Tag Archives: Gratitude vs Arrogance

Islamic knowledge

Chapter 34/ Al Saba

Summary of the chapter & the links: 

1. Audio discussion of the chapter summary: 

https://notebooklm.google.com/notebook/80d1f59d-012b-4be2-af24-60775cc5c368/audio

2. Mesmerizing recitation of the chapter with English translation:

https://surahquran.com/sorah-english-34.html

3. Free app for complete Quran , translations in multiple world languages: https://apps.apple.com/app/id1118663303

4. Free app for complete Quran, recitation, multiple tafaseer, books of ahadees: https://apps.apple.com/app/id1006098149

Here is a comprehensive summary of Surah Saba (Chapter 34) based exclusively on Tafheem-ul-Quran by Syed Abu-al-A’la Maududi, derived from the search results:

Introduction

  • Name: The Surah is named after the people of Sheba (Saba), referenced in verses 15–20, who were punished for ingratitude toward Allah’s blessings.
  • Revelation Period: Revealed in Mecca, likely during the early or middle Meccan period when persecution was primarily through ridicule, slander, and false allegations.
  • Core Theme: Addresses the objections of disbelievers to Prophet Muhammad’s message of Tawhid (Oneness of Allah) and the Hereafter, using historical precedents to illustrate the consequences of faith versus ingratitude.

Key Sections and Themes

  1. Allah’s Sovereignty and Omniscience (Verses 1–9)
  • Allah’s absolute control over the heavens, earth, and unseen is emphasized. He knows “the weight of an atom” in creation, and all deeds are recorded in a “Clear Record” (verse 3).
  • Disbelievers mock the Day of Judgment, but the Quran asserts its inevitability. Those who believe and do righteous deeds will receive “forgiveness and noble provision” (verse 4), while those who oppose divine signs face a “painful punishment” (verse 5).
  • A warning: Allah could cause the earth to swallow disbelievers or rain fragments from the sky (verse 9). This serves as a sign for “every servant who turns to Allah” .
  1. Prophets David and Solomon: Models of Gratitude (Verses 10–14)
  • David: Blessed with the ability to soften iron, enabling him to craft protective armor (verse 11). He praised Allah alongside mountains and birds .
  • Solomon: Granted control over the wind (traveling months in a day) and a “spring of molten copper” (verse 12). Jinn served him by Allah’s permission, but those who disobeyed faced severe punishment .
  • The family of David is commanded: “Work gratefully!” (verse 13), highlighting gratitude as a core virtue.
  1. The People of Sheba: Ingratitude and Punishment (Verses 15–21)
  • Sheba enjoyed two paradisiacal gardens and secure travel routes (verse 15). They were commanded to be grateful but instead turned away (verse 16).
  • Punishment: A flood destroyed their dam, transforming their gardens into barren land (verse 16). They were scattered as a lesson for future generations .
  • Contrast: Sheba’s fate opposes David and Solomon’s gratitude, underscoring that blessings demand thankfulness.
  1. Refutation of Polytheism and Denial (Verses 22–54)
  • Allah’s Exclusive Authority: False deities control nothing; intercession is futile without Allah’s permission (verse 22). Provision comes solely from Allah (verse 24) .
  • Rebuttal of Accusations: Disbelievers label Prophet Muhammad “mad” or a “liar” for preaching resurrection (verse 8). The Quran retorts: Disbelief stems from arrogance, not reason (verse 9) .
  • Final Accountability: On Judgment Day, disbelievers will recognize their error but face irreversible punishment (verses 31–33). Righteousness—not wealth or children—elevates believers (verse 37) .

Central Lessons from Tafheem-ul-Quran

  • Gratitude vs. Arrogance: David and Solomon exemplify thankful servitude, while Sheba’s arrogance leads to ruin.
  • Divine Justice: Allah’s knowledge encompasses all deeds; denial of accountability invites earthly and eternal punishment.
  • Prophethood’s Purpose: Messengers warn against shirk (polytheism) and affirm Tawhid, yet “most people do not understand” (verse 28).

“Do they not see how the heavens and the earth encompass them? If We will, We could cause the earth to swallow them…” (Verse 9) .

This summary synthesizes Tafheem-ul-Quran’s exegesis, emphasizing theological coherence and practical moral imperatives. For deeper analysis, consult the full Tafheem commentary.