7. Sura al-Araf, Mecca 39

The Quranic Text & Ali’s Version:

إِنَّ الَّذِينَ اتَّخَذُواْ الْعِجْلَ سَيَنَالُهُمْ غَضَبٌ مِّن رَّبِّهِمْ وَذِلَّةٌ فِي الْحَياةِ الدُّنْيَا...

7: 152. Those who took the calf (for worship) will indeed be overwhelmed with wrath from their Lord, and with shame in this life:

C1120. The consequences were twofold:

- spiritual, in that Allah's grace is withdrawn, and

- even in the present life of this world, in that godly men also shun the sinner's company, and he is isolated.

...وَكَذَلِكَ نَجْزِي الْمُفْتَرِينَ ﴿١٥٢﴾

thus do We recompense those who invent (falsehoods).

وَالَّذِينَ عَمِلُواْ السَّيِّئَاتِ ثُمَّ تَابُواْ مِن بَعْدِهَا وَآمَنُواْ...

7: 153. But those who do wrong but repent thereafter and (truly) believe,

...إِنَّ رَبَّكَ مِن بَعْدِهَا لَغَفُورٌ رَّحِيمٌ ﴿١٥٣﴾

verily Thy Lord is thereafter Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

وَإِذْ تَأَذَّنَ رَبُّكَ لَيَبْعَثَنَّ عَلَيْهِمْ إِلَى يَوْمِ الْقِيَامَةِ مَن يَسُومُهُمْ سُوءَ الْعَذَابِ...

7: 167. Behold! thy Lord did declare that He would send against them, to the Day of Judgment, those who would afflict them with grievous penalty.

C1140. See Deut, 11:28:

"A curse if ye will not obey the commandments of the Lord your God but turn aside out of the way which I command you this day":

also Deut, 28:49;

"The Lord shall bring a nation against thee from afar, from the end of the earth, as swift as the eagle flieth: a nation whose tongue thou shalt not understand";

and many other passages.

...إِنَّ رَبَّكَ لَسَرِيعُ الْعِقَابِ وَإِنَّهُ لَغَفُورٌ رَّحِيمٌ ﴿١٦٧﴾

Thy Lord is quick in retribution,

but he is also Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

Other Versions:

7: 152

Asad ……their Sustainer’s condemnation will overtake them, and ignominy [will be their lot] in the life of this world!” For thus do We requite all who invent [such] falsehood. [note 119]

Pickthall Lo! those who chose the calf (for worship), terror from their Lord and humiliation will come upon them in the life of the world. Thus do We requite those who invent a lie.

Transliteration Innal lazinattakhazul 'ijla sayana_luhum gadabum mir rabbihim wa zillatun fil haya_tid dunya_, wa kaza_lika najzil muftarin(a).

7: 153

Pickthall But those who do ill deeds and afterward repent and believe--lo! for them, afterward, Allah is Forgiving, Merciful.

Transliteration Wallazina 'amilus sayyi'a_ti summa ta_bu_ mim ba'diha_ wa a_manu_ inna rabbaka mim ba'diha_ lagafu_rur rahim(un).

[[ Asad’s note 119 – Throughout the Quran, this expression is used to describe a)the attribute of divine qualities to any concrete or imaginary object or person, and b) the making of false statements about God, His attributes, or the contents of His messages. In the above context it refers to any false imagery which deflects man from the worship of the One God.]]

7: 167

Pickthall And (remember) when thy Lord proclaimed that He would raise against them till the Day of Resurrection those who would lay on them a cruel torment. Lo! verily thy Lord is swift in prosecution and lo! verify He is Forgiving, Merciful.

Transliteration Wa iz ta'azzana rabbuka layab'asanna 'alaihim ila_ yaumil qiya_mati may yasu_muhum su_'al 'aza_b(i), inna rabbaka lasari'ul 'iqa_b(i), wa innahu_ lagafu_rur rahim(un).

[[Ruby’s note 7:167 – Here “they” is referred, I think, to those who disregarded God’s warnings and transgressed mentioned in the above verses 65 and 66.]]

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2. Surah al-Baqara, Medina 87

The Quranic Text & Ali’s Version:

وَكَذَلِكَ ...

2: 143. Thus

C142. Thus: By giving you a Qiblah of your own, most ancient in history, and most modern as a symbol of your organisation as a new nation (Ummah).

... جَعَلْنَاكُمْ أُمَّةً وَسَطًا ...

have We made of you an Ummah justly balanced,

C143. Justly balanced: The essence of Islam is to avoid all extravagances on either side. It is a sober, practical religion.

But the Arabic word (wasat) also implies a touch of the literal meaning of Intermediacy. Geographically Arabia is in an intermediate position in the Old World, as was proved in history by the rapid expansion of Islam, north, south, west and east.

... لِّتَكُونُواْ شُهَدَاء عَلَى النَّاسِ...

that ye might be witnesses over the nations,

C144. Witnesses: When two persons dispute, they advance extravagant claims. A just witness comes between them, and brings the light of reason to bear on them, pruning all their selfish extravagances. So the mission of Islam is to curb, for instance, the extreme formalism of the Mosaic law and the extreme "other-worldliness" professed by Christianity.

The witness must be unselfish, equipped with first-hand knowledge, and ready to intervene in the cause of justice. Such is the position claimed by Islam among rival systems. Similarly, within Islam itself, the position of witness to whom disputants can appeal is held by Muhammad Al Mustafa.

... وَيَكُونَ الرَّسُولُ عَلَيْكُمْ شَهِيدًا...

and the Messenger a witness over yourselves;

... وَمَا جَعَلْنَا الْقِبْلَةَ الَّتِي كُنتَ عَلَيْهَا إِلاَّ لِنَعْلَمَ مَن يَتَّبِعُ الرَّسُولَ ...

and We appointed the Qiblah to which thou wast used, only to test those who followed the Messenger

... مِمَّن يَنقَلِبُ عَلَى عَقِبَيْهِ ...

from those who would turn on their heels (from the faith).

C145. The Qiblah of Jerusalem might itself have seemed strange to the Arabs, and the change from it to the Ka'bah might have seemed strange after they had become used to the other.

In reality one direction or another, or east or west, in itself did no matter, as Allah is in all places, and is independent of Time and Place. What mattered was the sense of discipline, on which Islam lays so much stress: which of us is willing to follow the directions of the chosen Prophet of Allah? Mere quibblers about non-essential matters are tested by this. (R).

... وَإِن كَانَتْ لَكَبِيرَةً إِلاَّ عَلَى الَّذِينَ هَدَى اللّهُ ...

Indeed it was (a change) momentous, except to those guided by Allah.

... وَمَا كَانَ اللّهُ لِيُضِيعَ إِيمَانَكُمْ...

And never would Allah make your faith of no effect.

C146. What became of prayer with the Jerusalem Qiblah?

It was equally efficacious before the new Qiblah was ordained. Allah regards our faith: every act of true and genuine faith is efficacious with Him, even if formalists pick holes in such acts.

... إِنَّ اللّهَ بِالنَّاسِ لَرَؤُوفٌ رَّحِيمٌ ﴿١٤٣﴾

For Allah is to all people most surely full of kindness, Most Merciful.

فَمَنْ خَافَ مِن مُّوصٍ جَنَفًا أَوْ إِثْمًا فَأَصْلَحَ بَيْنَهُمْ فَلاَ إِثْمَ عَلَيْهِ...

2: 182. But if anyone fears partiality or wrongdoing on the part of the testator, and makes peace between (the parties concerned), there is no wrong in him;

C187. A verbal will is allowed, but it is expected that the testator will be just to his heirs and not depart from what is considered equitable. For this reason definite shares were laid down for heirs later (see 4:11, etc.).

These define or limit the testamentary power, but do not abrogate it. For example, amongst kin there are persons, e.g., an orphan grandson in the presence of surviving sons who would not inherit under the interstate scheme, and the testator might like to provide for them. Again, there may be outsiders for whom he may wish to provide, and jurists have held that he has powers of disposition up to one-third of his property. But he must not be partial to one heir at the expense of another, or attempt to defeat lawful creditors.

If he tries to do this, those who are witnesses to his oral disposition may interfere in two ways.

- One way would be to persuade the testator to change his bequest before he dies.

- The other way would be after death, to get the interested parties together and ask them to agree to a more equitable arrangement.

In such a case they are acting in good faith, and there is no fraud. They are doing nothing wrong. Islam approves of every lawful device for keeping brethren at peace, without litigation and quarrels. Except for this, the changing of the provisions of a Will is a crime, as it is under all Law.

... إِنَّ اللّهَ غَفُورٌ رَّحِيمٌ ﴿١٨٢﴾

for Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

فَإِنِ انتَهَوْاْ فَإِنَّ اللّهَ غَفُورٌ رَّحِيمٌ ﴿١٩٢﴾

2: 192. But if they cease, Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

ثُمَّ أَفِيضُواْ مِنْ حَيْثُ أَفَاضَ النَّاسُ وَاسْتَغْفِرُواْ اللّهَ...

2: 199. Then pass on at a quick pace from the place whence it is usual for the multitude so to do, and ask for Allah's forgiveness.

C222. See the last note.

Towards the end of the Pilgrimage the crowd is very great, and if any people loitered after Arafat, it would cause great confusion and inconvenience. The pace has therefore to be quick for every one, a very salutary regulation.

Every member of the crown must think of the comfort and convenience of the whole mass.

... إِنَّ اللّهَ غَفُورٌ رَّحِيمٌ ﴿١٩٩﴾

For Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

إِنَّ الَّذِينَ آمَنُواْ وَالَّذِينَ هَاجَرُواْ وَجَاهَدُواْ فِي سَبِيلِ اللّهِ...

2: 218. Those who believed and those who suffered exile and fought (and strove and struggled) in the path of Allah,

... أُوْلَـئِكَ يَرْجُونَ رَحْمَتَ اللّهِ وَاللّهُ غَفُورٌ رَّحِيمٌ ﴿٢١٨﴾

they have the hope of the Mercy of Allah; and Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

لاَّ يُؤَاخِذُكُمُ اللّهُ بِاللَّغْوِ فِيَ أَيْمَانِكُمْ وَلَكِن يُؤَاخِذُكُم بِمَا كَسَبَتْ قُلُوبُكُمْ...

2: 225. Allah will not call you to account for thoughtlessness in your oaths, but for the intention in your hearts;

C252. It has been held that thoughtless oaths, if there is no intention behind them, can be expiated by an act of charity.

... وَاللّهُ غَفُورٌ حَلِيمٌ ﴿٢٢٥﴾

and He is Oft-Forgiving, Most Forbearing.

وَلاَ جُنَاحَ عَلَيْكُمْ فِيمَا عَرَّضْتُم بِهِ مِنْ خِطْبَةِ النِّسَاء أَوْ أَكْنَنتُمْ فِي أَنفُسِكُمْ...

2: 235. There is no blame on you if ye make an offer of betrothal or hold it in your hearts.

