Surah Name: Al-Qalam (سورة القلم)
Translation: The Pen
Origin of name: The surah is named "Al-Qalam" after the word “pen” mentioned in the first verse, symbolizing the importance of knowledge, writing, and divine decree.
Surah Number: 68
Number of Ayahs (Verses): 52
Makki or Madani: Makki
Approximate Time of Revelation: Early Makkan period
Historical Context
Surah Al-Qalam was revealed during the early years of the Prophet Muhammad’s (pbuh) mission in Makkah. This was a time when public opposition to his message began intensifying but had not yet reached its most extreme levels. The Prophet had started to preach openly, and his message of monotheism and social justice began to challenge the beliefs and authority of the Quraysh leaders.
During this stage, the Quraysh did not resort immediately to physical violence; instead, they tried to discredit the Prophet by questioning his character, calling him mad, a poet, or possessed. Prominent individuals like al-Walid ibn al-Mughira and al-Akhnas ibn Shuraik, known for their deep opposition to Islam, actively led efforts to silence the Prophet and discredit his message [1]. These figures also spread insults and defamation, contributing to an environment of emotional and social hostility.
They also tried to isolate him socially and pressurized others not to listen to him. Surah Al-Qalam responds to this early form of opposition by firmly defending the integrity, character, and mental soundness of the Prophet while warning the disbelievers of the consequences of their stubbornness.
The historical backdrop also included strong tribal loyalties, economic inequalities, and a society deeply rooted in idol worship. The Prophet’s message threatened the existing systems of power and privilege, which made the Makkan elites particularly hostile.
This early Makkan period was characterized by moral corruption, neglect of the poor, and widespread injustice. Surah Al-Qalam, by mentioning the story of the people of the garden as a parable, also criticizes the selfishness and arrogance of those who deny others their share of blessings, a common attitude in Makkah at the time.
References:
[1] Suyuti, p. 204
Main Themes of Surah Al-Qalam
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The Noble Character of the Prophet:
The surah begins by defending Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) against accusations from the disbelievers who claimed he was insane. Allah swears by the pen to emphasize the importance of knowledge and truth. The Prophet is praised for his excellent character, showing that he is far from the false claims made against him. -
Condemnation of Evil Traits:
Several verses warn against immoral behavior such as gossiping, lying, pride, and hostility. These traits are shown to lead a person away from righteousness. The surah references certain leaders of Quraysh who were known for such actions, to teach believers to avoid these harmful attitudes. -
A Parable of Arrogance and Ingratitude:
The story of a group of garden owners who lost their wealth due to greed and selfishness is told as a warning. They failed to share their blessings with the poor and acted unjustly, so Allah punished them. This teaches that wealth is a test, and using it unjustly leads to loss. -
Reminder of the Hereafter:
Through sharp questions and vivid descriptions, the surah reminds disbelievers that their denial has no solid ground and that the Day of Judgment is real. Their false beliefs will not save them from punishment. -
Patience and the Example of Prophet Yunus:
The surah tells the Prophet to be patient like Prophet Yunus (Jonah), who once acted hastily. This story gives strength to the Prophet and his followers when facing hardship and rejection, showing that relief comes with patience. -
Protection from Envy and the Power of the Quran:
This surah mentions how disbelievers tried to harm the Prophet with their intense looks. This highlights the reality of envy and the protection Allah gives to His messenger. The Quran is shown as a powerful message and a warning for all people. -
The Quran as a Warning:
The surah ends by affirming that the Quran is a clear reminder for humanity. It is not just a book of stories, but a serious message for those who reflect.
Key Lessons from Surah Al-Qalam
- The Quran values writing and knowledge as tools of truth and guidance.
- Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) had excellent character, and false accusations against him are baseless.
- Avoid harmful traits like gossiping, slandering, and arrogance.
- Blessings are a test; misusing them or being ungrateful leads to loss.
- Wealth and children are not proofs of one’s success or closeness to Allah.
- People are tested with both hardship and ease to reveal their true faith.
Notable Ayahs from Surah Al-Qalam
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Verse 1:
"Nũn. By the pen and what everyone writes!"
Allah swears by the pen, highlighting the importance of knowledge and writing. -
Verse 4:
"And you are truly ˹a man˺ of outstanding character."
A strong affirmation of the noble character of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). -
Verse 10-13:
"And do not obey the despicable, vain oath-taker, slanderer, gossip-monger, withholder of good, transgressor, evildoer, brute, and—on top of all that—an illegitimate child."
A description of the corrupt traits to avoid, said to reflect certain opponents of the Prophet. -
Verse 17-33:
"Indeed, We have tested those ˹Meccans˺ as We tested the owners of the garden—when they swore they would surely harvest ˹all˺ its fruit in the early morning,…"
A parable about a group of men punished for their greed and denial of sharing blessings with the poor. -
Verse 48:
"So be patient with your Lord’s decree, and do not be like ˹Jonah,˺ the Man of the Whale, who cried out ˹to Allah˺, in total distress…."
Reference to Prophet Yunus (Jonah), used to encourage the Prophet to stay patient in hardship. -
Verse 51:
"The disbelievers would almost cut you down with their eyes when they hear ˹you recite˺ the Reminder, and say, “He is certainly a madman.”"
Mention of the intense hatred in the gazes of the disbelievers, interpreted as an attempt to cast the evil eye on the Prophet. -
Verse 52:
"But it is simply a reminder to the whole world."
The Quran is affirmed as a warning and guidance for all mankind.
