QURANIC SURAHS PASSAGES
& AYAHS
& AYAHS
SAVE TOMORROW - 6Online Learning Program
The only hope to have a better tomorrow is to educate and enlighten our coming generations especially to let them have open minds putting an end to myopia eating at the delicate fiber of humanity.
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Cambridge Examination 2058 Question 1 Paper 2
Q.1. Choose any two of the following passages from the Qur’an, and:
(a) Briefly describe the main theme(s) in each passage. [4]
(b) Briefly explain the importance of these themes in a Muslim's life
today. [4]
QURANIC SURAHS PASSAGES & AYAHS
[God’s relationship with the created world]
6. Surah Fatiha.
1. In the name of Allah, most gracious, most merciful. 2. Praise be to Allah, the cherisher and sustainer of the worlds; 3. Most gracious, most merciful; 4. Master of the Day of Judgment. 5. You we worship, and your aid we seek. 6. Show us the straight way, 7. The way of those to whom You have given your grace, not those who earn Your anger, nor those who go astray.
In the name of Allah, most gracious, most merciful. [Note 1: relevant part of the Surah is only given here to let the students learn & understand how we relate all our answers to the translation given in the question paper for this purpose & don't cram up the answers to part "a" & "b". Note 2: Number of themes, answer to part "a" is given with part "b" for a better understanding of how we accurately draw the IMPORTANCE in our life TODAY from these themes detected by us from the relevant part of the translation of the Surah, passage & Ayah in question.]
[a.1. Fatiha means “opening”, Surah Fatiha is the opening chapter of the Quran, referred to in the Quran as a Surah of 7 oft-repeated verses (15:87). Being the Creator Allah loves His creation as Prophet(S) said: Allah loves His creation more than 70 mothers. (Mishkat) [Why is this color code different? this part is our introduction of the surah in question to score extra marks] Thus the first and the foremost theme visible is that Allah Almighty is universally compassionate to all and singularly kind to those who specifically seek HIS mercy. It further reminds us that man is completely dependent on the limitless mercy of Allah as Quran reminds us, “had Allah not been merciful, not a living thing would have been moving on earth; 16:61] [b.1. Mercy of Allah is of utmost importance in daily life of man, full of mistakes as Quran says man is born weak (4:28). The realization of the limitless mercy of Allah alone develops a great sense of hope even if one has committed a mistake. Besides, we must remember Prophet (s) is quoted to have said that no one will go to Paradise unless the mercy of Allah engulfs us. This is visible from two clear attributes, “Rahmaan” “universally compassionate “Rahim” singularly kind]
Praise be to Allah the cherisher and sustainer of the worlds [a.2. an important theme visible in this Surah is Tauhid as Allah being sovereign Creator is the only one worthy of complete submission & obedience by man, as Quran reminds, “Adore not the sun & moon but Adore Allah” 41:37. Furthermore is also alluding at guarding against “Shirk” in all its manifestations] [b.2. The important message contained here develops in our day to day life an immense conviction that Allah is our ultimate goal (53:42) Being The “Rab”, Lord Allah alone is our sustainer, cherisher who takes care of all our needs and thus is alone worthy of complete submission and surrender and a deep sense of gratitude and eulogy. Allah alone is worthy of all our worship reminding us the purpose of man is to worship none but Allah (51:56)]
Most gracious, most merciful. Master of the Day of Judgment; [a.3. Theme visible is the importance of belief in Akhirah, developing a true sense of accountability, strengthening our belief that “not an atom weight of good or bad will be left out that day”, (99:7-8) at the same time developing a subtle balance between fear & hope i.e. “Taqwa”, like two wings of a bird on its track set by his Masters] [b.3. This theme carries great importance in our daily life as the conviction in the reality of Akhirah develops a deep sense of accountability, thus keeping all our actions under complete self-scrutiny as we are aware of the reality that not an atom weight of good or bad will be hidden on this day (99:7-8) visible from the fact that on the day of accountability Allah alone will be the sole authority, who is full of mercy along with being extremely just]
You do we worship, and your aid do we seek (a.4. The theme clearly visible is that Allah alone is our protecting friend (2:257). We must have complete faith in Allah besides we must never forget “Purpose of man is to worship Allah, (51:56)] [b.4. This theme plays great importance in our daily lives as we have the conviction that Allah alone is our best protecting friend and the only refuge as also highlighted in Surah Falaq and Nass and we should only seek help and guidance from Allah alone. We must have complete dependence on the absolute Lordship of Allah a theme of the whole Quran, the answer to this sublime supplication is also taught by the Creator in this Surah]
