The surah opens with a vehement attack on one of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him)’s most bitter adversaries, his uncle Abu Lahab.
May the hands of Abu Lahab perish, and may he himself perish! His wealth and all that he has gained shall not avail him. (1–2)
Abu Lahab was a wealthy and influential figure among the Arabs of Makkah, but he soon came to grief. He was one of Muhammad (peace be upon him)’s staunchest opponents, harboring intense resentment towards him and sparing no effort to slander him and his message.

