Alhamdu lillaahi faatiris samaawaati wal ardi jaa'ilil malaaa'ikati rusulan uleee ajnihatim masnaa wa sulaasa wa rubaa'; yazeedu fil khalqi maa yashaaa'; innal laaha 'alaa kulli shai'in Qadeer
All praise is due to Allah, Who created [out of nothing] the heavens and the earth, Who made the angels, messengers with wings, two, or three, or four [pairs]: He adds to Creation as He pleases: for Allah is over all things competent.
Commentary of verses 35:1 to 35:2
Allah created angels to deliver messages and carry out His commands. But Satan deceived people into believing angels had independent power and could grant blessings or salvation. Some communities invented images and names like Lat and Manat, worshipping them as deities. Others elevated natural laws to a similar status in modern times. Yet both angels and natural laws are entirely subject to the will of One God.
Maa yaftahil laahu linnaaasi mir rahmatin falaa mumsika lahaa wa maa yumsik falaa mursila lahoo mimb'dih; wa Huwal 'Azeezul Hakeem
What Allah out of his Mercy does bestow on mankind there is none can withhold: what He does withhold, there is none can grant, apart from Him: and He is the Exalted in Power, full of Wisdom.
Commentary of verses 35:1 to 35:2
Allah created angels to deliver messages and carry out His commands. But Satan deceived people into believing angels had independent power and could grant blessings or salvation. Some communities invented images and names like Lat and Manat, worshipping them as deities. Others elevated natural laws to a similar status in modern times. Yet both angels and natural laws are entirely subject to the will of One God.
Yaaa ayyuhan naasuzkuroo ni'matal laahi 'alaikum; hal min khaaliqin ghairul laahi yarzuqukum minas samaaa'i wal ard; laaa ilaaha illaa Huwa fa annaa tu'fakoon
O men! Call to mind the grace of Allah to you! is there a creator, other than Allah, to give you provision from heaven or earth? There is no god but He: how then are you deluded away from the Truth?
Commentary of verse 35:3
Allah created humanity from earthly elements, then divided them into male and female to multiply. Before a child is even born, everything needed for growth is already prepared in the womb — proof that the Creator knew the child's needs in advance. Similarly, no one controls their own lifespan. Some die young, others live long, and none have any say in it except Allah. How then can anyone place their hopes or fears in anyone other than Him?
Wa iny yukazzibooka faqad kuzzibat Rusulum min qablik; wa ilal laahi turja'ul umoor
And if they reject you, so were messengers rejected before you: to Allah back for decision all affairs.
Commentary of verses 35:3 to 35:4
Human life depends on countless blessings—light, water, air, food, and minerals—each requiring the harmony of universal forces. Only the One God can orchestrate such complexity. If He alone creates and sustains all things, why would anyone worship anything else? History shows that people often resist abandoning inherited beliefs, even when prophets call them to the truth. Accepting a new message requires genuine reflection and personal insight, which has always been humanity's greatest challenge. Continuing with familiar ideas feels easier than embracing a new path, yet true faith demands that each person discovers the reality of God for themselves.
O men! Certainly the promise of Allah is true. Let not then this present life deceive you, nor let the Chief Deceiver deceive you about Allah.
Commentary of verses 35:5 to 35:7
The realities of the Hereafter, though revealed by God through His messengers, can seem unreal because they are not immediately visible. Meanwhile, worldly experiences feel tangible and immediate. Natural disasters like earthquakes momentarily remind us of the Day of Judgement, but Satan quickly redirects our attention, suggesting these are merely natural events with no divine significance. Yet the Day is certain—when truth will be separated from falsehood, the righteous rewarded, and wrongdoers held to account for their deeds.
Indeed Satan is an enemy to you: so treat him as an enemy. He only invites his adherents, that they may become Companions of the Blazing Fire.
Commentary of verses 35:5 to 35:7
The realities of the Hereafter, though revealed by God through His messengers, can seem unreal because they are not immediately visible. Meanwhile, worldly experiences feel tangible and immediate. Natural disasters like earthquakes momentarily remind us of the Day of Judgement, but Satan quickly redirects our attention, suggesting these are merely natural events with no divine significance. Yet the Day is certain—when truth will be separated from falsehood, the righteous rewarded, and wrongdoers held to account for their deeds.
Allazeena kafaroo lahum 'azaabun shadeed; wallazeena aamanoo wa 'amilus saalihaati lahum maghfiratunw wa ajrun kabeer
For those who reject Allah, is a terrible Punishment: but for those who believe and work righteous deeds, is Forgiveness, and a magnificent Reward.
Commentary of verses 35:5 to 35:7
The realities of the Hereafter, though revealed by God through His messengers, can seem unreal because they are not immediately visible. Meanwhile, worldly experiences feel tangible and immediate. Natural disasters like earthquakes momentarily remind us of the Day of Judgement, but Satan quickly redirects our attention, suggesting these are merely natural events with no divine significance. Yet the Day is certain—when truth will be separated from falsehood, the righteous rewarded, and wrongdoers held to account for their deeds.
