create a new one. He preached the One True Creator, his Lord. So give up disputing and join in devotion to Allah. This is the Way to the Garden of Bliss, but the opposite leads to the Fire. Beware! the Truth has come, and Allah knows how you receive it. He is the Lord of power and mercy. The Truth must prevail: resist it not.

The theme of this particular Surah is how worldly pride and power are humbled in the dust if they resist spiritual forces, and how Evil and Good find their true setting in the Hereafter. The title word DUKHAN occurs in verse 10. It means smoke or mist, and may refer to a drought or famine. The "smoke" or "mist" is interpreted on good authority to refer to a severe famine in Makkah, in which men were pinched with hunger that they saw mist before their eyes when they looked at the sky. Ibn Kathir in his Tarikh mentions two famines in Makkah, one in 8th year of the mission, say the fourth year before the Hijrah, and another about the 8th year after the Hijrah. But as either or both of these famines lasted as many as seven years, the dates are to be taken very roughly. It is even possible that the two famines were continuous, of varying severity from year to year. Bukhari mentions only the post Hijrah famine, which was apparently so severe that men began to eat bones and carrion. Abu Sufyan (about 8 A.H.) approached the Nabee Sallallahoo Alayhi Wasallam to intercede and pray for the removal of the famine, as the Pagans attributed it to the curse of the Nabee S.A.W.

Summary: - Revelation explains clearly how worldly pride and arrogance may come to naught, even at long odds, against spiritual truths. A people may be given all blessings and may fall in its trust, as did the Bani Is'rail: will the Quraysh learn the lesson of Good and Evil? The children of Bani Is'rail were granted gifts and favours but they became arrogant and fell. Can the Quraysh escape the doom for sin? We created the world for just ends. The Day will come when good and evil will be sorted out. Each will meet the fruits of its own deeds. Give good heed to the Message revealed, and wait and watch.

Summary: - The title, Al Jathiyah ["The Kneeling Down" or "Bowing the Knee"] taken from verse 28, expresses the leading idea in the Surah. In this life, in spite of the Signs of Allah, and the evidence of His Goodness all around, men go about in Unfaith, and mocking at Faith, but the end will bring them all to their knees. The Signs of Allah are everywhere. His Power, Wisdom, and Goodness are shown through all creation and in revelation. How can man be so ungrateful as to reject true Guidance, reaping thus the fruits of evil? But men of Faith have patience and forgive their weaker brethren, and trust in the final justice of Allah. Form no sects, as was done aforetime, nor make your lusts your gods. The future is sure, and in the hands of Allah, to Whom all will bend the knee, when Truth will shine in all its glory. So praise and glory to Allah, the Lord and Cherisher of all the worlds.

Surah Al Tur is an early Makkan Surah. All Signs of Allah, including previous revelations and other sacred symbols, point out that Allah's Final Judgement will take place on the Day of Reckoning. The perpetrators of evil will be severely punished on that day while those who enjoined the good will reap the benefits of Allah's rewards. All Praise is due to none other than Allah and all the points raised by the disbelievers are without foundation. They have failed to grasp the Divine Message. Praise Allah in the stillness of the night and at the holy hour of dawn as the stars retreat, singing glory to the Maker of their own most glorious Sun.

Summary: - The impression received by the Nabee Sallallahoo Alayhi Wasallam in revelation is neither error on his part nor deception by others, nor does he speak from selfish motives. It comes clearly from Allah, Who is not what the vain imaginations of men conceive. He is All-in-All, First and Last, Lord of All, Ample in forgiveness. Those who turn away are petty and ignorant, not knowing that Allah is the source and goal of all things - in men, in nature, and in the events of history - therefore serve Him. He has created all of us, and knows all that we are. It is not for us to justify ourselves, but to offer ourselves totally as we are. Learn from His Revelation and Adore the Lord of your innermost soul.

Summary: - The Hour of Judgement is nigh, but men forget or reject the Message, as did the people of Nabee Nuh A.S., of 'Ad, of Thamud, of Nabee Lut A.S.; and of Fir'aun. Is there any that will receive admonition? Will the present generation learn wisdom by warning? Alas! Is there any that will truly receive admonition? The Righteous will dwell in the Gardens of Bliss - in joyful Assembly of realised Truth, in the Presence of their Sovereign Most High.

