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Chapter 46/ Al Ahqaf

Summary of the chapter & the links: 

1. Audio discussion of the chapter summary: 

https://notebooklm.google.com/notebook/4c50a0ae-46df-49e4-be55-b6622e862100/audio

2. Mesmerizing recitation of the chapter with English translation:

https://surahquran.com/sorah-english-46.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 concise summary of Surah Al-Ahqaf (Chapter 46) based exclusively on Tafheem-ul-Quran by Sayyid Abul Ala Maududi:

Core Themes & Context

  • Revelation Period: Late Makkan phase, emphasizing theological debates with pagan Arabs.
  • Name Origin: References the sand dunes (Ahqāf) of the doomed nation of ’Ād (Verse 21).
  • Central Focus: Affirms Tawhid (Oneness of Allah), Prophethood, and Accountability in the Hereafter.

Key Sections from Tafheem-ul-Quran

  1. Revelation’s Divine Origin (Verses 1–6)
  • Criticizes idolaters for worshiping powerless man-made “gods” who cannot create or provide.
  • Stresses Allah’s absolute sovereignty over creation and resurrection.
  1. Rebuttal of Skepticism (Verses 7–10)
  • Dismisses Meccan demands for “miracles” as insincere.
  • Declares the Quran itself as the ultimate miracle, warning rejecters of impending doom.
  1. Parable of the Believer & Disbeliever (Verses 11–14)
  • Contrasts the fate of those who reject truth (destroyed like past nations) vs. the “patient believer” who earns eternal reward.
  • Highlights parental duty: Even if parents oppose faith, believers must uphold truth with kindness (Verse 15).
  1. Lesson from the ’Ād Tribe (Verses 21–25)
  • ’Ād arrogantly rejected Prophet Hūd despite clear warnings.
  • Divine punishment: A devastating windstorm annihilated them over 7 nights (Verse 25).
  1. The Jinns’ Testimony (Verses 29–32)
  • A group of jinns heard the Quran, recognized its truth, and submitted to Allah.
  • Significance: Proves the Quran’s power to transform even unseen beings.
  1. Final Warnings & Assurance (Verses 33–35)
  • Allah’s ability to resurrect is as certain as His creation of the universe.
  • Urges the Prophet (ﷺ) to remain steadfast like earlier messengers.

Tafheem-ul-Quran’s Key Insights

  • Gradual Revelation: Addresses Meccan complaints about the Quran’s piecemeal revelation (Verse 17).
  • Parent-Child Dynamics: Balances respect for parents with unwavering commitment to truth (Verse 15).
  • Universality of Revelation: The jinn narrative underscores the Quran’s relevance beyond humanity.
  • Eschatological Emphasis: Rejecters will face accountability; believers rewarded for patience.

Conclusion: Surah Al-Ahqaf merges historical warnings (’Ād), theological proofs, and moral directives to affirm the Quran’s divine authority and the inevitability of Judgment.

Surah Al-Ahqaf (Chapter 46) of the Qur’an, as explained in Tafheem-ul-Qur’an by Sayyid Abul Ala Maududi, emphasizes the truth of the Qur’an, the consequences of rejecting divine guidance, the story of the people of ‘Ad, and the importance of steadfastness and righteousness. Below is a summary based solely on the Tafheem-ul-Qur’an commentary:

  1. Divine Revelation and Its Rejection (Verses 1-6): The Surah opens by affirming the Qur’an as a revelation from Allah, the Mighty and Wise. It addresses the disbelievers who reject the Qur’an, demanding miracles like those of previous prophets. Allah refutes their claims, emphasizing that the Qur’an is a clear truth, and those who worship idols will find them powerless on the Day of Judgment.
  2. Signs of Allah’s Power (Verses 7-12): The Qur’an is presented as a confirmation of earlier scriptures, yet the disbelievers deny it, accusing the Prophet of fabricating it. The Surah challenges them to produce a similar scripture if their claim is true. It also highlights the testimony of the People of the Book, who recognize the Qur’an’s truth, urging reflection on its divine origin.
  3. The Story of ‘Ad (Verses 13-20): The Surah recounts the story of the people of ‘Ad, who rejected their prophet Hud despite clear signs. They were destroyed by a violent wind for their arrogance and disbelief. This serves as a warning to the Quraysh and others who deny the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), reminding them that Allah’s punishment is inevitable for those who reject His messengers.
  4. The Jinn’s Testimony (Verses 21-28): The Surah describes a group of jinn who, upon hearing the Qur’an, recognized its truth and called their people to believe in it. This contrasts with the human disbelievers’ rejection, highlighting the Qur’an’s universal appeal. The disbelievers’ false gods and allies will abandon them on the Day of Judgment.
  5. Exhortation to Patience and Righteousness (Verses 29-35): The Surah advises the Prophet to remain patient, like the prophets before him, in the face of rejection. It emphasizes the importance of steadfastness and warns that the disbelievers will face punishment for their mockery. Believers are urged to do good deeds, seek forgiveness, and trust in Allah’s mercy, as the Day of Judgment will reveal the truth.

Key Themes: Surah Al-Ahqaf underscores the divine authenticity of the Qur’an, the consequences of rejecting Allah’s signs, and the historical precedent of the people of ‘Ad. It encourages patience and perseverance in the face of opposition, affirms the universal truth of the Qur’an (evidenced by the jinn’s acceptance), and warns of the ultimate accountability on the Day of Judgment.