C268. A definite contract of remarriage for the woman during her period of 'Iddah of widowhood is forbidden as obviously unseemly, as also any secrecy in such matters. It would bind the woman at a time when she is not fitted to exercise her fullest judgment.

But circumstances may arise when an offer (open for future consideration but not immediately decided), may be to her interests, and this is permissible. (R).

... عَلِمَ اللّهُ أَنَّكُمْ سَتَذْكُرُونَهُنَّ وَلَـكِن لاَّ تُوَاعِدُوهُنَّ سِرًّا إِلاَّ أَن تَقُولُواْ قَوْلاً مَّعْرُوفًا...

Allah knows that ye cherish them in your hearts: but do not make a secret contract with them except in terms honorable,

... وَلاَ تَعْزِمُواْ عُقْدَةَ النِّكَاحِ حَتَّىَ يَبْلُغَ الْكِتَابُ أَجَلَهُ...

nor resolve on the tie of marriage till the term prescribed is fulfilled.

... وَاعْلَمُواْ أَنَّ اللّهَ يَعْلَمُ مَا فِي أَنفُسِكُمْ فَاحْذَرُوهُ...

And know that Allah knoweth what is in your hearts and take heed of Him;

... وَاعْلَمُواْ أَنَّ اللّهَ غَفُورٌ حَلِيمٌ ﴿٢٣٥﴾

and know that Allah is Oft Forgiving, Most Forbearing.

Other Versions:

2: 143

Asad And thus have We willed you to be a community of the middle way [note 118], so that you might bear witness to the truth before all mankind, and that the Apostle might bear witness to it before you. …………..God is most compassionate towards man, a dispenser of grace.

Pickthall Thus We have appointed you a middle nation, that ye may be witnesses against mankind, and that the messenger may be a witness against you. And We appointed the qiblah which ye formerly observed only that We might know him who followeth the messenger, from him who turneth on his heels. In truth it was a hard (test) save for those whom Allah guided. But it was not Allah's purpose that your faith should be in vain, for Allah is full of pity, Merciful toward mankind.

Transliteration Wa kaza_lika ja'alna_kum ummataw wasatal litaku_nu_ syuhada_'a 'alan na_si wa yaku_nar rasu_lu 'alaikum syahida_(n), wa ma_ ja'alnal qiblatal lati kunta 'alaiha_ illa_ lina'lama may yattabi'ur rasu_la mimmay yanqalibu 'ala_ 'aqibaih(i), wa in ka_nat lakabiratan illa_ 'alal lazina hadalla_h(u), wa ma_ ka_nalla_hu liyudi'a ima_nakum, innalla_ha bin na_si la ra'u_fur rahim(un).

[ Asad’s note 118: Lit., “middlemost community” – i.e., a community that keeps an equitable balance between extremes and is realistic in its appreciation of man’s nature and possibilities,……In tune with its oft-repeated call to moderation in every aspects of life, the Quran exhorts the believers not to place

too great an emphasis on the physical and material aspects of their lives, but postulates, at the same time, that man’s urges and desire relating to this ‘life of the flesh’ are God-willed and therefore, legitimate…………This balanced attitude, peculiar to Islam, flows directly from the concept of God’s oneness and, hence, of the unity of purpose underlying all His creation: and thus, the mention of the “community of the middle way” at this place is a fitting introduction to the theme of the Kabah, a symbol of God’s oneness.]

[ Ruby’s Note: This verse and others are specifically pointing the believers to stay away from EXTREMES of anything including religion. It is indicated other places that not to do excesses in a religion, because that is how many religions in the past have been destroyed and failed to manifest the Truth.]

2: 182

Pickthall But he who feareth from a testator some unjust or sinful clause, and maketh peace between the parties, (it shall be) no sin for him. Lo! Allah is Forgiving, Merciful.

Transliteration Faman kha_fa mim mu_sin janafan au isman fa aslaha bainahum fala_ isma'alaih(i), innalla_ha gafu_rur rahim(un

2: 192

Asad But if they desist – behold, God is much-forgiving, a dispenser of grace.

Pickthall But if they desist, then lo! Allah is Forgiving, Merciful.

Transliteration Fa inintahau fa innalla_ha gafu_rur rahim(u).

2: 199

Asad and surge onward together with the multitudes of all the other people who surge onward [note 184], and ask God to forgive you your sins: for, verily, Go is much-forgiving, a dispenser of Grace.

Pickthall Then hasten onward from the place whence the multitude hasteneth onward, and ask forgiveness of Allah. Lo! Allah is Forgiving, Merciful.

Transliteration Summa afidu_ min haisu afa_dan na_su wastagfirulla_h(a), innalla_ha gafu_rur rahim(un).

2: 218

Asad Verily, they who have attained to faith, and they who have forsaken the domain of evil [note 203] and are striving hard in God’s cause – there it is who may look forward to God’s grace: for God is much-forgiving, a dispenser of grace.

Pickthall Lo! those who believe, and those who emigrate (to escape the persecution) and strive in the way of Allah, these have hope of Allah's mercy. Allah is Forgiving, Merciful.

Transliteration Innal lazina a_manu_ wal lazina ha_jaru_ wa ja_hadu_ fi sabililla_h(i), ula_'ika yarju_na rahmatalla_h(i), walla_hu gafu_rur rahim(un).

[ Asad’s note 203 The expression ‘alladhina hajaru’ [lit., “those who have forsaken their homelands”) denotes, primarily, the early Meccan Muslims who migrated………………the term ‘hijrah’ has had a spiritual connotation as well – namely, a “forsaking of thedomain of evil” and turning towards God: and since this spiritual coonotaion applies both to the historical muhajirun ( “emigrants”) of early Islam ……..who forsake all that is sinful and “migrate unto God”……]

2: 225

Asad God will not take you to task for oaths which you may have uttered without thought, but will take you to task [only] for what your hearts have conceived [in earnest]: for God is much-forgiving, a dispenser of grace

Pickthall Allah will not take you to task for that which is unintentional in your oaths. But He will take you to task for that which your hearts have garnered. Allah is Forgiving, Clement.

Transliteration La_ yu'a_khizukumulla_hu bil lagwi fi aima_nikum wa la_kiy yu'a_khizukum bima_ kasabat qulu_bukum, walla_hu gafu_run halim(un).

[Ali’s note - 252 It has been held that thoughtless oaths, if there is no intention behind them, can be expiated by an act of charity. (2.225) ]

2: 235

Asad But you will incur no sin if you give a hint of marriage-offer to these women, or if you conceive such an intention without making it obvious: God knows that you intend to ask them in marriage. Do not, however, plight your troth with them in secret, but speak only in a decent manner; and do not proceed the marriage -knot ere the ordained (term of waiting) has come to its end. And know that God knows what is in your minds, and therefore remain conscious of Him; and know, too, that God is much -forgiving, forbearing.

Pickthall There is no sin for you in that which ye proclaim or hide in your minds concerning your troth with women. Allah knoweth that ye will remember them. But plight not your troth with women except by uttering a recognized form of words. And do not consummate the marriage until (the term) prescribed is run. Know that Allah knoweth what is in your minds, so beware of Him; and know that Allah is Forgiving, Clement.

Transliteration Wa la_ juna_ha 'alaikum fima_ 'arradtum bihi min khitbatin nisa_'i au aknantum fi anfusikum, 'alimalla_hu annakum satazkuru_nahunna wa la_kil la_ tuwa_'idu_hunna sirran illa_ an taqu_lu_ qaulam ma'ru_fa_(n), wa la_ ta'zimu_ 'uqdatan nika_hi hatta_ yablugal kita_bu ajalah(u_), wa'lamu_ annalla_ha ya'lamu ma_ fi anfusikum fahzaru_h(u), wa'lamu_ annalla_ha gafu_run halim(un).

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8. [al-Anfal, Medina 88, after Badr 2H]

The Quranic Text & Ali’s Version:

فَكُلُواْ مِمَّا غَنِمْتُمْ حَلاَلاً طَيِّبًا وَاتَّقُواْ اللّهَ...   

8: 69.  But (now) enjoy what ye took in war, lawful and good:

but fear Allah:

C1236. Enjoy: literally, eat. See 7:19. n. 1004, and 5:66, n. 776.

...إِنَّ اللّهَ غَفُورٌ رَّحِيمٌ ﴿٦٩﴾

for Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

يَا أَيُّهَا النَّبِيُّ قُل لِّمَن فِي أَيْدِيكُم مِّنَ الأَسْرَى...   

8: 70.  O Prophet! say to those who are captives in your hands:

...إِن يَعْلَمِ اللّهُ فِي قُلُوبِكُمْ خَيْرًا يُؤْتِكُمْ خَيْرًا مِّمَّا أُخِذَ مِنكُمْ وَيَغْفِرْ لَكُمْ ...

"If Allah findeth any good in your hearts, He will give you something better than what has been taken from you, and He will forgive you:

C1237. This is a consolation to the prisoners of war. In spite of their previous hostility, Allah will forgive them in His mercy if there was any good in their hearts, and confer upon them a far higher gift than anything they have ever lost. This gift in its highest sense would be the blessing of Islam, but even in a material sense, there was great good fortune awaiting them, e.g., in the case of Abbas (see n. 1235).

Note how comprehensive is Allah's care. He encourages and strengthens the Muslims, at the same time condemning any baser motives that may have entered their minds, He consoles the prisoners of war and promises them better things if there is any good in them at all. And He offers comfort to those who have left their homes in His Cause, and knits them into closer fellowship with those who have helped them and sympathized with them.

...وَاللّهُ غَفُورٌ رَّحِيمٌ ﴿٧٠﴾

for Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful."

Other Versions:

8: 69

Asad

Pickthall Now enjoy what ye have won, as lawful and good, and keep your duty to Allah. Lo! Allah is Forgiving, Merciful.

Transliteration Fa kulu_ mimma_ ganimtum hala_lan tayyiba_(w), wattaqulla_h(a), innalla_ha gafu_rur rahim(un).

8:70

Asad [Hence,] O Prophet, say unto the captives who are in your hands: “If God finds any good in your hearts, He will give you something better than all that has been taken away from you, and will forgive you your sins: for God is much-forgiving, a dispenser of grace.” [note 74]

Pickthall O Prophet, Say unto those captives who are in your hands: If Allah knoweth any good in your hearts He will give you better than that which hath been taken from you, and will forgive you. Lo! Allah is Forgiving, Merciful.

Transliteration Ya_ ayyuhan nabiyyu qul liman fi aidikum minal asra_, iy ya'lamilla_hu fi qulu_bikum khairay yu'tikum khairam mimma_ ukhiza minkum wa yagfir lakum, walla_hu gafu_rur rahim(un).

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3. Sura al-Imran

Medina 89 [200 verses]

The Quranic Text & Ali’s Version:

قُلْ إِن كُنتُمْ تُحِبُّونَ اللّهَ فَاتَّبِعُونِي يُحْبِبْكُمُ اللّهُ وَيَغْفِرْ لَكُمْ ذُنُوبَكُمْ ...