The majority of Commentators consider this an early Makkan Surah, though some consider at least a part of it dating from Madinah. The greater part of it is undoubtedly early Makkan. It is highly poetical and most sublime, and the refrain "Then which of the favours of your Lord will you deny?" is interspersed 31 times among its 78 verses. It is the sixth of the series of seven dealing with Revelation, the favours of Allah, and the Hereafter. Here the special theme is indicated by the refrain. The rhyme in most cases is the Dual grammatical form, and the Argument implies that though things are created in pairs, there is an underlying Unity, through the Creator, in the favours which He bestows, and in the goal to which they are marching.

Summary: - Allah Exalted and Most Gracious has sent Revelation, one of His greatest favours to mankind. His Creation is in pairs, well-balanced; all created things receive His Favours, but they will all pass away, and only Allah will endure through the ages. Ultimately all evil shall return to its destination, as well as all Good, but ever blessed is the name of Almighty Allah, Lord of Glory, Honour and Bounty. Which, then of the favours of your Lord will you deny?

This is the seventh and last Surah of the series devoted to Revelation and the Hereafter. It belongs to an early Makkan period, with the possible exception of one or two verses. The theme is certainly of the Day of Judgement and its adjustments of true Values. Allah's Power, Goodness and Glory, and the Truth of Revelation.

Summary: - When the Day of Judgement comes, the world as we know it will be shaken to its foundations, and mankind shall be sorted out into three sorts: Those nearest to Allah, in exalted Bliss; the Companions of the Right Hand, in Bliss; and the companions of the Left Hand, in Misery. Surely the Power and Goodness of Allah, of which Revelation is a Sign, should lead man to accept the Message and glorify Him. Glory and Praise to Allah the Beneficent, Supreme to Justice, Mercy and Truth!

With this Surah we have now studied the contents of nearly nine tenths of the Holy Qur'an. The comprehensive scheme of building up the new Ummah or Brotherhood and its spiritual implications is now complete. The remaining tenth of the Qur'an may be considered in two parts. The first contains ten Surahs i.e. Surahs 57 to 66 all revealed in Madinah, and each dealing with some special point which needs emphasis in the social life of the Ummah. The second i. e. Surah's 67 to 94 contains short Makkan lyrics, each dealing with some aspect of spiritual life, expressed in language of great mystic beauty. The present Madinah Surah is chiefly concerned with the spiritual humility and the avoidance of arrogance, and a warning that retirement from the world may not be the best way of seeking the Good Pleasure of Allah.

Tonight's Tarawee consists of Qad Sami-Allahu (JUZ 28) and the Surahs that will be covered are the following: Surah Al Mujadilah [The Woman Who Pleads]; Surah Al Hashr [The Mustering]; Surah Al Mumtahinah [ That Which Examines]; Surah Al Saff [The Battle Array]; Surah Al Juma'ah [Frida]; Surah Al Munafiqun [The Hypocrites]; Surah Al Taghabun [The Mutual Loss And Gain]; Surah Al Talaq [Divorce]; and Surah Al Tahrim [Prohibition].

Summary: - All false pretences, especially those that degrade a woman's position, are condemned - as well as secret consultations between men and intrigues with falsehood, mischief, and sedition. Observe order and decorum in public assemblies, and seek not in selfish pride to engage your leader's private attention. It is wrong to turn to the enemies of Allah for friendship. They make their oaths a cloak for wrongdoing, and keep back men from the Right. But none can resist the Power or the Judgement of Allah. The Righteous seek only His Good Pleasure, and rejoice therein as their highest Achievement.

The special theme of this Surah is how treachery to the Ummah on the part of its enemies recoils on the enemies themselves, while it strengthens the bond between the different sections of the Ummah itself, and this is illustrated by the story of the expulsion of the Jewish tribe of Banu al Nadr in Rabi' al Awwal, 4 A.H. This fixes the date of the Surah.

The point here is: What social relations are possible with the Unbelievers? A distinction is made between those who persecute you for your Faith and want to destroy you and your Faith, and those who have shown no such rancour. For the latter there is hope of mercy and forgiveness. The question of women and cross-marriages is equitably dealt with. The date is after the Pagans had broken the Treaty of Hudaybiyah about A.H. 8, not long after the conquest of Makkah.