Afaman zuyyina lahoo sooo'u 'amalihee fara aahu hasanaa; fa innal laaha yudillu mai yashaaa'u wa yahdee mai yahaaa'u falaa tazhab nafsuka 'alaihim hasaraat; innal laaha 'aleemun bimaa yasna'oon
Is he, then, to whom the evil of his conduct is made alluring, so that he looks upon it as good, (equal to one who is rightly guided)? For Allah leaves to stray whom He wills, and guides whom He wills. So let not your soul go out in [vainly] sighing after them: for Allah knows well all that they do!
Commentary of verse 35:8
Muslims were instructed to speak clearly and avoid words with hidden mockery. They were encouraged to listen carefully to the Prophet's teachings and strive to understand them rather than asking unnecessary questions. The proper attitude was one of openness and sincerity, not stubbornness. This approach strengthens faith and leads to deeper understanding.
They were also warned against envying others' blessings, as it is God who grants such gifts. The Prophet was chosen to receive divine revelation, and those who learn from him humbly share in that blessing. True progress comes not from questioning God's wisdom or envying His distribution of favour, but from receiving guidance with gratitude and trust.
It is Allah Who sends forth the Winds, so that they raise up the Clouds, and We drive them to a land that is dead, and revive the earth therewith after its death: even so [will be] the Resurrection!
Commentary of verses 35:9 to 35:10
This world offers glimpses of the Hereafter. Consider rain: it results from the perfect coordination of sun, wind, sea, and gravity—forces beyond our control. Rain revives barren land, proving that the Creator governs the universe with absolute power. If He can bring life to dead soil, He can certainly resurrect the dead. Both feats are of equal magnitude. This world is a test, where the undeserving may temporarily gain honour. But in the Hereafter, only those truly worthy will receive eternal reward. Worthiness is measured by righteous speech and pious action—expressions of faith in God and devotion to His service. Those who live with piety will surely receive His support.
Man kaana yureedul 'izzata falillaahil 'izzatu jamee'aa; ilaihi yas'adul kalimut taiyibu wal'amalus saalihu yarfa'uh; wallazeena yamkuroonas sayyiaati lahum 'azaabun shadeed; wa makru ulaaa'ika huwa yaboor
If any do seek for glory and power, to Allah belong all glory and power. To Him mount up [all] Words of Purity: It is He Who exalts each Deed of Righteousness. Those that lay Plots of Evil, for them is a punishment terrible; and the plotting of such will be void [of result].
Commentary of verses 35:9 to 35:10
This world offers glimpses of the Hereafter. Consider rain: it results from the perfect coordination of sun, wind, sea, and gravity—forces beyond our control. Rain revives barren land, proving that the Creator governs the universe with absolute power. If He can bring life to dead soil, He can certainly resurrect the dead. Both feats are of equal magnitude. This world is a test, where the undeserving may temporarily gain honour. But in the Hereafter, only those truly worthy will receive eternal reward. Worthiness is measured by righteous speech and pious action—expressions of faith in God and devotion to His service. Those who live with piety will surely receive His support.
Wallaahu khalaqakum min turaabin summa min nutfatin summa ja'alakum azwaajaa; wa maa tahmilu min unsaa wa laa tada'u illaa bi'ilmih; wa maa yu'ammaru mim mu'ammarinw wa laa yunqasu min 'umuriheee illaa fee kitaab; inna zaalika 'alal laahi yaseer
And Allah did create you from dust; then from a sperm-drop; then He made you in pairs. And no female conceives, or lays down [her load], but with His knowledge. Nor is a man long-lived granted length of days, nor is a part cut off from his life, but is in a Decree [ordained]. All this is easy to Allah.
Commentary of verse 35:11
Those who discover the truth through God's guidance often face strong opposition when sharing it with others. Accepting truth requires humility, which people of status find difficult. The People of the Book were especially resistant, believing prophethood belonged only to them. They could not accept that a prophet had come among the Arabs and used various tactics to undermine his message.
One theological objection they raised concerned abrogation. Noticing differences between Quranic rulings and Mosaic law, they questioned whether God would change His commandments. They argued that this proved Muhammad's message was not divine. This campaign was so persistent that even some sincere Muslims began to doubt, raising the issue with the Prophet.
Wa maa yastawil bahraani haaza 'azbun furaatun saaa'ighun sharaabuhoo wa haazaa milhun ujaaj; wa min kullin taakuloona lahman tariyyanw wa tastakhrijoona hilyatan talbasoonahaa wa taral fulka feehi mawaakhira litabtaghoo min fadlihee wa la'allakm tashkuroon
Nor are the two bodies of flowing water alike, the one palatable, sweet, and pleasant to drink, and the other, salt and bitter. Yet from each [kind of water] do you eat flesh fresh and tender, and you extract ornaments to wear;
and you se the ships therein that plough the waves, that you may seek [thus] of the Bounty of Allah that you may be grateful.