Show us the straight way [a.5. An important theme visible here is that man is born weak (4:28) and thus needs constant guidance because satan all the time is ready with traps……..[Give the just of the quotation (2:268)] (b.4. Importance, in reality, is reminded here of the Quran which is complete guidance for us in all fields of our lives (2:2). Thus we must not only read Quran we must understand Quran, imbibe it, and must mold our lives strictly in accordance with each and every ordain given in it. Distinctively visible as Allah alone can guide man on to the right path referred to in the Surah as “Sirat-e-Mustaqime” and Quran is the word of Allah alone is the panacea]
The way of those to whom You have given your grace, not those who earn your anger, nor those who go astray [a.5. The theme here is that a true believer always seeks the special mercy of Allah besieging Allah to put him in the company of those special ones, messengers, “Siddique” martyrs & the “Suahlyheen” (4:69) & not let him be amongst those having got off the path of righteous] [b.5. The importance of this theme is that we must look for the good company and must avoid bad company visible from the supplication taught by the Lord to His slave]
7. Surah Al-Baqarah
(2:21-22)
[God’s relationship with the created world]
21. O, people! Adore your Guardian-Lord, who created you and those who came before you, so that you may have the chance to learn righteousness; 22. Who has made the earth your couch, and the heavens your canopy; and sent down rain from the heavens, and by it brought forth fruits for your sustenance; then do not set up rivals to Allah, when you know.
BACKGROUND. This passage is offering the summary of The Ultimate Invitation of the Quran as the audience now includes The People of the Book and the milieu has changed from the restricted Meccan audience to now addressing all mankind, as the passage starts with O’ people! “Ya haiyu-un-Nas”-
O’ people! Adore your Guardian-Lord (Ya haio-un-nass aabodo Rabba-Kum) [a.1.- With 1st theme reminding the great reality that man is the bondsman mere a slave, true relationship of man with his Master, with the logical inference that Allah alone is worthy of complete surrender, true love, and alone worthy of all praises; (1:2) demanding complete surrender from the sincere most depths of one’s heart; as Quran says, “Allah is the ultimate goal” (53:42)] [b.1. The importance reminded here is the purpose of man, to worship Allah (51:56) In our daily life we must know the best way to complete the Rights of Allah is to complete the Five Pillars, especially Salah is obligatory duty five times a day, “Worship at fixed times hath been enjoined on the believers.” (4:103) Besides a clear command visible in this passage to worship none but Him, the Arabic word “Aabodo” having broad meanings of complete surrender, i.e. Worship]
Who created you and those who came before you, (Khalakum wal lazi min qablikum) [a.2. Allah is “The Only Creator”, an important theme reminded here is the “Continuity of Religion”. The message sent through all previous prophets too was also the same “all prophets brought the message of “TUHID”. (21:25) Also, Quran reminds us that religion brought by all previous messengers has been the same (42:13)] [b.2. Importance here is to remember that as the custodian of the last guidance we as Muslims must have a high degree of morals and manners. Quran lays special responsibility in this regard, declaring the last Umamah as a middle nation who would be a witness against other nations and Prophet(s) will be a witness against us (2:143) This is the true manifestation of our belief in Islam as the continuity of religions, visible from the reality reminded in this verse is that Allah is the Sole Creator now and ever before, even before time itself was created]
So that you may have the chance to learn righteousness;(La’ala Kum Tattaqoon) [a.3. Theme visible is the importance of “Taqwa”- God Consciousness which is the root of real piety, as Quran reminds us, “Practice “Taqwa” as is the Right of Allah (3:102)] [b.3. The lesson here for us in our daily life is to know the importance of “Taqwa” as Quran reminds us, “Quran is sure a guidance but for those who have “Taqwa” God Consciousness” (2:2) Thus it is of utmost importance that we know the true meanings of this Arabic word of great importance defining the relationship of Allah with us as His slaves which is the combination of love, reverence, awe besides respect and unique honor. We must know this so that the message of the Quran is manifest to us and we can move towards “Fallah”, success here and hereafter. Visible from the Arabic word “Tattaqoon” meaning a propensity and predisposition in the hidden depths of the psyche of every man is an inclination of nature towards righteousness which only gets awakened and re-kindled by having true God Consciousness in one’s soul, i.e. the key to piety given in this verse]
