Breach of Covenant: Tafsir Surah Baqarah by Mohammed Al Shareef (AlMaghrib Course Notes)

The Al-Maghrib Institute

Qabeelah Falaah

The Breach Of Covenant

Tafsir Surah Baqarah

Compiled by Sister Aman, Brother Zeshan and Brother Arslan of Qabeelah Falaah

Breach Of Covenant: Tafsir Surah Baqarah Qabeelah Falaah

Table Of Contents

Title Verses PageGeneral Introduction 4

Introduction to Surat AlFatihah 6

Tafseer Surat AlFatihah 1-7 10Introduction to Surat AlBaqarah 19

Who are the Believers? 1-5 23Who are the Kuffar? 6-7 26

Who are the Munafiqeen? 8-20 28

What is the Purpose of life? 21-27 37

Where did it all begin? 28-39 46

The Children of Israel and the Qur`an 40-48 57

For what must they be thankful of? 49-53 63

The Breach of Covenant 54-66 68

Again: The Cow 67-74 81

And Again: Altering the word of God 75-82 89

And Again: Alliance against their own people 83-86 95

And Again: Shunning God’s word 87-93 99

And Again: “God will never punish us” 94-96 106

And Again: Hatred for Jibreel 97-101 108

Black Magic 102-103 112

Jews and Christians: What lies in the heart 104-123 116

Ibrahim the father of Prophets 124-131 131

The Legacy of Ya‘qoob 132-141 139

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“In the name of Allah, the most gracious, the most merciful”

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Introduction

We begin with the name of Allah Subhana Wa Ta’ala, for all praises are directed to Him

alone. We seek His help and ask him to bestow His mercy upon us. We seek refuge in

Allah (SWT) from the evils of this world. Whomever Allah (SWT) guides no one can

lead astray and whomever Allah (SWT) leads astray no one can guide. We bear witness

that there is no deity worthy of worship except for Allah (SWT) and that Muhammad

(SWT) is the final messenger.

What follows is the “Breach of Covenant: Tafsir of Surah Baqarah” course as presented

by Shaykh Mohammed Al-Shareef of the Al-Maghrib Institute. This course was taught

to Qabeelah Falaah in Edmonton, Alberta on the weekends of May 20th and June 6th.

Allah (SWT) chooses to bless whomever He wills and it is through His mercy that we

were given this chance to be righteous for His sake in compiling these notes. We have

made every effort to produce this document to be as authentic as possible. Our intentions

are solely to seek the pleasure of Allah and to spread knowledge for His sake. But we are

humans and mistakes are inevitable. Thus we ask Allah (SWT) to accept our intentions

and our deed in writing this and to allow good to come out of it in the form of an

educated reader who will understand and implement Surah Baqarah in their lives. We

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also ask Allah (SWT) to make us of the righteous and to forgive us for our sins which

hold us back from the good. Ameen.

Lastly, we would also like to this opportunity to thank the Ashaab of Surah Baqarah from

Qabeelah Nasr (Calgary) for supplying us with their notes. These notes were an excellent

reference source. We pray that Allah (SWT) accepts their sincere efforts and that they be

rewarded for all good that comes out of this compilation. Ameen.

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Surah Al-Fatihah

Introduction

Surah Al-Fatihah is one of the very earliest revelations and is a Makkah verse (was

revelaled in Makkah). Infact, we learn from authentic traditions that it was the first

complete surah revealed to the Prophet (Peace be upon him).

This Surah is called Al-Fatihah; the Opener of the Book, and the Surah with which

prayers are begun. It is the greatest Surah in the Qur’an, and it is also called Umm Al-

Kitab (Mother of the Book), because it contains the meanings of the entire Qur’an.

It’s Virtues

1) It has a unique status amongst all Surahs

Once Jibril (AS) was sitting with the Messenger of Allah (SAW) and heard a

creaking sound above him at which he raised his head and said. “This is a gate, opened in

heaven today, which has never been opened before” Then an angel descended through it

and he continued, “This is an angel who has come down to earth, who has never come

down before.” The angel greeted them with Salam, then said: “Rejoice in two lights given

to you which were never given to any Prophet before you: Fatihat al-Kitab and the last

two verses of Surat al- Baqarah. No portion of them will you ever recite without being

accorded it” [Sahih Muslim]

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2) It can be used to heal

Abu Said al-Khudri (RA) narrated, a group of the companions of Allah's Apostle

proceeded on a journey till they dismounted near one of the Arab tribes and requested

them to entertain them as their guests, but they (the tribe people) refused to entertain

them. Then the chief of that tribe was bitten by a snake (or stung by a scorpion) and he

was given all sorts of treatment, but all in vain. Some of them said, "Will you go to the

group (those travelers) who have dismounted near you and see if one of them has

something useful?" They came to them and said, "O the group! Our leader has been bitten

by a snake (or stung by a scorpion) and we have treated him with everything but nothing

benefited him has anyone of you anything useful?" One of them replied, "Yes, by Allah, I

know how to treat with a Ruqya. But by Allah, we wanted you to receive us as your

guests but you refused. I will not treat your patient with a Ruqya till you fix for us

something as wages." Consequently they agreed to give those travelers a flock of sheep.

The man went with them (the people of the tribe) and started spitting (on the bite) and

reciting Surat-al-Fatiha till the patient was healed and started walking as if he had not

been sick. When the tribe people paid them their wages they had agreed upon, some of

them (the Prophet's companions) said, "Distribute (the sheep)." But the one who treated

with the Ruqya said, "Do not do that till we go to Allah's Apostle and mention to him

what has happened, and see what he will order us." So they came to Allah's Apostle and

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mentioned the story to him and he said, "How do you know that Surat-al-Fatiha is a

Ruqya? You have done the right thing. Divide (what you have got) and assign for me a

share with you." [Sahih AlBukhari]

3) Has an excellent reward for reciting it

On the authority of Abu Hurayrah (RA) from the Prophet (SAW) who said, “A prayer

performed by someone who has not recited the Essence of the Qur`an (1) during it is

deficient (and he repeated the word three times), incomplete. Someone said to Abu

Hurayrah: [Even though] we are behind the imam? (2) He said: Recite it to yourself, for I

have heard the Prophet (may the blessings and peace of Allah be up on him) say: Allah

(mighty and sublime be He), had said: I have divided prayer between Myself and My

servant into two halves, and My servant shall have what he has asked for. When the

servant says: Al-hamdu liLlahi rabbi l-alamin (3), Allah (mighty and sublime be He)

says: My servant has praised Me. And when he says: Ar-rahmani r-rahim (4), Allah

(mighty and sublime be He) says: My servant has extolled Me, and when he says: Maliki

yawmi d-din (5), Allah says: My servant has glorified Me - and on one occasion He said:

My servant has submitted to My power. And when he says: Iyyaka na budu wa iyyaka

nasta in (6), He says: This is between Me and My servant, and My servant shall have

what he has asked for. And when he says: Ihdina s-sirata l- mustaqim, siratal ladhina an

amta alayhim ghayril-maghdubi alayhim wa la d-dallin (7), He says: This is for My

servant, and My servant shall have what he has asked for. [Sahih Muslim]

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4) Can be used to get rid of jinns

A man came to the Prophet (SAW) embraced Islam then returned to his people. On his

way there were a group of men who had with them a mad man in iron manacles. The

group said, that they heard that the traveler’s friend (i.e. Prophet Muhammad) had

something good with him and so he exorcised the mad man with Surah al Fatiha, and he

was cured. As reward they gave the traveler 100 sheep. He then returned to the Prophet

and narrated the story. The Prophet asked if he did anything other than recite al-Fatiha, he

said no. So the Prophet said that while these people make their livelihoods out of false

incantations (i.e. worshipping false idols) the traveler earned the 100 sheep through

something lawful; so he could keep the sheep. [Abu Dawud]

5) It is the greatest Surah of the Quràn

Abu Sa'id Ar-Rafi' bin Al-Muàlla (RA) reported: The Messenger of Allah (SAW) said,

"Shall I teach you the greatest Surah in the Qur'an before you leave the mosque?'' Then

he (SAW) took me by the hand, and when we were about to step out, I reminded him of

his promise to teach me the greatest Surah in the Qur'an. He said, "It is Àlhamdu lillahi

Rabbil Alamin (i.e., Surat Al-Fatihah) which is As- Sab‘a Al-Mathaani (i.e., the seven

oft-repeated Ayaat) and the Great Qur'an which is given to me.'' [Sahih AlBukhari]

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Ayah 1

“In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful”

Bismillah means that we should make an intention to start everything with the name of

Allah (SWT) and do it only for His sake. For example, before we recite a surah, we say

Bismillah meaning “For the sake of Allah (SWT), I am reciting this surah”

With regards to intentions, ‘Umar bin al-Khattab narrates:

"Actions are (judged) by intentions, so each man will have what he intended. Thus, he

whose migration was to Allah (SWT) and His Messenger, his migration is to Allah

(SWT) and His Messenger; but he whose migration was for some worldly thing he might

gain, or for a wife he might marry, his migration is to that for which he migrated."

[Sahihayn]

Bismillah has 114 mentions in the Quran:

• In the beginning of all verses except Surah Tauba

• Additional mention in the middle of Surah Al Naml (27:30)

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Imam Bukhari and Muslim reported that the prophet (S.A.W.) said, "Allah (SWT) has

divided mercy into one hundred parts, and He kept ninety-nine parts with Him and sent

down one part on the earth, and because of that, one single part His creatures are merciful

to each other, so that even the mare lifts up its hoof away from its baby animal, so that

she would not trample on it."

From this phrase we can understand the Mercy of Allah (SWT) upon His creation and

this makes a believer hopeful in His Lord so that on the day of judgement, only the

believers will receive His mercy.

Ayah 2

“All the praises and thanks be to Allah, the Lord of the ‘Alamin (mankind, jinn and all

that exists).”

Alhumdulilah means all the praises should be directed to Allah (SWT) only.

The believer should make it His characteristic to make continual remembrance of Allah

(SWT) and to praise Him by constantly saying Alhumdulilah.

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The Prophet (SAW) constantly made remembrance of Allah (SWT) and thanked Him,

especially after Fajr and Asar prayer. Thus it is our duty as believers to follow the sunnah

of the Prophet (SAW) and learn the dua of thankfulness to Allah (SWT).

The practical implication of this is as follows: gratitude in itself is such a characteristic

that if one is thankful for what he has than he can never be sad.

On showing gratitude by being thankful, Allah (SWT) says in the Quran: "If you give

thanks, I will give you more (of My Blessings)” (14:7)

Rabb: Means Lord – the one who has created you, nourished you and raised you for all

you life. Allah (SWT) is the nourisher of al life on Earth.

“Al-Alameen” Lord of the Worlds, i.e. of mankind, jinns, angels, animals and all other

creation of Allah (SWT)

Reciting this ayah should strike fear in one’s heart because it shows Allah (SWT) has the

Ultimate Power.

Ayah 3

The Most Gracious, the Most Merciful

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Root word: Raheema

Arrahman: The characteristic of Allah (SWT) that he is the merciful.

Arraheem: That He actually gives out mercy - the action itself. As an example, many

people don’t give out certain things because they don’t have it in the first place. Allah

(SWT) has a lot of mercy and He gives a lot of it out.

Allah (SWT) emphasizes repeatedly His mercy, so only seek His forgiveness and only

intend to do for His sake.

Criticism may hurt us because we care about what that person thinks, because we are

seeking that person’s love. If our action was for the sake of Allah (SWT) and if we are

righteous, criticism will still come, but it will not effect us.

It is also prohibited to remind people of favours done for them in the past, because they

were done for the sake of Allah (SWT), and thus you do not need to be thanked for or

rewarded for them by other people.

Ayah 4

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“The Only Owner (and the Only Ruling Judge) of the Day of Recompense (i.e. the

Day of Resurrection)”

Maalik: The owner

Malik: Controller

Both are proper.

‘Abdullah ibn al-‘Abbas (RA) comments on this ayah by saying, “On that Day, alongside

Him, no one will possess judgement as they possess their belongings in this world…”

[Tafsir at-Tabari]

“His will be the dominion on the Day when the trumpet will be blown.” {Surat AlNahl,

ayah 73}

This ayah further clarifies the meaning that on the Day of Recompense, the total power

and judgement belongs only to Allah (SWT)

Each and every person on the Day of Judgement will be alone. It will be the Day when

each soul will be repaid for it had earned. No one will possess anything which they did in

this dunya. It will be the Day when, “…We shall seal up their mouths…” {Surat Yasin,

ayah 65} Unless Allah (SWT) would permit them to speak none of then would be able to

raise their voices. “…And all voices will be humbled for the Most Beneficent” {Surat

Taha, ayah 108}

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When a Mu’min ponders about this situation on the Day of Recompense, he will tremble

with the khashya of Allah (SWT). The word khashya is the fear associated with intimate

knowledge of the Creator and, “…It is only those who have knowledge among His slaves

that fear Allah.” {Surat AlFaatir, ayah 28} & [Madaarij as-Salikeen]

Ayah 5

“You (Alone) we worship, and You (Alone) we ask for help (for each and everything)”

“We” refers not only to the Muslim Ummah but to all life on Earth.

The believer should place his full trust in Allah (SWT) and only seek His help.

If people believe that they must sin to be able to live - making haram a need - than they

have not placed their trust in Allah (SWT). This is the case with people who have delved

into Riba (interest).

On the authority of Abdullah bin Abbas who said: One day I was behind the Prophet

(peace and blessings be upon him) and he said to me, "Young man, I shall teach you

some words [of advice]: Be mindful of Allah (SWT), and Allah (SWT) will protect you.

Be mindful of Allah (SWT), and you will find Him in front of you. If you ask, ask of

Allah (SWT); if you seek help, seek help of Allah (SWT). Know that if the Nation were

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to gather together to benefit you with anything, it would benefit you only with something

that Allah (SWT) had already prescribed for you, and that if they gather together to harm

you with anything, they would harm you only with something Allah (SWT) had already

prescribed for you. The pens have been lifted and the pages have dried. (At-Tirmidhi)

Ayah 6

“Guide us to the Straight Way”

This ayah outlines the concept of Hidaayah which means guidance and in this case

guidance of slam.

Hidaayah is divided into two categories:

1. Irshaad : when someone ‘guides’ another person by telling him/her the message of

Islam.

Example: During Islamic Awareness Week, Non-Muslims are told about Islam

This is the duty of all Muslims to do. If you do not give Irshaad to non-Muslims, that is

your sin.

