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Qur'an Journal: Surah Abasa (Verses 1-10)

Surah Overview:

- Name: Surah Abasa (He Frowned)

- Number: 80

- Verses: 42

- Place of Revelation: Mecca

•Ayah 1-10 Reflection

سورة عبس

1. عَبَسَ وَتَوَلَّى

2. أَن جَاءَهُ الْأَعْمَى

3. وَمَا يُدْرِيكَ لَعَلَّهُ يَزَّكَّى

4. أَوْ يَذَّكَّرُ فَتَنفَعَهُ الذِّكْرَى

5. أَمَّا مَنِ اسْتَغْنَى

6. فَأَنتَ لَهُ تَصَدَّى

7. وَمَا عَلَيْكَ أَلَّا يَزَّكَّى

8. وَأَمَّا مَن جَاءَكَ يَسْعَى

9. وَهُوَ يَخْشَى

10. مِنْهُ أَنتَ مُشْتَغِلٌ

1. “He frowned and turned away”

This verse recounts an incident where the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) frowned and turned away from a blind man, Abdullah ibn Umm Maktum.

Tafsir Insight: Ibn Kathir explains that the Prophet was engaged in a conversation with wealthy leaders of Quraysh and inadvertently neglected the blind man's sincere request for guidance. This highlights the Prophet's human nature and his occasional distractions, reminding us that we should be aware of our surroundings and the needs of others.

2. “Because the blind man came to him”

Abdullah ibn Umm Maktum approached the Prophet, seeking knowledge.

Tafsir Insight: This emphasizes the humility of the blind man, who, despite his condition, actively sought out the Prophet for guidance. It serves as a lesson on the importance of pursuing knowledge, regardless of one’s circumstances.

3. “And what can make you know that perhaps he might be purified?”

Allah challenges the Prophet’s perception of the situation, reminding him of the potential of the blind man.

Tafsir Insight: Ibn Kathir notes that this verse illustrates that Allah's knowledge is beyond human understanding. The blind man might be more deserving of guidance than the wealthy leaders, reinforcing that spiritual purity is what matters most.

4. “Or be reminded and the reminder would benefit him”

This highlights the transformative power of reminders and teachings.

Tafsir Insight: Ibn Kathir emphasizes that reminders have the potential to awaken the hearts of those who are receptive. The blind man’s eagerness to learn indicates that he could greatly benefit from the Prophet’s teachings.

5. “But as for he who thinks himself self-sufficient”

This refers to those who are arrogant and rely on their wealth and status.

Tafsir Insight: Ibn Kathir explains that this is a critique of the Quraysh leaders who were dismissive of the message of Islam due to their pride. It serves as a warning against arrogance and the belief that wealth can replace spiritual guidance.

6. “To him you gave attention”

The Prophet directed his focus towards the wealthy instead of the blind man.

Tafsir Insight: This verse highlights the mistake of prioritizing the influential over the sincere seekers of truth. It serves as a reminder to value those who genuinely seek guidance.

7. “But what is upon you if he will not be purified?”

Allah questions the significance of the Prophet’s attention to those who may not accept guidance.

Tafsir Insight: Ibn Kathir suggests that this is a reminder that the responsibility lies with individuals to seek purification and guidance. The Prophet's role is to convey the message, but the acceptance lies with the individual.

8. “And as for he who came to you striving”

This refers to the sincere effort made by Abdullah ibn Umm Maktum.

Tafsir Insight: Ibn Kathir notes that striving for knowledge is a noble pursuit. The blind man represents those who, despite their challenges, actively seek to learn and grow spiritually.

9. “While he fears [Allah]”

This illustrates the humility and sincerity of the blind man.

Tafsir Insight: The acknowledgment of one’s fear of Allah is essential in seeking knowledge. Ibn Kathir highlights that a sincere heart is key to receiving guidance.

10. “From him you are distracted”

The Prophet's attention was drawn away from the blind man.

Tafsir Insight: Ibn Kathir points out that this serves as a reminder for all believers to remain focused on those who truly seek guidance, regardless of their social status.

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Surah Al-Asr: The Declining Day

1. By Time

2. Verily, man is in loss

3. Except those who believe and do righteous deeds, and recommend one another to the truth, and recommend one another to patience.

وَالْعَصْرِ

إِنَّ الْإِنسَانَ لَفِي خُسْرٍ

إِلَّا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا وَعَمِلُوا الصَّالِحَاتِ

وَتَوَاصَوْا بِالْحَقِّ وَتَوَاصَوْا بِالصَّبْرِ

By Time:

Past, present, future

- Al-Asr is the time in which the movements of the Children of Adam occur, whether good or evil.

- Allah swears by time, that man is in *Khusr*, which means in loss and destruction.

- Oath by Time signifies that Time is witness to the truth that man is in sheer loss except for the people who possess the four qualities.

Four Principles:

1. Believe, Faith in Islam (Imaan)

2. Righteous deeds

3. Remind others of the Haqq (truth, rights, reality)

4. Remind others of Sabr (patience)

Notes:

- Allah is teaching us, through the lens of time, that we will fail unless we focus on four virtues that will allow us to win in this life and the hereafter.

- It reminds us of the value of time in life.

- It reminds us of the importance of faith.