3: 31. Say:

"If ye do love Allah, follow me: Allah will love you, and forgive you your sins,

...وَاللّهُ غَفُورٌ رَّحِيمٌ ﴿٣١﴾

for Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful."

خَالِدِينَ فِيهَا لاَ يُخَفَّفُ عَنْهُمُ الْعَذَابُ وَلاَ هُمْ يُنظَرُونَ ﴿٨٨﴾

3: 88. In that will they dwell; nor will their penalty be lightened, nor respite be their (lot).

C418a. Cf. 2:161-162.

إِلاَّ الَّذِينَ تَابُواْ مِن بَعْدِ ذَلِكَ وَأَصْلَحُواْ فَإِنَّ الله غَفُورٌ رَّحِيمٌ ﴿٨٩﴾

3: 89. Except for those that repent (even) after that, and make amends: for verily Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

وَلِلّهِ مَا فِي السَّمَاوَاتِ وَمَا فِي الأَرْضِ...

129. To Allah belongeth all that is in the heavens and on earth.

...يَغْفِرُ لِمَن يَشَاء وَيُعَذِّبُ مَن يَشَاء وَاللّهُ غَفُورٌ رَّحِيمٌ ﴿١٢٩﴾

He pleaseth and punisheth whom He pleaseth:

but Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

إِنَّ الَّذِينَ تَوَلَّوْاْ مِنكُمْ يَوْمَ الْتَقَى الْجَمْعَانِ إِنَّمَا اسْتَزَلَّهُمُ الشَّيْطَانُ بِبَعْضِ مَا كَسَبُواْ...

3: 155. Those of you who turned back on the day the two hosts met, it was Satan who caused them to fail, because of some (evil) they had done.

C468. It was the duty of all who were able to fight, to fight in the sacred cause at Uhud.

But a small section were timid; they were not quite as bad as those who railed against Allah, or those who thoughtlessly disobeyed orders. But they still failed in their duty.

It is our inner motives that Allah regards. These timorous people were forgiven by Allah. Perhaps they were given another chance: perhaps they rose to it and did their duty then.

...وَلَقَدْ عَفَا اللّهُ عَنْهُمْ إِنَّ اللّهَ غَفُورٌ حَلِيمٌ ﴿١٥٥﴾

But Allah has blotted out (their fault): for Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Forbearing.

Other Versions:

3: 31

Pickthall Say, (O Muhammad, to mankind): If ye love Allah, follow me; Allah will love you and forgive you your sins. Allah is Forgiving, Merciful.

Transliteration Qul in kuntum tuhibbu_nalla_ha fattabi'u_ni yuhbibkumulla_hu wa yagfirlakum zunu_bakum, walla_hu gafu_rur rahim(un).

3: 88

Pickthall They will abide therein. Their doom will not be lightened, neither will they be reprieved;

Transliteration Kha_lidina fiha_, la_ yukhaffafu 'anhumul 'aza_bu wa la_ hum yunzaru_n(a).

3: 89

Pickthall Save those who afterward repent and do right. Lo! Allah is Forgiving, Merciful.

Transliteration Illal lazina ta_bu_ mim ba'di za_lika wa aslahu_, fa innalla_ha gafu_rur rahim(un).

3: 129

Asad whereas unto God belongs all that is in the heavens and all that is on earth: He forgives whom He wills, and He chastises whom He wills; and God is much-forgiving, a dispenser of Grace [note 96].

Pickthall Unto Allah belong whatsoever is in the heavens and whatsoever is in the earth. He forgive whom He will, and punish whom He will. Allah is Forgiving, Merciful.

Transliteration Wa lilla_hi ma_ fis sama_wa_ti wa ma_ fil ard(i), yagfiru limay yasya_'u wa yu'azzibu may yasya_'(u), walla_hu gafu_rur rahim(un).

3: 155

Asad Behold, as for those of you who turned away [from their duty] on the day when the two hosts met in battle – Satan caused them to stumble only by means of something that they [themselves] had done [note 117]. But now God has effected this sin of theirs: verily, God is much-forgiving, forbearing.

Pickthall Lo! those of you who turned back on the day when the two hosts met, Satan alone it was who caused them to backslide, because of some of that which they have earned. Now Allah hath forgiven them. Lo! Allah is Forgiving, Clement.

Transliteration Innal lazina tawallau yaumal taqal jam'a_n(i), innamastazallahumusy syaita_nu bi ba'di ma_ kasabu_, wa laqad 'afalla_hu'anhum, innalla_ha gafu_run halim(un).

===================================

4. Sura an-Nisa

Medina 92 [Hijra 4]

The Quranic Text & Ali’s Version:

حُرِّمَتْ عَلَيْكُمْ ...

4: 23.  Prohibited to you (for marriage) are:

C531. This Table of Prohibited Degrees agrees in the main with what is usually accepted among all nations, except in minor details. It begins in the last verse (with father's widows or divorcees).

The scheme is drawn up on the assumption that the person who proposes to marry is a man: if it is a woman, the same scheme will apply, mutatis mutandis: it will read: "your fathers, sons, brothers," etc.; or

you can always read it from the husband's view of relationship, as there must always be a husband in a marriage.

... أُمَّهَاتُكُمْ وَبَنَاتُكُمْ وَأَخَوَاتُكُمْ...

your mother, daughters, sisters,

C532.

"Mother" includes grandmother (through the father or mother), great grandmother, etc.;

"daughter" includes grand-daughter (through son or daughter), great grand daughter, etc.;

"sister," includes full-sister and half-sister.

"Father's sister" includes grandfather's sister, etc., and

"mother's sister" includes grandmother's sister, etc.

... وَعَمَّاتُكُمْ وَخَالاَتُكُمْ وَبَنَاتُ الأَخِ وَبَنَاتُ الأُخْتِ ...

father's sisters, mother's sisters; brother's daughters, sister's daughters,

... وَأُمَّهَاتُكُمُ اللاَّتِي أَرْضَعْنَكُمْ وَأَخَوَاتُكُم مِّنَ الرَّضَاعَةِ...  

foster-mothers (who gave you suck), foster-sisters;

C533. "Fosterage" or milk-relationships play an important part in Muslim Law, and count like blood-relationships:

it would therefore seem that not only foster-mothers and foster-sisters, but foster-mother's sister, etc., all come within the prohibited degrees.

... وَأُمَّهَاتُ نِسَآئِكُمْ وَرَبَائِبُكُمُ اللاَّتِي فِي حُجُورِكُم مِّن نِّسَآئِكُمُ اللاَّتِي دَخَلْتُم بِهِنَّ ...

your wives' mothers; your step-daughters under your guardianship, born of your wives to whom ye have gone in,

C534. It is generally held that "under your guardianship" is a description, not a condition. (R).

... فَإِن لَّمْ تَكُونُواْ دَخَلْتُم بِهِنَّ فَلاَ جُنَاحَ عَلَيْكُمْ...  

no prohibition if ye have not gone in; (those who have been)

... وَحَلاَئِلُ أَبْنَائِكُمُ الَّذِينَ مِنْ أَصْلاَبِكُمْ ...

wives of your sons proceeding from your loins;

C535. "Sons" includes grandsons, but excludes adopted sons, or persons treated as such of the words "proceeding from your loins."

... وَأَن تَجْمَعُواْ بَيْنَ الأُخْتَيْنِ إَلاَّ مَا قَدْ سَلَفَ...  

and two sisters in wedlock at one and the same time, except for what is past;

C536. The bar against two sisters in marriage together applies to aunt and niece together, but not to deceased wife's sister after the wife dies.

... إِنَّ اللّهَ كَانَ غَفُورًا رَّحِيمًا ﴿٢٣﴾

for Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

وَمَن لَّمْ يَسْتَطِعْ مِنكُمْ طَوْلاً أَن يَنكِحَ الْمُحْصَنَاتِ الْمُؤْمِنَاتِ...   

4: 25.  If any of you have not the means wherewith to wed free believing women,

... فَمِن مِّا مَلَكَتْ أَيْمَانُكُم مِّن فَتَيَاتِكُمُ الْمُؤْمِنَاتِ...  

they may wed believing girls from among those whom your right hands possess:

C540. That is, captives taken in a Jihad:

If you seek such a person in marriage, do it from no base motives. Safeguard your faith, and see that she too does believe.

In that case, after all, she is of the human brotherhood, and her condition is accidental and redeemable.

If the slave bore a child to her master, she would become free. (R).

... وَاللّهُ أَعْلَمُ بِإِيمَانِكُمْ...  

and Allah hath full knowledge about your faith.

... بَعْضُكُم مِّن بَعْضٍ فَانكِحُوهُنَّ بِإِذْنِ أَهْلِهِنَّ...  

Ye are one from another: wed them with the leave of their owners,

... وَآتُوهُنَّ أُجُورَهُنَّ بِالْمَعْرُوفِ مُحْصَنَاتٍ غَيْرَ مُسَافِحَاتٍ وَلاَ مُتَّخِذَاتِ أَخْدَانٍ...

and give them their dowers, according to what is reasonable: they should be chaste, not lustful, nor taking paramours:

... فَإِذَا أُحْصِنَّ فَإِنْ أَتَيْنَ بِفَاحِشَةٍ فَعَلَيْهِنَّ نِصْفُ مَا عَلَى الْمُحْصَنَاتِ مِنَ الْعَذَابِ...  

when they are taken in wedlock, if they fall into shame, their punishment is half that for free women.

... ذَلِكَ لِمَنْ خَشِيَ الْعَنَتَ مِنْكُمْ وَأَن تَصْبِرُواْ خَيْرٌ لَّكُمْ ...

This (permission) is for those among you who fear sin; but it is better for you that ye practice self-restraint:

... وَاللّهُ غَفُورٌ رَّحِيمٌ ﴿٢٥﴾

and Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُواْ لاَ تَقْرَبُواْ الصَّلاَةَ وَأَنتُمْ سُكَارَى حَتَّىَ تَعْلَمُواْ مَا تَقُولُونَ...   

4: 43. O ye who believe! approach not prayers with a mind befogged, until ye can understand all that ye say,

C562. The reference is either to a state of intoxication or to a dazed state of mind on account of drowsiness or some other cause. Or perhaps both are implied.

Before the prohibition of intoxicants altogether was promulgated, it was at least unbecoming that people should come to prayers in such a state. For prayers it is only right that we should collect our whole minds and approach Allah in a spirit of reverence.

“Prayers” (Salah) here may mean “a place of prayer,” a Mosque:

the resulting meaning would be the same

... وَلاَ جُنُبًا إِلاَّ عَابِرِي سَبِيلٍ حَتَّىَ تَغْتَسِلُواْ...  

nor in a state of ceremonial impurity (except when traveling on the road), until after washing your whole body

... وَإِن كُنتُم مَّرْضَى أَوْ عَلَى سَفَرٍ أَوْ جَاء أَحَدٌ مِّنكُم مِّن الْغَآئِطِ أَوْ لاَمَسْتُمُ النِّسَاء...  