Summary: - The enemies of your Faith, who would exterminate you and your Faith, are not fit objects of your love. Follow Nabee Ebrahim Alayhis Salaam's example. But with those Unbelievers who show no rancour, you should deal with kindness and justice: marriage between Believers and Unbelievers. Let not Believing women be handed over to Unbelievers. No marriage tie is lawful between them. When women wish to join your society, take their assurance that they yield not to sin or unbeseeming conduct. Take every care to keep your society free and pure, and self-contained.

Summary: - Allah's Glory shines through all Creation: but what discipline can you show to back your words with action? What story can you learn from the stories of Nabee Moosa and Nabee Esa Alayhim Salaam? Help the Cause, and Allah's Help will come with glorious results. Do you only mock and insult the messengers as they did of old? Nay, trust in Allah and strive your utmost in His Cause, little have you to give, but glorious is the reward that Allah will give you - now and in the Eternal Life to come!

Summary: - The Revelation has come among unlearned men, to teach purity and wisdom not only to them but to others, including those who may have an older Message but do not understand it: meet solemnly for the Assembly [Friday] Prayer, and let not worldly interests deflect you therefrom. Allah's care for His creatures is universal. His Revelation is for all - ignorant and lowly as well as learned and high placed - now and forever. None can arrogantly claim exclusive possession of Allah's Gifts; If they do, search their hearts within, and you will find them afraid of Death and Judgement. Men of Faith! On the Day of Assembly, when you hear the call, hasten earnestly to answer it: leave off business, and join in common worship and devotion. Then you may disperse about your ordinary business, but remember the Praises of Allah always. It is He alone that can provide for your every need, and His Gifts are the best.

The special feature here dealt with is the wiles and mischief of the Hypocrite element in any community, and the need of guarding against it and against the temptation it throws in the way of the Believers. The Battle of Uhud [Shawwal A.H. 3] unmasked the Hypocrites in Madinah. This Surah may be referred to some time after that event, say about 4 A.H. or possibly 5 A.H.

Summary: - False are the Oaths of the Hypocrites for they only seek selfish ends. Believers should beware of their wiles and strive devotedly always for the Cause. The Oaths of the Hypocrites are a screen for their misdeeds. They think they deceive with their fair exteriors and plausible talk, but their minds are impervious to the real Truth. They may plot to withhold from men of Allah such things of this world as they may command. They may plot to expel and persecute the righteous; they may call them ill names and slight them. But to Allah belongs the treasures of the heavens and the earth, and He will bestow according to His Wise and universal Plan. Let not the world's foolish craze divert the Believers from the service of Allah - from good deeds and Charity. Now is the time: all vain will be your pleas and your regrets when the shadow of Death cuts off your last chance of Repentance!

Summary: - Both the Unbelievers and the Believers were created but the One True Creator, Who created all and knows all. Why should Unbelief and Evil exult in worldly gain when their loss will be as manifest in the Hereafter as will the gains of the Believers? The Gainers here will be the losers there, and the Losers Gainers. Some of this exchange you will see even here, in this life, for Unbelievers who deny the Hereafter; but in the Hereafter, full account and true adjustment of good and ill will follow before the Judgement Seat: Nay, Good will get more than its full reward: for Allah is Bounteous, Merciful, Mighty, Wise.

The aspect dealt with here is Divorce, and the necessity of precautions to guard against its abuse. The relations of the sexes are an important factor in the social life of the Community, and this Surah as well as the following Surah deal with certain aspects of it. "Of all things permitted by Law", said our Beloved Nabee Sallallahoo Alayhi Wasallam, "divorce is the most hateful in the sight of Allah". [Abu Dawud, Sunan, 13.3] While the sanctity of marriage is the essential basis of family life, the incompatibility of individuals and the weaknesses of human nature require certain outlets and safeguards if that sanctity is not to be made into a fetish at the expense of human life. That is why the question of Divorce is in this Surah linked with the question of insolent impiety and its punishment.

Summary: - Provision to be made for women in case of Divorce, insolent impiety always leads to punishment.. Use all the precautions to protect the interests of unborn or newborn lives as well as social decency; and close not to the last door of reconciliation. Allah's Laws must be obeyed: It is man's own loss if he is deaf to the voice which teaches him, or blind to the Light which guides him. Allah's universe of beauty and wonder stands strong in wisdom; Let man but tune himself thereto.