It is also very important thus to have good teachers. Thus we should make dua to Allah

(SWT) to bless us with good teachers who give us good guidance Irshad.

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On a world map of density of Muslims, Saudi Arabia and neighbouring areas are very

dense. As we move out they become less dense until in Europe and North America there

are barely any Muslims. This is due to Muslims not giving Irshaad to Non-Muslims of the

West.

2) Tawfeeq: when Allah (SWT) guides a person to Islam and is only done by Allah

(SWT). This is usually after someone has received Irshaad but it can also take

place without it.

This is a favour from Allah (SWT) that only He may grant to whoever He wills.

Examples of Irshad and Taqfeeq

The Prophet’s (SAW) uncle Abu Talib was given Irshad constantly as he knew about

Islam, but not Taufeeq by Allah (SWT) and thus Abu Talib did not convert to Islam.

Thus whether a man converts to Islam or not is not the duty of the believer, our duty is

only to carry the message of Islam.

Ayah 7

“The Way of those on whom You have bestowed Your Grace, not (the way) of those

who earned Your Anger (such as the Jews), nor of those who went astray (such as the

Christians).”

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The people whom Allah (SWT) is talking about in this verse are divided into 3

categories:

1) Those who were bestowed with Allah (SWT)’s Grace. These are the Prophets – the

truthful, martyrs, righteous.

2) Those who earned Allah (SWT)’s anger. These are the Jews.

3) Those who went astray. These are the Christians.

The Christians live in blissful ignorance with their attitude, “let us not know so that we

are not responsible.” Sadly this is the attitude of many Muslims today too, but the truth is

that you are responsible either way.

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Surah Al-Baqarah

An Introduction to Surah Al-Baqarah

It is amongst the first Madani Surahs i.e. was revealed in Madinah.

Some themes of Surah Al-Baqarah

1) ‘Aqeedah

2) ‘Ibaadah

3) Shari‘ah (more specifically, fasting, hajj, ‘umrah, zakah, divorce, loans, etc…”

4) How to deal with others

5) Stability of Iman

6) Characteristics of Believers, hypocrites and the disbelievers

7) Lessons from the story of Bani Israel

8) Stories of Prophets (AS)

Highlights of Surat Al-Baqarah:

1) Abu Hurayrah (RA) narrated that the Prophet (SAW) said, “Do not turn your

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houses into graves. Verily, Shaytan does not enter the house where Surat Al-Baqarah is

recited [Sahih Muslim, Musnad Imam Ahmad, Sunan AlTirmidhi, Sunan AlNasa’i]

2) Sahl bin Sa‘d (RA) said that the Messenger of Allah (SAW) said, “Everything

has a hump (or, high peek), and AlBaqarah is the high peek of the Qur'an. Whoever

recites AlBaqarah at night in his house, then shaytaan will not enter that house for three

nights. Whoever recites it during a day in his house, then shaytaan will not enter that

house for three days.” [AlTabarani, Sahih Ibn Hibban, Ibn Marduwayh]

3) Usayd bin Hudayr (RA) said that he was once reciting Surat AlBaqarah while his horse

was tied next to him. The horse started to make some noise. When Usayd (RA) stopped

reciting, the horse stopped moving about. When he resumed reading, the horse started

moving about again. When he stopped reciting, the horse stopped moving, and when he

resumed reading, the horse started to move again.

Meanwhile, his son Yahya (RA) was close to the horse, and he feared that the horse

might step on him. When he moved his son back, he looked up to the sky and saw a cloud

radiating with light that looked like lamps.

In the morning, he went to the Prophet (SAW) and told him what had happened and then

said, "O Messenger of Allah! My son Yahya was close to the horse and I feared that she

might step on him. When I attended to him and raised my head to the sky, I saw a cloud

with lights like lamps. So I went, but I couldn't see it.''

The Prophet (SAW) said, "Do you know what that was'' He said, "No.'' The Prophet

(SAW) said, hey were the angels, they came close hearing your voice (reciting Surat

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AlBaqarah), and if you had kept reading, the people would have been able to see the

angels when the morning came, and the angels would not be hidden from their eyes.

[Sahih AlBukhari, Fadhaa'il AlQuràn]

4) The Prophet (SAW said “Read the Qur'an, because it will intercede on behalf of its

people on the Day of Resurrection. Read the two lights, AlBaqarah and AlÌmran,

because they will come in the shape of two clouds, two shades or two lines of birds on the

Day of Resurrection and will argue on behalf of their people on that Day.” [Musnad

Imam Ahmad]

And in another narration, Àbdullah bin Buraydah (RA) narrated to him from his father

(RA), "I was sitting with the Prophet (SAW) and I heard him say, “Learn Surat

AlBaqarah, because in learning it there is blessing, in ignoring it there is sorrow, and the

sorceresses cannot memorize it. He (SAW) kept silent for a while and then said, “Learn

Surat AlBaqarah and AlÌmran because they are two lights and they shade their people on

the Day of Resurrection, just as two clouds, two spaces of shade or two lines of (flying)

birds. The Quràn will meet its companion in the shape of a pale-faced man on the Day of

Resurrection when his grave is opened. The Quràn will ask him, 'Do you know me' The

man will say, 'I do not know you.' The Quràn will say, 'I am your companion, the

Quràn, which has brought you thirst during the heat and made you stay up during the

night. Every merchant has his certain trade. But, this Day, you are behind all types of

trade.' Kingship will then be given to him in his right hand, eternal life in his left hand

and the crown of grace will be placed on his head. His parents will also be granted two

garments that the people of this life could never afford. They will say, 'Why were we

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granted these garments' It will be said, 'Because your son was carrying the Qur'an.' It will

be said (to the reader of the Qur'an), 'Read and ascend through the levels of Paradise.' He

will go on ascending as long as he recites, whether reciting slowly or quickly.” [Sunan

Ibn Majah, Musnad Imam Ahmad]

5) An-Nawwas bin Samàn said that the Prophet (SAW) said, “On the Day of

Resurrection the Qur'an and its people who used to implement it will be brought forth,

preceded by Surat AlBaqarah and AlÌmran.” [Musnad Imam Ahmad]

6) The Prophet was asked, ‘Which part of the Qur’an is the best?’. He replied, ‘The Surah

in which the cow is mentioned’. He was then asked ‘Which part of that Surah?’. He

replied, ‘The verse of the Throne and the last pasrt of Surah al Baqarah came down from

under the Throne’ [Darimi 3248]

7) Abu Hurayrah (RA) said, "The Messenger of Allah (SAW) sent an expedition

force comprising of many men and asked each about what they memorized of the Qur'an.

The Prophet (SAW) came to one of the youngest men among them and asked him, `What

have you memorized (of the Quràn) young man' He said, Ì memorized such and such

Surahs and also AlBaqarah.' The Prophet (SAW) said, `You memorized Surat AlBaqarah'

He said, `Yes.' The Prophet (SAW) said, `Then you are their commander.'

One of the noted men (or chiefs) commented, `By Allah! I did not learn Surat AlBaqarah;

for fear that I would not be able to implement it. The Messenger of Allah (SAW) said,

“Learn AlQuràn and recite it, for the example of whoever learns the Quràn, recites it

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and adheres to it, is the example of a bag that is full of musk whose scent fills the air. The

example of whoever learns the Quràn and then sleeps (i.e. lazy) while the Quràn is in

his memory, is the example of a bag that has musk, but is closed tight.) [Sunan

AlTirmidhi, Sunan Ibn Majah, Sunan AlNasa’i]

Who are the Believers?

Ayah 1

“Alif Laam Meem”

Ultimately Allah (SWT) knows what this verse really means.

This is a “brain crash”: a statement to clear the mind of the reader of any preconceptions

and to capture his undivided attention.

This is also a challenge to the non-believers, that here are the letters of the Quran, and to

come up with something as magnificent as this.

Ayah 2

“This is the Book (the Quràn), whereof there is no doubt, a guidance to those who

are Al- Muttaqeen.”

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This verse implies that guidance is solely from the Quran. If mankind does not follow this

book, there is no guidance in life.

“Ray’b” means doubt. That there is no doubt in Islam and those who do not accept it will

go to hellfire.

“Hudan” means guidance to those of Taqwa or piety. The pious have fear of Allah (SWT)

in their hearts and are conscious of Him at all times, in return He will only guide them

through this book.

Ayah 3

“Who believe in the Ghayb and perform As-Salat (Iqamat-as-Salat), and spend out of

what we have provided for them.”

This verse describes the characteristics of the Muttaqoon and is related to Ayah 4 in this

sense.

Ayah 4

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“And who believe in which has been sent down (revealed) to you (Muhammad Peace

be upon him) and in which were sent down before you and they believe with certainty

in the Hereafter.”

This verse and Ayah 3 describe the characteristics of the people of Taqwa – the

Muttaqoon:

1. Establish prayer

This includes praying Nafil and Sunnah, and praying in congregation at the Mosques and

on time. “Establish” in this sense speaks not only to ourselves, but also to our society and

asks: Have we as a Muslim society established prayer amongst our peers and our future

generations?

2. Believe in the book

The Muttaqoon believe in what was revealed to the Prophet SAW – further that he is the

final prophet - and to the Prophets AS before him.

3. Believe in the unseen

They believe in the existence of Heaven, Hell, The Day of Judgement, Resurrection, the

Jinn and the Angels.

4. Give Zakah and Sadaqah

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Ayah 5

“They are on (true) guidance from their Lord, and they are the successful.”

The verses above outline the characteristics needed in a person to achieve success in this

world and the hereafter. These are the characteristics of the Muttaqoon – the possessors

of Taqwa.

Who are the Kufaar?

Ayah 6

“Verily, those who disbelieve, it is the same to them whether you (O Muhammad Peace

be upon him) warn them or do not warn them, they will not believe.”

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This verse consoles the Da’ee if he is receiving no response from the disbelievers.

Guidance is in the hands of Allah (SWT).

Dawa’a is an important component of belief for the believer; the Quran is a book of

guidance that can best be understood if you guide others, and that is how Dawa’a can

benefit you.

Ayah 7

“Allah has set a seal on their hearts and on their hearings, (i.e. they are closed from

accepting Allah’s Guidance), and on their eyes there is a covering. Theirs will be a great

torment.”

Why are their hearts sealed?

Their hearts are sealed by Allah (SWT) because of the immensity of the sins that they

commit. Their curse is that they love the sins that they commit and thus become attached

to them so much that they can’t see the truth even when it is right in front of them.

With regards to the disbelievers, even though Allah (SWT) has set a seal on their hearts,

it is not up to us to judge as we do not know who will be guided and who won’t.

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A common example of this is when someone converts to get married. In this case we do

not know the person’s intentions so we should not speak on the matter.

Who are the Munafiqeen?

Ayah 8

“And of mankind, there are some (hypocrites) who say: "We believe in Allah and the Last

Day" while in fact they believe not.”

First and foremost, we must ask if these characteristics fit us. This is in fact a

characteristic of the believer, that he often questions himself. The hypocrites do not care

or fear the characteristics of hypocrisy.

This is exemplified by the behaviour of Ummar to Hudhaifa. The Prophet SAW knew the

list of hypocrites in Madina and gave this list to Hudhaifa. Ummar, the second khalifa of

Islam who was promised Jannah multiple times by Allah (SWT), still goes to Hudhaifa

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and checks to see if he is a hypocrite. Furthermore, there were a total of 19 Sahaba who

went to Hudhaifa fearing hypocrisy.

Allah (SWT) which means “And of mankind…” which shows that not all of the people

rather some from amongst them are of such kind i.e. Munafiqeen (hypocrites)

From this ayah on, Allah (SWT) starts mentioning the traits of the Munafiqeen. The first

one is that they lie.

The Prophet has been reported to have said, "Four traits whoever possesses them is a

hypocrite and whoever possesses some of them has an element of hypocrisy until he

leaves it: the one who when he speaks he lies, when he promises he breaks his promise,

when he disputes he transgresses and when he makes an agreement he violates it.” [Sahih

AlBukhari & Sahih Muslim]

Thus we understand from this hadith that it is a quality of or at least sign of hypocrisy

that they lie. Imam AlHasan AlBasri said, “Nifaaq is the difference between the inner and

the appearance, between statement and action and between entering and leaving and it

used to be said that the foundation of Nifaaq upon which it is built is lying."

Ayah 9

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“They (think to) deceive Allah and those who believe, while they only deceive themselves,

and perceive (it) not!”

In the previous ayah we learned that the Munafiqeen also posses the trait of lying and in

addition, deceiving is also a form of lying.

The recurring theme is that you will be treated the way you act. An example of this is

black magic. People who try to invoke the Jinn end up being fearful of Jinn. They act by

trying to deceive Allah (SWT), but in reality they’re only deceiving themselves.

Further characteristics of the hypocrite include:

- They lie (previously mentioned)

- They break their promises

- They are vulgar in arguments

- They are lazy in prayer and will not be seen at a Masjid. They will also miss Fajr

and Isha salah.

Ayah 10

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“In their hearts is a disease and Allah has increased their disease. A painful torment is

theirs because they used to tell lies.”

The disease Allah (SWT) talking about is nothing other than the disease of hypocrisy and

doubt which the Munafiqeen posses. They portray themselves as Muslims whilst they are

not and doubt the truthfulness of the Message of AlIslam. Because of this disease, Allah

(SWT) increases their terrible state and makes them even worse and much more liable to

His punishment and finally to Jahannam.

It is also possible that as a consequence Allah (SWT) will make a sin more desirable,

loveable and accessible for the sinner. Thus he/she could easily get more addicted to it.

And this would result in a severe torment from Allah (SWT)

Ayah 11

“And when it is said to them: "Make not mischief on the earth," they say: "We are only

peacemakers."

Spreading mischief means how they broaden the opportunity of people to disobey Allah

(SWT). As an example: spreading of alcohol results in people committing other types of

sins such as theft and rape.

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Ayah 12

“Verily! They are the ones who make mischief, but they perceive not.”

Yet again Allah (SWT) stresses the point that the Munafiqeen themselves do not realise

that they doing the mischief. We can also understand from this ayah that committing of

sins dulls one’s sense of distinguishing between truth and falsehood hence they feel they

are always right whilst they are not.

Ayah 13

“And when it is said to them (hypocrites): "Believe as the people (followers of

Muhammad Peace be upon him , AlAnsar and AlMuhajireen) have believed," they say:

"Shall we believe as the fools have believed?" Verily, they are the fools, but they know

not.”

Another trait of the hypocrite mentioned here is that they associate stupidity to the

believers (when they are in fact the ignorant). The recurring theme continues that the

Munafiq is not conscious of his Nifaq.

