Surah
Juz
The content and style of this Surah indicate that it was revealed during the middle period of Muhammad's ﷺ time in Makkah. According to Ibn Abbas, Surah 20, Ta-Ha, was revealed first, followed by Surah 56, Al-Waqi'ah (The Occurrence), and then Surah 26, Ash-Shu'ara' (The Poets).
This Surah addresses the persistent refusal of the disbelievers in Makkah to accept the Prophet's ﷺ message. Despite the Prophet's ﷺ efforts to provide rational arguments and proofs of his Prophethood, the disbelievers remained stubborn and resistant. The Surah begins by consoling the Prophet ﷺ, encouraging him not to be distressed by their rejection. It emphasises that the disbelievers' refusal is not due to a lack of signs but rather stems from their obstinacy and unwillingness to heed reason. The Surah suggests that with time, these individuals will recognise the truth revealed to them. The Surah unfolds with a continuous theme, asserting that signs of truth are prevalent throughout the Earth. These signs are twofold: natural signs within the universe, which any intelligent person can contemplate to recognize the truth, and miracles granted to the Prophets to establish the authenticity of their messages. The Surah draws parallels between the disbelievers in Makkah and the ancient tribes whose histories are recounted. The narrative underscores the similarities in mentality, objections, excuses, and the ultimate fate of those who persistently rejected the Prophets' ﷺ teachings. Although the surah is, by number of verses, one of the biggest, it actually is not in length - the verses are very short. It has a rhyming sequence with a repetitive verse throughout the stories mentioned - "There truly is a sign in this, though most of them do not believe: your Lord alone is the Almighty, the Merciful". Additionally, the Surah questions the disbelievers directly, urging them to reflect on the Quran presented in their own language. It prompts them to consider the Prophet's ﷺ exemplary moral conduct and the nature of the revelations. The Surah raises critical inquiries, such as why the disbelievers persist in asking for punishment, why they do not ponder the Quran, and whether the revelations could be the work of Satan or the Prophet ﷺ is a sorcerer. It challenges them to abandon disbelief and search their hearts for the truth, reminding them of the consequences of cruelty and injustice. In essence, the Surah provides a comprehensive and detailed response to the disbelievers' objections and doubts, emphasising the abundance of signs and the consistency of their rejection throughout history. It aims to encourage reflection, contemplation, and a sincere search for the truth among those who are still resistant to the Prophet's ﷺ message.