Summary: - The failings of the weaker sex should not turn away men from normal social life: harmony and mutual confidence should be taught and enforced, and Allah's blessing will descend on the virtuous even if their lot is cast with the wicked. Respect each other's confidence, and if you fail, repent and make amends. The good man seeks virtue for himself and his family. If Evil is yoked to Good, it must take the fruit of its own deeds; the worldly tie will profit naught; but good should firmly make a stand and will be saved, for Allah does care for All His true devoted Servants.

Tonight's Tarawee consists of Tabarakalladhi (JUZ 29). The Surahs that will be covered are: Surah Al Mulk [The Dominion]; Surah Al Qalam [The Pen] or Nun; Surah Al Haqqah [The Sure Reality]; Surah Al Ma'arij [The Ways of Ascent]; Surah Nuh [Noah}; Surah Al Jinn [The Spirits]; Surah Al Muzammil {The Enfolded One]; Surah Al Muddaththir [The One Wrapped Up]; Surah Al Qiyamah [The Resurrection]; Surah Al Insa [Man] or Al Dahr [The Time]; and Surah Al Mursalat [Those Sent Forth].

This Surah of 30 verses belongs to the Middle Makkan period. Allah is mentioned here by the name of Al Rahman [Most Gracious], as He is mentioned by the names of Al Rabb [Lord and Cherisher] and Al Rahman [Most Gracious] in Surah 19. Lordship is right and in fact belongs to Allah Most Gracious, Whose Goodness and Glory and Power are writ large on all His Creation. The beauty and order of the heavens above us proclaim Him. Then who can reject His Call but those in pitiful delusion? And who can fail to accept, that truly knows himself and the mighty Reality behind him? The earth and the good things thereof are prepared for man by his Gracious and Exalted Lord, Who guards him from hourly dangers. Who sustains the wonderful flight of the birds in midair? Above, and below, and in midair can we see His boundless Signs. We know that His Promise of the Hereafter is true. The spring and source of the goodness of things is in Him, and will appear triumphant when the Hour is established.

Our Nabee S.A.W. was the sanest and wisest of men. Those who could not understand him called him mad or possessed. So, in every age, it is the habit of the world to call Truth Falsehood and Wisdom Madness, and, on the other hand, to exalt Selfishness as Planning, and Arrogance as Power. The contrast is shown up between the two kinds of men and their real inner worth. True Judgement comes from Allah, and not from the false standards of men. The Pen is the symbol of the permanent Record, the written Decree, the perfect Order in the government of the world. And by that token, the man of Allah comes with a Plan and Guidance that must win against all detraction. Truth is high above Slander. But men must be tried against selfishness and overweening confidence in themselves such as would lead them to forget Allah and His Providence - like the brothers who built castles in the air above their garden and found it desolate in one night's storm. But repentance brought them forgiveness: Thus work the Wrath and the Mercy of Allah.

In this fleeting world few things are what they seem. What then is sure Reality? Nations and men in the past assumed arrogance and perished because they were unjust, but that destruction was but a foretaste of the Doom to come in the Hereafter, when all creation will be on a new plane, and true values will be fully established. To the Righteous will be Bliss, and to Evil, Punishment. The word of Revelation is not a Poet's imagination or a Soothsayer's groping into the future. It is Allah's Own Message, of Mercy to the Righteous, and warning to those who reject the Truth. Praise and Glory to the name of Allah Most High.

Patience and the mystery of Time will show the ways that climb to Heaven. Sin and Goodness must each eventually come to its own. Man can ascend to the Presence of Allah, but by gradual Ways and in process of Time. But what is Time? A Day is as fifty Thousand years, on two different planes. What seems near is far, and what seems far is near. So will Judgement be, when things as we know them will be transformed completely in a world all new. Evil will come to its own, whatever its masks in this transitory world. And Good will surely reach its goal. The good life is patient, in prayer and well-doing, Faith and the earnest search for the Good Pleasure of Allah, purity and probity. These are the Paths to the Heights and the Gardens of Bliss. No Evil can enter there: For the evil are other ways, leading by steep descent to dark Ignominy!