Commentary of verses 35:12 to 35:14
Earth holds vast reserves of water—salt in the oceans and fresh in rivers and springs. This water sustains life, irrigates crops, provides food through aquatic creatures, and enables transport. The seas contain treasures like pearls and minerals. God causes the Earth to rotate and revolve, creating seasons and the cycle of day and night. These countless blessings come from the All-Powerful Creator. Who else deserves our gratitude? Only God, with His limitless power, can meet human needs—not imaginary deities with no real existence or influence.
Yoolijul laila fin nahaari wa yoolijun nahaara fil laili wa sakhkharash shamsa wal qamara kulluny yajree li ajalim musammaa; zaalikumul lahuu Rabbukum lahul mulk; wallazeena tad'oona min doonihee maa yamlikoona min qitmeer
He merges Night into Day, and he merges Day into Night, and he has subjected the sun and the moon [to his Law]: each one runs its course for a term appointed. Such is Allah your Lord: to Him belongs all Dominion. And those whom you invoke besides Him have not the least power.
Commentary of verses 35:12 to 35:14
Earth holds vast reserves of water—salt in the oceans and fresh in rivers and springs. This water sustains life, irrigates crops, provides food through aquatic creatures, and enables transport. The seas contain treasures like pearls and minerals. God causes the Earth to rotate and revolve, creating seasons and the cycle of day and night. These countless blessings come from the All-Powerful Creator. Who else deserves our gratitude? Only God, with His limitless power, can meet human needs—not imaginary deities with no real existence or influence.
in tad'oohum laa yasma'oo du'aaa'akum wa law sami'oo mas tajaaboo lakum; wa Yawmal Qiyaamati Yakfuroona bishirkikum; wa laa yunabbi'uka mislu khabeer
If you invoke them, they will not listen to your call, and if they were to listen, they cannot answer your [prayer]. On the Day of Judgement they will reject your "Partnership". and none, (O man!) can tell you [the Truth] like the One Who is acquainted with all things.
Commentary of verses 35:12 to 35:14
Earth holds vast reserves of water—salt in the oceans and fresh in rivers and springs. This water sustains life, irrigates crops, provides food through aquatic creatures, and enables transport. The seas contain treasures like pearls and minerals. God causes the Earth to rotate and revolve, creating seasons and the cycle of day and night. These countless blessings come from the All-Powerful Creator. Who else deserves our gratitude? Only God, with His limitless power, can meet human needs—not imaginary deities with no real existence or influence.
O you men! It is you that have need of Allah: but Allah is the One Free of all wants, worthy of all praise.
Commentary of verses 35:15 to 35:18
Human existence is fragile, dependent on a delicate balance of natural forces. If the sun drew closer, we would burn; if molten material rose from Earth's core, earthquakes would devastate us; if the atmosphere failed to shield us, meteors would destroy all life. Humanity is surrounded by lethal possibilities, utterly dependent on God's protection. It is we who need Him, not the reverse. On the Day of Judgement, each person's burden of sin is deeply personal—no one can bear another's shame or suffering. Truth is plain, but only understood by those genuinely seeking it. Those indifferent to truth cannot be made to see.
If He so pleased, He could blot you out and bring in a New Creation.
Commentary of verses 35:15 to 35:18
Human existence is fragile, dependent on a delicate balance of natural forces. If the sun drew closer, we would burn; if molten material rose from Earth's core, earthquakes would devastate us; if the atmosphere failed to shield us, meteors would destroy all life. Humanity is surrounded by lethal possibilities, utterly dependent on God's protection. It is we who need Him, not the reverse. On the Day of Judgement, each person's burden of sin is deeply personal—no one can bear another's shame or suffering. Truth is plain, but only understood by those genuinely seeking it. Those indifferent to truth cannot be made to see.
J
وَمَا ذَٰلِكَ عَلَى ٱللَّهِ بِعَزِيزٍۢ
Wa maa zaalika 'alal laahi bi'azeez
Nor is that [at all] difficult for Allah.
Commentary of verses 35:15 to 35:18
Human existence is fragile, dependent on a delicate balance of natural forces. If the sun drew closer, we would burn; if molten material rose from Earth's core, earthquakes would devastate us; if the atmosphere failed to shield us, meteors would destroy all life. Humanity is surrounded by lethal possibilities, utterly dependent on God's protection. It is we who need Him, not the reverse. On the Day of Judgement, each person's burden of sin is deeply personal—no one can bear another's shame or suffering. Truth is plain, but only understood by those genuinely seeking it. Those indifferent to truth cannot be made to see.