-          if ye are ill, or

-          on a journey, or

-          one of you cometh from offices of nature, or

-          ye have been in contact with women,

... فَلَمْ تَجِدُواْ مَاء فَتَيَمَّمُواْ صَعِيدًا طَيِّبًا فَامْسَحُواْ بِوُجُوهِكُمْ وَأَيْدِيكُمْ ...

and ye find no water,

then take for yourselves clean sand or earth, and rub therewith your faces and hands.

C563. The strictest cleanliness and purity of mind and body are required, especially at the time of prayer.

But there are circumstances when water for ablutions is not easily obtainable, especially in the dry conditions of Arabia, and then washing with dry sand or clean earth is recommended. Four such circumstances are mentioned: the

-        two last when washing is specially required;

-        the two first when washing may be necessary, but it may not be easy to get water.

For a man, when he is ill, cannot walk out far to get water, and a man on a journey has no full control over his supplies.

In all four cases, where water cannot be got, cleaning with dry sand or dry earth is recommended. This is called Tayammum.

... إِنَّ اللّهَ كَانَ عَفُوًّا غَفُورًا ﴿٤٣﴾

For Allah doth blot out sins and forgive again and again.

لاَّ يَسْتَوِي الْقَاعِدُونَ مِنَ الْمُؤْمِنِينَ غَيْرُ أُوْلِي الضَّرَرِ ...

4: 95.  Not equal are those believers who sit (at home) and receive no hurt,

... وَالْمُجَاهِدُونَ فِي سَبِيلِ اللّهِ بِأَمْوَالِهِمْ وَأَنفُسِهِمْ...  

and those who strive and fight in the Cause of Allah with their goods and their persons.

... فَضَّلَ اللّهُ الْمُجَاهِدِينَ بِأَمْوَالِهِمْ وَأَنفُسِهِمْ عَلَى الْقَاعِدِينَ دَرَجَةً...  

Allah hath granted a grade higher to those who strive and fight with their goods and persons than to those who sit (at home):

... وَكُـلاًّ وَعَدَ اللّهُ الْحُسْنَى ...

unto all (in faith) hath Allah promised good:

C614. Allah's goodness is promised to all people of Faith. But there are degrees among men and women of Faith.

-        There are people with natural inertia: they do the minimum that is required of them, but no more.

-         There are people who are weak in will: they are easily frightened.

-        There are people who are so strong in will and so firm in faith that they are determined to conquer every obstacle, whether in their own physical or other infirmities or in the external world around them.

In a time of jihad, when people give their all, and even their lives, for the common cause, they must be accounted more glorious than those who sit at home, even though they have good will to the cause and carry out minor duties in aid.

The special reward of such self-sacrifice is special forgiveness and mercy, as proceeding from the direct approbation and love of Allah.

... وَفَضَّلَ اللّهُ الْمُجَاهِدِينَ عَلَى الْقَاعِدِينَ أَجْرًا عَظِيمًا ﴿٩٥﴾

but those who strive and fight hath He distinguished above those who sit (at home) by a special reward.

دَرَجَاتٍ مِّنْهُ وَمَغْفِرَةً وَرَحْمَةً...   

4: 96.  Ranks specially bestowed by Him, and Forgiveness and Mercy.

... وَكَانَ اللّهُ غَفُورًا رَّحِيمًا ﴿٩٦﴾

For Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

وَمَن يُهَاجِرْ فِي سَبِيلِ اللّهِ يَجِدْ فِي الأَرْضِ مُرَاغَمًا كَثِيرًا وَسَعَةً...   

4: 100. He who forsakes his home in the Cause of Allah, finds in the earth many a refuge, wide and spacious:

... وَمَن يَخْرُجْ مِن بَيْتِهِ مُهَاجِرًا إِلَى اللّهِ وَرَسُولِهِ ثُمَّ يُدْرِكْهُ الْمَوْتُ فَقَدْ وَقَعَ أَجْرُهُ عَلى اللّهِ...  

should he die as a refugee from home for Allah and His Messenger, his reward becomes due and sure with Allah:

... وَكَانَ اللّهُ غَفُورًا رَّحِيمًا ﴿١٠٠﴾

and Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

وَمَن يَعْمَلْ سُوءًا أَوْ يَظْلِمْ نَفْسَهُ ثُمَّ يَسْتَغْفِرِ اللّهَ يَجِدِ اللّهَ غَفُورًا رَّحِيمًا ﴿١١٠﴾

4: 110. If anyone does evil or wrongs his own soul, but afterwards seeks Allah's forgiveness, he will find Allah Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

وَالَّذِينَ آمَنُواْ بِاللّهِ وَرُسُلِهِ وَلَمْ يُفَرِّقُواْ بَيْنَ أَحَدٍ مِّنْهُمْ أُوْلَـئِكَ سَوْفَ يُؤْتِيهِمْ أُجُورَهُمْ...   

4: 152. To those who believe in Allah and His Messengers and make no distinction between any of the Messengers, We shall soon give their (due) rewards:

... وَكَانَ اللّهُ غَفُورًا رَّحِيمًا ﴿١٥٢﴾

for Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

Other Versions:

4: 23

Pickthall Forbidden unto you are your mothers, and your daughters, and your sisters, and your father's sisters, and your mother's sisters, and your brother's daughters and your sister's daughters, and your foster mothers, and your foster sisters, and your mothers-in-law, and your stepdaughters who are under your protection (born) of your women unto whom ye have gone in but if ye have not gone in unto them, then it is no sin for you (to marry their daughters) and the wives of your sons who (spring) from your own loins. And (it is forbidden unto you) that ye should have two sisters together, except what hath already happened (of that nature) in the past. Lo! Allah is ever Forgiving, Merciful.

Transliteration Hurrimat 'alaikum ummaha_tukum wa bana_tukum wa akhawa_tukum wa 'amma_tukum wa kha_la_tukum wa bana_tul akhi wa bana_tul ukhti wa ummaha_tukumul la_ti ard'nakum wa akhawa_tukum minar rada_'ati wa ummaha_tu nisa_'ikum wa raba_'ibukumul la_ti fi huju_rikum minnisa_'ikumul la_ti dakhaltum bihinn(a), fa illam taku_nu_ dakhaltum bihinna fala_juna_ha 'alaikum, wa hala_'ilu abna_'ikumul lazina min asla_bikum, wa an tajma'u_ bainal ukhtaini illa_ ma_ qad salaf(a), innalla_ha ka_na gafu_rar rahim(a_).

4: 25

Asad And as for those of you who, owing to circumstances, are nto in a position [note 29] to marry free believing women, [let them marry] believing maidens from among those whom you rightfully possess [note 30]. And God knows all about your faith; each one of you is an issue of the other [note 31]. Marry them, then, with their people’s leave, and give them their dowers in an equitable manner – they being women who give themselves in honest wedlock, not in fornication, not as secret love-companions. And when thee are married, and thereafter become guilty of immoral conduct, they shall be liable to half the penalty to which free married women are liable [note 33] This [permission to marry slave-girls applies] to those of you who fear lest they stumble into evil. But it is for your own good to persevere in patience [and to abstain for such marriages]: and God is much-forgiving, a disperser of grace.

Pickthall And whoso is not able to afford to marry free, believing women, let them marry from the believing maids whom your right hands possess. Allah knoweth best (concerning) your faith. Ye (proceed) one from another; so wed them by permission of their folk, and give unto them their portions in kindness, they being honest, not debauched nor of loose conduct. And if when they are honorably married they commit lewdness they shall incur the half of the punishment (prescribed) for free women (in that case). This is for him among you who feareth to commit sin. But to have patience would be better for you. Allah is Forgiving, Merciful.

Transliteration Wa mal lam yastati' minkum taulan ay yankihal muhsana_til mu'mina_ti famimma_ malakat aima_nukum min fataya_tikumul mu'mina_t(i), walla_ a'lamu bi ima_nikum, ba'dukum mim ba'd(in), fankihu_hunna bi izni ahlihinna wa a_tu_hunna uju_rahunna bil ma'ru_fi muhsana_tin gaira musa_fiha_tiw wa la_ muttakhiza_ti akhda_n(in), fa iza_ uhsinna fa in ataina bi fa_hisyatin fa 'alaihinna nisfu ma_ 'alal muhsana_ti minal 'aza_b(i), za_lika liman khasyiyal'anata minkum, wa anbiru_ khairul lakum, walla_hu gafu_rur rahim(un).

4: 43

Asad O you who have attained to faith! Do not attempt to pray while you are in a state of drunkenness [note 54], [but wait] until you know what you are saying; not yet [while you are ] in a state requiring total ablution [note 55], until you have bathed – except if you are traveling [and are unable to do so]…………

Pickthall O ye who believe! Draw not near unto prayer when ye are drunken, till ye know that which ye utter, nor when ye are polluted, save when journeying upon the road, till ye have bathed. And if ye be ill, or on a journey, or one of you cometh from the closet, or ye have touched women, and ye find not water, than go to high clean soil and rub your faces and your hands (therewith). Lo! Allah is Benign, Forgiving.

Transliteration Ya_ ayyuhal lazina a_manu_ la_ takrabus sala_ta wa antum suka_ra_ hatta_ ta'lamu_ ma_ taqu_lu_na wa la_ junuban illa_'a_biri sabilin hatta_ tagtasilu_, wa in kuntum marda_ au 'ala_ safarin au ja_'a ahadum minkum minal ga_'iti au la_mastumun nisa_'a falam tajidu_ ma_'an fa tayammamu_ sa'idan tayyiban famsahu_ bi wuju_hikum wa aidikum, innalla_ha ka_na'afuwwan gafu_ra_(n).

4: 95

Asad Such of the believers as remain passive [note 121 – other than the disabled – cannot be deemed equal to those who strive hard in God’s cause with their possessions and their lives [note 122]: God has exalted those who strive hard with their possessions and their lives far above those who remain passive. ………….mighty reward-

Pickthall Those of the believers who sit still, other than those who have a (disabling) hurt, are not on an equality with those who strive in the way of Allah with their wealth and lives. Allah hath conferred on those who strive with their wealth and lives a rank above the sedentary. Unto each Allah hath promised good, but He hath bestowed on those who strive a great reward above the sedentary;

Transliteration La_yastawil qa_'idu_na minal mu'minina gairu ulid darari wal muja_hidu_na fi sabililla_hi bi amwa_lihim wa anfusihim, faddalalla_hul muja_hidina bi amwa_lihim wa anfusihim 'alal qa_'idina darajah(tan), wa kullaw wa'adalla_hul husna_, wa faddalalla_hul muja_hidina'alal qa_'idina ajran'azima_(n).

4: 96

Asad [many] degrees thereof – and forgiveness of sins, and His grace; for God is indeed much-forgiving, a dispenser of grace.

Pickthall Daraja_tim minhu wa magfirataw wa rahmah(tan), wa ka_nalla_hu gafu_rar rahima_(n).