The theme is that while Good must uphold the standard of Truth and Righteousness, a stage is reached when it must definitely part company with Evil, lest Evil should spread its corruption. The story of Hazrat Nuh Alayhis Salaam's agony is almost a Parable for the prosecution of our Beloved Nabee Sallallahoo Alayhi Wasallam in the Makkan period by the Pagans.

Two years before the Hijrah, when the Nabee S.A.W; despised and rejected in his native city of Makkah went to the lordly men of Ta'if, they maltreated him and nearly killed him. What caused him greater pain was the maltreatment of the humble and lowly men who went with him. On his return journey to Makkah, a glorious vision was revealed to him - hidden spiritual forces working for him - people not known to him accepting his mission while his own people were still rejecting him. Within two months some strangers from Madinah had privately met him and laid the foundations of that Hijrah which was to change the fate of Arabia and the course of world history.

The subject matter is the significance of Prayer and Humility in spiritual life and the terrible fate of those who reject Faith and Revelation. Devote yourself to the service of Allah in the stillness of the night, but not all night. In the world's persecution rely on Allah, Who will deal with His enemies fittingly. Let not Allah's service be a matter of difficulty to you: do all your duties in whole-hearted remembrance of Allah, and ever seek His bountiful Grace.

The subject matter of this Surah is similar to the one before it. Prayer and Praise, and the need of patience in a period of great spiritual stress: the unjust who cause sorrow and suffering now will themselves experience agony in the Hereafter. The Seer, by devotion and contemplation, prepares himself for the duties of Guide and Leader to mankind. When there comes the clear Call, he must stand forth and Proclaim the Message - in purity, unselfish devotion, and patience long-suffering - to save mankind from the Distress of the Final Day.

The subject matter of the Surah is the Resurrection, viewed from the point of view of Man, especially unregenerate Man, as he is now, and as he will be then, his inner and psychological history. Eschew all Evil: for man was not created without purpose or without responsibility. The Day of Account will come, and his own conscience bears witness that he must walk straight; for he must face the Realities of That Day. With patience await the unfolding of Allah's view. Woe unto man that he thinks not now of Allah's Purpose and the noble Destiny for which Allah gave him Life and all its Gifts.

Its theme is the contrast between the two classes of men, those who choose good and those who choose evil, with special reference to the former. The title of the Surah recalls a Pagan Arab idea, which personified Time as existing spontaneously from eternity to eternity and responsible for the misery or the happiness of mankind. In Verse 45 of Surah Al Jathiyah we read: "They say.....nothing but Time can destroy us." This attitude is of course wrong. Time is a created thing: it has its mysteries, but it is no more eternal than matter. It is also relative to our conceptions and not absolute. It is only Allah Who is Self Subsisting, Eternal from the beginning and Eternal to the end, the absolute Existence and Reality; We must not transfer His Attributes to any figment of our imagination. This deification of Time [Dahr] as against a living personal God has given rise to the term dariyah, as applied to an atheist or a materialist. The Righteous are patient in Constant Devotion: Allah's Way is open to all. Whosoever has the Will, may attain to the Perfect Goal.

The theme of this Surah is similar to that of Surah Al Qiyamah. It denounces the horrors of the Hereafter, for those who rejected Truth. The refrain, "Ah woe, that Day, to the Rejecters of Truth!" which occurs ten times in its fifty verses, or, on an average, once in every five verses, indicates the leitmotif. Will man not learn from his own little story, or from nature around him? The Blazing Fire will be indeed an enveloping Punishment. How dreadful the contrast with the Bliss of the Righteous! Learn, you, therefore, Humility, and approach Allah's Throne in Repentance and Earnest Endevour.

The Great News for man, in his spiritual destiny, is the Day of Judgement to come, the Day of Sorting Out. It sets forth Allah's Loving Care in a fine nature passage, and deduces from it the Promise of the Future, when Evil will be destroyed and Good will come to its own: and invites all who have the will to seek refuge with their Exalted and Most Gracious Lord.

This Surah deals with the theme of Judgement from the point of of Pride and its Fall. The Parable of Fir'aun occupies a central place in the argument.He flouted Allah's Message specially sent to him, and arrogantly proclaimed: "I am your Lord Most High!" He perished in this life and will answer for his deeds in the next.

Men who are not blessed with the good things of this life may yet be earnest seekers of Truth and Purity, and deserve as much attention as those who seem to wield some influence, yet who in their pride are self-sufficient. Allah's Message is universal and all have a right to hear it. The Surah recapitulates the Mercies of Allah to mankind, and the consequences of a good pr a wicked life here, as seen in the spiritual world to come, in the Hereafter.

