Surah Al-A'la [87]

Chapter 87 of the Quran is called Surah Al-A'la. It is a Makkan chapter consisting of 19 verses. Here is a brief explanation of the verses in this chapter:

Verses 1-3:
"Glorify the name of your Lord, the Most High, who created and proportioned, and who destined and [then] guided."

These verses begin the chapter by urging the reader to exalt and glorify the name of their Lord, emphasizing His greatness and exalted status. It highlights the attributes of Allah as the Creator and the One who has perfect knowledge and wisdom. Allah has created all things in perfect proportion and has predetermined their destinies. Furthermore, Allah provides guidance to His creation.

Verses 4-5:
"And who brings out the pasture. And [then] makes it black stubble."

These verses describe one of the manifestations of Allah's power and control over nature. Allah brings forth lush pastures for animals to graze, and then, as a natural process, it turns into dry and withered stubble.

Verses 6-10:
"We will make you recite, [O Muhammad], and you will not forget, except what Allah should will. Indeed, He knows what is declared and what is hidden. And We will ease you toward ease. So remind, if the reminder should benefit; he who fears [Allah] will be reminded."

These verses address the Prophet Muhammad directly, assuring him that he will be enabled to recite the Quran and convey its message without forgetting any part of it, except what Allah wills. Allah has complete knowledge of what is openly declared and what is concealed in people's hearts. The Prophet is comforted by the assurance that Allah will facilitate his mission and make it easier for him. The Prophet is instructed to continue reminding people, as the reminder benefits those who have fear and reverence for Allah.

Verses 11-17:
"He who will be purified will be successful. And he who remembers the name of his Lord and prays. But you prefer the worldly life, while the Hereafter is better and more enduring. Indeed, this is in the former scriptures, the scriptures of Ibrahim and Musa."

These verses highlight the qualities and actions that lead to success. Success lies in purifying oneself through righteous actions and constantly remembering and invoking the name of Allah. It contrasts the pursuit of worldly desires with the everlasting nature and superiority of the Hereafter. The message of prioritizing the Hereafter over worldly pursuits is not new but has been mentioned in the previous scriptures revealed to Ibrahim (Abraham) and Musa (Moses).

Verses 18-19:
"Is it not in this the former scriptures? The scripture of Ibrahim and Musa?"

These verses reiterate that the message of prioritizing the Hereafter and seeking purification is not new but has been mentioned in the previous scriptures revealed to Ibrahim and Musa.

Overall Themes:
Surah Al-A'la emphasizes the greatness of Allah as the Most High, the Creator, and the Guide. It urges believers to glorify and exalt the name of Allah and recognize His attributes. The chapter underscores the importance of recognizing the transient nature of worldly pursuits and prioritizing the Hereafter, which is eternal and superior.

The verses also provide encouragement and assurance to the Prophet Muhammad, assuring him of Allah's support and facilitation in delivering the message of the Quran. The chapter emphasizes the importance of constant remembrance of Allah and righteous actions as a means of purification and success.

Furthermore, Surah Al-A'la highlights the continuity of the message throughout history, as the concepts of purifying oneself, remembering Allah, and prioritizing the Hereafter are not new but have been mentioned in the previous scriptures revealed to Ibrahim and Musa.

Overall, the chapter serves as a reminder of the fundamental principles of faith and the need to prioritize spiritual growth and the pursuit of the eternal over the transient. It encourages believers to remember Allah, seek purification, and strive for success in the sight of Allah.

Here are some additional points about Surah Al-A'la:

Verses 1-3:
These verses emphasize the importance of glorifying and exalting the name of Allah, who is described as the Most High. They highlight Allah's role as the Creator of all things and the One who has perfect knowledge and wisdom. Allah has created everything in perfect proportion and has determined their destinies. Additionally, Allah provides guidance to His creations, ensuring that they are on the right path.

Verses 4-5:
These verses draw attention to one of the natural phenomena that showcase Allah's power and control over the environment. Allah brings forth lush pastures for animals to graze, and then, as a natural process, it turns into dry and withered stubble. This cycle demonstrates the transient nature of worldly provisions and serves as a reminder of Allah's ability to create and alter the state of things.

Verses 6-10:
These verses address the Prophet Muhammad directly, assuring him that he will be enabled to recite the Quran and convey its message without forgetting any part of it, except what Allah wills. This reassurance signifies the divine support and guidance given to the Prophet. Allah has complete knowledge of both the apparent and hidden matters, and He provides ease and facilitation to the Prophet in fulfilling his mission. The Prophet is encouraged to continue reminding people, as the reminder benefits those who have fear and reverence for Allah.

Verses 11-17:
These verses highlight the qualities and actions that lead to success. Success lies in purifying oneself through righteous actions and constantly remembering and invoking the name of Allah. The chapter contrasts the allure of worldly pursuits with the superior and everlasting nature of the Hereafter. It encourages believers to prioritize the Hereafter, recognizing its value and permanence. The message of prioritizing the Hereafter is not a new concept but has been mentioned in the previous scriptures revealed to Ibrahim and Musa. This emphasizes the continuity of the message throughout history.

Verses 18-19:
These verses reiterate that the message of prioritizing the Hereafter and seeking purification is not new but has been mentioned in the previous scriptures revealed to Ibrahim and Musa. This serves to affirm the consistency and harmony of the divine message throughout time.

Overall Themes:
Surah Al-A'la emphasizes the importance of recognizing and exalting the greatness of Allah. It encourages believers to prioritize the everlasting and superior nature of the Hereafter over the transient pleasures of worldly life. The chapter highlights the qualities and actions that lead to success, such as purification, remembrance of Allah, and adherence to the teachings of the Prophet. It reminds believers of the continuity of the message throughout history and the importance of aligning their lives with the guidance provided by Allah.

Furthermore, Surah Al-A'la serves as a source of encouragement and reassurance to the Prophet Muhammad, affirming his mission and the support he receives from Allah. It underscores the significance of constantly reminding people and conveying the message of truth, as it benefits those who have fear and reverence for Allah.

Overall, the chapter calls individuals to reflect upon their priorities, strive for spiritual growth and purification, and recognize the eternal rewards that await in the Hereafter. It encourages believers to remember Allah, prioritize the Hereafter, and live their lives in accordance with the guidance of the Quran.