Surah 1-2 - YasSarNal QuR'aN

such are the God-fearing. (177)OverviewThis new passage aims at correcting certain principles and clarifying somemisconceptions concerning the true faith. It also continues the confrontation with theJews of Madinah, to which we were introduced earlier. They did not cease to try topresent falsehood in the guise of truth, and to cause confusion among the Muslims.However, the tone this time is rather general, presenting principles that apply to theJews of Madinah as well as other opponents of the new faith. It also identifies anumber of pitfalls that the Muslims would do well to avoid.To begin with, we have a reference to the pilgrimage ritual of walking between thetwo hills of Şafā and Marwah, near the Ka`bah, clarifying the confusion surroundingthem as a result of pre-Islamic pagan traditions. To some extent, this is related to theinstitution of the Ka`bah as the universal direction of prayer for Muslims as well as topilgrimage rituals.This is followed by a fierce condemnation of Jews and Christians who concealparts of their Scriptures, while making it clear that repentance and forgivenessremain open to those of them who wish to refrain from such practices. Those whopersist will meet with harsh punishment.Then comes a reaffirmation of the concept of God’s oneness, and a reference to themarvels of the natural world that attest to it. Those who reject God’s oneness areroundly condemned, while a scene from the Day of Judgement depicts how futile itwill be for unbelievers to realize their wrongdoing when it is too late.Referring to the Jewish arguments about what is lawful and unlawful of food anddrink, the passage makes a general call to mankind to enjoy the wholesome andlawful things in life which God has provided for them. An account of things that areforbidden to eat and drink is also given in this section.The passage resumes the attack on those who suppress or tamper with God’srevelations, threatening them with God’s wrath and their own humiliation, and amost severe punishment in the life to come.As the passage is rounded off, we have a statement of the essential principles offaith and good works, highlighting the direct link between faith and action, and173