The Surah opens up with a series of highly graphic images portraying the break-up of the world as we know it [verses 1-13] and the enforcement of complete personal responsibility for each soul [verse 14]. This is followed by a passage showing how the Qur'anic Revelation was true, and revealed through Sayyidina Jibra'eel Amin Alayhis Salaam, and not a rhapsody from one possessed. Revelation is given for mankind's spiritual guidance in verses 14 to 29.

In subject matter this Surah is cognate to the last, though the best authorities consider it a good deal later in chronology in the early Makkan period. Its argument is subject to the threefold interpretation as referring (1) to the Day of Judgement, (2) to the Lesser Judgement, on an individual's death, and (3) to the awakening of the Inner Light in the soul at any time, that being considered as Death to the Falsities of this Life and a Rebirth to the true Spiritual Reality.

This Surah is close in time to the last one and the next one. It condemns all fraud - in daily dealings, as well as and especially in matters of Religion and higher spiritual life which will be exposed to view at Judgement, however hidden they may be in this life. Give everyone his due for the record of ill deeds and good is fully kept, and the stains of sin corrupt the soul. Reject not Real Now, nor mock for the time will come when the True will come to its own, and then the mighty arrogant will be abased.

The subject matter is the protection afforded to every soul in the darkest period of its spiritual history, The physical nature of man may be insignificant, but the soul given to him by Allah must win a glorious Future in the end. Through the darkest night comes a penetrating light of a glorious Star. Such is the power of Revelation: it protects and guides the erring. For what is man? But a creature of flesh and bones! But Allah by His Power doth raise man's state to a Life Beyond! - when lo! All things hidden will be made plain. Man's help will then be but the Word of Allah, which none can thwart. So wait with gentle patience - for His Decision.

The argument is that Allah has made man capable of progress by ordered steps, and by His Revelation will lead him still higher to purification and perfection. Let us look to the Eternal Goal, with hearts and souls of Purity, and glorify His Name: For in this changing, fleeting world, His Word is always True, and will remain through all the ages, ever the same.

Its mystic meaning is suggested by contrasts - contrasts in nature and in man's long history. Thus does it enforce the lesson of Faith in the Hereafter to "those who understand". Man's history and legendary lore show that greatness does not last and the proudest are brought low. For enforcing moral and spiritual truths, the strictest history is no better than legend. Indeed all artistic history is legend, for it is written from a special point of view. Man is easily cowed by contrasts in his own fortunes, and yet he does not learn from them the lesson of forbearance and kindness to others, and the final elevation of goodness in the Hereafter. When all the things on which his mind and heart are set on this earth shall be crushed to nothingness, he will see the real glory and power, love and beauty, of Allah, for these are the light of the Garden of Paradise.

This Surah refers to the mystic relation (by Divine sanction) of the Nabee Sallallahoo Alayhi Wasallam with the City of Makkah. The Prophet's own City persecuted him. Honoured by his nativity, it sought to slay him. Yet he loved it and purged it of all that was wrong. What toil and struggle did it not involve? Man is made for toil and struggle. Let him not boast of ease and wealth. He will be called to account for all his doings. Let him use his God-given faculties, and tread the steep path that leads to Heaven's Heights: The steps thereto are Love, unselfish Love, given freely to Allah's creatures - all those in need - and Faith in Allah, and Patience joined with self-restraint and kindness. Thus only can we reach the ranks of the blessed Companions of the Right Hand!

Beginning with a fine nature passage, and leading up to man's need of realising his spiritual responsibility, it ends with a warning of the terrible consequences for those who fear not the Hereafter. Allah gave the soul the power of choice and the sense of Right and Wrong. Let man keep it pure and attain salvation. Soil it with sin and reach perdition. Inordinate wrongdoing ruined the Thamud. They defied Allah's Sacred Law and His Prophet, and went to Destruction for their crime.