Who has made the earth your couch(Jaa-la lakum Firsha), and the heavens your canopy(Was-Sama’a bana’a); and sent down rain(Ma’a) from the heavens; and by it brought forth fruits (fakharaja behi minas-samarat)for your sustenance (Rizkaa-lakum); then do not set up rivals to Allah (tajalahu Lilahh andada), when you know.(wa antum Ta’alamoon) (a.4. The theme visible here is that a true bondsman has a deep sense of gratitude for the limitless blessings of Allah, also reminded in Surah-e- Kausar developing “Shukr” a quality Allah loves most in His bondsman, True realization of this great reality makes the man completely contented as he learns to put his will into that of his Creator. This also ensures that such a man is safe from “shirk” in all its manifestations) (b.4. This part of the passage reminds teaching of the great importance that we must always have a high degree of sense of gratitude towards Allah, especially reminded again and again in Surah Rahman. This truly develops a contented character and being a grateful servant of one’s Lord one is bestowed more blessings from Allah as one depends on none but Allah.]
8. Surah Alaq
(96:1-5)
1. Read! in the name of your Lord, who created, 2. Created man out of a clot of congealed blood: 3. Proclaim! And your Lord is most bountiful, 4. He who taught by the pen, 5. Taught man what he did not know.
Read!(Iqra) In the name of your lord (be isme Rabba kall lazi)! [a.1. Theme visible has both intrinsic and extrinsic value of Quran, the ultimate source of all knowledge, being the word of God, “Kalam Allah”, “revealed in a night better than 1000 months” (97:3) Quran further highlights, “If Quran was revealed on a mountain, it would certainly have split asunder because of the fear of Allah, thus Allah set forth parables to men that they may reflect” (59:21)] [b.1. Reminding the importance of the Quran in our daily life thus Quran must be deeply reflected upon and imbibed by man to rise to a status that angels bowed down to man; (2:30) This is visible from the Arabic word “Iqra” meaning here the Quran, in its broad connotation of the Arabic word “qira’a” & contextual reference to Quran being the 1st revelation in Mount Hira by The Creator “Khalique”]
[the importance of the word IQRA taken as meaning Read-verses the question in the mind of the Prophet(s) and the condition of Arabia reminding the vital theme of the Quran; Quran is the panacea, a universal remedy, that is why the word IQRA is repeated highlighting the importance of knowledge of Allah’s last message for attaining ultimate peace inside and outside ]
who created (Khalaq) [a.2. The theme here is a firm belief in Creative Powers of Allah & sublime relation of man with the Creator, developing true sense of being only a bondsman, a slave thus developing the true sense of submission in a man] [b.2. The importance of this theme in our daily life is to develop a complete sense of submission and surrender to The Creator Allah, visible from the Arabic word “Khalaq”, alluding to the attribute, “Khalique” The Creator]
(Khalaq nal Insana)Created man out of a clot of congealed blood (min Alaq). [a.3. Theme is realization of one’s humble status knowing the realities of man’s creation. As Quran reminds in 1st verse of Surah Al-Insan, “There surely has passed a time over man when he was a thing not worth mentioning”,] [b.3. This theme of Quran is high lighting the importance of modesty required in our daily life towards The Master as Quran further reminds, “Salah is but difficult except for those who have a high degree of modesty in them, i.e. have lowly hearts” (2:45) This is visible from the very process of the creation of man reminded in a most subtle manner yet closest to scientific realities, the Arabic word “Alaq”, means the 1st stage of creation of man, very recently understood by biologists, now mostly translated as a “leach like substance” and embryo]
Proclaim!(Iqra) And your (Rabbukal Ikram)Lord is most bountiful (Allazi allama bil Qalam)He who taught by the pen, Taught man what he (Ya lam)did not know. [a. 4. Another theme visible is the start of a new era of Knowledge, an epoch in the process of guidance being brought to the culmination by The Creator out of His love for His creation. Knowledge is what makes man superior to angels as they bowed down to Adam (2:30-35.)] [b.4. This theme has great importance for us in our daily lives as each and every moment of this life must be spent in the pursuit of knowledge which alone can bring true peace in our lives as well as the world around us. As Prophet(s) highlighted, “Ink of a scholar is more precious than the blood of hundred martyrs” (Mishkat) This is visible from the Arabic word “Qalam”, a synonym of knowledge besides alluding to a revolution in the realms of human knowledge with the advent of Quran]
9. Surah Al Zalzal
(99)
1. When the earth is shaken to her utmost convulsion, 2. And the earth throws up her burdens, 3. And man cries out: ‘What is the matter with her?’, 4. On that day will she declare her tidings: 5. For that, your Lord will have given her inspiration. 6. On that day will men proceed in companies sorted out, to be shown their deeds. 7. Then shall anyone who has done an atom’s weight of good see it! 8. And anyone who has done an atom’s weight of evil shall see it.