[[ Asad’s note 122 – The term ‘mujahid’ is derived from the verb ‘jahada’, which means ‘he struggled’ or ‘strove hard’ or ‘exerted himself’, namely, in a good cause and against evil………….thus, for instance, the Prophet described man’s struggle against his own passions and weaknesses (jihad an-nafs) as the “greatest jihad” Bayhaqi, on the authority of Jabir ibn Abd Allah).]]

[[ Ali’s note - 614 Allah's goodness is promised to all people of Faith. But there are degrees among men and women of Faith. There are people with natural inertia: they do the minimum that is required of them, but no more. There are people who are weak in will: they are easily frightened. There are people who are so strong in will and so firm in faith that they are determined to conquer every obstacle, whether in their own physical or other infirmities or in the external world around them. In a time of jihad, when people give their all, and even their lives, for the common cause, they must be accounted more glorious than those who sit at home, even though they have good will to the cause and carry out minor duties in aid. The special reward of such self-sacrifice is special forgiveness and mercy, as proceeding from the direct approbation and love of Allah. (4.95) ]]

4: 100

Asad And he who forsake the domain of evil for the sake of God shall find on earth many a lonely road [note 126], as well as life abundant. And if anyone leaves his home, fleeting evil unto God and His Apostle, and then death overtakes him – his reward is ready with God: for God is indeed much-forgiving, a dispenser of grace.

Pickthall Whoso migrate for the cause of Allah will find much refuge and abundance in the earth, and whoso forsake his home, a fugitive unto Allah and His messenger, and death overtaketh him, his reward is then incumbent on Allah. Allah is ever Forgiving, Merciful.

Transliteration Wa may yuha_jir fi sabililla_hi yajid fil ardi mura_gaman kasiraw wa sa'ah(tan), wa may yakhruj mim baitihi muha_jiran ilalla_hi wa rasu_lihi summa yudrik-hul mautu faqad waqa'a ajruhu_ 'alalla_h(i), wa ka_nalla_hu gafu_rar rahima_(n).

[[ Asad’s note 126 – The word ‘muragham’ is derived from the noun ‘ragham’ (“dust”) and is connected with the idiomatic expression ‘raghima anfuhu’, “his nose was made to cleave to dust”, i.e., his became humbled and forced to do something against his will………………]]

4: 110

Pickthall Yet whoso doeth evil or wrongeth his own soul, then seeketh pardon of Allah, will find Allah Forgiving, Merciful.

Transliteration Wa may ya'mal su_'an au yazlim nafsahu_ summa yastagfirilla_ha yajidilla_ha gafu_rar rahima_(n).

[[ Ali’s note - 624 Kasaba = to earn, to gain, to work for something valuable, to lay up a provision for the future life. We do a day's labor to earn our livelihood: so in a spiritual sense, whatever good or evil we do in this life, earns us good or evil in the life to come. In verses 110-112 three cases are considered: (1) if we do ill and repent, Allah will forgive; (2) if we do ill and do not repent: thinking that we can hide it, we are wrong; nothing is hidden from Allah, and we shall suffer the full consequences in the life to come, for we can never evade our personal responsibility: (3) if we do ill, great or small, and impute it to another, our original responsibility for the ill remains, but we add to it something else; for we tie round our necks the guilt of falsehood, which converts even our minor fault into a great sin, and in any case brands us even in this life with shame and ignominy. (4.111) ]]

4: 152

Pickthall But those who believe in Allah and His messengers and make no distinction between any of them, unto them Allah will give their wages; and Allah was ever Forgiving, Merciful.

Transliteration Wallazina a_manu_ billa_hi wa rusulihi wa lam yufarriqu_ baina ahadim minhum ula_'ika saufa yu'tihim uja_rahum, waka_nalla_hu gafu_rarrahima_(n).

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5. Surah al-Maida, Medina 112

The Quranic Text & Ali’s Version:

حُرِّمَتْ عَلَيْكُمُ الْمَيْتَةُ وَالْدَّمُ وَلَحْمُ الْخِنْزِيرِ وَمَا أُهِلَّ لِغَيْرِ اللّهِ بِهِ...

5: 3. Forbidden to you (for food) are:

- dead meat,

- blood,

- the flesh of swine,

- and that on which hath been invoked the name of other than Allah,

C691. Cf. 2:173 and notes 173 and 174. The prohibition of dead meat, blood, the flesh of swine, and that on which other names than that of Allah have been invoked, has been there explained.

وَالْمُنْخَنِقَةُ وَالْمَوْقُوذَةُ وَالْمُتَرَدِّيَةُ وَالنَّطِيحَةُ...

- that which hath been killed by strangling,

or by a violent blow,

or by a headlong fall,

or by being gored to death;

... وَمَا أَكَلَ السَّبُعُ إِلاَّ مَا ذَكَّيْتُمْ ...

- that which hath been (partly) eaten by a wild animal; unless ye are able to slaughter it (in due form);

C692. If an animal dies;

by strangling, or

by a violent blow, or

a headlong fall, or

by being gored to death, or

by being attacked by a wild animal,

the presumption is that it becomes carrion, as the life-blood is congealed before being taken out of the body.

But the presumption can be rebutted. If the life-blood still flows and the solemn mode of slaughter (zabh) in the name of Allah is carried out, it becomes lawful as food.

... وَمَا ذُبِحَ عَلَى النُّصُبِ ...

- that which is sacrificed on stone (altars);

C693. This was also an idolatrous rite, different from that in which a sacrifice was devoted to a particular idol or a false god.

... وَأَن تَسْتَقْسِمُواْ بِالأَزْلاَمِ ذَلِكُمْ فِسْقٌ ...

- (forbidden) also is the division (of meat) by raffling with arrows: that is impiety.

C694. Gambling of all kinds is forbidden; 2:219.

A sort of lottery or raffle practised by Pagan Arabs has been described in n. 241.

Division of meat in this way is here forbidden, as it is a form of gambling.

... الْيَوْمَ يَئِسَ الَّذِينَ كَفَرُواْ مِن دِينِكُمْ ...

This day have those who reject faith given up all hope of your religion:

C695. So long as Islam was not recognised, with its own community and its own laws, the Unbelievers had hoped to wean the Believers from the new Teaching.

(Now that hope was gone, with the complete organisation of Islam).

... فَلاَ تَخْشَوْهُمْ وَاخْشَوْنِ...

yet fear them not but fear Me.

... الْيَوْمَ أَكْمَلْتُ لَكُمْ دِينَكُمْ وَأَتْمَمْتُ عَلَيْكُمْ نِعْمَتِي وَرَضِيتُ لَكُمُ الإِسْلاَمَ دِينًا ...

This day have I perfected your religion for you, completed my favor upon you, and have chosen for you Islam as your religion.

C696. The last verse revealed chronologically, making the approaching end of Mustafa's ministry in his earthly life.

... فَمَنِ اضْطُرَّ فِي مَخْمَصَةٍ غَيْرَ مُتَجَانِفٍ لِّإِثْمٍ فَإِنَّ اللّهَ غَفُورٌ رَّحِيمٌ ﴿٣﴾

But if any forced by hunger, with no inclination to transgression, Allah is indeed Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

إِلاَّ الَّذِينَ تَابُواْ مِن قَبْلِ أَن تَقْدِرُواْ عَلَيْهِمْ ...

5: 34. Except for those who repent before they fall into your power:

... فَاعْلَمُواْ أَنَّ اللّهَ غَفُورٌ رَّحِيمٌ ﴿٣٤﴾

in that case, know that Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

وَالسَّارِقُ وَالسَّارِقَةُ فَاقْطَعُواْ أَيْدِيَهُمَا جَزَاء بِمَا كَسَبَا...

5: 38. As to the thief, male or female,

- cut off his or her hands:

a punishment by way of example,

C742. Here we touch upon jurisprudence. The Canon Law jurists are not unanimous as to the value of the property stolen, which would involve the penalty of the cutting off of the hand. The majority hold that petty thefts are exempt from this punishment.

The general opinion is that only one hand should be cut off for the first theft, on the principle that "if thy hand or thy foot offend thee, cut them off, and cast them from thee" (Matt. 18:8).

Apparently in the age of Jesus thieves were crucified (Matt. 27:38).

... نَكَالاً مِّنَ اللّهِ وَاللّهُ عَزِيزٌ حَكِيمٌ ﴿٣٨﴾

from Allah, for their crime: and Allah is Exalted in Power.

فَمَن تَابَ مِن بَعْدِ ظُلْمِهِ وَأَصْلَحَ فَإِنَّ اللّهَ يَتُوبُ عَلَيْهِ...

5: 39. But if the thief repents after his crime, and amends his conduct, Allah turneth to him in forgiveness;

... إِنَّ اللّهَ غَفُورٌ رَّحِيمٌ ﴿٣٩﴾

for Allah if Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

لَّقَدْ كَفَرَ الَّذِينَ قَالُواْ إِنَّ اللّهَ ثَالِثُ ثَلاَثَةٍ وَمَا مِنْ إِلَـهٍ إِلاَّ إِلَـهٌ وَاحِدٌ...

73. They do blaspheme who say: Allah is one of three in a Trinity:

for there is no god except One Allah.

... وَإِن لَّمْ يَنتَهُواْ عَمَّا يَقُولُونَ لَيَمَسَّنَّ الَّذِينَ كَفَرُواْ مِنْهُمْ عَذَابٌ أَلِيمٌ ﴿٧٣﴾

If they desist not from their word (of blasphemy), verily a grievous penalty will befall the blasphemers among them.

أَفَلاَ يَتُوبُونَ إِلَى اللّهِ وَيَسْتَغْفِرُونَهُ وَاللّهُ غَفُورٌ رَّحِيمٌ ﴿٧٤﴾

5: 74. Why turn they not to Allah, and seek His forgiveness?

For Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُواْ لاَ تَسْأَلُواْ عَنْ أَشْيَاء إِن تُبْدَ لَكُمْ تَسُؤْكُمْ ...

5: 101. O ye who believe!

ask not questions about things which, if made plain to you, may cause you trouble.

... وَإِن تَسْأَلُواْ عَنْهَا حِينَ يُنَزَّلُ الْقُرْآنُ تُبْدَ لَكُمْ ...

But if ye ask about things when the Qur'án is being revealed, they will be made plain to you:

C807. Many secrets are wisely hidden from us. If the future were known to us, we need not necessarily be happy.

In many cases we should be miserable. If the inner meaning of some of the things we see before our eyes were disclosed to us, it might cause a lot of mischief.

Allah's Message, in so far as it is necessary for shaping our conduct, is plain and open to us. But there are many things too deep for us to understand, either individually or collectively. It would be foolish to pry into them, as some people tried to do in the time of the Prophet.

Where a matter is mentioned in the Quran, we can reverently ask for its meaning. That is not forbidden. But we should never pass the bounds of

- our own capacity to understand,

- the time and occasion when we ask questions, and

- the part of the Universal Plan which it is Allah's purpose to reveal to us.

... عَفَا اللّهُ عَنْهَا وَاللّهُ غَفُورٌ حَلِيمٌ ﴿١٠١﴾

Allah will forgive those: for Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Forbearing.