Here we are told to to strive our utmost towards Allah, and He will give us every help and satisfaction. When we consider Allah's Wonderful Creation, we see many mysteries - many opposites - many differences; the succession of nights and days, the creation of male and female. Can we wonder at the differences in the nature and objectives of man? He is endowed with Will, and he must strive for the Right through all his diverse paths. For the Righteous, the way is made the smoother for bliss: for the arrogant crooked will, the way is the smoother for Misery. But Allah's Guidance is always near if man will choose it. And what is the goal for those who choose aright? The sight of the Face of Allah Most High: For that indeed is happiness supreme.

In this Surah the vicissitudes of human life are referred to, and a message of hope and consolation is given to man's soul from Allah's past mercies, and he is bidden to pursue the path of goodness and proclaim the bounties of Allah. This is the general meaning. In particular, the Surah seems to have been revealed in a dark period in the outer life of the Nabee Sallallahoo Alayhi Wasallam, when a man of less resolute will might have been discouraged. But the Nabee S.A.W. is told to hold the present of less account than the glorious Hereafter which awaited him like the glorious morning after a night of stillness and gloom. The Hereafter was, not only in the Future Life, but his later life on this earth, full of victory and satisfaction.

This short Surah gives a message of hope and encouragement in a time of darkness and difficulty. It was revealed to the Nabee S.A.W. soon after the last Surah [Al Duha], whose argument it supplements. The Nabee S.A.W.'s mind and heart had indeed been expanded and purified; the burden which pressed on his soul had been removed; and his name exalted in this world and the next. For the righteous man there is no trouble but is linked with ease and joy; he must strive at every stage, and look to Allah Alone as the goal of all his hopes.

This Surah appeals to the most sacred symbols to show that Allah created man in the best of moulds, but that man is capable of the utmost degradation unless he has Faith and leads a good life. Nature and history and the Light of Revelation, through the ages, show that man, created by Allah can fall to the lowest depths, unless he lives a life of faith and righteousness. Then will he reach his goal: if not he must stand his Judgement - none can doubt - before the Wisest and Justest of Judges.

Verses 1 to 5 were the first direct Revelation to the Nabee S.A.W. Noble is the Mission of the Nabee S.A.W; selected to proclaim the Message of Allah, the Lord and Cherisher of all His Creation, Whose measureless bounties include the instruction of man in new and ever new knowledge. But alas for man! he fancies himself self-sufficient, turns away from the Path, and misleads others. But nothing is hidden from Allah. He will bring all untruth and sin in rebellion to Judgement, and subdue all evil. The righteous bow in adoration to Allah, and draw closer to Him.

The subject matter is the mystic Night of Power [or Honour], in which Revelation comes down to a benighted world - it may be to the wonderful Cosmos of an individual - and transforms the conflict of wrongdoing into Peace and Harmony - through the agency of the angelic host, representing the spiritual powers of Mercy of Allah, and bless every nook and corner of the heart! All jars are stilled in the reign supreme of Peace, until this mortal night gives place to the glorious day of an immortal world!

The Hour of Judgement must needs be heralded by a mighty Convulsion. The earth will give up her secrets and tell her tale of all man's doing. Men will march in companies and clearly see the inwardness of all their deeds. Not an atom of Good or Evil done, but will be shown in the final account of men convinced.

Its subject matter is the irresistible nature of spiritual power and knowledge, contrasted with unregenerate man's ingratitude, pettiness, helplessness, and ignorance. There are those that fight with eager charge, the hosts of evil, and storm its citadel. But unregenerate Man shows less than gratitude for Allah's most gracious Bounties. His life bears witness to his treason and his greed. Allah's Knowledge is all-embracing. All things hidden will be laid bare at Judgement.

This Makkan Surah describes Judgement Day as the Day of Clamour, when mankind will be distracted and the landmarks of this world will be lost, but every deed will be weighed in a just balance, and find its real value and setting. Those whose good deeds will show substance and weight will achieve a Life of good pleasure and satisfaction, while those whose good will be light will find themselves Alas, in a blazing Pit of Punishment.

Let no man be intoxicated with power or material resources. They cannot defeat the purpose of Allah. So Abrahah Ashram fired by religious fanaticism led a large expedition against Makkah intending to destroy the Ka'bah with his elephant or elephants. A shower of stones, thrown by flocks of birds, destroyed him and his army almost to a man. The stones produced sores and pustules on the skin, which spread like a pestilence.

