Surah Name: Abasa (سورة عبس)
Translation: He Frowned
Origin of name: The surah is named after the first word "abasa," meaning "he frowned," referring to the Prophet Muhammad's (pbuh) expression during a specific incident.
Surah Number: 80
Number of Ayahs (Verses): 42
Makki or Madani: Makki
Approximate Time of Revelation: During the Makkan period, after Surah An-Najm
Historical Context
Surah Abasa was revealed in Makkah during a time when the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) was actively engaging with the leaders of Quraysh, hoping to guide them to Islam. At that point in the mission, the Prophet was focusing his efforts on the influential figures of the Quraysh tribe—such as Utbah ibn Rabi’ah, Abu Jahl, Umayyah ibn Khalaf, and his own uncle, Abbas ibn Abdul Muttalib—believing that their conversion could have a significant positive impact on the broader acceptance of Islam.
During one such meeting with these Quraysh elites, a blind companion named Abdullah ibn Umm Maktum approached the Prophet and persistently asked for religious guidance. Not realizing the Prophet's current engagement, he interrupted their conversation multiple times. The Prophet frowned and turned away.
Shortly thereafter, Allah revealed Surah Abasa as a clear and direct reminder to the Prophet that the value of a person in the sight of Allah is not determined by social status or influence, but by sincerity and keenness to seek the truth. The Surah emphasised that those eager to learn and follow the message—regardless of their worldly position—were more worthy of attention.
Following the revelation of this surah, the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) showed great affection and respect toward Abdullah ibn Umm Maktum. Whenever Ibn Umm Maktum visited him, the Prophet would warmly say, “Welcome, O one for whom my Lord has rebuked me!” He would then inquire about his needs and personally attend to him, treating him with kindness.
According to a narration from Anas ibn Malik, one day Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) asked the Prophet, “Will people be resurrected naked on the Day of Judgment?” The Prophet replied, “Yes.” Aisha expressed concern, saying, “Oh, what a difficult situation that will be!”—upon which the verse “That Day, every person will have enough to make him heedless of others” (80:37) was revealed. This verse illustrates that on the Day of Resurrection, each individual will be so preoccupied with their own fate that no one will have the time or concern to look at or think about others.
Main Themes of Surah Abasa
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Importance of Sincerity in Giving Guidance:
The surah begins by addressing a moment when the Prophet (peace be upon him) frowned and turned away from a blind man seeking knowledge. It teaches that those who truly seek guidance should be prioritized, regardless of their social status. The value of sincerity and eagerness in seeking the truth is emphasized. -
The Quran as a Reminder:
The surah states that the Quran is a powerful reminder and that every person who desires to be guided can benefit from it. It is for those who seek the truth with humility and sincerity. -
Signs of Allah in Creation:
The surah highlights Allah's blessings in everyday life—how He creates people, provides food, and brings life from the earth. These signs call humans to reflect and show gratitude. -
The Reality of the Day of Judgment:
Vivid images of the Day of Judgment are described, emphasizing its seriousness. On that Day, people will be so overwhelmed by their own concerns that they will not care about others. -
Human Ingratitude:
The surah reminds us of how humans are created from nothing, yet many fail to be grateful. This ingratitude will lead to regret when they face the reality of the afterlife.
Key Lessons from Surah Abasa
- Give attention to those who sincerely seek guidance, regardless of their status.
- Allah’s blessings and creation are signs for humans to reflect and be grateful.
- Many people are ungrateful and forget the source of their blessings.
- On the Day of Judgment, everyone will be concerned only with themselves.
Notable Ayahs from Surah Abasa
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Verse 1-2:
"He frowned and turned ˹his attention˺ away, ˹simply˺ because the blind man came to him ˹interrupting˺."
These verses refer to the Prophet Muhammad’s (pbuh) moment of discomfort when a blind companion approached him during a conversation with political leaders. -
Verse 24-26:
"Let people then consider their food: how We pour down rain in abundance and meticulously split the earth open ˹for sprouts˺"
A call for reflection on the everyday blessings from Allah, such as food and sustenance. -
Verse 33-37:
"Then, when the Deafening Blast comes to pass— on that Day every person will flee from their own siblings, and ˹even˺ their mother and father, and ˹even˺ their spouse and children. For then everyone will have enough concern of their own."
These verses paint a powerful image of the Day of Judgment—so intense that people will ignore even their closest loved ones.
