At-Tariq | The Nightcommer
[86:1]I swear by the sky and by the Night-Comer,
[86:2] and what may let you know what the Night-Comer is?
[86:3] The star of piercing brightness!
[86:4]there is no human being, but there is a watcher over him.
[86:5] So, let man consider of which stuff he is created.
[86:6] He is created of spouting water.
[86:7] that comes out from between the loins and the chest-bones.
[86:8] Surely He is Powerful to bring him back.
[86:9] on a day when all the secrets will be searched out,
[86:10] and he will have neither strength (to defend), nor a supporter.
[86:11] I swear by the sky that rains,
[86:12] and the earth that cracks open (for plants),
[86:13] this is a decisive word,
[86:14] and it is not a joke.
[86:15] They are devising plans,
[86:16] and I Am devising plans.
[86:17] So leave the disbelievers alone at the moment; give them respite for a while.
[86:1]I swear by the sky and by the Night-Comer,
[86:2] and what may let you know what the Night-Comer is?
[86:3] The star of piercing brightness!
[86:4]there is no human being, but there is a watcher over him.
[86:5] So, let man consider of which stuff he is created.
[86:6] He is created of spouting water.
[86:7] that comes out from between the loins and the chest-bones.
[86:8] Surely He is Powerful to bring him back.
[86:9] on a day when all the secrets will be searched out,
[86:10] and he will have neither strength (to defend), nor a supporter.
[86:11] I swear by the sky that rains,
[86:12] and the earth that cracks open (for plants),
[86:13] this is a decisive word,
[86:14] and it is not a joke.
[86:15] They are devising plans,
[86:16] and I Am devising plans.
[86:17] So leave the disbelievers alone at the moment; give them respite for a while.
Tafsir
Overview of Surah At-Tariq
- Title and Position: Surah At-Tariq is the 86th chapter of the Quran. The title “At-Tariq” translates to “The Nightcomer,” referring to the bright star that appears at night, symbolizing a beacon in the darkness and a source of guidance.
- Verses and Structure: This surah contains 17 verses. It emphasizes the power and knowledge of Allah, who created the heavens, the earth, and human beings, and who is aware of all actions, thoughts, and intentions.
- Themes and Messages: Major themes include the marvels of creation, the resurrection, the certainty of judgment, and the intrinsic connection between humans and the cosmos. It underscores the meticulousness of divine observation and the inescapability of accountability.
- Significance in Islamic Thought: Surah At-Tariq is significant for its emphasis on the power and wisdom of Allah in creating and maintaining the universe and the moral implications of these beliefs for human beings, highlighting the reality of resurrection and judgment.
Detailed Explanation
- Invocation of the Night Star: The surah opens with an oath by the sky and the nightcomer (the star), drawing attention to the wonders of creation and the signs of divine power and presence in the universe.
- Human Creation and Resurrection: It reflects on the creation of humans from a drop of fluid, emphasizing the beginning of life and the inevitable return to Allah for judgment, reinforcing the concept of resurrection.
- Divine Surveillance: The surah asserts that Allah is fully aware of every individual’s actions and thoughts, emphasizing that nothing escapes His notice, and every person is under constant divine observation.
- Warning and Reassurance: At-Tariq serves both as a warning to those who deny the truth and a reassurance to the believers about the justice and omnipotence of Allah, encouraging mindfulness of one’s duties and the hereafter.
FAQs
- Why is the surah named “At-Tariq”?
- It is named after the nightcomer star, symbolizing guidance, the marvels of Allah’s creation, and the light that penetrates the darkness, paralleling the Quran’s role as a guide for humanity.
- What is the significance of the creation theme in the surah?
- The theme underscores Allah’s power and wisdom in creating life and the universe, illustrating the meticulous design and purpose inherent in creation, which in turn highlights the reality of resurrection and accountability.
- How does the surah connect human life to cosmic phenomena?
- By citing the nightcomer star and human creation, the surah draws a parallel between celestial and terrestrial life, showing that both are aspects of Allah’s creation, governed by His laws and reflecting His majesty.
- What lessons can Muslims derive from Surah At-Tariq?
- Muslims are reminded of Allah’s closeness and knowledge of every action, the importance of being conscious of their deeds, the reality of resurrection and judgment, and the encouragement to seek guidance and live righteously.
- It is named after the nightcomer star, symbolizing guidance, the marvels of Allah’s creation, and the light that penetrates the darkness, paralleling the Quran’s role as a guide for humanity.
- The theme underscores Allah’s power and wisdom in creating life and the universe, illustrating the meticulous design and purpose inherent in creation, which in turn highlights the reality of resurrection and accountability.
- By citing the nightcomer star and human creation, the surah draws a parallel between celestial and terrestrial life, showing that both are aspects of Allah’s creation, governed by His laws and reflecting His majesty.
- Muslims are reminded of Allah’s closeness and knowledge of every action, the importance of being conscious of their deeds, the reality of resurrection and judgment, and the encouragement to seek guidance and live righteously.
Read more