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Ayah 14

“And when they meet those who believe, they say: "We believe," but when they are alone

with their shayaateen (devils - polytheists, hypocrites, etc.), they say: "Truly, we are with

you; verily, we were but mocking."

Another trait of the hypocrite is mockery. We should be careful of this in our society

when we use derogatory terms such as “wahhabbi” or “molvi”

This verse also outlines the importance of companionship. You can have friends that are

righteous, and they will influence you positively, or you can have friends that are the

shayateen who influence you negatively,

Ayah 15

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“Allah mocks at them and gives them increase in their wrong-doings to wander blindly.”

By the will of Allah (SWT), the hypocrites will continue to mock so much so that they

will commit bigger sins. For example, they may mock a brother’s beard, and mocking

something of the sunnah is a big sin.

Q) How do we know that the Munafiqeen aren’t lying to the kuffar?

A) The reality is that the Munafiqeen themselves don’t know who they are with. With

whichever party they find benefit, they side with them and it is a great possibility that

they might be even lying to kuffar at times just to derive their benefit

Ayah 16

“These are they who have purchased error for guidance, so their commerce was

profitless. And they were not guided.”

Purchasing error for guidance is like a man going to a shop and buying alcohol using his

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Hidaayah and going back home with Dhalalah (Misguidance). It’s risking ones Akhirah

by committing sins and disobeying Allah (SWT) and purchasing this worthless Dunya

instead.

What an awful transaction?! Who would want to sell their eternal life in bliss for the

world that is full of problems? And this is also a sign of hypocrisy.

Ayah 17

“Their likeness is as the likeness of one who kindled a fire; then, when it lighted all

around him, Allah took away their light and left them in darkness. (So) they could not

see.”

Their example is like that of a person who built a fire, but then Allah (SWT) put that light

out and they remained in total darkness. If a person experiences Iman and turns their

back, then they’re bound to become more misguided than those who have never

experienced Iman before. The darkness they fall into is total harm .

Ayah 18

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“They are deaf, dumb, and blind, so they return not (to the Right Path).”

Allah (SWT) tells us that in the afore mentioned state, the Munafiqeen will have lost all

of their senses and this also of the signs of a hypocrite.

Ayah 19

“Or like a rainstorm from the sky, wherein is darkness, thunder, and lightning. They

thrust their fingers in their ears to keep out the stunning thunderclap for fear of death.

But Allah ever encompasses the disbelievers (i.e. Allah will gather them all together).”

Munafiqeen are two types:

1) A Muslim who turns into a Munafiq

2) A Kafir who is a Munafiq but behaves like a Muslim .

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In this ayah, Allah (SWT) is talking about the second type whilst in ayah 17 it is the

former one who is talked about.

“…darkness…” signifies the deviation and misguidance

“…thunder, and lightning…” signify fear and fright.

Ayah 20

“The lightning almost snatches away their sight, whenever it flashes for them, they walk

therein, and when darkness covers them, they stand still. And if Allah willed, He could

have taken away their hearing and their sight. Certainly, Allah has power over all

things.”

Whenever the Munafiqeen think that they can derive benefit from some place, they go

there to gain the benefit. But as soon as it seems to them that they can’t derive any more

benefit, they leave that place or even don’t enter it.

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The Purpose Of Life

Ayah 21

“O mankind! Worship your Lord (Allah), Who created you and those who were before

you so that you may become Al-Muttaqun”

‘Ibaadah or Worship is as Ibn Taymiyyah said, “All that Allah (SWT) loves and is

pleased from the sayings, the actions either hidden or apparent”

The phrase “Yayuhalazeena” is a call to the mankind not the just the Muslims. Thus

Islam is the religion of all.

Ayah 22

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“Who has made the earth a resting place for you, and the sky as a canopy, and sent down

water (rain) from the sky and brought forth therewith fruits as a provision for you. Then

do not set up rivals unto Allah (in worship) while you know”

In this ayah, Allah (SWT) goes into the specifics of what we should be thankful for.

“…earth a resting place for you…” means Allah (SWT) has blessed us with some place

where we could build buildings, travel, and cultivate crops.

“…the sky as a canopy…” Allah (SWT) has blessed us with sky as a cover for us

“…sent down water…” Rain, snow as a blessing from Allah (SWT) to be used for

drinking, purification, agricultural processes and etc…

Ayah 23

“And if you (Arab pagans, Jews, and Christians) are in doubt concerning that which We

have sent down (i.e. the Qur`an) to Our slave (Muhammad Peace be upon him ), then

produce a Surah (chapter) of the like thereof and call your witnesses (supporters and

helpers) besides Allah, if you are truthful.”

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Allah (SWT) sent the Prophets with His words to convince people of Him and His

prophets.

Allah (SWT) here is now adopting an argumentative approach to the disbelievers,

challenging them to bring forward the truth than.

Ayah 24

“But if you do it not, and you can never do it, then fear the Fire (Hell) whose fuel is men

and stones, prepared for the disbelievers.”

In this ayah, Allah (SWT) is Himself confirming that they (i.e. the Kuffar ) can’t ever

fulfil His challenge and warning them of the hell-fire so that they may accept the truth.

When people are ungrateful to Allah (SWT), they become a Kafir. Another meaning of

Kafir in Arabic is ``Farmer`` because he takes seeds and plants them under the soil (as if

he is hiding the blessings of Allah SWT).

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This ayah also mentions the severity of the punishment of the Jahannam by telling us that

men and stones will be its fuel. From the verse we can also see that Hell has already been

created and isn’t something that will be made in the future.

Ayah 25

“And give glad tidings to those who believe and do righteous good deeds that for them

will be Gardens under which rivers flow (Paradise). Every time they will be provided

with a fruit there from, they will say: "This is what we were provided with before," and

they will be given things in resemblance (i.e. in the same form but different in taste) and

they shall have therein Azwajun Mutahharatun (purified mates or wives), (having no

menses, stools, urine, etc.) and they will abide therein forever.”

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The previous verses are harsh as they are directed to the disbelievers and serve as a

warning to them (as well as us).

Here Allah (SWT) finally comforts the believer, essentially saying that as long as you

believe and do righteous deeds, this is what you are given – and so some characteristics

of Paradise are mentioned here:

There will be rivers flowing under these gardens. In Paradise you would have whatever

you want.

Human beings would not be able to organize paradise the way Allah SWT has. In it is

everything that their hearts desire.

In paradise there is no foolish talk nor sinful speech. There are no feelings of jealousy and

hate in Jannah. And in Jannah there are purified spouses who will be there permanently.

There are beautiful places on earth, but there will be three things that ruin it: mortality,

sickness, and companionship. We won’t live forever, we cant guarantee our well- being,

and we may be with unfavourable spouses or friends.

Ayah 26

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“Verily, Allah is not ashamed to set forth a parable even of a mosquito or so much more

when it is bigger (or less when it is smaller) than it. And as for those who believe, they

know that it is the Truth from their Lord, but as for those who disbelieve, they say: "What

did Allah intend by this parable?" By it He misleads many, and many He guides thereby.

And He misleads thereby only those who are Al-Fasiqeen (the rebellious, disobedient to

Allah).”

Reason of Revelation:

‘AbduLlah Ibn 'Abbas (RA) said commenting on this ayah, “This is because Allah (SWT)

mentioned the deities of the idolaters, saying: (And if the fly took something from them,

they could not rescue it from him) {Surat AlHajj ayah 73}. He also mentioned the

scheme of the deities and compared it to cobweb. Upon hearing this, they said: 'See how

Allah (SWT) mentions gnats and spiders in the Qur'an revealed to Muhammad; what is

the use of this?' And so Allah (SWT) revealed this”. [Tafseer AlJalalayn]

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The Kufaar would constantly try to stop the Prophet SAW, criticizing him and Allah

(SWT). When that didn’t work they tried negotiating with him that he SAW worship their

god one day and they worship Allah (SWT) the next.

This was a method of ridiculing the daaii that we see today as well from the disbelievers.

The 5 classic masks or excuses

Ex. If asking someone to take an Al-Maghrib course

1. “Don’t have time”

They really just don’t have their priorities straight.

2. “I’m too old or too young”

We see this in older generations. People must remember the Prophet SAW received

revelation when he was 40.

3. “I’m not good or religious enough”

This is untrue, even for a Muslim who has a girlfriend he should still seek knowledge

with true intentions in hopes of being guided and mending his ways. Allah knows

best.

4. “Who cares?”

These people may not have studying their deen as a priority

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5. Someone who gets on the offensive, attacking you instead.

In these cases we should just deflect the criticism and continue our efforts on this

person

Q. What is the definition of a Faasik?

A. Someone who transgresses in their sins. This person may be Muslim or non. Sins are

harmful as they block good actions by hardening our heart to the good, thus they are also

self-reinforcing i.e. one sin leads to another.

Ayah 27

“Those who break Allah's Covenant after ratifying it, and sever what Allah has ordered

to be joined (as regards Allah’s Religion of Islamic Monotheism, and to practise its legal

laws on the earth and also as regards keeping good relations with kith and kin ), and do

mischief on earth, it is they who are the losers.”

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This verse is an extension or description of what was mentioned in the previous verse –

the Faasiqoon:

1. They break their promise with Allah (SWT) after making it

2. They do mischief on the Earth

3. Break ties of kinship

Kinship is a blessing to our Ummah, if we forgive our brothers than Allah will forgive us,

and if we maintain our ties of kinship, Allah will increase our wealth.

There are six rights of a Muslim upon the other:

Abu Hurairah reported Allah (SWT) 's Messenger as saying, “Six are the rights of a

Muslim over another Muslim. It was said to him: Allah (SWT) 's Messenger, what are

these? Thereupon he said: When you meet him, offer him greetings, when he invites you

to a feast accept it, when he seeks your council give him, and when he sneezes and says:"

All praise is due to Allah," you say Yarhamuk Allah (may Allah show mercy to you) and

when he fails ill visit him; and when he dies follow his bier.” [Sahih Muslim]

Where did it all Begin?

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Ayah 28

How can you disbelieve in Allah? Seeing that you were dead and He gave you life. Then

He will give you death, then again will bring you to life (on the Day of Resurrection) and

then unto Him you will return.”

In this ayah Allah (SWT) tells us His total power of His creation that He can do whatever

He wills. Only Allah (SWT) gives life and death. We also learn that we will be

resurrected, will return to Allah (SWT) and will have to be answerable for our deeds.

The ultimate testament to Islam is one’s own body that testifies to the greatness of Allah

(SWT).

Ayah 29

“He it is Who created for you all that is on earth. Then He Istawa (rose over) towards

the heaven and made them seven heavens and He is the All-Knower of everything.”

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Everything on this Earth is permissible to consume until proven otherwise, and all forms

of worship are haram until proven otherwise.

With regards to the creation of the worlds, Imam Malik has a very profound statement on

this issue when he said, “The establishment is known, the ‘how’ is unknown, belief in it

is obligatory and asking about it is an innovation.”

The above two ayah are excellent to be used for dawah

Ayah 30

“And (remember) when your Lord said to the angels: "Verily, I am going to place

(mankind) generations after generations on earth." They said: "Will You place therein

those who will make mischief therein and shed blood, - while we glorify You with praises

and thanks (Exalted be You above all that they associate with You as partners) and

sanctify You." He (Allah) said: "I know that which you do not know.”

Allah (SWT) brought the angels and Adam together and they were informed about the

upcoming plan/procedure. This is NOT Shura with the Angels, just informing, to see their

response.

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Shura is among the most successful techniques in communication between Muslims. It is

fair to everyone as they are all informed about what is to happen. The Prophet (SAWS)

did Shura with his companions, despite that he knew everything upon receiving the

revelations. Lack of Shura basically belittles the community and limits their input and

participation in community decisions. People are sometimes afraid of Shura due to the

fact that they may be criticized. The right way is to do Shura and then automatically

request feedback, to minimize conflicts and misunderstandings.

Even though the angels were right about what corrupt actions human beings would have

on earth, Allah SWT replies by telling them He knows what they do not.

What is Khalifa?

The creation that procreates. Humans were made to procreate.

Ayah 31

“And He taught Adam all the names (of everything) , then He showed them to the angels

and said, "Tell Me the names of these if you are truthful."”

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Adam was created “hollow”, like a statue (basically just clay). Iblees knocked on Adam

and found him to be hollow, so Iblees came to the conclusion that he was better than

Adam, because he was created from Fire, while Adam was created from clay.

Adam received knowledge by learning the names of things and his status was high due to

this knowledge.

Even dogs are elevated in status (and mentioned in the Quran) because they are

specialized and knowledgeable in certain aspects.

Thus eating from a hunting (specialized) dog is halal but not from a wild dog.

Ayah 32

“They (angels) said: "Glory be to You, we have no knowledge except what you have

taught us. Verily, it is You, the All-Knower, the All-Wise."

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We learn from this ayah that whatever we know learned is what Allah (SWT).

Ayah 33

“He said: "O Adam! Inform them of their names," and when he had informed them of

their names, He said: "Did I not tell you that I know the Ghayb (unseen) in the heavens

and the earth, and I know what you reveal and what you have been concealing?"”

Once again, Allah (SWT) tells us the superiority of Adam (AS) over the Angels that he

told them what they knew not.

Only Allah (SWT) has the knowledge of Unseen and we can not hide anything from him

wherever we go, whatever we do.

Ayah 34

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“And (remember) when We said to the angels: "Prostrate yourselves before Adam.". And

they prostrated except Iblis (Satan), he refused and was proud and was one of the

disbelievers (disobedient to Allah).”

Both the angels and Satan didn’t agree with the creation of Adam, but they revealed what

was in their hearts here as the Angels prostrated to Adam upon the command of Allah

(SWT) but Satan didn’t.

Satan was a jinn who was also elevated to Allah (SWT)’s court based on his high

knowledge amongst the jinn. The sins of Satan include those of anger, jealousy,

arrogance and refusal.

Ayah 35 and Ayah 36

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“And We said: "O Adam! Dwell you and your wife in the Paradise and eat both of you

freely with pleasure and delight of things therein as wherever you will, but come not near

this tree or you both will be of the Dhalimun (wrong-doers)."

“Then the shaytan (Satan) made them slip there from (the Paradise), and got them out

from that in which they were. We said: "Get you down, all, with enmity between

yourselves. On earth will be a dwelling place for you and an enjoyment for a time."”

Here is the first mention of Eve.

Note: Benefits of getting married early:

- Person becomes serious about life and deen and gain maturity

- Become protected from Haram

- Women are very sensitive to men’s mistakes, so they can help in guiding them so they

remain on the right path.