Other Versions:

5: 3

Asad Forbidden to you is carrion, and blood, and the fresh of swine, and that over which any name other than God’s has been invoked, and the animal that has been strangled, or beaten to death, or killed by a fall, or gored to death, or savaged be a beast of prey, save that which you [yourselves] may have slaughtered while it was still alive; and [forbidden to you is] all that has been slaughtered on idolatrous altars.

And [you are forbidden ] to seek to learn through divination what the future may hold in store fro you: this is sinful conduct.

Today have I perfected your religious law for you, and have bestowed upon you the full measure of My blessings, and willed that self-surrender unto Me shall be your religion.

As for him, whoever, who is driven [to what is forbidden] by dire necessity and not by and inclination to sinning – behold, God is much-forgiving, a dispenser of grace.

Pickthall Forbidden unto you (for food) are carrion and blood and swine flesh, and that which hath been dedicated unto any other than Allah, and the strangled, and the dead through beating, and the dead through falling from a height, and that which hath been killed by (the goring of) horns, and the devoured of wild beasts, saving that which ye make lawful (by the death stroke), and that which hath been immolated unto idols. And (forbidden is it) that ye swear by the divining arrows. This is an abomination. This day are those who disbelieve in despair of (ever harming) your religion; so fear them not, fear Me! This day have I perfected your religion for you and completed My favor unto you, and have chosen for you as religion AL- ISLAM. Whoso is forced by hunger, not by will, to sin: (for him) lo! Allah is Forgiving, Merciful.

Transliteration Hurrimat 'alaikumul maitatu wad damu wa lahmul khinziri wa ma_ uhilla li gairilla_hi bihi wal munkhaniqatu wal mauqu_zatu wal mutaraddiyatu wan natihatu wa ma_ akalas sabu'u illa_ ma_ zakkaitum, wa ma_ zubiha 'alan nusubi wa an tastaqsimu_ bil azla_m(i), za_likum fisq(un), al yauma ya'isal lazina kafaru_ min dinikum fala_ takhsyauhum wakhsyaun(i), al yauma akmaltu lakum dinakum wa atmamtu 'alaikum ni'mati wa raditu lakumul isla_ma dina_(n), fa manidturra fi makhmasatin gaira mutaja_nifil li'ism(in), fa innalla_ha gafu_rur rahim(un).

5: 34

Asad save for such [of them] as repent ere you [O believers] become more powerful than they [note 46]: for you must know that God is much- forgiving, a disperser of grace.

Pickthall Save those who repent before ye overpower them. For know that Allah is Forgiving, Merciful.

Transliteration Illal lazina ta_bu_ min qabli an taqdiru_ 'alaihim, fa'lamu_ annalla_ha gafu_rur rahim(un).

Stealing & Robbing

5: 38

Asad Now as for the man who steals……………as a deterrent ordained by God [note 48]: for God is almighty, wise.

Pickthall As for the thief, both male and female, cut off their hands. It is the reward of their own deeds, an exemplary punishment from Allah. Allah is Mighty, Wise.

Transliteration Was sa_riqu was sa_riqatu faqta'u_ aidayahuma_ jaza_'am bima_ kasaba_ naka_lam minalla_h(i), walla_hu 'azizun hakim(un).

5: 39

Asad But as for him who repents after having thus done wrong, and makes amends, behold, God will accept his repentance: verily, God is much-forgiving, a dispenser of grace.

Pickthall But whoso repenteth after his wrongdoing and amendeth, lo! Allah will relent toward him. Lo! Allah is Forgiving, Merciful.

Transliteration Faman ta_ba mim ba'di zulmihi wa aslaha fa innalla_ha yatu_bu 'alaih(i), innalla_ha gafu_rur rahim(un).

[[ Ali’s note - 742 Here we touch upon jurisprudence. The Canon Law jurists are not unanimous as to the value of the property stolen, which would involve the penalty of the cutting off of the hand. The majority hold that petty thefts are exempt from this punishment. The general opinion is that only one hand should be cut off for the first theft, on the principle that "if thy hand or thy foot offend thee, cut them off, and cast them from thee" (Matt. xviii. 8). Apparently in the age of Jesus thieves were crucified (Matt. xxvii. 38). (5.38) ]]

5: 73

Pickthall They surely disbelieve who say: Lo! Allah is the third of three; when there is no God save the One God. If they desist not from so saying a painful doom will fall on those of them who disbelieve.

Transliteration Laqad kafaral lazina qa_lu_ innalla_ha sa_lisu sala_sah(tin), wa ma_ min ila_hin illa_ ila_huw wa_hid(un), wa illam yantahu_'amma_ yaqu_lu_na layamassannal lazina kafaru_ minhum 'aza_bun alim(un).

5: 74

Pickthall Will they not rather turn unto Allah and seek forgiveness of Him? For Allah is Forgiving, Merciful.

Transliteration Afala_ yatu_bu_na ilalla_hi wa yastagfiru_nah(u_), walla_hu gafu_rur rahim(un).

5: 101

Asad O you who have attained to faith! Do not ask about matters which, if they were to be made manifest to you [in terms of law], might cause you hardship [note 120]; for, if you should ask about them while the Quran is revealed, they might [indeed] be made manifest to you [as laws] (note 121). God has absolved [you form any obligation] in this respect: for God is much-forgiving, forbearing [note 102].

Pickthall O ye who believe! Ask not of things which, if they were made known unto you, would trouble you; but if ye ask of them when the Qur'an is being revealed, they will be made known unto you. Allah pardoneth this, for Allah is Forgiving, Clement.

Transliteration Ya_ ayyuhal lazina a_manu_ la_ tas'alu_ 'an asyya_'a in tubda lakum tasu'kum, wa in tas'alu_ 'anha_ hina yunazzalul qur'a_nu tubda lakum, 'afalla_hu 'anha_, walla_hu gafu_run halim(un).

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6. [al-Anam, Cattle Mecca 55]

The Quranic Text & Ali’s Version:

وَإِذَا جَاءكَ الَّذِينَ يُؤْمِنُونَ بِآيَاتِنَا فَقُلْ سَلاَمٌ عَلَيْكُمْ ...

6: 54. When those come to thee who believe in Our Signs, say:

"Peace be on you:

C873. The humble who had sincere faith, were not only not sent away to humour the wealthy: they were honoured and were given a special salutation, which has become the characteristic salutation in Islam: "Peace be on you,"

- the word peace, "salam" having special affinity with the word "Islam".

In words they are given the salutation; in life they are promised Mercy by the special grace of Allah.

... كَتَبَ رَبُّكُمْ عَلَى نَفْسِهِ الرَّحْمَةَ...

your Lord had inscribed for Himself (the rule of) Mercy:

C874. Cf. 6:12.

...أَنَّهُ مَن عَمِلَ مِنكُمْ سُوءًا بِجَهَالَةٍ ثُمَّ تَابَ مِن بَعْدِهِ وَأَصْلَحَ ...

verily, if any of you did evil in ignorance, and thereafter repented and amended (his conduct),

... فَأَنَّهُ غَفُورٌ رَّحِيمٌ ﴿٥٤﴾

lo! He is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful."

قُل لاَّ أَجِدُ فِي مَا أُوْحِيَ إِلَيَّ مُحَرَّمًا عَلَى طَاعِمٍ يَطْعَمُهُ إِلاَّ...

6: 145. Say:

"I find not in the Message received by me by inspiration any (meat) forbidden to be eaten by one who wishes to eat it, unless

...أَن يَكُونَ مَيْتَةً أَوْ دَمًا مَّسْفُوحًا أَوْ لَحْمَ خِنزِيرٍ فَإِنَّهُ رِجْسٌ ...

- it be dead meat,

- or blood poured forth,

- or the flesh of swine, for it is an abomination,

C969. Blood poured forth: as distinguished from blood adhering to flesh, or the liver, or such other internal organs purifying the blood.

...أَوْ فِسْقًا أُهِلَّ لِغَيْرِ اللّهِ بِهِ...

- or, what is impious, (meat) on which a name has been invoked, other than Allah's."

...فَمَنِ اضْطُرَّ غَيْرَ بَاغٍ وَلاَ عَادٍ فَإِنَّ رَبَّكَ غَفُورٌ رَّحِيمٌ ﴿١٤٥﴾

But (even so), if a person is forced by necessity, without wilful disobedience, nor transgressing due limits, thy Lord is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

Other Versions:

6: 54

Asad ….”…Your Sustainer has willed upon Himself the law of grace and mercy…………..”

Pickthall And when those who believe in Our revelations come unto thee, say: Peace be unto you! Your Lord hath prescribed for Himself mercy, that whoso of you doeth evil and repents afterward thereof and doeth right, (for him) lo! Allah is Forgiving, Merciful.

Transliteration Wa iza_ ja_'akal lazina yu'minu_na bi a_ya_tina_ faqul sala_mun 'alaikum kataba rabbukum 'ala_ nafsihir rahmah(ta), annahu_ man'amila minkum su_'am bi jaha_latin summa ta_ba mim ba'dihi wa aslaha fa annahu_ gafu_rur rahim(un).

6: 145

Asad Say [O Prophet]: “In all that has been revealed unto me, I do not find anything forbidden to eat, if one wants to eat thereof, unless it be carrion, or blood poured forth, or t he flesh of swine – for that, behold is loathsome – or a sinful offering over which any name other than God’s has been invoked…….

Pickthall Say: I find not in that which is revealed unto me aught prohibited to an eater that he eat thereof, except it be carrion, or blood poured forth, or swineflesh for that verily is foul or the abomination which was immolated to the name of other than Allah. But whoso is compelled (thereto), neither craving nor transgressing, (for him) lo ! your Lord is Forgiving, Merciful.

Transliteration Qul la_ ajidu fi ma_ u_hiya ilayya muharraman 'ala_ ta_'imiy yat'amuhu_ illa_ ay yaku_na maitatan au damam masfu_han au lahma khinzirin fa innahu_ rijsun au fisqan uhilla ligairilla_hi bih(i), famanidturra gaira ba_giw wa la_ 'a_din fa inna rabbaka gafu_rur rahim(un).

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9. [at-Tawbah, Medina 113, 9H after Tabuk]

The Quranic Text & Ali’s Version:

لَّيْسَ عَلَى الضُّعَفَاء وَلاَ عَلَى الْمَرْضَى وَلاَ عَلَى الَّذِينَ لاَ يَجِدُونَ مَا يُنفِقُونَ حَرَجٌ ...   

9: 91.  There is no blame on those who are infirm, or ill, or who find no resources to spend (on the cause),

C1343. Though active service in person or by contributing resources is expected in emergencies of every person who believes in the Cause, there are some who must necessarily be exempted without the least blame attaching to them.

Such would be those who are weak in body on account of age, sex, infirmity, or illness. Personal service in their case is out of the question, but they could contribute towards expenses if they are able. But if they are too poor to afford even such assistance, they are excused. But in all cases the motive must be sincere, and there should be a desire to serve and do such duty as they can.