Wa laa taziru waaziratun wizra ukhraa; wa in tad'u musqalatun ilaa himlihaa laa yuhmal minhu shai'unw wa law kaana zaa qurbaa; innamaa tunzirul lazeena yakhshawna Rabbahum bilghaibi wa aqaamus Sallah; wa man tazakkaa fa innamaa yatazakkaa linafsih; wa ilal laahil maseer
Nor can a bearer of burdens bear another's burdens if one heavily laden should call another to [bear] his load. Not the least portion of it can be carried [by the other]. Even though he be nearly related. You can but admonish such as fear their Lord unseen and establish regular Prayer.
And whoever purifies himself does so for the benefit of his own soul; and the destination [of all] is to Allah.
Commentary of verses 35:15 to 35:18
Human existence is fragile, dependent on a delicate balance of natural forces. If the sun drew closer, we would burn; if molten material rose from Earth's core, earthquakes would devastate us; if the atmosphere failed to shield us, meteors would destroy all life. Humanity is surrounded by lethal possibilities, utterly dependent on God's protection. It is we who need Him, not the reverse. On the Day of Judgement, each person's burden of sin is deeply personal—no one can bear another's shame or suffering. Truth is plain, but only understood by those genuinely seeking it. Those indifferent to truth cannot be made to see.
B
وَمَا يَسْتَوِى ٱلْأَعْمَىٰ وَٱلْبَصِيرُ
Wa maa tastawil a'maa wal baseer
The blind and the seeing are not alike;
Commentary of verses 35:19 to 35:26
Just as light and darkness offer entirely different experiences, humanity is divided into those with insight and those without. A sighted person navigates easily, while the blind grope in confusion. Similarly, some people possess spiritual vision—they see beyond appearances, grasp hidden realities, recognise intrinsic value, and submit to truth when it becomes clear. These are the truly alive. Others remain spiritually dead, deaf to the call of truth throughout their lives, only to face its consequences after death. The living accept truth in this world of trial; the dead remain blind until they stand before their Creator.
M
وَلَا ٱلظُّلُمَٰتُ وَلَا ٱلنُّورُ
Wa laz zulumaatu wa lannoon
Nor are the depths of Darkness and the Light;
Commentary of verses 35:19 to 35:26
Just as light and darkness offer entirely different experiences, humanity is divided into those with insight and those without. A sighted person navigates easily, while the blind grope in confusion. Similarly, some people possess spiritual vision—they see beyond appearances, grasp hidden realities, recognise intrinsic value, and submit to truth when it becomes clear. These are the truly alive. Others remain spiritually dead, deaf to the call of truth throughout their lives, only to face its consequences after death. The living accept truth in this world of trial; the dead remain blind until they stand before their Creator.
M
وَلَا ٱلظِّلُّ وَلَا ٱلْحَرُورُ
Wa laz zillu wa lal haroor
Nor are the [chilly] shade and the [genial] heat of the sun:
Commentary of verses 35:19 to 35:26
Just as light and darkness offer entirely different experiences, humanity is divided into those with insight and those without. A sighted person navigates easily, while the blind grope in confusion. Similarly, some people possess spiritual vision—they see beyond appearances, grasp hidden realities, recognise intrinsic value, and submit to truth when it becomes clear. These are the truly alive. Others remain spiritually dead, deaf to the call of truth throughout their lives, only to face its consequences after death. The living accept truth in this world of trial; the dead remain blind until they stand before their Creator.
Wa maa yastawil ahyaaa'u wa lal amwaat; innal laaha yusmi'u mai yashaaa'u wa maaa anta bimusi'im man fil quboor
Nor are alike those that are living and those that are dead. Allah can make any that He wills to hear; but you can not make those to hear who are [buried] in graves.
Commentary of verses 35:19 to 35:26
Just as light and darkness offer entirely different experiences, humanity is divided into those with insight and those without. A sighted person navigates easily, while the blind grope in confusion. Similarly, some people possess spiritual vision—they see beyond appearances, grasp hidden realities, recognise intrinsic value, and submit to truth when it becomes clear. These are the truly alive. Others remain spiritually dead, deaf to the call of truth throughout their lives, only to face its consequences after death. The living accept truth in this world of trial; the dead remain blind until they stand before their Creator.
J
إِنْ أَنتَ إِلَّا نَذِيرٌ
In anta illaa nazeer
You are no other than a warner.
Commentary of verses 35:19 to 35:26
Just as light and darkness offer entirely different experiences, humanity is divided into those with insight and those without. A sighted person navigates easily, while the blind grope in confusion. Similarly, some people possess spiritual vision—they see beyond appearances, grasp hidden realities, recognise intrinsic value, and submit to truth when it becomes clear. These are the truly alive. Others remain spiritually dead, deaf to the call of truth throughout their lives, only to face its consequences after death. The living accept truth in this world of trial; the dead remain blind until they stand before their Creator.
