Surah
Juz
The evidence within the text, specifically in verses 27-31 and 34-48, strongly indicates that this Surah was revealed in the final phase of the Prophet's ﷺ mission in Makkah, aligning with the timeframe of Surahs 7 (The Elevations), 10 (Jonah), and 11 (Hud). During this crucial period, the Prophet ﷺ faced various schemes devised by his adversaries to undermine his mission. Concurrently, there were hopes among his followers for miraculous interventions to guide the disbelievers. In response, God conveyed to the believers that His approach doesn't involve coercing people through miracles. Believers were encouraged not to lose heart, as God allows the adversaries of truth enough room to expose their own falsehoods. While God affirmed His capability to display extraordinary signs, including the resurrection of the dead and making them speak, it was emphasised that such miracles wouldn't sway the stubborn disbelievers. Even in the face of these miraculous possibilities, the disbelievers would find excuses to deny them (verse 31). These conclusive points distinctly establish that this Surah was revealed in the later stages of the Prophet's ﷺ mission in Makkah.
The first verse of this Surah clearly states its main theme: Muhammad's ﷺ message is undeniably true, and it's the people's own fault for rejecting it. This idea is central to the entire Surah. In various ways, the Surah emphasises that the core elements of the message—Monotheism (Tawhid), Resurrection, and Prophethood—are unquestionably real. The sincere belief in these components is crucial for one's moral and spiritual well-being. A warning is given that rejecting these truths would lead to their own ruin because disbelief (Kufr) is foolish and ignorant. The Surah aims not only to convince the intellect but also to touch the hearts, urging them to embrace the faith. It doesn't just present logical arguments supporting the truth of the message and refuting misconceptions. At strategic points, it compassionately appeals to their hearts, cautioning them about the consequences of disbelief and offering the joyful rewards of faith. This approach seeks to persuade stubborn people to abandon their resistance. Additionally, the Surah addresses the objections of the opponents without explicitly mentioning them. It addresses doubts that hinder the acceptance of the message or are raised by opponents. Simultaneously, it provides comfort and instils hope and courage in the Believers who have endured a long and challenging trial and are eagerly awaiting God's assistance.