Allah (SWT) entered Adam (AS) and Eve (AS) into Jannah, which is the same one we

will be entered into InshAllah. However, there was one tree in that Jannah that Allah

SWT forbade them from approaching. Shaytan hated Adam (AS) and Eve (AS). He was

able to convince them to eat from the tree.

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Q. What did Iblees say to Adam (AS) and Eve (AS)?

A. Would you like it if I showed you the tree of immorality and never ending

sovereignty?

Iblees wants to live to the day of judgement so he can be given the chance to misguide all

of the children of Adam so they become ungrateful to Allah SWT. His influence starts

before you are born with your parents encouraging them to commit zina and continues til

your last breathe.

Iblees is very effective and experienced and his ways are subtle. Examples include eating

a heavy and late dinner as that would cause one to not wake up for Fajr salah.

Q. How does Iblees work amongst mankind?

A. He has an army of jinns which work against mankind, than report back to Satan, who

encourages them to cause more problems within us and amongst us.

The fact that Allah (SWT) asked them “not to approach” the tree is important, as Allah

(SWT) is not asking us not to sin, but first and foremost not to even approach sin as that

will lead to the sin itself and more to follow.

Ayah 37

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“Then Adam received from his Lord Words. And his Lord pardoned him (accepted his

repentance). Verily, He is the One Who forgives (accepts repentance), the Most

Merciful.”

Allah SWT had mercy on Adam and taught him words of repent, so Adam said those

words and thus Allah (SWT) forgave Adam.

If you are ever motivated to repent, then you have been favoured by Allah (SWT), which

is a good sign that Allah (SWT) has already forgiven you. This means Allah (SWT) has

given you Tawfeeq.

Ayah 38

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“We said: "Get down all of you from this place (the Paradise), then whenever there

comes to you Guidance from Me, and whoever follows My Guidance, there shall be no

fear on them, nor shall they grieve.”

It is a promise of Allah (SWT) that He will send down guidance (which He indeed has

done) and then the one who follows it will be averted from any fear and grief in this

world and the hereafter and thus will be in Jannah .

Fear and Greif are two key words in this Ayah.

If human beings didn’t sin, Allah (SWT) would have brought another creation that would

sin and then ask for forgiveness.

Thus the challenge for the believers is to be as swift as possible in asking for forgiveness

for our sins to Allah (SWT).

Ayah 39

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“But those who disbelieve and believe Our Ayaat (proofs, evidences, verses, lessons,

signs, revelations, etc.) such are the dwellers of the Fire, they shall abide therein

forever.”

We learn from this ayah that bad actions have bad consequences. Disbelieving in what

Allah (SWT) has sent down will surely result in going to Jahannam.

Children of Israel and the Qur`an

Ayah 40

“O Children of Israel! Remember My Favour which I bestowed upon you, and fulfill

(your obligations to) My Covenant (with you) so that I fulfill (My Obligations to) your

covenant (with Me), and fear none but Me.”

Israel is an another name for Ya‘qub and thus the calling of Allah (SWT) using

this name is sign of respect for them even though they continually transgressed as we

shall see later.

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Thus we should use the best names to address others no matter what we perceive their

level of deen to be at.

Their Covenant with Allah (SWT) was that they would obey Him and Allah (SWT)’s

Covenant with them was that He would send them to Jannah for their good deeds.

Ayah 41

“And believe in what I have sent down (this Qur`an), confirming that which is with you,

[the Taurat and the Injeel)], and be not the first to disbelieve therein, and buy not with

My Verses[the Taurat and the Injeel] a small price (i.e. getting a small gain by selling

My Verses), and fear Me and Me Alone.”

Allah (SWT) sent down Qur`an confirming and affirming what the Bani Israel (Jews at

the time of Prophet) had with them and asking the Jews in Madinah to accept the clear

signs and proof of the Prophet SAW

Ayah 42

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“And mix not truth with falsehood, nor conceal the truth [i.e. Muhammad Peace be upon

him is Allâh’s Messenger and his qualities are written in your Scriptures, the Taurat

(Torah) and the Injeel (Gospel)] while you know (the truth).”

Yet the Jews of Madinah, out of pride, arrogance and nationalism, concealed the truth of

the final messenger which was already mentioned in their scriptues.

Ayah 43

“And perform As-Salat (Iqamat-as-Salat), and give Zakat, and Irka' (i.e. bow down or

submit yourselves with obedience to Allah) along with AlRaki'un.”

This is a clear commandment from Allah (SWT) to the Muslims to establish Salaah in

congregation and to give Zaka’at

Ayah 44

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“Enjoin you Al-Birr (piety and righteousness and each and every act of obedience to

Allah) on the people and you forget (to practise it) yourselves, while you recite the

Scripture [the Taurat (Torah)]! Have you then no sense?”

As the Prophet (SAW) said:

"A man will be brought on the Day of Resurrection and will be cast into Hell, and his

intestines will pour forth and he will go round them as a donkey goes round a millstone.

The inmates of Hell will gather round him and say: `What has happened to you, O so-

and-so? Were you not enjoining us to do good and forbidding us to do evil?' He will

reply: `I was enjoining you to do good, but was not doing it myself; and I was forbidding

you to do evil, but was doing it myself".[Sahihayn].

Ayah 45

“And seek help in patience and As-Salât (the prayer) and truly it is extremely heavy and

hard except for Al-Khashi'een [i.e. the true believers in Allah - those who obey Allah with

full submission, fear much from His Punishment, and believe in His Promise (Paradise,

etc.) and in His Warnings (Hell, etc.)].”

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One example of a test of patience and endurance that only the believers will have to be

patient is the test of Hajj.

The Iman Rush Zone is a zone where you feel passionate about the religion as you feel it

in your heart, you pray with sincerity, you feel the brotherhood etc. WE should aim to

achieve this and the best way to do is to be patient when faced with a fitna and make the

right intention for being patient. Guidance will than soon follow from Allah (SWT).

There are three types of Sabr or patience:

1. Sabr Taa’a: Obedience (such as praying Salah)

2. Sabr Mu’siyah: Patience in not disobeying (Ex. Attending university and resisting

temptations of the Shaytaan)

3. Sabr Qadaa and Qadr: To accept that your fitna was the decree of Allah (SWT)

As the Prophet (SAW) had said: “If someone is seeking strength, stay patient in your

Salaah”

Ayah 46

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“(They are those) who are certain that they are going to meet their Lord, and that unto

Him they are going to return.”

Analogy of taking a course and preparing for it as if you will be writing the final exam.

Ayah 47

“O Children of Israel! Remember My Favour which I bestowed upon you and that I

preferred you to the 'Alamîn (mankind and jinns) (of your time period, in the past).”

Allah (SWT) is being patient with them and reminding them again to be thankful to Him

for He has favoured them greatly. And a person can be only thankful to Allah (SWT) by

doing good deeds for His sake and in accordance to the Prophet (SAW)’s Sunnah

Ayah 48

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“And fear a Day (of Judgement) when a person shall not avail another, nor will

intercession be accepted from him nor will compensation be taken from him nor will they

be helped.”

On the Day of Judgement no one will be of help to the other except for Allah (SWT). But

on that day, the Muslims will receive a special intercession of Prophet as he has said, "A

man keeps on asking others for something till he comes on the Day of Resurrection

without any piece of flesh on his face." The Prophet added, "On the Day of Resurrection,

the Sun will come near (to, the people) to such an extent that the sweat will reach up to

the middle of the ears, so, when all the people are in that state, they will ask Adam for

help, and then Moses, and then Muhammad." The sub-narrator added "Muhammad will

intercede with Allah (SWT) to judge amongst the people. He will proceed on till he will

hold the ring of the door (of Paradise) and then Allah (SWT) will exalt him to Maqam

Mahmud (the privilege of intercession, etc.). And all the people of the gathering will send

their praises to Allah. [Sahih AlBukhari]

One thing to note is that we do not say, “ O’ Muhammad, intercede or us on the Day of

Judgement.” Rather we say, “O’ Allah, allow the Prophet (SAWS to intercede for us on

the Day of Judgement.” Ameen!

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For what they must be Thankful of?

Ayah 49

“And (remember) when We delivered you from Fir'aun's (Pharaoh) people, who were

afflicting you with a horrible torment, killing your sons and sparing your women, and

therein was a mighty trial from your Lord.”

Background of this and upcoming verses

During the reign of the Pharoah in Egypt, the people of Bani Israel were their slaves at

the time. Pharoah had a dream one night about a fire coming from Asham (today the area

of Asham is Syria and proximity). This dream was interpreted as a boy who would be

born amongst Bani Israel who would ruin Pharoah’s kingdom.

Thus Pharoah began killing off all boys born from Bani Israel. Soon there were no slaves

so upon his economic advisor, Pharoah decided to kill new-born boys of Bani Israel one

year and spare them the next. Haroon, Moses’ brother, was born in a year when there was

no killing but Moses was born in the year that there was.

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After all the savior, and all the signs that Bani Israel seen of Allah SWT, they continued

to worship idols and they insisted on remaining in Kufr.

They did tawba (which was very difficult) and Allah SWT forgave them

“Mighty trial from Lord” this statement is profound as Allah (SWT) Himself is saying

that this was a great trial for Bani Israel from Him.

It’s impossible for someone to have never encountered a test from Allah (SWT). Good

situations can also be a test from Allah (SWT), because Allah (SWT) tests us to see how

we are going to invest the blessings/ favourable situations or circumstances we are under.

In some cases, people will only turn back to Allah (SWT) when they’re in a

stressful/harsh situation. Under other more positive circumstances, they will not be as

close to Allah (SWT), so that explains why Allah (SWT) has chosen certain life

circumstances for some people, because Allah (SWT) knows what’s best for us.

Ayah 50

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“And (remember) when We separated the sea for you and saved you and drowned

Fir'aun's (Pharaoh) people while you were looking (at them, when the sea-water covered

them).”

“While you were looking on”

This was Allah (SWT)’s way of giving assurity to the people of Bani Israel who suffered

mass torture at the hands of Pharoah that he was indeed killed. This was a blessing and a

form of mercy by Allah (SWT) that they saw him dead so that there were no doubts about

Pharoah’s life.

Ayah 51

“And (remember) when We appointed for Musa (Moses) forty nights, and (in his

absence) you took the calf (for worship), and you were Dhalimun (polytheists and wrong-

doers, etc.).”

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Sameri is one of the people who misguided Bani Israel. He fashioned a calf out of gold

and worshipped it. He told Bani Israel that this calf is their God and the God of Musa

when Musa left for 40 days to see Allah (SWT), and so they worshipped it.

There are many parallels of such idol worshipping today:

- Rampant grave worshipping in Eastern Muslim countries

- Gargoyles as angels in Christian churches

Ayah 52

“Then after that We forgave you so that you might be grateful.”

Shirk is a major sin yet Allah (SWT) forgave Bani Israel after they did Tauba.

But were they grateful? Did they say Alhumdulilah? No

Ayah 53

“And (remember) when We gave Musa (Moses) the Scripture [the Taurat (Torah)] and

the criterion (of right and wrong) so that you may be guided aright.”

These books from Allah (SWT) are a gift for mankind.

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Similarly the Quran is a gift not only for Muslims, but for humanity. We should use it in

Dawa’a so that others may experience it’s divinity and grandeur.

It is false to say that we should not use the Quran in Dawa’a as Non-Muslims don’t

believe in it anyway. It’s verses are powerful and will strike the heart directly.

The Breach of Covenant

Ayah 54

“And when Moses said unto his people: O my people! Ye have wronged yourselves by

your choosing of the calf (for worship) so turn in penitence to your Creator, and kill (the

guilty) yourselves. That will be best for you with your Creator and He will relent toward

you. Lo! He is the Relenting, the Merciful.”

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Generally, the previous Ayahs were reminding of Allah (SWT)’s blessings on Bani Israel

and lessons that we as Muslims should learn from them. Now the verses focus on how

they breached their covenant.

It is important to note that even though they continually transgressed, Allah (SWT)

sought their repentance every time and forgave them. This is a great lesson for us on one

the most important characteristics of Allah (SWT) – His limitless mercy. Thus we must

always ask Him for forgiveness.

Musa (AS)’s tone is gentle even though he is angry (and he has all right to be) at them.

He asked them to repent and they did.

Ayah 55

“And (remember) when you said: "O Mûsa (Moses)! We shall never believe in you till we

see Allâh plainly." But you were seized with a thunderbolt (lightning) while you were

looking.”

Despite all the signs and the blessings from Allah (SWT), Bani Israel show their

arrogance when they ask to see Allah (SWT) as a condition to believe in Him.

Thus He destroyed them with lightning.

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Ayah 56

“Then We raised you up after your death, so that you might be grateful.”

Allah (SWT) resurrected them so they could be thankful to Him but they weren’t.

There are 5 cases of resurrection mentioned in Surat AlBaqarah:

1) This story of when Bani Israel said they wanted to see Allah (SWT)

2) Resurrection in the murder of the uncle and slaughter of the cow.

3) The story of the ones who escaped death in their land who were running from a plague.

Allah (SWT) caused them to die than resurrected them.

4) The story of Uzair – when he passed through a village and saw people dead. He asked

who will resurrect them so Allah (SWT) killed him for 100 years than resurrected him

5) The story of the birds and Ibrahim (AS)

We should derive a lesson from this as to when we are in trouble and Allah (SWT) helps

us, we should always be thankful to him, ideally in all situations good and bad.

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Ayah 57

“And We shaded you with clouds and sent down on you Al-Manna and the quails,

(saying): "Eat of the good lawful things We have provided for you," (but they rebelled).

And they did not wrong Us but they wronged themselves.”

Allah (SWT) provided them with the 4 essentials for human happiness and contentment:

Shelter, Safety, Food and Drink.

Three favours that Allah (SWT) provided them with after He (SWT) saved them from

pharaoh:

1) Shade by the clouds from the sun

2) AlManna which provides sufficient food when eaten alone, because it is

nutritious and sweet.

3) AlSalwa, which are quails (a type of bird)

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Similarly today we should not criticize or look down upon someone who may have more

for ex. A nice car. This is a blessing by Allah (SWT). Allah (SWT) likes to see the result

on His slave of His blessings that He has bestowed upon his slave. The Prophet (SAW)

had the nicest and fastest camel in all of Arabia and the Sahaba (RA) were proud of this.

Ayah 58

“And (remember) when We said: "Enter this town (Jerusalem) and eat bountifully

therein with pleasure and delight wherever you wish, and enter the gate in prostration

(or bowing with humility) and say: 'Forgive us,' and We shall forgive you your sins and

shall increase (reward) for the good-doers."