With such motives people are doing good or right in whatever form they express their service: sometimes, in Milton's words, "they also serve who only stand and wait."

In any case their purity of motive would get Allah's grace and forgiveness, and we must not criticize even if we thought they might have done more.

 ... إِذَا نَصَحُواْ لِلّهِ وَرَسُولِهِ... 

if they are sincere (in duty) to Allah and His Messenger:

... مَا عَلَى الْمُحْسِنِينَ مِن سَبِيلٍ... 

no ground (of complaint) can there be against such as do right:

... وَاللّهُ غَفُورٌ رَّحِيمٌ ﴿٩١﴾

and Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

Other Versions:

9: 91

Asad [But] no blame shall attach to the weak, not to the sick, not to those who have no means to [to equip themselves] (note 125), provided that they are sincere towards God and His Apostle:

Pickthall Not unto the weak nor unto the sick nor unto those who can find naught to spend is any fault (to be imputed though they stay at home) if they are true to Allah and His messenger. Not unto the good is there any road (of blame). Allah is Forgiving, Merciful.

Transliteration Laisa 'alad du'afa_'i wa la_ 'alal marda_ wa la_ 'alal lazina la_ yajidu_na ma_ yufiqu_na harajun iza_ nasahu_ lilla_hi wa rasu_lih(i), ma_'alal muhsinina min sabil(in), walla_hu gafu_rur rahim(uw);

[[ Asad’s note 125 – Lit., “who do not find anything to spend”, i.e., on their equipment. AT the time in question a public treasury did not yet exist, and every participant in a military expedition was expected to provide his own weapons and mounts.]]

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10. Surah Yunus, Mecca 51

The Quranic Text & Ali’s Version:

وَإِن يَمْسَسْكَ اللّهُ بِضُرٍّ فَلاَ كَاشِفَ لَهُ إِلاَّ هُوَ...   

10: 107. If Allah do touch thee with hurt, there is none can remove it but He:

...وَإِن يُرِدْكَ بِخَيْرٍ فَلاَ رَآدَّ لِفَضْلِهِ...

if He do design some benefit for thee, there is none can keep back His favor:

...يُصَيبُ بِهِ مَن يَشَاء مِنْ عِبَادِهِ...

He causeth it to reach whomsoever of His servants He pleaseth.

...وَهُوَ الْغَفُورُ الرَّحِيمُ ﴿١٠٧﴾  

And He is the Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

C1489. Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful. Even when we suffer under trials and tribulations, it is for our good, and no one can remove them except He, when, in His Plan. He sees it to be best for all concerned.

On the other hand, there is no power that can intercept His blessings and favours, and His bounty flows freely when we are worthy, and often when we are not worthy of it.

Other Versions:

10: 107

Pickthall If Allah aflicteth thee with some hurt, there is none who can remove it save Him; and if He desireth good for thee, there is none who can repel His bounty. He striketh with it whom He will of His bondmen. He is the Forgiving, the Merciful.

Yuksel If God afflicts you with any harm, then none can remove it except Him; and if He wanted good for you, then none can turn away His grace. He bestows it to whom He wishes of His servants. He is the Forgiver, the Compassionate.

Transliteration Wa iy yamsaskalla_hu bi durrin fala_ ka_syifa lahu_ illa_ huw(a), wa iy yuridka bi khairin fala_ ra_dda lifadlih(i), yusibu bihi may yasya_'u min 'iba_dih(i), wa huwal gafu_rur rahim(u).

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12. Surah Yusuf (Joseph)

The Quranic Text & Ali’s Version:

وَمَا أُبَرِّىءُ نَفْسِي...   

12: 53.  "Nor do I absolve my own self (of blame):

إِنَّ النَّفْسَ لأَمَّارَةٌ بِالسُّوءِ إِلاَّ مَا رَحِمَ رَبِّيَ...

the (human soul) is certainly prone to evil, unless my Lord do bestow His Mercy:

C1712a. Ammara: prone, impelling, headstrong, passionate.

See n. 5810 to 75:2.

...إِنَّ رَبِّي غَفُورٌ رَّحِيمٌ ﴿٥٣﴾  

but surely certainly my Lord is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful."

C1713. See n. 1712.

1 construe this verse to be a continuation of the speech of the wife of the 'Aziz. It is more appropriate to her than to Joseph. (R).

Other Versions:

12: 53

Asad And yet, I am not trying to absolve myself: for, verily, man’s inner self does incite to evil, and saved are only they upon whom my Sustainer bestows His grace. Behold my Sustainer is much forgiving, a dispenser of grace!” [see asad’s note 53]

Pickthall I do not exculpate myself. Lo! the (human) soul enjoineth unto evil, save that whereon my Lord hath mercy. My Lord is Forgiving, Merciful.

Yuksel "I do not make myself free of blame, for the person is inclined to sin, except what my Lord has mercy on. My Lord is Forgiving, Compassionate."

Transliteration Wa ma_ ubarri'u nafsi, innan nafsa la'amma_ratum bis su_'iilla_ ma_ rahima rabbi, inna rabbi gafu_rur rahim(un).

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14. Surah Ibrahim, Mecca 72

The Quranic Text & Ali’s Version:

رَبِّ إِنَّهُنَّ أَضْلَلْنَ كَثِيرًا مِّنَ النَّاسِ...   

14: 36.  "O my Lord! they have indeed led astray many among mankind:

...فَمَن تَبِعَنِي فَإِنَّهُ مِنِّي...

he then who follows my (ways) is of me,

...وَمَنْ عَصَانِي فَإِنَّكَ غَفُورٌ رَّحِيمٌ ﴿٣٦﴾ 

and he that disobeys me -- but thou art indeed Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

Pickthall’s Version:

14: 36

Pickthall My Lord! Lo! they have led many of mankind astray. But whoso followeth me, he verily is of me. And whoso disobeyeth me, still Thou art Forgiving, Merciful.

Transliteration Rabbi innahunna adlalna kasiram minan na_s(i), faman tabi'ani fa innahu_ minni, wa man 'asa_ni fa innaka gafu_rur rahim(un

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17. [al-Israa, Mecca 50 ]

The Quranic Text & Ali’s Version:

تُسَبِّحُ لَهُ السَّمَاوَاتُ السَّبْعُ وَالأَرْضُ وَمَن فِيهِنَّ...   

17: 44.  The seven heavens and the earth, and all beings therein, declare His glory:

...وَإِن مِّن شَيْءٍ إِلاَّ يُسَبِّحُ بِحَمْدَهِ وَلَـكِن لاَّ تَفْقَهُونَ تَسْبِيحَهُمْ...

there not a thing but celebrates His praise; and yet ye understand not how they declare His glory!

C2229. All Creation, animate and inanimate, sings Allah's praises and celebrates His glory,

-        animate, with consciousness, and

-        inanimate, in the evidence which it furnishes of the unity and glory of Allah.

All Nature bears witness to His power, wisdom, and goodness. It is only "ye", i.e., those who reject the whole trend of your nature and deny Faith simply because ye have been given a limited amount of choice and free-will,

-        it is only such as "ye" that understand not what every other creature understands and proclaims with joy and pride.

What must be your degradation! And yet Allah bears with you and forgives you! Such is His goodness! (R).

...إِنَّهُ كَانَ حَلِيمًا غَفُورًا ﴿٤٤﴾

Verily He is Oft-Forbearing, Most Forgiving!

Pickthall’s Version:

17: 44

Pickthall The seven heavens and the earth and all that is therein praise Him, and there is not a thing but hymneth his praise; but ye understand not their praise. Lo! He is ever Clement, Forgiving.

Transliteration Tusabbihu lahus sama_wa_tus sab'u wal ardu wa man fihinn(a), wa im min syai'in illa_ yusabbihu bi hamdihi wa la_kil la_ tafqahu_na tasbihahum, innahu_ ka_na haliman gafu_ra_(n).

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9. [at-Tawbah, Medina 113, 9H after Tabuk]

The Quranic Text & Ali’s Version:

وَمِنَ الأَعْرَابِ مَن يُؤْمِنُ بِاللّهِ وَالْيَوْمِ الآخِرِ...   

9: 99.  But some of the desert Arabs believe in Allah and the Last Day,

... وَيَتَّخِذُ مَا يُنفِقُ قُرُبَاتٍ عِندَ اللّهِ وَصَلَوَاتِ الرَّسُولِ... 

and look on their payments as pious gifts bringing them nearer to Allah and obtaining the prayers of the Messenger.

... أَلا إِنَّهَا قُرْبَةٌ لَّهُمْ ...

Aye, indeed they bring them nearer (to Him):

... سَيُدْخِلُهُمُ اللّهُ فِي رَحْمَتِهِ ...

soon will Allah admit them to His Mercy:

C1347. The Mercy of Allah is always present, as the sun is always shining. But when we have prepared ourselves to receive it, we come to the full enjoyment of it, as a man who was in a shade comes out by his effort into the open, and basks in sunshine.

... إِنَّ اللّهَ غَفُورٌ رَّحِيمٌ ﴿٩٩﴾

for Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

وَآخَرُونَ اعْتَرَفُواْ بِذُنُوبِهِمْ خَلَطُواْ عَمَلاً صَالِحًا وَآخَرَ سَيِّئًا...

9: 102. Others (there are who) have acknowledged their wrongdoings:

they have mixed an act that was good with another that was evil.

C1352. There were some whose will was weak and succumbed to evil, although there was much good in them. To them is held out the promise of forgiveness if they would repent and undertake all acts of Muslim charity, which would purify their souls, aided by the prayers of Allah's Messenger. Then would they get the Peace that comes from purity and right conduct.

... عَسَى اللّهُ أَن يَتُوبَ عَلَيْهِمْ... 

Perhaps Allah will turn unto them (in mercy):

... إِنَّ اللّهَ غَفُورٌ رَّحِيمٌ ﴿١٠٢﴾

for Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

خُذْ مِنْ أَمْوَالِهِمْ صَدَقَةً تُطَهِّرُهُمْ وَتُزَكِّيهِم بِهَا وَصَلِّ عَلَيْهِمْ ...

9: 103. Of their goods take alms, that so thou mightest purify and sanctify them;

and pray on their behalf.

... إِنَّ صَلاَتَكَ سَكَنٌ لَّهُمْ ...

Verily thy prayers are a source of security for them:

... وَاللّهُ سَمِيعٌ عَلِيمٌ ﴿١٠٣﴾  

and Allah is One who heareth and knoweth.

أَلَمْ يَعْلَمُواْ أَنَّ اللّهَ هُوَ يَقْبَلُ التَّوْبَةَ عَنْ عِبَادِهِ وَيَأْخُذُ الصَّدَقَاتِ...

9: 104. Know they not that Allah doth accept repentance from His votaries and receives their gifts of charity,

... وَأَنَّ اللّهَ هُوَ التَّوَّابُ الرَّحِيمُ ﴿١٠٤﴾

and that Allah is verily He, the Oft-Returning, Most-Merciful?

