Meaning of Quran

Al-Muzzammil | The Enshrouded One

With the name of Allah, the All-Merciful, the Very-Merciful.

[73:1] O you, wrapped up in clothes,

[73:2] stand at night (for prayer) except a little

[73:3] half of it, or make it a little less,

[73:4] or make it a little more; and recite the Qur‘an clearly with tartil (in a distinct and measured tone).

[73:5] We are going to send down to you a weighty discourse.

[73:6] Truly, rising by night (for prayer of tahajjud ) is the most effective way to subdue (one‘s base self) and to make speech more upright.

[73:7] Surely, in daytime, you have a lengthy work to do.

[73:8] And remember the name of your Lord, and devote yourself to Him with exclusive devotion.

[73:9] He is the Lord of the East and the West; there is no god but He; so take Him for (your) Guardian.

[73:10] And bear patiently what they (the opponents) say, and part with them in a beautiful manner.

[73:11] And leave Me alone (to deal) with the deniers, the people of luxury, and give them respite for a while.

[73:12] Surely with Us are fetters and flaming fire,

[73:13] and food that chokes, and a painful punishment

[73:14] on the Day when the earth and the mountains will quake, and the mountains will turn into a slipping heap of sand.

[73:15] (O people,) We have sent to you a messenger, as a witness over you, just as We sent a messenger to Firaun (Pharaoh).

[73:16] Then, Firaun disobeyed the messenger; so We seized him with a severe seizure.

[73:17] So, if you disbelieve, how will you save yourself from a day that will turn the small boys into grey-headed old men,

[73:18] whereby the sky will burst apart. His promise has to be fulfilled.

[73:19] Indeed, this is a reminder; so let anyone who so wishes, adopt a way to his Lord.

[73:20] Your Lord knows that you stand (in prayer) for nearly two-thirds of the night, and (at times) for half of it, and (at times) for one-third of it, and (so do) a group of those who are with you. And Allah measures the night and the day. He knows that you (O Muslims,) cannot do it in a regular way; therefore He turned to you in mercy. Now, recite as much of the Qur‘an as is easy (for you). He knows that some of you may be sick, and others traveling in the land, seeking the grace of Allah, and yet others fighting in Allah‘s way. Therefore, recite as much of it as is easy. And establish Salah, and pay Zakah, and advance to Allah a goodly loan. And whatever good you will send ahead for your own selves, you will find it with Allah much better in condition, and much greater in reward. And seek forgiveness from Allah. Indeed Allah is MostForgiving, Very-Merciful.

Tafsir

Overview of Surah Al-Muzzammil

  1. Title and Position: Surah Al-Muzzammil is the 73rd chapter of the Quran. The title “Al-Muzzammil” translates to “The Enshrouded One” or “The Cloaked One,” referring to the Prophet Muhammad in a state of enshrouding or wrapping himself in garments during the night.
  2. Verses and Structure: This surah contains 20 verses. It is notable for its instructions to the Prophet Muhammad regarding night prayer and the spiritual and physical discipline required for the prophetic mission.
  3. Themes and Messages: Major themes include the emphasis on night prayer (Tahajjud) for spiritual strength, the gradual revelation of the Quran, the instruction for patience and reliance on God, and warnings to the disbelievers.
  4. Significance in Islamic Thought: Surah Al-Muzzammil is significant for its guidance on the spiritual practice of night prayer, its role in strengthening the believer’s soul, and its counsel on facing the challenges of prophethood and da’wah (inviting to Islam).

Detailed Explanation

  1. The Command for Night Prayer: The surah opens with an instruction to the Prophet to stand in prayer at night, a practice known as Tahajjud, which is a time for solitude, reflection, and a means to approach God’s presence closely.
  2. Spiritual Discipline: The emphasis on night prayer serves as a means of spiritual fortification, preparing the Prophet and the believers for the challenges they face in spreading the message of Islam.
  3. Gradual Revelation: The surah acknowledges the gradual revelation of the Quran, suggesting flexibility in the recitation during prayer, and indicating the mercy and consideration of God for the human condition.
  4. Patience and Reliance on God: It advises the Prophet and the believers to be patient, maintain consistency in worship, and rely on God, especially in the face of adversity and opposition from disbelievers.
  5. Warnings to Disbelievers: The surah concludes with warnings to those who deny the truth, illustrating the serious consequences of rejection and urging them to reflect and seek forgiveness.

FAQs

  1. Why is Surah Al-Muzzammil named “The Enshrouded One”?
    • The surah is named “Al-Muzzammil” as it addresses the Prophet Muhammad in a state of being enshrouded or wrapped in his garments, symbolizing his devotion and contemplation during the night.
  2. What is the significance of night prayer in Surah Al-Muzzammil?
    • Night prayer is emphasized for its role in enhancing spiritual strength, deepening the connection with God, and preparing the individual for the challenges and responsibilities of life and divine mission.
  3. How does the surah guide the believers in facing challenges?
    • It guides believers to seek strength through prayer, patience, and reliance on God, emphasizing that spiritual practices are crucial in overcoming difficulties and steadfastness in faith.
  4. What lessons can be derived from the warnings to disbelievers in the surah?
    • The warnings serve as a reminder of the accountability in the hereafter, urging individuals to reflect on their actions, embrace the truth, and seek God’s forgiveness before it is too late.

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