(iza)When the (Zulzilatil Ardo zilzalaha) Earth is shaken to her utmost convulsion. [a.1. First and the foremost theme visible here is the importance of belief in Akhirah, especially reminding the great disaster on Dooms Day, referred to in the 1st part of Surah Al-Qariah.] [b.1. This theme is of utmost importance in our lives as the conviction of Akhirah develops a true sense of accountability in man, resulting in good deeds so ardently required for peace, the raison d’ etre of Islam First theme is visible from the Arabic word “Zalzal”, depicting the most chaotic conditions that will be prevailing on Dooms day, “Qiyamah” and the conditions described through out the Surah]
And the earth throws (Akhrajat) up her (Asqalaha) burdens and man cries out: (malaha)‘what is the matter with her? [a.2. Another theme is the reality of our belief in bodily resurrection, as Quran says, “even the fingertips will be recreated” showing that there will be the bodily resurrection (75:3-4)] (b.2. This theme further strengthens our belief in Akhirah with the conviction of life after death, creating awareness to lead our lives truly in the light and spirit of the teachings of the Quran as shown by the Prophet(s) This is visible from the state of bewilderment man is described on this day besides Arabic word “Akhrajat” meaning coming out & “Asqalaha” means weights alluding to resurrection] Note: Extra points are in a lighter color for good students with fast writing speed.
On that day she will declare her tidings (Tuhaddisso Akhbaraha): For that your Lord will have given her inspiration. (awhaa lahaa) [a.3. Next theme is that we can not hide anything from Allah as on this day most hidden secrets too will be made manifest, which man thought had been buried in the very depths of the earth, describing here the Day of Judgment after Dooms Day. How all every creation will see the sinister acts done even in secret, hidden in the annals of history, will be made manifest on this day, even body parts will be a witness against the man that day, (24:24 )] [b.3. The importance of this theme is to remember that Allah is closer to us than jugular vain and knows the secrets of our hearts. (50:16). This conviction makes us truly sincere towards our fellow beings, if they do not know our hidden intentions we are sure Allah knows. This is visible from the fact; that day earth will be granted special abilities through “Wahi”. Arabic words making the theme visible are “Tahdis” meaning earth will relate, and then word “Akhbaraha” meaning news, as Allah would grant these powers to earth through “Wahi]
On that day will men proceed in companies sorted out(ashtata), to be shown their deeds? Then shall (famiyyamal misqala zar-ratin)anyone who has done an atom’s weight of good see it! And anyone who has done an atom’s weight of evil shall see it! (a.4. The main theme is Great Justice on the day of judgment, the scene is well explained in Surah Al- Qariah “those whose scales will be heavy will be in a state of bliss & those whose scales will be light will be in Hell”) (b.4. This theme is reminding the importance of justice in our daily lives, we must know Allah loves justice (16:90). We must exercise justice in all affairs of our lives, visible from the Arabic word “Amal”, i.e. doings, in both last verses reminding man will be shown even an iota, denoted by the Arabic word “Zara” of his doings done in this world, both good or bad]
10. Surah Nass
(114)
1. Say: I seek refuge with the Lord of mankind, 2. The King of mankind, 3. The God of Mankind, 4. From the mischief of the whisperer who withdraws, 5. Who whispers into the hearts of mankind, 6. Among Jinns and among mankind.
