Surah
Juz
Surah Abasa's occasion of revelation is well-documented by commentators and traditionalists. It occurred when some influential leaders of Makkah were in the Prophet's ﷺ assembly, and he was earnestly trying to persuade them to accept Islam. At this moment, a blind man named Ibn Umm Maktum approached the Prophet ﷺ seeking guidance on a matter related to Islam. The Prophet ﷺ, preoccupied with the leaders, ignored him (without him knowing), which displeased God, leading to the revelation of this Surah. This incident provides historical context and helps determine the period of revelation. Ibn Umm Maktum was among the earliest converts to Islam, indicating that this event happened during the early stages of Islam in Makkah. Additionally, various hadiths suggest that Ibn Umm Maktum either had already accepted Islam or was inclined to do so, acknowledging the Prophet ﷺ as a Messenger of God and the Quran as a divine book. Moreover, the presence of prominent Makkah chiefs in the assembly, including bitter enemies of Islam like Abu Jahl and Umayyah bin Khalaf, suggests that the incident occurred when they were still engaging with the Prophet ﷺ before their antagonism towards Islam intensified. Overall, these details support the conclusion that Surah Abasa is one of the earliest revelations in Makkah.
Surah Abasa opens with what appears to be an expression of displeasure towards the Prophet ﷺ for his treatment of the blind man, seemingly prioritising the wealthy chiefs of Quraysh over him. However, upon a deeper examination of the entire Surah, it becomes evident that the real target of this displeasure is the disbelieving Quraysh, who arrogantly rejected the Prophet's ﷺ message of truth. The Surah not only teaches the Prophet ﷺ the correct method of preaching but also highlights the error in his initial approach. His attention to the Quraysh chiefs over the blind man was not due to a belief in the superiority of the wealthy or disdain for the poor. Rather, like any caller to Truth, he sought to gain the support of influential figures to facilitate his mission. However, God made it clear that every seeker of truth, regardless of status or wealth, is important, while those who reject the truth are insignificant, regardless of their social standing. From verses 1 to 16, the Surah emphasises that the Prophet's ﷺ message is noble and sublime, deserving to be conveyed to all, regardless of their status. The focus should be on those inclined to accept the truth, rather than pandering to the arrogance of those who deem themselves superior. From verse 17 onwards, the Surah directly rebukes the disbelievers for their rejection of the Prophet's ﷺinvitation. They are reproached for their arrogance towards their Creator and warned of the dire consequences they will face on the Day of Resurrection due to their conduct.
