Surah
Juz
The subject matter of this Surah indicates that it is one of the earliest revelations. Verse 6, which reassures the Prophet ﷺ about reciting and remembering the Quran, suggests it was revealed at a time when he was still getting used to receiving revelations and feared forgetting them. When comparing this verse with others like verse 114 of Surah Ta Ha and verses 16-19 of Surah Al-Qiyamah, it seems a sequence of events unfolded. Initially, the Prophet ﷺ was comforted, being told that he would recite without forgetting. Later, during the revelation of Surah Al-Qiyamah, when he started to recite hastily, he was instructed to listen carefully and not rush. Finally, during the revelation of Surah Ta Ha, he began memorising verses out of fear of forgetting, and was then instructed not to rush the recitation until the revelation was complete. After these instances, there are no further references in the Quran regarding this matter.
This short Surah covers three main themes: monotheism, guidance for the Prophet ﷺ, and the Hereafter. In the first verse, the importance of glorifying God's name is emphasised, highlighting that He should be remembered by names that reflect His perfection and greatness, avoiding any names that suggest weakness or similarity to creation. This correction of belief is essential for establishing true monotheism. The following verses describe God's power and role as the Creator and Sustainer of the universe. It emphasises His ability to create, proportion, and control all things, from vegetation to the changing seasons. This serves as a reminder of His unmatched power and sovereignty. The Prophet ﷺ is then reassured that he will be guided to remember the Quran, emphasising that its preservation in his memory is a result of divine favour, not his own merit. He is reminded that his duty is to convey the truth, and those who are receptive to it will accept it willingly. The Surah concludes by emphasising the importance of purity in belief, morals, and actions, along with the remembrance of God and the performance of prayer. It contrasts the fleeting pleasures of the world with the eternal blessings of the Hereafter, a message reiterated in the scriptures of previous prophets like Abraham and Moses.
