Quranic Reflections - Islamic School of Stanford

1. Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “And indeed, We have bestowed
upon you seven of Al-Mathâni (seven repeatedly recited Verses), (i.e. Sûrat
Al-Fâtihah) and the Grand Qur’ân.” (TMQ, 15:87). In place of all that has
been granted to others from power to materialistic property, Allah (SWT) has
granted you Surat Al-Fatiha with its amazing meanings and the grand Qur’an.
Hold on to what He (SWT) has granted you, be proud of it, and do not aim at
anything else besides it. The following ayah reasserts this concept:
2. Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “Look not with your eyes
ambitiously at what We have bestowed on certain classes of them (the
disbelievers), nor grieve over them. And lower your wings for the believers
(be courteous to the fellow-believers).” (TMQ, 15:88). So do not be in awe
with the materialistic objects of this world that are given to other civilizations and
be proud of your Islam and be humble towards your fellow Muslim brothers and
sisters. Do not be overwhelmed by Western technology and its modern buildings,
for the divine law which was applied to the people of Al-Hijr applies to them as
well; there is no protector but Allah (SWT).
3. Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “Therefore proclaim openly
(Allâh’s Message - Islâmic Monotheism) that which you are commanded, and
turn away from Al-Mushrikûn (polytheists, idolaters, and disbelievers - See
V.2:105).” (TMQ, 15:94). Openly call to the way of Allah (SWT) despite any
hardships that you may encounter because Allah (SWT) is The Protector. This
ayah was the turning point during the time of the Prophet (SAWS). It shifted
making da’wa in secret to making it in the open with public propagation of the
message. The sahabah (companions of the Prophet (SAWS)) experienced some
difficulty with regards to this issue and this ayah was sent to reassure them that
they were protected by Allah (SWT) despite their being ridiculed.
4. “Therefore proclaim openly (Allâh’s Message - Islâmic Monotheism) that
which you are commanded, and turn away from Al-Mushrikûn (polytheists,
idolaters, and disbelievers - See V.2:105). Truly! We will suffice you against
the scoffers.” (TMQ, 15:94-95).
5. Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “Indeed, We know that your breast
is straitened at what they say. So glorify the praises of your Lord and be of
those who prostrate themselves (to Him). And worship your Lord until there
comes unto you the certainty (i.e. death).” (TMQ, 15:97-99). Being ridiculed
is unpleasant, and despite being convinced of Allah’s (SWT) protection of oneself,
a Muslim may tire of the comments of others. This ayah gives an antidote for this
problem; it provides an outstanding end to the theme of protection this surah
centres about. It is like a practical application of the concept to allow a person to
feel this spiritual and divine protection. It is the antidote of glorifying Allah
(SWT) and worshipping Him (SWT) until death. Let them ridicule you, for their
end will not be different to that of the people of Al-Hijr. Indeed, you are
protected.