Quran, listen ,read translation, understand & act

Surah 12 Yusuf

Good to get some idea about the chapter we are going to read…like perspective, geopolitics at the time, struggles of that time and time immemorial ongoing conflicts.

Following link for complete chapter, translated, explained in details:

https://islamicstudies.info/reference.php?sura=12

Useful site for collection of books for reading, listening, downloading books:

https://www.australianislamiclibrary.org/

Introduction to Surah Yusuf from Tafheem-ul-Quran

Surah Yusuf is a Meccan Surah, revealed in the year of sorrow (‘Aam al-Huzn) approximately three years before the Hijrah (migration to Medina). This was a period of immense grief for the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), marked by the passing of his protective uncle, Abu Talib, and his beloved wife, Khadijah (RA), and by intense persecution from the Quraysh.

Maududi’s introduction emphasizes that this Surah is unique in the Quran. While other Meccan surahs generally present arguments for Tawheed (monotheism), refute shirk (polytheism), and warn of the Hereafter through a variety of themes, Surah Yusuf is distinct because it narrates a single, complete, and continuous story from beginning to end.

Key Points of the Introduction:

  1. A Story of Consolation and Hope: The primary occasion for the revelation of this Surah was to console the Prophet (pbuh) and the small band of beleaguered Muslims. By relating the story of Prophet Yusuf (Joseph), who faced extreme trials—betrayal by his brothers, slavery, imprisonment, and separation from his family—but was eventually rewarded with immense honor and authority, the Surah delivers a powerful message: after hardship comes ease. It assured the Muslims that their seemingly hopeless situation would eventually transform into a victory granted by Allah’s plan.
  2. Answering the Demand of the Quraysh: The disbelievers of Mecca, intrigued by the stories of previous nations mentioned in other surahs, challenged the Prophet to narrate the full story of the people of Joseph, who were well-known in Arabian tradition. This Surah was revealed in response to that challenge, presenting the true, divinely-preserved account, free from the corruption and myths found in other narratives.
  3. A Psychological Masterpiece: Maududi highlights that the story is not just a historical account but a profound psychological drama. It delves deep into human emotions—jealousy, love, temptation, despair, patience, and forgiveness—making its lessons timeless and universally relatable. It showcases how evil schemes ultimately fail and how divine plan prevails through the most unexpected circumstances.
  4. The Proof of Prophethood: The detailed, coherent, and flawless nature of this narrative, revealed by an unlettered Prophet (pbuh), is itself a powerful miracle and proof of the Quran’s divine origin. It presented a story the Arabs were familiar with, yet in a form and with a moral depth they could not match, silencing the critics.
  5. A Lesson in Da’wah (Invitation to Islam): The story provides a model for the believers on how to conduct oneself while delivering the message of Allah in the most adverse conditions. Even in prison, Yusuf (AS) did not miss an opportunity to call people to Tawheed, demonstrating patience, wisdom, and unwavering faith.

In essence, Maududi introduces Surah Yusuf as a divine narrative of hope, patience, and the ultimate triumph of good over evil. It was a timely revelation meant to lift the spirits of the early Muslim community by showing them that their current suffering was a prelude to a future victory ordained by Allah, just as He had written a beautiful ending for Prophet Yusuf after his immense trials. It is a story that speaks directly to the heart, offering solace and strengthening faith through the art of storytelling.