Innaa arsalnaak bil haqqi basheeranw wa nazeeraa; wa im min ummatin illaa khalaa feehaa nazeer
Indeed We have sent you in truth, as a bearer of glad tidings, and as a warner: and there never was a people, without a warner having lived among them [in the past].
Commentary of verses 35:19 to 35:26
Just as light and darkness offer entirely different experiences, humanity is divided into those with insight and those without. A sighted person navigates easily, while the blind grope in confusion. Similarly, some people possess spiritual vision—they see beyond appearances, grasp hidden realities, recognise intrinsic value, and submit to truth when it becomes clear. These are the truly alive. Others remain spiritually dead, deaf to the call of truth throughout their lives, only to face its consequences after death. The living accept truth in this world of trial; the dead remain blind until they stand before their Creator.
Wa inyukazzibooka faqad kazzabal lazeena min qablihim jaaa'at hum Rusuluhum bilbaiyinaati wa biz Zuburi wa bil Kitaabil Muneer
And if they reject you, so did their predecessors, to whom came their messengers with Clear Signs, Books of dark prophecies, and the Book of Enlightenment.
Commentary of verses 35:19 to 35:26
Just as light and darkness offer entirely different experiences, humanity is divided into those with insight and those without. A sighted person navigates easily, while the blind grope in confusion. Similarly, some people possess spiritual vision—they see beyond appearances, grasp hidden realities, recognise intrinsic value, and submit to truth when it becomes clear. These are the truly alive. Others remain spiritually dead, deaf to the call of truth throughout their lives, only to face its consequences after death. The living accept truth in this world of trial; the dead remain blind until they stand before their Creator.
Summa akhaztul lazeena kafaroo fakaifa kaana nakeer
In the end did I punish those who disbelieved: and how [terrible] was My rejection [of them]!
Commentary of verses 35:19 to 35:26
Just as light and darkness offer entirely different experiences, humanity is divided into those with insight and those without. A sighted person navigates easily, while the blind grope in confusion. Similarly, some people possess spiritual vision—they see beyond appearances, grasp hidden realities, recognise intrinsic value, and submit to truth when it becomes clear. These are the truly alive. Others remain spiritually dead, deaf to the call of truth throughout their lives, only to face its consequences after death. The living accept truth in this world of trial; the dead remain blind until they stand before their Creator.
Alam tara annal laaha anzala minas samaaa'i maaa'an fa akhrajnaa bihee samaraatim mukhtalifan alwaanuhaa; wa minal jibaali judadum beedunw wa humrum mukhtalifun alwaanuhaa wa gharaabeebu sood
Se you not that Allah sends down rain from the sky? With it We then bring out produce of various colours. And in the mountains are tracts white and red, of various shades of colour, and black intense in hue.
Commentary of verses 35:27 to 35:28
Rain falls everywhere, yet produces varied results—useful crops and wild growth, domesticated animals and untamed creatures. God's blessings reach all creation without discrimination, but individuals benefit according to their capacity. The call to truth is similarly universal, yet people respond differently. Some embrace it immediately, nourishing their souls, while others resist or even oppose it. A person of true knowledge recognises truth because the divine light already burns within their heart. Those who remain ignorant have veiled this inner light, preventing them from perceiving truth when it appears.
Wa minan naasi wadda waaabbi wal an'aami mukhtalifun alwaanuhoo kazalik; innamaa yakhshal laaha min 'ibaadihil 'ulamaaa'; innal laaha 'Azeezun Ghafoor
And so amongst men and crawling creatures and cattle, are they of various colours. Those truly fear Allah, among His Servants, who have knowledge: for Allah is Exalted in Might, Forgiving.
Commentary of verses 35:27 to 35:28
Rain falls everywhere, yet produces varied results—useful crops and wild growth, domesticated animals and untamed creatures. God's blessings reach all creation without discrimination, but individuals benefit according to their capacity. The call to truth is similarly universal, yet people respond differently. Some embrace it immediately, nourishing their souls, while others resist or even oppose it. A person of true knowledge recognises truth because the divine light already burns within their heart. Those who remain ignorant have veiled this inner light, preventing them from perceiving truth when it appears.
Innal lazeena yatloona Kitabbal laahi wa aqaamus Salaata wa anfaqoo mimmaa razaqnaahum sirranw wa 'alaa niyatany yarjoona tijaaratal lan taboor
Those who rehearse the Book of Allah, establish regular Prayer, and spend [in Charity] out of what We have provided for them, secretly and openly, hope for a commerce that will never fail:
Commentary of verses 35:29 to 35:30
A person of knowledge experiences deep awareness of God and makes His Book the foundation of their thinking. Such a person becomes devoted to God, shows kindness to others by sharing their wealth, and dedicates themselves entirely to His service, content with the promise of reward in the Hereafter. One proof of the Quran's truth is its alignment with earlier divine scriptures. For those sincere in their search, this correspondence alone is enough to inspire faith.
