Surah
Juz
There's no specific hadith detailing when the incident of pleading and arguing mentioned in this Surah occurred. However, based on the Surah's content, it likely happened after the Battle of the Trench (Shawwal, 5 A.H.). In Surah 33: al-Ahzab (The Confederates), God mentioned that adopting a son doesn't make them a real son but didn't elaborate further. However, in this Surah, detailed laws about divorce by Zihar are given, indicating that these laws were revealed after the brief mention in Surah 33. The surah's name is related to an incident when a woman pleaded with the Prophet ﷺ about her husband. She was complaining about a pre-islamic custom where a man would become angry and utter a phrase called Zihar (calling his wife as his mother) where the wife would be semi-divorced. She would be either his wife or remarry another person.
In this Surah, Muslims are given guidance on various issues they faced at that time. It begins with legal instructions about Zihar until verse 6, warning Muslims against following pre-Islamic customs after embracing Islam. Hypocrites are criticised in verses 7-10 for plotting against the Prophet ﷺ and harbouring ill will towards him, similar to the Jews. Muslims are comforted, advised to trust in God despite hypocritical whispers, and reminded to discuss goodness, not sin, in private conversations. Verse 11-13 teaches manners and addresses social issues. It condemns selfish behaviour in gatherings, urging inclusivity for newcomers. It also criticises overstaying during visits, disrespecting hosts' time, and whispering to the Prophet ﷺ without cause. God commands rising from assemblies when asked and instructs those seeking private consultations with the Prophet ﷺ to give charity first, aiming to curb improper behaviour. From verse 14 onward, the Surah clarifies the criterion for sincerity in Islam. It distinguishes between two types of Muslims: those who side with Islam's enemies for personal gain and spread doubts about Islam, and those who prioritise God's religion over family ties and relationships. The latter are deemed true Muslims, while the former, despite outward claims, align more with Satan's camp. True success and divine approval are reserved for those genuinely devoted to God's cause.