These stories were guidance for the Sahabah during the battles in the Madinah era. And it

should be noted that when Muslims conquer, they conquer out of humility and servitude

to Allah (SWT) and not arrogance.

Allah (SWT) commanded them to:

1. Enter Jerusalem bowing in humility

2. Say “Hittah ”, which means forgive us.

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Allah (SWT) commanded them to do this, so He would forgive their sins and increase

them in reward. Note how Allah (SWT) is giving them repeated chances to ask for

forgiveness, such is the extent of His mercy and more.

Ayah 59

"But those who did wrong changed the word from that which had been told to them for

another, so We sent upon the wrong-doers Rijzan (a punishment) from the heaven

because of their rebelling against Allâh's Obedience.”

Changing words is a form of Mockery and extreme disrespect and this is what Bani Israel

did.

During the time of the Prophet (SAW), the Jews would say to him (SAW) “Asalaikum”

which means “death be upon you” instead of Assalamualaikum which means “peace be

upon you”

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Ayah 60

“And (remember) when Mûsa asked for water for his people, We said: "Strike the stone

with your stick." Then gushed forth there from twelve springs. Each (group of) people

knew its own place for water. "Eat and drink of that which Allâh has provided and do not

act corruptly, making mischief on the earth."

Allah (SWT) is reminding them of another favour that He (SWT) bestowed upon them.

They asked Musa to ask Allah (SWT) for rain so He commanded Musa to hit a stone with

his staff and 12 springs gushed. One for each of the tribes of Bani Israel.

Allah (SWT) gave them these favours and asked them not to return the favour by acts of

disobedience. These disobedient acts cause these favours to disappear.

There are 4 occasions where Musa struck with his staff:

1. The snake with the magicians

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2. Splitting the sea

3. The cow

4. The stone and 12 springs (this case)

Ayah 61

" And (remember) when you said, "O Mûsa (Moses)! We cannot endure one kind of food.

So invoke your Lord for us to bring forth for us of what the earth grows, its herbs, its

cucumbers, its Fûm (wheat or garlic), its lentils and its onions." He said, "Would you

exchange that which is better for that which is lower? Go you down to any town and you

shall find what you want!" And they were covered with humiliation and misery, and they

drew on themselves the Wrath of Allâh. That was because they used to disbelieve the

Ayât (proofs, evidences, verses, lessons, signs, revelations, etc.) of Allâh and killed the

Prophets wrongfully. That was because they disobeyed and used to transgress the bounds

(in their disobedience to Allâh, i.e. commit crimes and sins).”

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Bani Israel became impatient with the Manna and Salwa and asked Musa to ask Allah

(SWT) for different food (what the earth grows):

They asked for:

1. Herbs

2. Cucumbers

3. Garlic or Wheat

4. Lentils

5. Onions

Musa asked them “why would you trade what is good for something worse?”

This is because Manna and Salwa were a full nutritious meal, they were very easy to

access. They are also, unlike vegetables which have to be cooked and prepared.

Thus even though they had pre-prepared food and a lot of free time in which they

could’ve made remembrance of Allah (SWT) and asked for forgiveness, they still went

back to eating and complaining about expanding their menu.

This is how some Muslims act today in Ramadan. Instead of making remembrance of

Allah (SWT) we focus on what we’ll be eating at the time of fast break and preparing all

different kinds of food to break our fast at Maghrib. Ramadan happens to be the busiest

time for Muslim restaurants.

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Thus Bani Israel’s request was rejected and Musa told them to go look for it any city

because they were very common types of food.

Aside

The Jews of today are not the Jews of Bani Israel because in Islam, “No child bears the

burden of his parents” and thus we can’t judge them negatively for what Bani Israel did.

They will be judged for the sins that their generation is committing today i.e. the sins that

they are directly responsible for.

Yet the Jews repeatedly disobeyed and this continued throughout their generations.

During the time of the Prophet SAW, they attempted to kill him on 3 occasions:

1. During the illness preceding his death, the Prophet said, “I kept feeling the effect

of what I ate (from the poisoned sheep) during the day of Khaybar, until now,

when it is the time that the aorta will be cut off (meaning when death is near).”

The poison was placed by a Jewish woman in the shoulder of a sheep which the

Prophet SAW ate.

2. During the Battle of the Trench, when Banu Quraida (a Jewish tribe in Madina)

broke their treaty with the Muslims and were ready to attack the Muslims.

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3. By Banu Qainuqa, when they thought about dropping a rock on the Prophet SAW

while he was visiting them

Ayah 62

" Verily! Those who believe and those who are Jews and Christians, and Sabians,

whoever believes in Allâh and the Last Day and do righteous good deeds shall have their

reward with their Lord, on them shall be no fear, nor shall they grieve”

The best definition of Sabians is that they are neither Jews, Christians or polytheist. They

are people with no religion and Allah (SWT) knows best.

This verse affirms that Allah (SWT) does not accept any deed unless it conforms to the

law of the prophet present at that time and that to believe in Allah (SWT) today you must

believe in the Prophet (SAW)

This verse is an example of a “fire exit” – the way to escape what was mentioned in the

previous verse about disobedience and hell-fire

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This theme of the fire exit:

It is a verse which follows immediately after hellfire and punishment is mentioned which

tells the believers how to avoid it. This is a recurring in the Quran.

Ayah 63

"And (O Children of Israel, remember) when We took your covenant and We raised

above you the Mount (saying): "Hold fast to that which We have given you, and

remember that which is therein so that you may become Al-Muttaqûn”

Allah (SWT) raised the mountain of Tur over them so they can fear Him and take the

pledge to Him seriously as a result, they prostrated and made Tawbah .

Allah (SWT) reminds Bani Israel to hold on to the Torah firmly and to apply it in their

life.

Ayah 64

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"Then after that you turned away. Had it not been for the Grace and Mercy of Allâh upon

you, indeed you would have been among the losers.”

Even though they had just given a pledge they turned away again. (breaching the

covenant again)

Had it not been from the mercy of Allah (SWT), sending more prophets and forgiving

them, they would have been losers in this life and the afterlife.

Ayah 65

“And indeed you knew those amongst you who transgressed in the matter of the Sabbath

(i.e. Saturday). We said to them: "Be you monkeys, despised and rejected."

In Bani Israel, there were certain fisherman who would were tested such that there was no

fish on all days but Saturday. Saturday is their Sabbath when Allah (SWT) commanded

them not work. Thus, Allah (SWT) made it profitable to disobey as a test to the believers.

In an attempt to deceive Allah (SWT), these fisherman placed their nets on Friday and

collected the fish on Sunday, not working on Saturday at all.

Thus all of Bani Israel, except those who forbade this action, were turned into monkeys.

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This is very similar to the idea of Riba (interest) today. It is clearly forbidden yet it is

very easy and preferable to practice. Sadly, many Muslims today deal with Riba.

Ayah 66

“So We made this punishment an example to their own and to succeeding generations

and a lesson to those who are Al-Muttaqûn.”

This is the idea of Deterrent Punishment – a severe punishment which sets an example to

others to not disobey again.

It is commonly employed in Saudi Arabia today ex. “All drug dealers will be executed”

or public executions a few decades ago.

Again, The Cow

Ayah 67

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“And (remember) when Mûsa (Moses) said to his people: "Verily, Allâh commands you

that you slaughter a cow." They said, "Do you make fun of us?" He said, "I take Allâh's

Refuge from being among Al-Jâhilûn (the ignorant or the foolish)."”

It is important to mention that every time they wanted something they asked Musa to call

his lord not theirs. Not recognizing Allah (SWT) as their lord is yet another sign of

arrogance on their part.

Ibn Abi Hatim recorded `Ubaydah As-Salmani saying, "There was a man from among the

Children of Israel who was impotent. He had substantial wealth, and only a nephew

who would inherit from him. So his nephew killed him and moved his body at night,

placing it at the doorstep of a certain man (the nephew did this because you can’t inherit

from a relative if you kill him). The next morning, the nephew cried out for revenge, and

the people took up their weapons and almost fought each other. The wise men among

them said, `Why would you kill each other, while the Messenger of Allah (SWT) is still

among you' So they went to Musa (AS) and mentioned the matter to him. [Tafsir Ibn

Kathir]

Musa directed them to go slaughter a Cow (generic term for any cow) to find out the

truth.

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Ayah 68

“They said, "Call upon your Lord for us that He may make plain to us what it is!" He

said, "He says, 'Verily, it is a cow neither too old nor too young, but (it is) between the

two conditions', so do what you are commanded.”"

Instead of doing as commanded and slaughtering any cow, they started asking silly

questions and arguing when Allah (SWT) made it simple for them.

And as a result of their stubbornness, Allah (SWT) made it difficult for them. Thus, to

answer the question, the first description was it had to be a cow not too young and not too

old.

Ayah 69

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“They said, "Call upon your Lord for us to make plain to us its colour." He said, "He

says, 'It is a yellow cow, bright in its colour, pleasing to the beholders.' "

Then they went into more detail and asked about its colour

The second description was that it had to be yellow, bright in color and pleasing to the

beholder

Ayah 70

“They said, "Call upon your Lord for us to make plain to us what it is. Verily to us all

cows are alike, And surely, if Allâh wills, we will be guided."”

Still they wanted more specifications. They said all cows are similar to us and if you give

us more detail we will be guided if Allah (SWT) wills i.e. inshAllah

It was because they said inshAllah that they actually found guidance, otherwise they

would never have found the cow.

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Ayah 71

“He [Mûsa (Moses)] said, "He says, 'It is a cow neither trained to till the soil nor water

the fields, sound, having no other colour except bright yellow.' " They said, "Now you

have brought the truth." So they slaughtered it though they were near to not doing it.”

The last description was that it had to be a cow neither used in farming or watering

purposes, thus it wouldn’t suffer from any defects

Even though they did what they were told, they weren’t never really doing it with the

correct intention. This is because their goal was to be disobedient.

Eventually they did slaughter a bright, medium aged cow with no blemishes.

Thus by asking excessive questions and by asking for trouble, they were given it.

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Thus it is important to ask good questions. When asking, ask questions which would

benefit you in your practical life.

Questions we want to avoid and are of no benefit to ourselves and the entire Ummah.

These questions include:

1) When is the day of judgement

2) Asking about the faults of other people

3) Questions that don’t make a difference whether we know the answers or not. ex:

did dinosaurs exist? Or: what type of food did Adam eat?

The four questions Bani Isreal asked?

1) Which cow?

2) What color?

3) Which cow (again)?

4) Are you mocking us?

Ayah 72

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“And (remember) when you killed a man and fell into dispute among yourselves as to the

crime. But Allâh brought forth that which you were hiding.”

Allah (SWT) reminded Bani Israel that they can’t hide anything from Him.

Ayah 73

“So We said: "Strike him (the dead man) with a piece of it (the cow)." Thus Allâh brings

the dead to life and shows you His Ayât (proofs, evidences, verses, lessons, signs,

revelations, etc.) so that you may understand.”

They slaughtered it and touched the dead man with a part of it. He stood up, and they

asked him, `Who killed you' He said, `That man,' and pointed to his nephew. He died

again, and his nephew was not allowed to inherit him. Thereafter, whoever committed

murder for the purpose of gaining inheritance was not allowed to inherit. [Tafsir Ibn

Kathir]

Thus Bani Israel actually saw the miracle of the dead coming back to life – yet did they

ever come back to the right path? No, and Allah (SWT) still showed His mercy in asking

them to repent always.

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Ayah 74

“Then, after that, your hearts were hardened and became as stones or even worse in

hardness. And indeed, there are stones out of which rivers gush forth, and indeed, there

are of them (stones) which split asunder so that water flows from them, and indeed, there

are of them (stones) which fall down for fear of Allah. And Allah is not unaware of what

you do.”

This is an amazing incident that shows the wickedness of some of Bani Israel. Usually,

when you see a miracle or a sign your Iman goes up and your heart softens. Instead their

hearts hardened like stones or even harder.

Allah (SWT) describes some of the characteristics of different types of the rocks and

giving us an idea of their hardness and how they break. (Unlike the hearts of the Jews that

were never going to turn any softer)

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And again, Altering the word of Allah

Ayah 75

“Do you (faithful believers) covet that they will believe in your religion inspite of the fact

that a party of them (Jewish rabbis) used to hear the Word of Allah [the Taurat (Torah)],

then they used to change it knowingly after they understood it?”

The people Allah (SWT) is mentioning are such a sect of Jews whose forefathers used to

hear the Words of Allah (the Taurat). Even though they were certain about the signs of

Allah (SWT) and they understood it, and they were aware of their erroneous

interpretations and corruption, they used to distort its meaning.

Alteration and the Quran

Tahreef Lafdh- literal alteration

Tahreef Ma’na: alteration of the meaning

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The Quran is protected from Tahreef Lafdh .Hence the Quran is protected in meaning,

since classical Arabic is still protected till today. The tafseer is also protected with

Hadeeth narrations.

But it can be altered by tahreef ma’na, where people start making lies.

Ayah 76

“And when they (Jews) meet those who believe (Muslims), they say, "We believe", but

when they meet one another in private, they say, "Shall you (Jews) tell them (Muslims)

what Allah has revealed to you [Jews, about the description and the qualities of Prophet

Muhammad (peace be upon him) , that which are written in the Taurat (Torah)], that

they (Muslims) may argue with you (Jews) about it before your Lord?" Have you (Jews)

then no understanding?”

The understanding of this ayah is that the Jews used to advice themselves in private not to

acknowledge the Prophet of Allah (SWT). They would discuss that if they admit to the

Muslims that Muhammad is a Prophet (SAW) whose coming was foretold in their Book

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(the Taurat), the Muslims would come to know that the Jews were waiting for a prophet.

Therefore, the Jews decided not to believe in Muhammad and deny him, lest it would

become a proof for Muslims against them before Allah (SWT). This is how the Jews

thought that they would win the dispute.

Ayah 77

“Know they (Jews) not that Allah knows what they conceal and what they reveal?”

Allah (SWT) questions that do they not know that Allah (SWT) knows “what they

conceal” means their private discussion and “what they reveal” means their

acknowledgement with the Muslims that they believe (while they do not).

Ayah 78

“And there are among them (Jews) unlettered people, who know not the Book, but they

trust upon false desires and they but guess.”

Unlettered means illiterate. The only scripture that the Jews know is wishful thinking and

they hope to trick Allah (SWT) by using rampant and false assumptions.