Liyuwaffiyahum ujoorahum wa yazeedahum min fadlih; innahoo Ghafoorun Shakoor
For He will pay them their meed, rather, He will give them [even] more out of His Bounty: for He is Forgiving, Most Ready to appreciate [service].
Commentary of verses 35:29 to 35:30
A person of knowledge experiences deep awareness of God and makes His Book the foundation of their thinking. Such a person becomes devoted to God, shows kindness to others by sharing their wealth, and dedicates themselves entirely to His service, content with the promise of reward in the Hereafter. One proof of the Quran's truth is its alignment with earlier divine scriptures. For those sincere in their search, this correspondence alone is enough to inspire faith.
Wallaeee awhainaaa ilaika minal Kitaabi huwal haqqu musaddiqal limaa baina yadayh; innal laaha bi'ibaadihee la khabeerum Baseer
That which We have revealed to you of the Book is the Truth, confirming what was [revealed] before it: for Allah is assuredly- with respect to His Servants - well acquainted and Fully Observant.
Commentary of verses 35:31 to 35:35
Jacob, grandson of Abraham, was the forefather of a line of prophets who appeared among the Children of Israel for nearly two thousand years, ending with Jesus. Eventually, the Israelites could no longer fulfil their role as guardians of God's scripture. Consequently, the responsibility passed to another lineage—the descendants of Isma'il—through the Prophet Muhammad.
When Muhammad presented the Quran to his people, they divided into three groups: those who opposed him, those who remained uncertain, and those who believed wholeheartedly. The believers stood firm through hardship, sacrificing comfort and enduring great trials with patience. For their devotion, God granted them entry into eternal gardens of paradise, where they are safe from all grief and trouble.
Summa awrasnal Kitaaballazeenas tafainaa min 'ibaadinaa faminhum zaalimul linafsihee wa minhum muqtasid, wa minhum saabiqum bilkhairaati bi iznil laah; zaalika huwal fadlul kabeer
Then We have given the Book for inheritance to such of Our Servants as We have chosen: but there are among them some who wrong their own souls; some who follow a middle course; and some who are, by Allah's leave, foremost in good deeds; that is the highest Grace.
Commentary of verses 35:31 to 35:35
Jacob, grandson of Abraham, was the forefather of a line of prophets who appeared among the Children of Israel for nearly two thousand years, ending with Jesus. Eventually, the Israelites could no longer fulfil their role as guardians of God's scripture. Consequently, the responsibility passed to another lineage—the descendants of Isma'il—through the Prophet Muhammad.
When Muhammad presented the Quran to his people, they divided into three groups: those who opposed him, those who remained uncertain, and those who believed wholeheartedly. The believers stood firm through hardship, sacrificing comfort and enduring great trials with patience. For their devotion, God granted them entry into eternal gardens of paradise, where they are safe from all grief and trouble.
jannaatu 'adniny yad khuloonahaa yuhallawna feeha min asaawira min zahabinw wa lu'lu'anw wa libaa suhum feehaa hareer
Gardens of perpetual residence will they enter: therein will they be adorned with bracelets of gold and pearls; and their garments there will be of silk.
Commentary of verses 35:31 to 35:35
Jacob, grandson of Abraham, was the forefather of a line of prophets who appeared among the Children of Israel for nearly two thousand years, ending with Jesus. Eventually, the Israelites could no longer fulfil their role as guardians of God's scripture. Consequently, the responsibility passed to another lineage—the descendants of Isma'il—through the Prophet Muhammad.
When Muhammad presented the Quran to his people, they divided into three groups: those who opposed him, those who remained uncertain, and those who believed wholeheartedly. The believers stood firm through hardship, sacrificing comfort and enduring great trials with patience. For their devotion, God granted them entry into eternal gardens of paradise, where they are safe from all grief and trouble.
Wa qaalul hamdu lillaahil lazeee azhaba 'annal hazan; inna Rabbanaa la Ghafoorun Shakoor
And they will say: "All praise is due to Allah, Who has removed from us [all] sorrow: for our Lord is indeed Forgiving Ready to appreciate [service]:
Commentary of verses 35:31 to 35:35
Jacob, grandson of Abraham, was the forefather of a line of prophets who appeared among the Children of Israel for nearly two thousand years, ending with Jesus. Eventually, the Israelites could no longer fulfil their role as guardians of God's scripture. Consequently, the responsibility passed to another lineage—the descendants of Isma'il—through the Prophet Muhammad.
When Muhammad presented the Quran to his people, they divided into three groups: those who opposed him, those who remained uncertain, and those who believed wholeheartedly. The believers stood firm through hardship, sacrificing comfort and enduring great trials with patience. For their devotion, God granted them entry into eternal gardens of paradise, where they are safe from all grief and trouble.
Allazeee ahallanaa daaral muqaamati min fadlihee laa yamassunaa feehaa nasabunw wa laa yamassunaa feehaa lughoob
"Who has, out of His Bounty, settled us in a Home that will last: no toil nor sense of weariness shall touch us therein."
