Al-Nas (Mankind)

The surah opens with this passionate exhortation: Say, “I seek refuge in the Lord of mankind, the King of mankind, the God of mankind…” (1–3)

Refuge is being sought with God Almighty from the insinuations of the devils of both the jinn and humankind. As humans, we have no knowledge of how the jinn act and behave, but we are able to feel their influence and presence in our lives. In view of this frailty, it is, therefore, necessary for us to seek God’s help and protection against their potential scheming and ill will.

We seek refuge: “From the evil of the stalking whisperer.” (4)
who acts by stealth to release venomous insinuations in the hearts and minds of men. Elsewhere in the Qur’an, God says, “We assigned for every prophet enemies: devils of men and of jinn who inspire one another with false and vain ideas.” (al-anam: 112)

It appears that the human devils relish influencing actions while the jinn devils enjoy confusing people and leading them astray, thereby complementing one another.

Nevertheless, devils are barred from having any power to force anyone to do anything they do not want to do, but the greatest danger lies in their persuasive and inciting skills. Having been warned, those who fall for the devil’s intrigues would have only themselves to blame.

The surah warns against adverse or corrupting psychological and mental influences that can affect human behavior, urging believers to ward against them and seek protection and safety with God Almighty.