This Makkan Surah may well be considered as a pendant to the last. If the Quraysh were fond of Makkah and proud of it, if they profited, by its central position and it guaranteed security, from their caravans of trade and commerce, let them be grateful, adore the One True Creator and accept His Message. Who gave the Quraysh their talents for the arts of peace, for trade, for commerce and for journeys south and north at proper seasons, and made their home inviolable in Makkah? Surely they, if any, should adore their Lord and listen to His Message of Unity and Truth.

The subject matter is the meaning of true worship, which requires Faith, the practical and helpful love of those in need, and sincerity rather than show in devotion and charity.What remains if you deny all Faith and personal responsibility? Why then help the helpless or teach others deeds of charity? Vain were worship without heart and soul. What do you think of men who make great show, but fail to meet the simple needs of daily life?

This Surah sums up in the single mystic word Kawthar [Abundance] the doctrine of spiritual Riches through devotion and sacrifice. The converse also follows: indulgence in hatred means the cutting off of all hopes of this life and the Hereafter. To the man of Allah, rich in divine blessings, is granted a Fountain unfailing, they will quench the spiritual thirst of millions. Turn, then, in devotion and sacrifice to Allah, nor heed the venom of Hatred, which destroys its own hopes, alas, of the present and the future!

This Surah defines the right attitude to those who reject Faith. In matters of Truth we can make no sacrifices, but there is no need to persecute or abuse anyone for his faith or belief. The man of Faith holds fast to his faith, because he knows it is true. The man of the world, rejecting Faith, clings hard to worldly interests. Let him mind his worldly interests, but let him not force his interests on men sincere and true, by favour, force, or fraud.

This beautiful Surah was the last of the Surahs to be revealed as a whole, though the portion of the verse 3 of Surah Al Ma'idah: "This day have I perfected your religion for you" etc., contains probably the last words of the Holy Qur'an to be revealed. The date of this Surah was only a few months before the passing away of the Beloved Nabee S.A.W. from this world, Rabi 1, A.H. 11. The place was either the precincts of Makkah at his Farewell Hajj, Dhu al Hijjah A.H. 10, or Madinah after his return from the Farewell Hajj. Victory is the crown of service, not an occasion for exultation. All victory comes from the help of Allah. Praise and Glory belongs only to Allah: to Him we humbly Turn and pray for Grace, for He is oft-Returning in Grace and Mercy.

"Abu Lahab: "Father of Flame" - was the nickname of an uncle of the Nabee S.A.W; from his fiery hot temper and his ruddy complexion. He was one of the most inveterate enemies of early Islam. When the Nabee S.A.W. called together the Quraysh and his own family members to come and listen to his preaching and his warning against the sins of the people, the "Father of Flame" flared up and cursed the Nabee S.A.W. saying "Perdition to Thee!" This Surah carries the general lesson that cruelty ultimately ruins itself. The man who rages against holy things is burnt up in his own rage. His hands, which are the instruments of his action, perish, and he perishes himself. No boasted wealth or position will save him. The curses, insults, threats and spite, harmed not the innocent, but hit the wrondoers themselves and branded them with eternal infamy!

The nature of Allah is here indicated to us in a few words, such as we can understand. Here we are specially taught to avoid the pitfalls into which men and nations have fallen at various times in trying to understand Allah. Keep Faith all pure and undefiled. There is Allah, the One and Only; Eternal, Free from all needs; on Whom depend, to Whom go back all things; He hath no son nor father nor partner. There is no one like unto him.

In Allah's Created World, there are all kinds of forces and counter forces, especially those put in motion by beings who have been endowed with some sort of will. The forces of Good may be compared to light, and those of evil to darkness. Allah can cleave the depths of darkness and produce light (Surah Al An'am verse 96], and therefore we should cast off fear and take refuge in Divine Guidance and Goodness. Banish fear, and trust His Providence. No danger, the, from the outer world, no secret plottings from perverted wills, no disturbance of your happiness or good, can effect the fortress of your inmost soul.

The previous Surah pointed to the necessity of seeking Allah's protection against external factors which might affect an individual. Here the need for protection from internal factors, mankind being viewed as a whole, is pointed out. This Surah is a pendant to the last Surah, and concludes the Most Glorious and Holy Qur'an with an appeal to us to trust in Almighty Allah Rabbul 'Aala'meen, rather than man, as our sure shield and protection. It warns us specially against the secret whispers of evil within our own hearts.