Commentary of verses 35:31 to 35:35
Jacob, grandson of Abraham, was the forefather of a line of prophets who appeared among the Children of Israel for nearly two thousand years, ending with Jesus. Eventually, the Israelites could no longer fulfil their role as guardians of God's scripture. Consequently, the responsibility passed to another lineage—the descendants of Isma'il—through the Prophet Muhammad.
When Muhammad presented the Quran to his people, they divided into three groups: those who opposed him, those who remained uncertain, and those who believed wholeheartedly. The believers stood firm through hardship, sacrificing comfort and enduring great trials with patience. For their devotion, God granted them entry into eternal gardens of paradise, where they are safe from all grief and trouble.
Wallazeena kafaroo lahum naaru Jahannama laa yuqdaa 'alaihim fa yamootoo wa laa yukhaffafu 'anhum min 'azaabihaa; kazaalika najzee kulla kafoor
But those who reject [Allah] - for them will be the Fire of Hell: No term shall be determined for them, so they should die, nor shall its Punishment be lightened for them. Thus do We reward every ungrateful one!
Commentary of verse 35:36
The message taught by the Prophet Muhammad was the same as that of Abraham: complete submission to God. Yet the People of the Book, who claimed to follow Abraham, led the opposition against him. The reason was simple: true Islam demands total devotion to God, but their religion had become hollow ritual and assumed privilege. They believed their descent from prophets guaranteed paradise, regardless of their actions.
In contrast, the Prophet taught that salvation depends on deeds, not ancestry or community. There was thus a vast difference between the religion of Abraham—genuine submission to God—and what the People of the Book practised. True religion means accepting divine guidance revealed through the prophets. What they followed was a collection of cultural traditions accumulated over generations, shaped more by national identity than by revelation.
Wa hum yastarikhoona feehaa Rabbanaa akhrijnaa na'mal saalihan ghairal lazee kunnaa na'mal; awa lamnu 'ammirkum maa yatazak karu feehi man tazakkara wa jaaa'akumun nazeeru fazooqoo famaa lizzaalimeena min naseer
Therein will they cry aloud [for assistance]: "Our Lord! Bring us out: we shall work righteousness, not the [deeds] we used to do!" - "Did We not give you long enough life so that he that would should receive reminder? and [moreover] the warner came to you. So taste you [the fruits of your deeds]: for the wrongdoers there is no helper."
Commentary of verses 35:37 to 35:39
The phrase 'given the earth to inherit' refers to God replacing one nation with another when the former proves incapable. This cycle of rise and fall will continue until the Day of Judgement. Modern advances—like capturing images in darkness or amplifying faint sounds—remind us that the Creator knows all things, seen and unseen. He is aware of every secret hidden in the heart. Humanity is accountable before an all-knowing, all-powerful God from whom nothing can be concealed.
Indeed Allah knows [all] the hidden things of the heavens and the earth: indeed He has full knowledge of all that is in (men's) hearts.
Commentary of verses 35:37 to 35:39
The phrase 'given the earth to inherit' refers to God replacing one nation with another when the former proves incapable. This cycle of rise and fall will continue until the Day of Judgement. Modern advances—like capturing images in darkness or amplifying faint sounds—remind us that the Creator knows all things, seen and unseen. He is aware of every secret hidden in the heart. Humanity is accountable before an all-knowing, all-powerful God from whom nothing can be concealed.
Huwal lazee ja'alakum khalaaa'ifa fil ard; faman kafara fa'alaihi kufruhoo; wa laa yazeedul kaafireena kufruhum 'inda Rabbihim illaa maqtanw wa la yazeedul kaafireena kufruhum illaa khasaaraa
He it is That has made you inheritors in the earth: if, then, any do reject [Allah], their rejection [works] against themselves: their rejection but adds to the odium for the Disbelievers in the sight of their Lord: their rejection but adds to [their own] undoing.
Commentary of verses 35:37 to 35:39
The phrase 'given the earth to inherit' refers to God replacing one nation with another when the former proves incapable. This cycle of rise and fall will continue until the Day of Judgement. Modern advances—like capturing images in darkness or amplifying faint sounds—remind us that the Creator knows all things, seen and unseen. He is aware of every secret hidden in the heart. Humanity is accountable before an all-knowing, all-powerful God from whom nothing can be concealed.
Qul ara'aytum shurakaaa'a kumul lazeena tad'oona min doonil laah; aroonee maazaa khalaqoo minal ardi am lahum shirkun fis samaawaati am aatainaahum Kitaaban fahum 'alaa baiyinatim minh; bal iny ya'iiduz zaalimoona ba 'duhum ba'dan illaa ghurooraa
Say: "Have you seen [these] 'Partners' of yours whom you call upon besides Allah? Show Me what it is they have created in the [wide] earth. Or have they a share in the heavens? Or have We given them a Book from which they [can derive] clear [evidence]?- Rather, the wrongdoers promise each other nothing but delusions.