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It is a sin to say something about Allah (SWT) or what He has decreed which is untrue

Ex. To say that pancakes are haram. Thus if we don’t know the answer, we should say

“Allah knows best” and be quiet.

There are people who form an opinion than search the Quran to back up that opinion.

This is also wrong and prohibited, it is a Bidah (innovation).

The Quran is protected. The words of Allah (SWT) are verified 600 times before finally

printed in the Quran by the most learned scholars.

Ayah 79

“Then woe to those who write the Book with their own hands and then say, "This is from

Allah," to purchase with it a little price! Woe to them for what their hands have written

and woe to them for that they earn thereby.”

The Bible in comparison is commercialized so much so that verses are changed to

achieve benefit. As an example, there is a version of Bible called “Children’s Bible”

which is aimed at selling to the youth – this is merely a money making scheme. This

money earned is Haraam.

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Tahreef: To modify; in this case, to modify the scriptures.

Woe means destruction or perishing and such people who commit Tahreef are set to

perish.

Ayah 80

“And they (Jews) say, "The Fire (i.e. Hell-fire on the Day of Resurrection) shall not

touch us but for a few numbered days." Say (O Muhammad (peace be upon him) to

them): "Have you taken a covenant from Allah, so that Allah will not break His

Covenant? Or is it that you say of Allah what you know not?"”

This saying of the Jews that they are protected from hell-fire is questioned by the Prophet

SAW: Do they have a contract with Allah (SWT)? Or are they simply saying things about

Allah (SWT) that they don’t know?

It is wrong for a Muslim to have low standards Ex. To aim to reach Jannah and only the

lowest portion. This is because over time that aim will lose focus and one will end up in

the hell-fire. This is similar to throwing a dart at a target. The target is there and it is

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thrown to the target, but over time and space the dart will go down and not actually hit

the target.

Ayah 81

“Yes! Whosoever earns evil and his sin has surrounded him, they are dwellers of the Fire

(i.e.Hell); they will dwell therein forever.”

Continued from the previous verse, Allah (SWT) says that the answer to entrance to hell-

fire is not as the Jews say.

Those who perform evil deeds and deliberately stay in fault and in the Day of

Resurrection are going to stand before Allah (SWT) with evil deeds, and they will reside

in the Fire forever.

Ayah 82

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“And those who believe (in the Oneness of Allah SWT - Islamic Monotheism) and do

righteous good deeds, they are dwellers of Paradise, they will dwell therein forever.”

Here is the fire exit again:

This ayah implies that those who believe in Allah (SWT) and His Messenger and perform

good deeds that obey Islamic Shari‘ah, they shall be among the inhabitants of Paradise.

And Again, Alliance Against Their Own People

Ayah 83

“And (remember) when We took a covenant from the Children of Israel, (saying):

Worship none but Allah (Alone) and be dutiful and good to parents, and to kindred, and

to orphans and Al-Masakin (the poor), and speak good to people [i.e. enjoin

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righteousness and forbid evil, and say the truth about Muhammad (peace be upon him)],

and perform As-Salat (Iqamat-as-Salat), and give Zakat. Then you slid back, except a few

of you, while you are backsliders.”

What is the covenant than?

7 main points mentioned in this verse comprise this covenant:

1) They worship Allah (SWT) alone

2) Be good to the parents

3) Be good to the orphans

4) Be good to the poor

5) Have respect for others

6) Establish prayers

7) Give Zakat

Ayah 84 and Ayah 85

“And (remember) when We took your covenant (saying): Shed not the blood of your

(people), nor turn out your own people from their dwellings. Then, (this) you ratified and

(to this) you bear witness.”

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“After this, it is you who kill one another and drive out a party of you from their

homes, assist (their enemies) against them, in sin and transgression. And if they come to

you as captives, you ransom them, although their expulsion was forbidden to you. Then

do you believe in a part of the Scripture and reject the rest? Then what is the recompense

of those who do so among you, except disgrace in the life of this world, and on the Day of

Resurrection they shall be consigned to the most grievous torment. And Allah is not

unaware of what you do.”

Allah (SWT) here is criticizing the Jews who lived in Madinah during the time of the

Messenger of Allah (SWT). They used to suffer because of the armed conflicts between

the tribes of Madinah, Aws and Khazraj. Before Islam, the Aws and Khazraj were

enemies and many battles took place between them. There were three Jewish tribes in Al-

Madinah at that time, Banu Qaynuqa` and Banu An-Nadir, the allies of the Khazraj, and

Banu Quraydhah, who used to be the allies of the Aws.

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When war erupted between Aws and Khazraj, their Jewish allies would assist them. The

Jews would kill their Arab enemy, and sometimes they also killed Jews who were the

allies of the other Arab tribe, while helping the polytheists against their brethren,

although the Jews were prohibited from killing each other according to clear religious

texts in their Books. They would shed each other's blood, although the Torah told them

otherwise, and they knew their rights and dues. They would also drive each other from

their homes and loot whatever furniture and money they could. When the war ended, the

victorious Jews would release the prisoners from the defeated party, according to the

rulings of the Taurat .” [Tafsir Ibn Kathir]

Allah (SWT) reminded the Jews about the covenant, which they testified and witnessed.

However, the Jews displayed dual nature in their actions by violating the rules of Taurat

once and then following it later on (as stated above). Because of the deeds they

performed, in spite of possessing the knowledge of the Taurat , Allah (SWT) asks them,

“Then do you believe in a part of the Scripture and reject the rest?”

And then Allah (SWT) informs us about the recompense of the performers of such deeds

(as those among Jews) are going to receive in this world and in the Day of Resurrection.

Their punishment in this world is disgrace and “on the Day of Resurrection they shall be

consigned to the most grievous torment”; because, Allah (SWT) is All-Aware.

Ayah 86

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“Those are they who have bought the life of this world at the price of the Hereafter.

Their

torment shall not be lightened nor shall they be helped.”

Such people have exchanged their akhira (hereafter) for the duniya.

And Again, Shunning God’s Words

Ayah 87

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“And indeed, We gave Mûsa (Moses) the Book and followed him up with a succession of

Messengers. And We gave ‘Isa (Jesus), the son of Maryam (Mary), clear signs and

supported him with Rûh-ul-Qudus [Jibreel (Gabriel) A.S.]. Is it that whenever there came

to you a Messenger with what you yourselves desired not, you grew arrogant? Some you

disbelieved and some you killed.”

Allah (SWT) is now generalizing the Jews. The difference between their desires and

opinions with what it was stated in the Torah and what the Prophets used to tell them

caused the Bani Israel to reject and disbelieve in the Prophets of Allah (SWT). So they

distorted, changed and altered the Taurat, which was given to Musa (AS) and defied the

commands of Allah (SWT).

We should uphold the truth at all costs. Do not seek specific people and scholars who

may agree with the opinion you hold. It is important to stay consistent in following a

scholar – and follow a scholar who is truthful - and to respect differences when they do

come.

Ayah 88

“And they say, “Our hearts are wrapped (i.e. do not hear or understand Allah’s Word).”

Nay, Allah has cursed them for their disbelief, so little is that which they believe.”

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Allah (SWT) states, “Allah has cursed them for their disbelief,” which implies that it is

not as they claim that their hearts are under a covering, rather Allah (SWT) expelled them

from all types of righteousness.

The statement, “so little is that which they believe”, indicates that most of Bani Israel

were disbelievers, though there were some believers amongst them.

Ayah 89

“And when there came to them (the Jews), a Book from Allah confirming what is with

them [the Taurat (Torah) and the Injeel (Gospel)], although aforetime they had invoked

Allah (for coming of Muhammad (peace be upon him)) in order to gain victory over those

who disbelieved, then when there came to them that which they had recognized, they

disbelieved in it. So let the Curse of Allah be on the disbelievers.”

This is referring to the Jews in Madina. The Jews knew the signs of the Prophet SAW

better than they knew their own kids because their scriptures told them this. They would

often make dua’a to Allah (SWT) to grant them victory against the polytheists (the Ansar

tribes of Aws and Khazraj) by sending them another Prophet. But when the Prophet SAW

came they disbelieved in him.

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The Ansar on the other hand recognized the Prophet SAW immediately as the prophet

which the Jews were praying for.

Q) Why is it that the Jews disbelieved in Muhammad, when they recognized

him as the Prophet who they were expecting?

A) Abu Al-‘Aliyah said, “When Allah sent Muhammad and they saw that he was not one

of them, they rejected him and envied the Arabs, even though they knew that he was the

Messenger of Allah.” [Tafsir Ibn Kathir]

Because of their disbelief and arrogance, Allah (SWT) has cursed them.

Ayah 90

"How bad is that for which they have sold their ownselves, that they should disbelieve in

that which Allah has revealed (the Qur’an), grudging that Allah should reveal of His

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Grace unto whom He wills of His slaves. So they have drawn on themselves wrath upon

wrath. And for the disbelievers, there is disgracing torment.”

“Ishtarau” means that they sold themselves to the duniya to maintain leadership and for

the sake of nationalism.

Allah (SWT) sent the Prophet SAW to whoever He wills and it is wrong to ask why He

did so.

There are different reasons for why Allah (SWT) became angry with Bani Israel:

1) They knew something, but disbelieved in it.

2) Whenever they didn’t like the ruling, they disobeyed.

3) Their disbelief in the prophets, and murdering of the prophets ( Zakariya, Yahya, they

also attempted to kill Issa AS and Muhammad SAWS)

So Allah (SWT) humiliated them

Ayah 91

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“And when it is said to them (the Jews), "Believe in what Allah has sent down," they say,

"We believe in what was sent down to us." And they disbelieve in that which came after

it, while it is the truth confirming what is with them. Say (O Muhammad! (peace be upon

him) to them): "Why then have you killed the Prophets of Allah aforetime, if you indeed

have been believers?"

When the Jews were told to have faith in what Allah (SWT) has sent down to

Muhammad (SAW), they responded by saying that they believe only what was given to

them (the Taurat ); consequently, they rejected what came after the Taurat.

In this ayah, Allah (SWT) states the fact again that what was with Muhammad (SAW)

confirms that what was revealed to the People of the Book.

And then Allah (SWT) questions their evil action saying, “Why then have you killed the

prophets of Allah (SWT), if you indeed have been believers?” i.e. once again, the Jews

are claiming to following the Taurat yet they have killed the prophets that have come

affirming it.

Ayah 92

“And indeed Musa (Moses) came to you with clear proofs, yet you worshipped the calf

after he left, and you were Zalimun (polytheists and wrong-doers).”

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Allah (SWT) to the Bani Israel with clear proofs that he was the Messenger of Allah

(SWT). The signs of Musa include:

1) The flood

2) The locusts

3) The lice

4) The frogs

5) The blood

6) The staff

7) The hand

8) Parting the sea

9) Shading the Jews with clouds

10) The manna and quails

11) The gushing stone etc.

In spite of these clear signs, they disobeyed and worshipped the calf when Musa (RA)

went to Mount Tur to speak with Allah (SWT). Thus Allah (SWT) called them the

Zalimun.

Ayah 93

105


“And (remember) when We took your covenant and We raised above you the Mount

(saying), "Hold firmly to what We have given you and hear (Our Word). They said, "We

have heard and disobeyed." And their hearts absorbed (the worship of) the calf because

of their disbelief. Say: "Worst indeed is that which your faith enjoins on you if you are

believers."

Here, Allah (SWT) reminds the Jews of their covenant with Allah (SWT). Allah (SWT)

says that He raised the Mount Tur above them so that they would believe in that was

given to them and what Allah (SWT) told them.

Because of their rebellious transgressions Bani Isreal had become so arrogant that they

replied, "We have heard and disobeyed."

Qatadah said that “And their hearts absorbed (the worship of) the calf” means, "They

absorbed its love, until its love resided in their hearts.'' [Tafsir Ibn Kathir]

Then Allah (SWT) condemns their belief saying, "Worst indeed is that which your faith

enjoins on you if you are believers." This means that worst is your belief when you claim

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that you believed, while committing the evil of breaking Allah (SWT)'s covenant,

disbelieving in the signs of Allah (SWT) and worshipping the calf instead of Allah

(SWT).

And Again, God Will Never Punish Us

Ayah 94

“Say to (them): "If the home of the Hereafter with Allah is indeed for you specially and

not for others, of mankind, then long for death if you are truthful."

The Jews would say that the hereafter belonged to only them i.e. they would only go to

heaven and no one else. If they are really being truthful, than Allah (SWT) challenges

them to invoke death.

Ayah 95

107


“But they will never long for it because of what their hands have sent before them (i.e.

what they have done). And Allah is All-Aware of the Dhalimun (polytheists and wrong-

doers)”

If you know that you are truthful and that you have committed righteous acts than you

should not be afraid of death. This was the case of the Sahaba (RA) at the time of the

Prophet (SAW). Khalid Bin Walid (RA) would say to the Roman commanders, “Our

soldiers love to die as much as our enemies love to live”

But the Jews, called the Dhalimun, knew of their transgression and would not wish to

suffer the consequences via death.

Ayah 96

“And verily, you will find them (the Jews) the greediest of mankind for life and (even

greedier) than those who ascribe partners to Allah (and do not believe in Resurrection -

Majus, pagans, and idolaters). Everyone of them wishes that he could be given a life of a

thousand years. But the grant of such life will not save him even a little from (due)

punishment. And Allah is All-Seer of what they do”

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You would find them to be the most greedy for life. Even if paradise was all theirs, they

would never wish to die. Even if they’re so old and wretched and have nothing, they still

want to live forever and don’t want to die.

We see this today that some Kuffar want their bodies to be frozen after they die, because

they think that after science catches up, they may be brought back to life again.

And Again, Hatred For Jibreel

Ayah 97

“Say (O Muhammad (peace be upon him)): "Whoever is an enemy to Jibreel (Gabriel)

(let him die in his fury), for indeed he has brought it (this Qur’an) down to your heart by

Allah’s Permission, confirming what came before it [i.e. the Taurat (Torah) and the

Injeel (Gospel)] and guidance and glad tidings for the believers."

Anas bin Malik said, "When `Abdullah bin Salam heard of the arrival of the Prophet in

Al-Madinah, he was working on his land. He came to the Prophet and said, `I am going to

ask you about three things which nobody knows except a Prophet. What will be the first

portent of the Hour? What will be the first meal taken by the people of Paradise? Why

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does a child resemble its father, and why does it resemble its maternal uncle'? Allah

(SWT)'s Messenger said, (Jibreel has just told me the answers.) `Abdullah said, “He (i.e.