Say: I seek refuge with the Lord of the mankind. The King of mankind. The God of Mankind [a.1.First theme is that Allah alone is the ultimate refuge for man against all evil as “man is born weak” (4:28). As such must only seek protection against all evil from Allah, who alone is the best protecting friend (2:257)] [b.1. This theme has great importance in our daily lives, as we recite verses of Surah Fatiha “Thou do we worship Thou do we look for help”, we must say these verses with complete conviction which alone can free us from all fears, and then we can find real refuge in Allah. This is visible from the attributes of Allah, “Rab” The Creator, Cherisher & the Sustainer, besides “Malik” Sovereign Lord and “Ilahi”, The God Almighty]
From the evil (Shar) of the Whisperer (waswas) who withdraws.(Khannas) [a.2. The theme visible is the philosophy of evil, “Shar” how it attacks man which might even be a magical spell. How in hidden secret ways, sneeringly tries to enter the domain of mind, the conscience, if not stopped here, enters the domain of heart, the seat of wisdom which if conquered by evil it is most difficult to save one’s self, yet Allah alone has the powers to tear apart darkest of the darkness of evil as explained in Surah Falaque] [b.2. In order to protect ourselves against evil, we must always look for good company as emphasized in Surah Fatiha, and must avoid bad company at all costs. This is visible from the Arabic words “Waswasa” broadly meaning here evil temptations, & “Khannas” means this evil approaching scornfully & attacking again & again]
Who whispers in the hearts of mankind?( (Allazi yo waswaso fi Sadoor-an-Nass) [a.3. A vital theme is the importance of keeping intact the purity of our soul, as we know “Allah breathed soul in to man” (15:29) In order to protect our soul against all evil we must strengthen our hearts, the seat of wisdom which controls the soul. As Quran reminds us, “In the remembrance of Allah, “Zikr”, hearts find solace, peace, and protection, “Sakinah” (13:28)] [b.3. In order to guard against evil in all its manifestations, we must not let the heart be void of the remembrance, “Zikr” of Allah as the Quran reminds us, “Remember Allah much so that you may succeed” (8:45) Clearly visible from the description of how evil attack and conquers a man visible from the Arabic word “Sadoor” meaning here the depths of the inner self (Nafs), which if conquered man has no powers to save himself from the evil]
Amongst Jinn & mankind [a.4. Another subtle theme reminded is that there are other creations of Allah, Quran mentions there are “Janood”, hosts of other creations only known to Allah (74:31) around us, especially man should not forget satin is from amongst the jinn (18:50), the open enemy.] [b4. An important point to note here is that evil can be created from within one’s own self and the best way to guard our selves in daily life is to be steadfast in prayers as Quran reminds us, “Prayer restrains from shameful and unjust deeds” (29:45) Most important point to learn is how one must be careful in selecting his friends clearly visible from the description of possible sources of evil around a man, reminding “Jin” among the sources spreading evil]
11. Surah Baqarah
(2:30-37)
Allah’s Messenger
30. Behold, your Lord said to the angels: ‘I will create a vicegerent on earth.’ They said: ‘Will You place there one who will make mischief there and shed blood?- whilst we celebrate your praises and glorify Your holy (name)?’ He said: ‘I know what you do not know.’ 31. And He taught Adam the names of all things; then He placed them before the angels, and said: ‘Tell me the names of these if you are right.’ 32. They said: ‘Glory to You, of knowledge we have none, save what You have taught us: In truth, it is You who are perfect in knowledge and wisdom.’ 33. He said: ‘Adam! Tell them their names.’ When he had told them, Allah said: ‘Did I not tell you that I know the secrets of heaven and earth, and I know what you reveal and what you conceal?’ 34. And behold, We said to the angels: ‘Bow down to Adam’. And they bowed down. Not so Iblis: he refused and was haughty: he was of those who reject faith. 35. We said: ‘Adam! You and your wife dwell in the Garden; and eat of the bountiful things in it as you wish. But do not approach this tree, or you will run into harm and transgression.’ 36. Then Satan made them slip from there and got them out of what they had been in. We said: ‘Go down, with enmity between yourselves. On earth will be your dwelling-place and your means of livelihood, for a time.’ 37. Then Adam learned from his Lord words of inspiration, and his Lord Turned towards him; for He is often-returning, most merciful.
