Surahs `Asr - Humaza

Quranic Exegesis

INTRODUCTION

These two surahs form a pair as far as the subject discussed in them is concerned. The first surah verifies The law of retribution of the Almighty, while the second surah, with reference to this very law, warns the leadership of the Quraish of dire consequences.

Both surahs are directed at the leadership of the Quraish.

A look at the contents of the surahs shows that, like the previous surahs, they were revealed in Mecca just before the Prophet's migration to Medina in the phase of Itmaam-i-Hujjat. In this phase of his mission, the Prophet (sws) was revealing the truth to them in its ultimate form after which they could have no excuse to deny it.

CENTRAL THEMES

The central theme of Surah Asr is to prove through historical evidence the law of retribution which the Quraish would now encounter in accordance with the verdict delivered by the divine court of justice.

The central theme of Surah Humazah is to warn, with reference to this law, the opulent and pride-stricken leadership of the Quraish of their fate. They had adopted a slanderous and contemptuous attitude towards the Prophet (sws).

EXPLANATION OF THE SURAHS

Surah `Asr1

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Ever Merciful.

Time2 bears witness that these people3 shall definitely be in a state of loss. Yes! except those who accepted faith and did righteous deeds and exhorted one another to the truth and exhorted one another to remain steadfast on it4.

Surah Humazah5

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Ever Merciful.

Woe to every person [among them] who gestures [at you O Prophet!] and slanders [you]. He who amassed wealth and counted it over. He thinks that his wealth has rendered him immortal6.

By no means7! he shall be flung into that which crushes into pieces. And what do you imagine what that which crushes is? A fire kindled by Allah8 which will rise up to the hearts. Verily, these [rebellious people] will be enshrouded in it, fastened to columns very high9.