Jibreel), among all the angels, is the enemy of the Jews.” [Tafsir Ibn Kathir]

In fact the Prophet SAW answered all questions of the Jews yet they never accepted

Islam. They blamed Jibreel, saying that Jibreel always asked Allah (SWT) to curse them,

when in fact in their hearts they had a hatred for Islam and the Prophet SAW.

Allah (SWT) also states that Jibreel brought the Qur’an down with Allah (SWT)’s

approval which brings guidance and glad-tidings for the believers.

Ayah 98

"Whoever is an enemy to Allah, His Angels, His Messengers, Jibreel (Gabriel) and

Mikael (Michael), then verily, Allah is an enemy to the disbelievers."

It is reported in Sahih AlBukhari that Abu Hurayrah said that the Messenger of Allah

(SWT) said, “Allah (SWT) said, `Whoever takes a friend of Mine as an enemy, will have

started a war with Me.” So, by taking Jibreel as an enemy, the Jews have taken Allah

(SWT) as their enemy.

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Ayah 99

“And indeed We have sent down to you manifest Ayat (these Verses of the Qur’an which

inform in detail about the news of the Jews and their secret intentions, etc.), and none

disbelieve in them but Fasiqun (those who rebel against Allah’s Command).”

Ayah: Something that comes with proof that it is the clear truth.

Allah (SWT) states that who disbelieve in the signs of Allah (SWT) in spite of the clarity

of the signs, they are none but Fasiqun (rebellious transgressors).

Ayah 100

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“Is it not (the case) that every time they make a covenant, some party among them throw

it aside? Nay! (the truth) is most of them believe not.”

Allah (SWT) says in this ayah that there is no covenant which they make, but they break

it and abandon it. However, Allah (SWT) further says here that not all of them

disbelieved, but most of them.

Ayah 101

“And when there came to them a Messenger from Allah (SWT) (i.e. Muhammad (peace

be upon him)) confirming what was with them, a party of those who were given the

Scripture threw away the Book of Allah (SWT) behind their backs as if they did not

know!”

The Jews did not believe in Muhammad and his signs, even though the coming of

Muhammad was clearly mentioned in the Book of Allah (SWT) (the Taurat), which was

given to them. Rather, some of them hid the Book of Allah (SWT) behind their backs as

if they were not aware of anything.

The analogy of “a party of those who were given the Scripture threw away the Book of

Allah behind their backs as if they did not know!” is, “They threw their book behind and

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as long as they live, they go farther and farther from their book, as if a person walking

forward leaving something behind.”

Black Magic

Ayah 102

They followed what the Shayâtin (devils) gave out (falsely of the magic) in the lifetime of

Sulaimân (Solomon). Sulaimân did not disbelieve, but the Shayâtin (devils) disbelieved,

teaching men magic and such things that came down at Babylon to the two (angels,)

Hârût and Mârût, but neither of these two angels taught anyone (such things) till they

had said, "We are only for trial, so disbelieve not (by learning this magic from us)." And

from these (angels) people learn that by which they cause separation between man and

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his wife, but they could not thus harm anyone except by Allâh's Leave. And they learn

that which harms them and profits them not. And indeed they knew that the buyers of it

(magic) would have no share in the Hereafter. And how bad indeed was that for which

they sold their ownselves, if they but knew.

Black magic is shirk and kufr. The person basically sells their souls to achieve special

powers in this world. This person will have nothing good in the hereafter.

But everything happens only by Allah (SWT)’s will, and Black magic was brought as a

test from Allah (SWT) to us. This was forewarned by the two angels, Harut and Maarut,

who taught black magic to the people during the time of Sulaiman in Babylon.

The Jews were in the habit of practicing sorcery and thus they followed the devils at the

time of Sulaiman (RA)

How can black magic influence a human:

1. It can intoxicate them by taking their intelligence away

2. It can change a person’s sense Ex. They may hear something

3. It can make someone sick

4. It can kill someone

5. It can cause emotional attachments such as when one may “fall crazy in love.” This is

related to points 1 and 2

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We should only fear Allah (SWT) and nothing else because it is His will that such fitna

exists within us.

We should ask ourselves today, would we sleep at night if someone told us they sense an

evil jinn in the house? Or there was a snake under the bed? But would we stay awake in

the fear of Allah (SWT) and the day of judgement?

The Prophet (SAW) made zhikr (remembrance of Allah (SWT)) after Asr and Fajr

prayers to seek protection from Him.

What to recite to gain protection:

1. Ayahtul kursi,

2. Last 2 ayahs of Surat al Baqara,

3. Recite Surat al Ikhlas, Surat al falaq and Surat al naas three times each

Ayah 103

115


“And if they had believed and guarded themselves from evil and kept their duty to Allâh,

far better would have been the reward from their Lord, if they but knew!”

Bani Israel knew it was Haram but they were still indulged in black magirc. This shows

the level of disobedience that Bani Israel reached where they didn’t have fear of Allah

(SWT).

In this case, the evil is Black Magic and the fire exit is staying steadfast.

Jews and Christians. What Lies in the Heart?

Ayah 104

“O you who believe! Say not (to the Messenger Peace be upon him ) Râ'ina but say

Undhurna (make us understand) and hear. And for the disbelievers there is a painful

torment”

Ra’ina is a derogatory term in Hebrew which means foolish. Allah (SWT) always gives

alternatives, replacing the bad with the good, thus Ra’ina with Undhurna.

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Whenever we see the verse “Ya Ayuhalazeena Aamino” we should pay attention as it is

directly addressed to the believers and a commandment usually follows it. We should

implement this commandment as part of our belief.

Ayah 105

“Neither those who disbelieve among the people of the Scripture (Jews and Christians)

nor Al-Mushrikûn (the idolaters, polytheists, disbelievers in the Oneness of Allâh,

pagans, etc.) like that there should be sent down unto you any good from your Lord. But

Allâh chooses for His Mercy whom He wills. And Allâh is the Owner of Great Bounty.”

Allah (SWT) gives His Fadhl (Blessing) to whomever He wills and He is “Zul Fadl”

which means He will go above and beyond to fulfill the needs of His slave and give his

slave more than he require.

This ayah affirms that the disbelievers in general want nothing good to come to the

believers.

Ayah 106

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“Whatever a Verse (revelation) do We abrogate or cause to be forgotten, We bring a

better one or similar to it. Know you not that Allâh is able to do all things?”

“Naskh” is when an ayah is replaced with a newer one as the original text is invalid due

to changing times. This is only valid during the time of the Prophet (SAW) as after his

passing there is no way to receive revelations.

Thus a new convert can not have 13 years to quit alcohol as was the prohibition of

alchohol over stages over 13 years during the time of the Prophet SAW.

There are three types of Naskh :

1) A ruling that has been abrogated from something easy to hard

ex: initially it was allowed to drink alcohol but then Allah (SWT) forbade it completely

2) A ruling that has been abrogated from something hard to easy

ex: prayer from 50 Salawaat to 5 but the reward is of 50

3) A ruling that has been abrogated but the level of difficulty is same

ex: changing of the direction of Qiblah from Masjid AlAqsa to Masjid AlHaraam

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Ayah 107

“Know you not that it is Allâh to Whom belongs the dominion of the heavens and the

earth? And besides Allâh you have neither any Walî (protector or guardian) nor any

helper.”

“Wali” means Cavalry and comes from “Nasr” which means “protected from harm” and

this is what Allah (SWT) is to us – he gives us goodness and protects us.

This ayah testifies to Allah (SWT)’s magnificence in that to Him belongs everything and

no one shares it.

Ayah 108

“Or do you want to ask your Messenger (Muhammad Peace be upon him ) as Mûsa

(Moses) was asked before (i.e. show us openly our Lord?) And he who changes Faith for

disbelief, verily, he has gone astray from the Right Way.”

Allah (SWT) is teaching the Sahabah (RA) the correct Adaab of asking questions

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Questions that are generally not advised to ask:

1. Asking big questions to impress the audience or scholar

2. Trying to stump the scholar (with a difficult question)

3. Asking a question toward a different agenda/going off topic. This is also called a

“loaded question” because it has pretence to it and is not asked with the correct intention

of seeking the truth

Bani Israel was destroyed because they asked excessive questions, the intention of these

questions being to be transgress as they had always wanted to worship the cow. They

were looking for trouble and Allah (SWT) gave it to them.

Ayah 109

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“Many of the people of the Scripture (Jews and Christians) wish that if they could turn

you away as disbelievers after you have believed, out of envy from their ownselves, even

after the truth (that Muhammad Peace be upon him is Allâh's Messenger) has become

manifest unto them. But forgive and overlook, till Allâh brings His Command. Verily,

Allâh is Able to do all things.”

Once again, Allah (SWT) says that a portion of Ahlul Kitaab (Jews and Christians) wish

for something evil to the believers. Their actions are driven by jealousy.

In Dawa’a, one should not engage with such people rather turn away from them and

forgive them. Allah (SWT) will handle such people how He chooses.

Ayah 110

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“And perform As-Salât (Iqâmat-as-Salât), and give Zakât, and whatever of good (deeds

that Allâh loves) you send forth for yourselves before you, you shall find it with Allâh.

Certainly, Allâh is All-Seer of what you do.”

Keys to success for the believers are emphasized again, namely Salah and Zakah.

The only things permanent are good deeds.

If you have $500 and want it to be yours forever, you should spend it for the sake of

Allah (SWT), and inshAllah you will be rewarded for it in this life and in the hereafter as

it will be counted towards you as a good deed.

Ayah 111

And they say, "None shall enter Paradise unless he be a Jew or a Christian." These are

their own desires. Say (O Muhammad Peace be upon him ), "Produce your proof if you

are truthful."

The motive behind Christians and Jews making dawa’a to you is basically out of their

wishful desire to stop Islam and propagate their own falsehood.

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In this case, one should ask them of their source. It will either be made up by them or

they will cite from somewhere else that is made up. In both cases, it is false and not

truthful.

Ayah 112

“Yes, but whoever submits his face (himself) to Allâh (i.e. follows Allâh's Religion of

Islâmic Monotheism) and he is a Muhsin then his reward is with his Lord (Allâh), on

such shall be no fear, nor shall they grieve.”

This ayah answers the question, “Who is going to Jannah ?”

In dawa’a, you may be asked on which religion to follow as all religions claim to be the

truth. This ayah is the answer.

Ayah 113

123


“The Jews said that the Christians follow nothing (i.e. are not on the right religion); and

the Christians said that the Jews follow nothing (i.e. are not on the right religion);

though they both recite the Scripture. Like unto their word, said (the pagans) who know

not. Allâh will judge between them on the Day of Resurrection about that wherein they

have been differing.”

With regards to groups of people who claim truth to their ideologies and falsehood to

others, such as the Jews and Christians, different groups of Muslims, or to polytheists,

our job as believers is not to concern themselves with them or to judge their verdict in the

hereafter. This is Allah (SWT)’s matter and He will take care of it on the day of

judgement. We should only be concerned with our own salvation and the salvation of our

Ummah.

Ayah 114

And who are more unjust than those who forbid that Allâh's Name be glorified and

mentioned much (i.e. prayers and invocations, etc.) in Allâh's mosques and strive for

their ruin? It was not fitting that such should themselves enter them (Allâh's Mosques)

except in fear. For them there is disgrace in this world, and they will have a great

torment in the Hereafter.

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This ayah comes with a strict warning that if you block the name of Allah (SWT), you

better be scared for yourself as you will be disgraced in the duniya and tortured in hell-

fire

Ayah 115

“And to Allâh belong the east and the west, so wherever you turn (yourselves or your

faces) there is the Face of Allâh (and He is High above, over His Throne). Surely! Allâh

is All-Sufficient for His creatures' needs, All-Knowing.”

The east and the west belong to Allah (SWT), so He can tell you to pray anywhere. This

was in response to the criticism of the Jews upon the changing of the Qiblah from Bayt

AlMaqdis (Jerusalem) to the Ka‘bah (Makkah). This was the first abrogation in the

Quran.

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Ayah 116

“And they (Jews, Christians and pagans) say: Allâh has begotten a son (children or

offspring). Glory be to Him (Exalted be He above all that they associate with Him). Nay,

to Him belongs all that is in the heavens and on earth, and all surrender with obedience

(in worship) to Him.”

All non-Muslims claim kinship to Allah (SWT):

- The Jews claim Uzair to be the son of Allah (SWT)

- The Christians claim Jesus to be the son of Allah (SWT)

- The pagans claim the angels to be the daughters of Allah (SWT)

But the answer is that this is false as Allah (SWT) is “subhana” or far from imperfections.

He is the owner of all and holds kinship to none.

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Ayah 117

“The Originator of the heavens and the earth. When He decrees a matter, He only says

to it : "Be!" - and it is.”

Allah (SWT) is the one who originates everything and He is All Powerful.

Ayah 118

And those who have no knowledge say: "Why does not Allâh speak to us (face to face) or

why does not a sign come to us?" So said the people before them words of similar import.

Their hearts are alike, We have indeed made plain the signs for people who believe with

certainty.

The ignorant will remain that way no matter what. They ask to hear from Allah (SWT)

yet there are 1000s of Ayahs from Allah (SWT) that attest to this.

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The hearts of Kufaar are all alike and so are their characteristics as Kufr is older than

Islam. The signs are clear in this world, in fact in our own body which testifies to the

truth, yet they will never accept it.

Ayah 119

“Verily, We have sent you (O Muhammad Peace be upon him ) with the truth (Islâm), a

bringer of glad tidings (for those who believe in what you brought, that they will enter

Paradise) and a warner (for those who disbelieve in what you brought, they will enter the

Hell-fire). [] And you will not be asked about the dwellers of the blazing Fire.”

We should share the glad tidings brought forth by Mohammed (SAW) to our Ummah and

to Non-Muslims about Islam.

“Nadir” means the warner and that should be the role of the Muslims. We are only

warners, we are not to concern ourselves with their result in the hereafter.

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Ayah 120

“Never will the Jews nor the Christians be pleased with you (O Muhammad Peace be

upon him ) till you follow their religion. Say: "Verily, the Guidance of Allâh (i.e. Islâmic

Monotheism) that is the (only) Guidance. And if you (O Muhammad Peace be upon him )

were to follow their (Jews and Christians) desires after what you have received of

Knowledge (i.e. the Qur'ân), then you would have against Allâh neither any Walî

(protector or guardian) nor any helper.”

“Tarda” means to be pleased with and our objective as believers is only to seek Allah

(SWT)’s pleasure by worshipping Him.

If we try to satisfy people, including the Christians and the Jews, than we are committing

injustice to ourselves. We will never be happy nor make them happy as their intentions

are based on their jealousy to Islam.

