Surah Name: Al-Lail (سورة الليل)
Translation: The Night
Origin of name: The surah is named after the word “Al-Lail” meaning “The Night,” which appears in the first verse.
Surah Number: 92
Number of Ayahs (Verses): 21
Makki or Madani: Makki
Approximate Time of Revelation: Early Makkan period
Historical Context
Surah Al-Lail was revealed in the early years of the Makkan period, during a time when social inequalities were sharply felt in Meccan society. The city was economically driven and controlled by a class of wealthy tribal leaders who often exploited the poor, slaves, and marginalized groups. The wealthy often acted with selfishness and indifference towards those in need, showing little compassion or social responsibility. Some even mocked the idea of helping the poor, as reflected in other parts of the Qur'an (Yasin 47) where wealthy disbelievers questioned why they should feed those whom Allah had not provided for Himself.
One of the notable issues at the time was the treatment of Muslim converts who were slaves. Wealthy idolaters often oppressed or punished them for accepting Islam. On the other hand, some Muslims, especially those with financial means—such as Abu Bakr—used their wealth to support and free oppressed believers. For example, Abu Bakr is known to have purchased and freed several Muslim slaves who were being tortured for their faith.
According to several Islamic sources, this surah was revealed with reference to such contrasting behaviors. It specifically highlights two figures: Abu Bakr, who gave much for the sake of Allah, including freeing slaves; and an individual like Umayyah ibn Khalaf, a wealthy man who was known for his stinginess and cruelty [1]. Another report suggests that the surah was revealed in praise of a companion named Abu al-Dahdah, who helped a poor family in need [2].
It is narrated that the Prophet would recite Surah Al-Layl during the noon (Dhuhr) and afternoon (Asr) prayers [3].
References:
[1] Fakhr al-Din al-Razi, Tafsir al-Kabir, vol. 31, p. 197
[2] Al-Wahidi, Asbab al-Nuzul, p. 254; Al-Alusi, Ruh al-Ma'ani, vol. 30, p. 147
[3] Shawkani, V, 451
Main Themes of Surah Al-Lail
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Contrast Between Two Types of People:
The surah introduces two opposing paths that people can follow: one is the way of generosity, faith, and righteousness; the other is miserliness, denial, and selfishness. Each path leads to a different end: success or destruction. -
The Power of Free Will and Divine Guidance:
People are responsible for the choices they make. Allah has given guidance, and based on one’s actions—whether good or evil—He either makes the path of good easier or allows the wrongdoer to continue in his error. -
Encouragement of Charity and Selflessness:
Those who give their wealth to help others, expecting nothing in return except Allah’s pleasure, are praised and promised true happiness and spiritual success in this life and the Hereafter. -
Warning Against Greed and Arrogance:
The surah warns of those who are greedy and act as if they have no need for Allah. Such people turn away from good deeds and will face the blazing fire as a result of their rebellion and selfishness.
Key Lessons from Surah Al-Lail
- Those who give generously and seek Allah’s pleasure will be guided to ease and success.
- Selfishness and denying the truth lead a person toward hardship and loss.
- True righteousness is helping others without expecting anything in return.
- Purifying the soul through good deeds brings happiness in this life and salvation in the afterlife.
- Greed and arrogance distance a person from Allah’s mercy.
Notable Ayahs from Surah Al-Lail
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Verse 1-3:
"By the night as it covers, and the day as it appears in brightness, and by He who created the male and the female."
These opening oaths highlight the power and wisdom of Allah in creation. -
Verse 5-7:
"As for the one who is charitable, mindful ˹of Allah˺, and ˹firmly˺ believes in the finest reward, We will facilitate for them the Way of Ease."
A promise for those who are generous, God-conscious, and faithful—they will be guided to the path of goodness. -
Verse 8-10:
"And as for the one who is stingy, indifferent ˹to Allah˺, and ˹staunchly˺ denies the finest reward, We will facilitate for them the path of hardship."
A warning to those who are greedy, arrogant, and deny the truth—they will be led to difficulty and ruin. -
Verse 17-21:
"But the righteous will be spared from it (fire)—who donate ˹some of˺ their wealth only to purify themselves, not in return for someone’s favours, but seeking the pleasure of their Lord, the Most High. They will certainly be pleased."
This refers to those who use their wealth selflessly to purify their soul.
