Surah Name: Ad-Dhuha (سورة الضحى)
Translation: The Morning Brightness
Origin of name: The surah is named after the word "Dhuha" in the first verse, which means "morning light" or "forenoon."
Surah Number: 93
Number of Ayahs (Verses): 11
Makki or Madani: Makki
Approximate Time of Revelation: During the early Makkan period
Historical Context
Surah Ad-Dhuha was revealed at a time when Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was experiencing deep emotional distress. The revelation of the Qur'an, which had been coming regularly, had temporarily stopped for a period. Different reports suggest this pause could have lasted anywhere from a few days to even up to forty days. During this interval, the Prophet was deeply worried and saddened, feeling uncertain and concerned about his mission.
The disbelievers of Makkah, always seeking ways to undermine him, took advantage of this situation. They started mocking him and spreading rumors that his Lord had abandoned him. They claimed that Allah had turned away from him or was angry with him. This further increased the emotional burden on the Prophet.
This surah was revealed as a response to these painful attacks, offering comfort and reassurance to the Prophet. [1-4] It addressed his emotional state and reaffirmed that Allah had neither forsaken him nor become displeased with him. The surah was meant to uplift his spirit and remind him of Allah’s past and future support.
During this period, Islam was still in its early stages. The Muslims were a small and persecuted group in Makkah. They needed hope and encouragement, especially their leader, who bore the weight of the mission. Surah Ad-Dhuha served as a divine message of hope, guidance, and reminder of past blessings.
References:
[1] Al-Bukhari, “Tafsir”, 93; “Tahajjud”, 4; “Fada’il al-Qur’an”, 1
[2] Muslim, “Jihad”, 114-115
[3] Al-Tirmidhi, “Tafsir”, 82
[4] Al-Hakim, vol. II, p. 526–527
Main Themes of Surah Ad-Dhuha
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Divine Reassurance to the Prophet:
The surah begins with a comforting message to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), assuring him that Allah has not abandoned or forgotten him. This was revealed during a time when the Prophet was feeling distressed due to a temporary pause in revelation. -
Promise of a Better Future:
Allah promises that the future will be better than the past, encouraging the Prophet to remain hopeful. He is told that he will be given blessings that will satisfy him, both in this life and the next. -
Reminder of Past Blessings:
The surah reminds the Prophet of how Allah cared for him during his early life—when he was an orphan, in need of guidance, and in hardship. This serves to strengthen his trust in Allah's continued support. -
Moral Duties Toward the Needy:
Along with receiving blessings, the Prophet is instructed to show kindness to others. He should care for orphans, help those who ask for assistance, and never turn them away. -
Gratitude and Spreading the Message:
The final verse encourages the Prophet to speak of the blessings of his Lord. This implies both gratitude and the responsibility to share the message of Islam, the greatest gift he has received.
Key Lessons from Surah Ad-Dhuha
- Allah never abandons or forgets those who believe and trust in Him.
- Times of silence or hardship do not mean rejection by Allah.
- The future will be better for those who stay patient and faithful.
- Remembering past blessings strengthens faith in future ease.
- Helping orphans and the needy is a duty of every believer.
- Always speak of and share the blessings Allah has given you.
- Trust in Allah’s plan brings comfort in difficult times.
Notable Ayahs from Surah Ad-Dhuha
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Verse 1-2:
"By the morning sunlight, and the night when it falls still!"
Allah swears by the peaceful time of morning and the calm of night. -
Verse 3:
"Your Lord ˹O Prophet˺ has not abandoned you, nor has He become hateful ˹of you˺."
A comforting message to the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) during a time of sadness, assuring him that Allah's support remains. -
Verse 6-8:
"Did He not find you as an orphan then sheltered you? Did He not find you unguided then guided you? And did He not find you needy then satisfied your needs?"
A reminder of Allah’s care throughout the Prophet’s earlier life, showing His ongoing protection. -
Verse 9-11:
"So do not oppress the orphan, nor repulse the beggar. And proclaim the blessings of your Lord."
A call to kindness, generosity, and gratitude—reflecting the Prophet’s mission and character.
