About the Surah

In the name of Allah, the Entirely Merciful, the Especially Merciful.

       Whatsoever is in the heavens and on the earth glorifies Allah, the Sovereign (of all things), the Holy, the All-Mighty, the All-Wise.

       He sent among the illiterate (Arabs) a messenger [Muhammad (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him)] from among themselves who recites to them His Verses and purifies them (from disbelief, and poor manners) and teaches them the Quran and Wisdom (i.e. Sunnah). And, indeed, before this, they were in an obvious ignorance.

       And [Allah also sent Prophet Muhammad (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him) to] others among them (who will embrace Islam and will join them) although they have not joined them yet. (Since they are not born yet or some who have not embraced Islam yet). And Allah is the All-Mighty, the All-Wise.

       That is the Grace of Allah, which He bestows on whom He wills. And Allah is the Owner of Mighty Grace.

       The example of those who were instructed to follow (the commandments of) Taurat but they did not follow them, is like a donkey who is carrying many books (but is deprived of the benefits of these books. Hence, the essence of knowledge is to put it in practice). It is a very bad example for the people (Jews) who deny the revelations of Allah. And Allah does not guide  people who are wrong-doers. (Also see Surah Al-Araf:179)

       [O Muhammad (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him)!] Say: “O you Jews! If you claim that you are exclusively the most beloved people of Allah out of the whole mankind, then long for death if you are truthful (in your claim).” (Also see Surah Al-Maidah:18)

       And they will never long for death because of (the fear of punishment for) the (evil) deeds they have sent forth. And Allah fully knows the wrong-doers.

       Say (to them): “The death from which you are fleeing will surely come to you, then you will be sent back to Allah, the All-Knower of the unseen and seen, so He will tell you what you used to do.”

       O you who believe! When the call for the Salat on Friday is made, hurry towards the remembrance of Allah (i.e. Khutba and Salat) and quit business activities (and all other activities). That is (much) better for you if you understand.

       Then when the Jumuah Salat is finished, you may disperse through the land and seek the Bounty of Allah (by trade etc). Do engage yourself in much remembrance of Allah (even during these worldly activities) so that you may be successful.

       And when (some of) them see a trading opportunity or some amusing activity, they rush towards it leaving you standing there. Say: “That which Allah has (by way of reward) is (much) better than any amusement or trade! And Allah is the Best of providers.”