Surah
Juz
The contents of this Surah indicate that it was revealed after the Hijrah in Medina, when the command to engage in fighting was given, though actual combat had not yet begun. During this time, Muslims faced severe persecution and oppression, particularly in Mecca and across Arabia, making life unbearable for them. Despite seeking refuge in Medina, the Quraysh continued to harass them, determined to wipe them out entirely. The only options for Muslims were to either surrender to the forces opposing their faith or to fight for their beliefs, even at the risk of their lives, to establish Islam in Arabia once and for all. God guided the Muslims to show determination and resolve in this challenging situation, emphasising the necessity of fighting. However, it was a daunting task considering the small number of Muslims in Medina, who lacked the resources and manpower to engage in warfare against the vast pagan forces of Arabia. Additionally, the town struggled to afford the necessary weapons and supplies for its soldiers, as many emigrants were still without homes or means of sustenance due to economic boycotts imposed by surrounding tribes.
The surah's main theme is to ready the Believers for war and to provide them with initial instructions for it. That's why it's also called "al-Qital," meaning "the fighting." It covers the following points: - It starts by stating that there are two groups: one rejects the Truth and obstructs others from God's path, while the other accepts the Truth revealed to Muhammad ﷺ. God's decision is to nullify the efforts of the former group and support the latter. - The Surah then gives Muslims initial instructions for war, assuring them of God's help and promising rewards for their sacrifices in His cause, both in this life and the Hereafter. - It warns the disbelievers that they lack God's support and their plans will fail, leading to a terrible fate in this world and the Hereafter. Their success in driving the Prophet ﷺ out of Mecca only hastened their downfall. - The focus shifts to the hypocrites, who pretended to be sincere Muslims before the command to fight but conspired with disbelievers when it was issued. They are warned that hypocrisy is unacceptable to God, and true belief means siding with Islam and Muslims over disbelief. - Muslims are encouraged not to lose heart despite their small numbers and limited resources. They're urged to trust in God and confront the powerful forces of disbelief without seeking peace, as victory belongs to them and disbelief will be defeated. - Finally, Muslims are invited to spend their wealth in God's cause, despite their economic weakness at the time. It's emphasised that stinginess will lead to destruction, as God doesn't need human help, and He can replace those who neglect their duty with others willing to sacrifice for His religion.