Behold your Lord said to the angels: "I will create a vicegerent on earth” They said: "Will you place there one who will make mischief there and bloodshed?-Whilst we celebrate your praises and glorify your holy (name)?. [a.1. The first and the foremost theme is the start of the “Rissalah” the channel of communication between Creator & creation. Angels too are part of this institution of “Rissalah” but to help man in his mission] [b.1. The importance here is that we must not forget our august status as the vicegerent of Allah and must do our utmost to remain worthy of this status by remaining away from evil in all its manifestations. This is visible from the Arabic word “Khalifa” used for the one who decided to be sent as a vicegerent; The Adam. The reaction of angels also clarifies the above theme as angels in their humble knowledge could not reconcile the Great Design of Allah]
He said I know what you do not know and He taught Adam the names of all things [a.2. Adam was granted the special faculties and potential to imbibe the special domains of knowledge which even the angels did not have, reminding an important theme that Prophetic knowledge is but a special gift of Allah granted to His selected people picked up to be prophets, Adam was the 1st prophet] [b.2. We must believe in all the prophets and make no distinction amongst them as emphasized by Quran, “We make no distinction between any of His messengers” (2:285) such behavior is important to establish brotherly relations amongst all mankind so ardently required today. Prophet(s) alluded to this by saying, “O’ you servants of Allah be brothers” (Mishkat). This is visible from the Arabic word “Asma” having a special connotation that Adam’s knowledge was an inherent potentiality for acquiring knowledge, a faculty angels did not have, alluded by the Arabic word “Asma”.]
then He placed them before the angels, and said:’ Tell me the names of these if you are right'. They said:” Glory to you, of knowledge we have none, save what You have taught us: In truth, it is You who are perfect in knowledge and wisdom
He said: 'Adam! Tell them their names. 'When He told them, Allah said: "Did I not tell you that I know the secrets of heaven and earth, and I know what you reveal and what you conceal? And behold, we said to the angels: 'Bow down to Adam.' And they bowed down. [a.3. The theme visible here is that all knowledge is with Allah (2:255) and this is a special favor of Allah that some degree of knowledge is granted to man through the prophets showing the special status of prophets and the value of prophetic knowledge. Besides alluding to the great reality that Prophet(s) had all knowledge of Quran from Allah] [b.3. Importance of this theme is that we as “Ashraf ul Makhloqat” best of creation must try our utmost to keep acquiring and increasing our knowledge to maintain this august status which was bowed down by the angels. Prophet(s) stressed, “To acquire knowledge is a duty upon every Muslim male and Muslim female” (Mishkat) Visible as the angels bowed down to Adam, due to this divine element in man, Allah had granted Adam special faculties to acquire and multiply knowledge]
Not so Iblis: he refused and was haughty: he was of those who reject faith. We Said: 'Adam! You and your wife. Dwell in the garden, and eat of the bountiful things in it as you wish. But do not approach this tree, or you will run into harm and transgression. Then Satan made them slip from there, and got them out of what they had been in We said: ' Go down, with enmity b/w your selves. On earth will be your dwelling-place and your means of livelihood, for a time". Then Adam learned from his Lord words of inspiration, and his Lord turned towards him: for He is oft-returning, most merciful. [a.4. The theme reminded here is the importance of the following guidance from Allah through “Rissalah” “the channel of communication”, a prerequisite for success here & hereafter as abode here is only temporary] [b.4. The importance of this theme is to know the value of the Quran, the final revelation in our daily lives. Quran is complete guidance (2:2) so we must not only read Quran but must understand, imbibe and completely mold our lives according to each and every word of the Quran. This is visible from the Arabic word, “Kalamaat” Adam learned from the Lord)
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