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Ayah 121

“Those (who embraced Islâm from Banî Israel) to whom We gave the Book [the Taurât

(Torah)] [or those (Muhammad's Peace be upon him companions) to whom We have

given the Book (the Qur'ân)] recite it (i.e. obey its orders and follow its teachings) as it

should be recited (i.e. followed), they are the ones that believe therein. And whoso

disbelieves in it (the Qur'ân), those are they who are the losers.”

Thus there are certain Jews from Bani Israel who did follow the Taurat and they are

believers.

This verse talks about the rights of the Quran and how it should be treated:

1) Lafdh (recitation with Tarteel and Tajweed )

2) Ma‘na (properly understanding the meaning of what is recited i.e. Tafsir)

3) Hukm (applying and spreading what is understood of the Qur`an)

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Ayah 122

“O Children of Israel! Remember My Favour which I bestowed upon you and that I

preferred you to the 'Alamîn (mankind and jinn) (of your time-period, in the past).”

Despite their continual transgression, Allah (SWT) still loves for Bani Israel to be guided

and for them to repent to Him by remembering His favours on them.

Ayah 123

“And fear the Day (of Judgement) when no person shall avail another, nor shall

compensation be accepted from him, nor shall intercession be of use to him, nor shall

they be helped.”

On Day of Judgement no one will be of any help for the other (see ayah 48)

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Ibrahim, The Father Of Prophets

Ayah 124

“And (remember) when the Lord of Ibrâhim (Abraham) [i.e., Allâh] tried him with

(certain) Commands, which he fulfilled. He (Allâh) said (to him), "Verily, I am going to

make you Imam (a leader) for mankind (to follow you)." [Ibrâhim (Abraham)] said, "And

of my offspring (to makeleaders)." (Allâh) said, "My Covenant (Prophethood) includes

not Zâlimûn (polytheists and wrong-doers)."

As we go back to our origins, this helps us understand and strengthen our deen. Ibrahim

(AS) worshipped Allah (SWT) alone and was oft tested. All humans are tested – every

human is tested in different ways – and Ibrahim (AS) was not exempt from them. Some

of his tests included:

- Being thrown into a fire

- His father being a kaafir

- The test of Ha’aja (AS) and Ismael (AS)

- To build the Ka’aba

- Not having kids for a while

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- Sacrificing his son

Ibrahim (AS) also demonstrated the importance of patience as he prevailed through all

these tests. As a result, Allah (SWT) shows the reward for such a person: Ibrahim (AS)

was than appointed leader for the generations after.

Ayah 125

“And (remember) when We made the House (the Ka'bah at Makkah) a place of resort for

mankind and a place of safety. And take you (people) the Maqâm (place) of Ibrâhim

(Abraham) [or the stone on which Ibrâhim (Abraham) A.S. stood while he was building

the Ka'bah] as a place of prayer (for some of your prayers, e.g. two Rak'at after the

Tawâf of the Ka'bah at Makkah), and We commanded Ibrâhim (Abraham) and Ismâ'il

(Ishmael) that they should purify My House (the Ka'bah at Makkah) for those who are

circumambulating it, or staying (I'tikâf), or bowing or prostrating themselves (there, in

prayer).”

The Ka’bah was is a “mathaaba” – a place where people return.

The importance of the Ka’bah is shown in that:

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- Doing Hajj forgives your sins

- Doing Hajj will increase your income

- The Prophet SAW emphasized the Muslims to do as many Umrahs as possible

- It is a place of security

The Ka’bah was put in a barren land for a reason- so that the Ka’bah is the center of

attention.

The Maqam is the stone that Ibrahim was standing on while building the House. As the

House’s walls became higher, Isma`il brought his father a stone, so that he could stand on

it, while Isma`il handed him the stones. Ibrahim would place the stones on the wall, and

whenever he finished one side, he would move to the next side, to complete the building

all around. Ibrahim kept repeating this until he finished building the House.

Ayah 126

“And (remember) when Ibrâhim (Abraham) said, "My Lord, make this city (Makkah) a

place of security and provide its people with fruits, such of them as believe in Allâh and

the Last Day." He (Allâh) answered: "As for him who disbelieves, I shall leave him in

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contentment for a while, then I shall compel him to the torment of the Fire, and worst

indeed is that destination!"

Ibrahim (AS)’s dua’a was to provide Makkah’s people with the essentials which were

food, drink, shelter and safety. Fruits in Makkah are mentioned as proof of his dua’a

being accepted.

And as for fate of the disbelievers, they may enjoy in the duniya, but their true

recompense – hell-fire - awaits in the akhira.

Ayah 127

“And (remember) when Ibrâhim (Abraham) and (his son) Ismâ'il (Ishmael) were raising

the foundations of the House (the Ka'bah at Makkah), (saying), "Our Lord! Accept (this

service) from us. Verily! You are the All-Hearer, the All-Knower."”

Ibrahim and Isma’il asked Allah (SWT) to accept their deed after they had completed the

Ka’bah. Thus when we do a good deed we should always make du’a to Allah (SWT) to

accept it.

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Ayah 128

"Our Lord! And make us submissive unto You and of our offspring a nation submissive

unto You, and show us our Manâsik (all the ceremonies of pilgrimage - Hajj and

'Umrah), and accept our repentance. Truly, You are the One Who accepts repentance,

the Most Merciful.”

This is a beautiful Ayah as it was the result of Ibrahim (AS)’s dua’a which Allah (SWT)

accepted that we are Muslim.

His amazing insight is further seen in how he prayed for us, our forgiveness, though we

did not even exist at the time. Do we pray for our future generations?

Ibraheem was further asked to call the people for hajj, so when we go, we are answering

the call of Ibraheem.

The Revelation of Hajj

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Jibril (AS) then came down, took him to the House and said, `Raise its foundations.'

Ibrahim (AS) raised the House's foundations and completed the building. Jibril held

Ibrahim (AS) hand, led him to As-Safa and said, `This is among the rituals of Allah.' He

then took him to Al-Marwah and said, Ànd this is among the rituals of Allah.' He then

took him to Mina until when they reached the Àqabah, they found Iblis standing next to

a tree. Jibril said, `Say Takbir (Allah is the Great) and throw (pebbles) at him.' Ibrahim

said the Takbir and threw (pebbles at) Iblis. Iblis moved to the middle Jamrah, and when

Jibril and Ibrahim passed by him, Jibril said to Ibrahim, `Say Takbir and throw at him.'

Ibrahim threw at him and said Takbir. The devious Iblis sought to add some evil acts to

the rituals of Hajj, but he was unable to succeed. Jibril took Ibrahim's hand and led him to

Al-Mashàr Al-Haram and Àrafat and said to him, `Have you Àrafta (known, learned)

what I showed you' thrice. Ibrahim said, `Yes I did.''' [Tafsir Ibn Kathir]

Ayah 129

"Our Lord! Send amongst them a Messenger of their own (and indeed Allâh answered

their invocation by sending Muhammad Peace be upon him ), who shall recite unto them

Your Verses and instruct them in the Book (this Qur'ân) and Al-Hikmah (full knowledge

of the Islâmic laws and jurisprudence or wisdom or Prophethood), and purify them.

Verily! You are the All-Mighty, the All-Wise."

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Another du’a by Ibrahim to Allah (SWT) was to send the prophet Muhammad (SAW)

Ibrahim (AS) was the first one to make mention of this Prophet (SAW).

Ayah 130

“And who turns away from the religion of Ibrâhim (Abraham) (i.e. Islâmic Monotheism)

except him who befools himself? Truly, We chose him in this world and verily, in the

Hereafter he will be among the righteous.”

Whoever prefers another religion has betrayed himself.

We should make constant dua’a for Allah (SWT) to make us of the righteous of the

nation of Ibrahim (AS)

Ayah 131

When his Lord said to him, "Submit (i.e. be a Muslim)!" He said, "I have submitted

myself (as a Muslim) to the Lord of the 'Alamîn (mankind, jinn and all that exists)."

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Ibrahim (AS) submitted without question when Allah (SWT) asked him to. This is what

Islam is all about.

The Legacy of Yaqub (AS)

Ayah 132

And this (submission to Allâh, Islâm) was enjoined by Ibrâhim (Abraham) upon his sons

and byYa'qûb (Jacob), (saying), "O my sons! Allâh has chosen for you the (true) religion,

then die not except in the Faith of Islâm (as Muslims - Islâmic Monotheism)."

After he had submitted, Ibrahim (AS) asked his sons to submit as well, and they did. In

return, Allah (SWT) granted them salvation.

Ayah 133

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“Or were you witnesses when death approached Ya'qûb (Jacob)? When he said unto his

sons,"What will you worship after me?" They said, "We shall worship your Ilâh [] (God -

Allâh), the Ilâh (God) of your fathers, Ibrâhim (Abraham), Ismâ'il (Ishmael), Ishâq

(Isaac), One Ilâh (God), and to Him we submit (in Islâm)."

The sons of Yaqub (AS) also followed a similar path. On his death bed, when Yaqub

(AS) asked his children (12 leaders of the tribes) who would they worship? They replied

that they will would worship the God of Ya’qub, Ibrahim, Isma’il and Ishaaq (AS).

Ayah 134

“That was a nation who has passed away. They shall receive the reward of what they

earned and you of what you earn. And you will not be asked of what they used to do”

This Ayah proclaims that your relationship to the Prophets (AS) or righteous people

among your ancestors will not benefit you, unless you perform good deeds that bring

about you religious benefit.

They have their deeds and you have yours. The nation of Bani Israel perished, and they

will be responsible of what they earned. Our job is to learn from their example. This is

the best way to conclude their story.

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Ayah 135

“And they say, "Be Jews or Christians, then you will be guided." Say (to them, O

Muhammad Peace be upon him ), "Nay, (We follow) only the religion of Ibrâhim

(Abraham), Hanifa [Islâmic Monotheism, i.e. to worship none but Allâh (Alone)], and he

was not of Al-Mushrikûn “

The Jews and the Christians claims that they are the ones who are rightly guided. But

Allah (SWT) refutes their statement by commanding Muhammad (SAW) to say that the

Muslims follow the religion of Ibrahim (AS), which is ‘Hanif’. ‘Hanif’ means the straight

path which is what the Messengers, from beginning to end, believed in.''

Jewish and Christians both believe in the religion of Ibrahim (AS), which is Islamic

Monoethism. So by not following Islam they are denying the beliefs of Ibrahim (AS). In

fact Muslims are following the religion of all Prophets, including Moses (AS) and Jesus

(AS), better than the Jews and Christians are.

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Ayah 136

Say (O Muslims), "We believe in Allâh and that which has been sent down to us and that

which has been sent down to Ibrâhim (Abraham), Ismâ'il (Ishmael), Ishâq (Isaac),

Ya'qûb (Jacob), and to Al-Asbât [the offspring twelve sons of Ya'qûb (Jacob)], and that

which has been given to Mûsa (Moses) and Isâ (Jesus), and that which has been given to

the Prophets from their Lord. We make no distinction between any of them, and to Him

we have submitted (in Islâm)."

Allah (SWT) commands the Muslims to answer the claim of the Jews and Christians by

saying that our belief in all the Prophets (AS) is the same. However it is necessary to

mention it here that because of their strength in preaching the message of Allah (SWT)

the following Prophets are called Ùlul Àzm. “The Possessors of Strong Will.” These

Prophets are:

1) Nuh (AS)

2) Ibrahim (AS)

3) Musa (AS)

4) Ìsa (AS)

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5) Muhammad (SAW)

Ayah 137

“So if they believe in the like of that which you believe, then they are rightly guided, but

if they turn away, then they are only in opposition. So Allâh will suffice for you against

them. And He is the All-Hearer, the All-Knower.”

Allah (SWT) will help you in waging war against the disbelievers. The Prophet (SAW)

spent the entire Madinah period of his life fighting such people.

Ayah 138

“[Our Sibghah (religion) is] the Sibghah (Religion) of Allâh (Islâm) and which Sibghah

(religion can be better than Allâh's? And we are His worshippers.”

“Sibghah” means dye, in this verse, the dye of Allah (SWT). It is the beauty of Islam that

stays with the believer. It has two characteristics:

1. It is inseparable from the garment as Islam is from the believer

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2. It is apparent on the outward experience, as the appearance of Islam should be apparent

on the believer

Ayah 139

“Say (O Muhammad (peace be upon him) to the Jews and Christians), "Dispute you with

us about Allâh while He is our Lord and your Lord? And we are to be rewarded for our

deeds and you for your deeds. And we are sincere to Him [in worship and obedience (i.e.

we worship Him Alone and none else, and we obey His Orders).]"

"Dispute you with us about Allah” means, "Do you dispute with us regarding the Oneness

of Allah (SWT), obedience and submission to Him and in avoiding His prohibitions?”

Also this ayah confirms the fact that we (Muslims) are going to responsible for our deeds

and they (the Jews and Christians) are for theirs.

Finally Allah (SWT) commands Prophet Muhammad (SAW) to tell them that Muslims

are the ones sincere in worshipping him.

Ayah 140

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“Or say you that Ibrâhim (Abraham), Ismâ'il (Ishmael), Ishâque (Isaac), Ya'qûb (Jacob)

and Al-Asbât [the offspring twelve sons of Ya'qûb (Jacob)] were Jews or Christians?

Say, "Do you know better or does Allâh (knows better… that they all were Muslims)?

And who is more unjust than he who conceals the testimony [i.e. to believe in Prophet

Muhammad Peace be upon him when he comes, as is written in their Books he has from

Allâh? And Allâh is not unaware of what you do."

Allah (SWT) criticises the Jews and Christians in their claim that Ibrahim, the Prophets

who came after him and the Asbaat were following their religion, whether Judaism or

Christianity.

Then Allah (SWT) questions them "Do you know better or does Allah?”

Al-Hasan Al-Basri (RA) said, “They used to recite the Book of Allah (SWT) He sent to

them that stated that the true religion is Islam and that Muhammad is the Messenger of

Allah. Their Book also stated that Ibrahim, Ismail, Ishaq, Yaqub and the tribes were

neither Jews, nor Christians. They testified to these facts, yet hid them from the people.”

Ayah 141

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“That was a nation who has passed away. They shall receive the reward of what they

earned, and you of what you earn. And you will not be asked of what they used to do.”

At the end of the day, your story is yours to tell. You are not responsible for anyone but

yourself.

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Breach of Covenant: Tafsir Surah Baqarah by Mohammed Al Shareef (AlMaghrib Course Notes)

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