Watch Dr Musharraf Hussain sharing his thoughts and analysis of Surat Al-Inshiqaq. This is a late Makkan surat, of which the central theme is the connection between actions and consequences. It opens by stressing the instinctive obedience of the inanimate; the Sky and the Earth. An indirect disapproval of the Makkans, who refused to obey their Lord despite having intelligence.
Working hard for one’s livelihood is a universal human value. However, to limit life to this is folly; the workaholic is being challenged in this surat. He is advised not to forget the Hereafter and the meeting with the Lord Who is the true Sustainer and Provider. However, those who work hard for their Hereafter are guaranteed progress: “You will develop stage by stage” (19).
In the name of Allah, the Kind, the Caring
What are you striving for?
1 When the sky splits open, 2 duly obeying its Lord; 3 when the Earth is flattened 4 and throws out its contents and becomes empty, 5 duly obeying its Lord. 6 People, you strive and struggle gradually moving towards your Lord; finally you’ll meet Him! 7 So anyone given the written record in his right hand 8 will have an easy reckoning, 9 and will return happily to his family. 10 But anyone who is given the written record from behind his back 11 will cry out for death, 12 and will go in the Blazing Fire. 13 He used to be happy amid his family. 14 He was convinced he wouldn’t return to His Lord. 15 Yes, His Lord was watching him.
Progress in life is guaranteed to hard workers
16 So, I swear by the red horizon at sunset, 17 and by the night and all that it covers up, 18 and by the full moon: 19 you will develop stage by stage. 20 What’s the matter with them that they don’t believe, 21 and when the Quran is recited to them they don’t prostrate. 22 The disbelievers deny. 23 Allah knows best what they hide in their minds, 24 so give them good news of a painful punishment, 25 except for those who believe and do righteous deeds; for them, there is a never-ending reward.