This brief surah summarizes the essence and outcome of all human activity for all time. God says: “By the flight of time, man is in total loss” (1–2).

Time goes on, and people live and die, generation after generation, and era after era. People of the same generation may live under similar circumstances and traditions, but their destinies may go in totally different directions, depending on their moral and religious beliefs. The moral quality of human life is far more important, and the truth is no less honorable or illustrious if it is recognized by a minority.

Those who deny the sovereignty and power of God shall end up as fuel of hell in the hereafter, whereas the believers who, despite the odds, persevere in upholding the truth shall be the real and final winners in the ordeal of life.

True believers are few and far between, and in some generations of human history may even seem odd, but they are promised great rewards. The surah singles them out: “Except for those who have faith and do good works; who exhort each other to uphold the truth and to perseverance” (3).

This surah became a motto, a pledge of loyalty and brotherhood, among the Companions of the Prophet (peace be upon him). It was traditional, according to reports, for Muhammad’s (peace be upon him) Companions to recite this surah together before they shook hands and departed. The renowned scholar, al-Shafi’i, was reported to have said: “If this were the only surah to have been revealed, it would have been sufficient.”

To persevere for the sake of the truth could expose one to persecution and hardship, and therefore to uphold the true faith and triumph with it requires persistence, tenacity, and a strong will.

Must Read Posts:

  1. Understanding The Holy Message – Surah No 47: Muhammad
  2. Moral Factors Decide A Nation’s Fortunes
  3. Always Say That Which Is Best