Commentary of verses 35:40 to 35:41
The creation of the universe—vast space, countless celestial bodies—is beyond human imagination. Such a colossal act cannot be attributed even partially to the deities people worship alongside God. Idolatry rests entirely on falsehood. These false practices will persist until the Day of Judgement, when they will disappear as though they never existed.
Innal laaha yumsikus samaawaati wal arda an tazoolaaa; wa la'in zaalataaa in amsa kahumaa min ahadim mim ba'dih; innahoo kaana Haleeman Ghafooraa
It is Allah Who sustains the heavens and the earth, lest they cease [to function]: and if they should fail, there is none - not one - can sustain them thereafter: Indeed He is Most Forbearing, Forgiving.
Commentary of verses 35:40 to 35:41
The creation of the universe—vast space, countless celestial bodies—is beyond human imagination. Such a colossal act cannot be attributed even partially to the deities people worship alongside God. Idolatry rests entirely on falsehood. These false practices will persist until the Day of Judgement, when they will disappear as though they never existed.
Wa aqsamoo billaahi jahda aymaanihim la'in jaaa'ahum nazeerul layakoonunna ahdaa min ihdal umami falam maa jaaa'ahum nazeerum maa zaadahum illaa nufooraa
They swore their strongest oaths by Allah that if a warner came to them, they would follow his guidance better than any [other] of the Peoples: But when a warner came to them, it has only increased their flight [from righteousness],
Commentary of verses 35:42 to 35:43
The Arabs used to claim that if a prophet came to them, they would follow him eagerly—unlike other nations who had disobeyed their messengers. Yet when their own prophet appeared, they opposed him fiercely. This tendency is universal. People proclaim themselves champions of truth, insisting they will accept it when shown. But when truth confronts them with clear evidence, they reject or resist it—often because accepting it threatens their status or self-image. Denying truth is a human weakness, not confined to any single community. While people are free to reject the truth, they cannot escape the consequences of that choice.
Istakbaaran fil ardi wa makras sayyi'; wa laa yaheequl makrus sayyi'u illaa bi ahlih; fahal yanzuroona illaa sunnatal awwaleen; falan tajida lisunnatil laahi tabdeelanw wa lan tajida lisunnatil laahi tahweela
On account of their arrogance in the land and their plotting of Evil, but the plotting of Evil will hem in only the authors thereof. Now are they but looking for the way the ancients were dealt with? But no change will you find in Allah's way [of dealing]: no turning off will you find in Allah's way [of dealing].
Commentary of verses 35:42 to 35:43
The Arabs used to claim that if a prophet came to them, they would follow him eagerly—unlike other nations who had disobeyed their messengers. Yet when their own prophet appeared, they opposed him fiercely. This tendency is universal. People proclaim themselves champions of truth, insisting they will accept it when shown. But when truth confronts them with clear evidence, they reject or resist it—often because accepting it threatens their status or self-image. Denying truth is a human weakness, not confined to any single community. While people are free to reject the truth, they cannot escape the consequences of that choice.
Awalam yaseeroo fil ardi fa yanzuroo kaifa kaana 'aaqibatul lazeena min qblihim wa kaanoo ashadda minhum quwwah; wa maa kaanal laahu liyu'jizahoo min shai'in fis samaawaati wa laa fil ard; innahoo kaana 'Aleeman Qadeeraa
Do they not travel through the earth, and see what was the End of those before them, though they were superior to them in strength? Nor is Allah to be frustrated by anything whatever in the heavens or on earth: for He is Knowing. All-Powerful.
Commentary of verses 35:44 to 35:45
Humanity has been granted freedom to act, yet often misuses it. If God punished every wrongdoing immediately, the entire human race would perish. But human freedom exists for the purpose of testing, and each test has a fixed term—until death for individuals, and until the Day of Judgement for humankind. This is why the human race still exists. However, once the test period expires, divine accountability will certainly follow, and no one will escape it.
Wa law yu'aakhizul laahun naasa bima kasaboo maa taraka 'alaa zahrihaa min daaabbatinw wa laakiny yu'akhkhiruhum ilaaa ajalim musamman fa izaa jaaa'a ajaluhum fa innal laaha kaana bi'ibaadihee Baseeraa
If Allah were to punish men according to what they deserve. He would not leave on the back of the [earth] a single living creature: but He gives them respite for a stated Term: when their Term expires, indeed Allah has in His sight all His Servants.
Commentary of verses 35:44 to 35:45
Humanity has been granted freedom to act, yet often misuses it. If God punished every wrongdoing immediately, the entire human race would perish. But human freedom exists for the purpose of testing, and each test has a fixed term—until death for individuals, and until the Day of Judgement for humankind. This is why the human race still exists. However, once the test period expires, divine accountability will certainly follow, and no one will escape it.