Other Versions:

9: 99

Asad However, among the Bedouin there are [also] such as believe in God and the Last Day, and regard all that they spend [in God’s cause] as a means of drawing then nearer to God and of [their being remembered in ] the Apostle’s prayers. Oh, verily, it shall [indeed be a means of [God’s] nearness to them………………..

Pickthall And of the wandering Arabs there is he who believeth in Allah and the Last day, and taketh that which he expandeth and also the prayers of the messenger as acceptable offerings in the sight of Allah. Lo! verily it is an acceptable offering for them. Allah will bring them into His mercy. Lo! Allah is Forgiving, Merciful.

Yuksel From the Arabs there is he who acknowledges God and the Last day, and considers his spending as a means towards God, and the support of the messenger. It indeed makes them closer. God will admit them in His mercy; God is Forgiving, Compassionate.*

Transliteration Wa minal a'ra_bi may yu'minu billa_hi wal yaumil a_khiri wa yattakhizu ma_ yunfiqu quruba_tin 'indalla_hi wa salawa_tir rasu_l(i), ala_ innaha_ qurbatul lahum, sayudkhiluhumulla_hu fi rahmatih(i), innalla_ha gafu_rur rahim(un).

9: 102

Asad And [there are] others [note 135] –[people who ] have become conscious of their sinning after having done righteous deeds side by side with evil ones [note 136]; [and] it may well be that God will accept their repentance: for verily, God is much-forgiving, a dispenser of grace.

Pickthall And (there are) others who have acknowledged their faults. They mixed a righteous action with another that was bad. It may be that Allah will relent toward them. Lo! Allah is Relenting, Merciful.

Transliteration Wa a_kharu_na-'tarafu_ bi zunu_bihim khalatu_ 'amalan sa_lihaw wa a_khara sayyi'a_(n), 'asalla_hu ayyatu_ba 'alaihim, innalla_ha gafu_rur rahim(un).

[[ Asad’s note 135 – I.e., neither believers in the full sense of the word not hypocrites, but half-hearted, confused waverers between right and wrong, or between truth and falsehood.]]

[[ Ali’s notes:

1352 There were some whose will was weak and succumbed to evil, although there was much good in them. To them is held out the promise of forgiveness if they would repent and undertake all acts of Muslim charity, which would purify their souls, aided by the prayers of Allah's Messenger. Then would they get the Peace that comes from purity and right conduct. (9.102)]]

9: 103

Asad [Hence, O Prophet,] accept that [part] of their possessions which is offered for the sake of God [note 137], so that thou mayest cleanse them thereby and cause them to grow in purity, and pray for them: behold, thy prayer will be [a source of] comfort to then – for God is all-hearing, all-knowing

Pickthall Take alms of their wealth, wherewith thou mayst purify them and mayst make them grow, and pray for them. Lo! thy prayer is an assuagement for them. Allah is Hearer, Knower.

Transliteration Khuz min amwa_lihim sadaqatan tutahhiruhum wa tuzakkihim biha_ wa salli 'alaihim, inna sala_taka sakanul lahum, walla_hu sami'un 'alim(un).

9: 104

Asad Do they not know that it is God alone who can accept that repentance of His servants [ [note 138]……….-and God alone is an acceptor of repentance, a dispenser of grace?

Pickthall Know they not that Allah is He Who accepteth repentance from His bondmen and taketh the alms, and that Allah is He Who is the Relenting, the Merciful.

Transliteration Alam ya'lamu_ annalla_ha huwa yaqbalut taubata 'an 'iba_dihi wa ya'khuzus sadaqa_ti wa annalla_ha huwat tawwa_bur rahim(un).

[[ Asad’s note 138 – Lit., “who accepts repentance from His servants”: thus pointing out that no human being, not even the Prophet, has power to absolve a sinner of his guild (Manar XI, 32). A prophet can do more than pray to God that He forgive the sinners.]

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11. Surah Hud, Mecca 52

The Quranic Text & Ali’s Version:

وَقَالَ ارْكَبُواْ فِيهَا بِسْمِ اللّهِ مَجْرَاهَا وَمُرْسَاهَا...

11: 41.   So he said:

"Embark ye on the Ark, in the name of Allah, whether it move or be at rest!

...إِنَّ رَبِّي لَغَفُورٌ رَّحِيمٌ ﴿٤١﴾

For my Lord is, be sure, Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful!"    

Pickthall’s Version:

11: 41

Pickthall And he said: Embark therein! In the name of Allah be its course and its mooring. Lo! my Lord is Forgiving, Merciful.

Transliteration Wa qa_la_rkabu_ fiha_ bismilla_hi majreha_ wa mursa_ha_, inna rabbi lagafu_rur rahim(un).

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The Quranic Text & Ali’s Version:

قَالُواْ يَا أَبَانَا اسْتَغْفِرْ لَنَا ذُنُوبَنَا إِنَّا كُنَّا خَاطِئِينَ ﴿٩٧﴾

12: 97.  They said: "O our father! ask for us forgiveness for our sins, for we were truly at fault."

قَالَ سَوْفَ أَسْتَغْفِرُ لَكُمْ رَبِّيَ...   

12: 98.  He said: "Soon will I ask my Lord for forgiveness for you:

C1776. He fully intended to do this, but the most injured party was Joseph, and it was only fair that Joseph should be consulted.

In fact Joseph had already forgiven his brothers all their past, and his father could confidently look forward to Joseph joining in the wish of the whole family to turn to Allah through their aged father Jacob in his prophetic office.

...إِنَّهُ هُوَ الْغَفُورُ الرَّحِيمُ ﴿٩٨﴾

for He is indeed Oft-Forgiving, Merciful."

Pickthall’s Version:

12: 97

Pickthall They said: O our father! Ask forgiveness of our sins for us, for lo! we were sinful.

Transliteration Qa_lu_ ya_ aba_na-stagfir lana_ zunu_bana_ inna_ kunna_ kha_ti'in(a).

12: 98

Pickthall He said: I shall ask forgiveness for you of my Lord. He is the Forgiving, the Merciful.

Transliteration Qa_la saufa astagfiru lakum rabbi, innahu_ huwal gafu_rur rahim(u).

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14. Surah Ibrahim, Mecca 72

The Quranic Text & Ali’s Version:

رَبِّ إِنَّهُنَّ أَضْلَلْنَ كَثِيرًا مِّنَ النَّاسِ...   

14: 36.  "O my Lord! they have indeed led astray many among mankind:

...فَمَن تَبِعَنِي فَإِنَّهُ مِنِّي...

he then who follows my (ways) is of me,

...وَمَنْ عَصَانِي فَإِنَّكَ غَفُورٌ رَّحِيمٌ ﴿٣٦﴾ 

and he that disobeys me -- but thou art indeed Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

Pickthall’s Version:

14: 36

Pickthall My Lord! Lo! they have led many of mankind astray. But whoso followeth me, he verily is of me. And whoso disobeyeth me, still Thou art Forgiving, Merciful.

Transliteration Rabbi innahunna adlalna kasiram minan na_s(i), faman tabi'ani fa innahu_ minni, wa man 'asa_ni fa innaka gafu_rur rahim(un).

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15. Surah Al Hijr

The Quranic Text & Ali’s Version:

نَبِّىءْ عِبَادِي أَنِّي أَنَا الْغَفُورُ الرَّحِيمُ ﴿٤٩﴾

15: 49.  Tell My servants that I am indeed the Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful;

C1979. We must realise both sides of Allah's attributes: His mercy, grace, and forgiveness are unbounded; if we reject all this, His justice and punishment will also be beyond all that we can conceive.

Pickthall’s Version:

15: 49

Pickthall Announce, (O Muhammad) unto My slaves that verily I am the Forgiving, the Merciful.

Transliteration Nabbi' 'iba_di anni anal gafu_rur rahim(u).

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16. Sura al-Nahl, Mecca 70

The Quranic Text & Ali’s Version:

وَإِن تَعُدُّواْ نِعْمَةَ اللّهِ لاَ تُحْصُوهَا...

16: 18.  If ye would count up the favors of Allah, never would ye be able to number them:

... إِنَّ اللّهَ لَغَفُورٌ رَّحِيمٌ ﴿١٨﴾

for Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

C2042. Of all Allah's favours innumerable, His Mercy and Forgiveness in the spiritual plane is the greatest, and of eternal value to us in our future Lives.

ثُمَّ إِنَّ رَبَّكَ لِلَّذِينَ هَاجَرُواْ مِن بَعْدِ مَا فُتِنُواْ...   

16: 110. But verily thy Lord to those who leave their homes after trials and persecutions

C2147. I take this verse to refer to such men as were originally with the Pagans but afterwards joined Islam, suffered hardships and exile, and fought and struggled in the Cause, with patience and constance. Their past would be blotted out and forgiven. Men like Khalid ibn Walid were numbered with the foremost heroes of Islam.

In that case this verse would be a Madinah verse, though the Surah as a whole is Makkan.

Perhaps it would be better to read, with some Commentators, fatanu in the active voice rather than futinu in the passive voice, and translate "after inflicting trials and persecutions (on Muslim)."

Notice the parallelism in construction between this verse and verse 119 below.

... ثُمَّ جَاهَدُواْ وَصَبَرُواْ إِنَّ رَبَّكَ مِن بَعْدِهَا لَغَفُورٌ رَّحِيمٌ ﴿١١٠﴾  

and who thereafter strive and fight for the faith and patiently persevere, thy Lord, after all this, is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

فَكُلُواْ مِمَّا رَزَقَكُمُ اللّهُ حَلالاً طَيِّبًا...

16: 114. So eat of the sustenance which Allah has provided for you, lawful and good;

... وَاشْكُرُواْ نِعْمَتَ اللّهِ إِن كُنتُمْ إِيَّاهُ تَعْبُدُونَ ﴿١١٤﴾

and be grateful for the favors of Allah, if it is He whom ye serve.

C2151. Ingratitude for Allah's sustenance (in the literal and figurative senses) may be shown in various ways, e.g.,

-        by forgetting or refusing to acknowledge the true source of the bounty, viz., Allah,

-        by misusing or misapplying the bounty, as by committing excesses in things lawful, or refusing to share them with others of Allah's creatures when the need arises, or

-        by falsely ascribing to Allah any prohibitions we may set up for ourselves for special reasons or because Of OUT special idiosyncrasies.

إِنَّمَا حَرَّمَ عَلَيْكُمُ ...

16: 115. He has only forbidden you

C2152. Cf. 2:173 and notes, 5:3-4, and 6:121 and 138-146.

... الْمَيْتَةَ وَالْدَّمَ وَلَحْمَ الْخَنزِيرِ وَمَآ أُهِلَّ لِغَيْرِ اللّهِ بِهِ... 

-    dead meat,

-    and blood,

-    and the flesh of swine,

-    and any (food) over which the name of other than Allah has been invoked.

... فَمَنِ اضْطُرَّ غَيْرَ بَاغٍ وَلاَ عَادٍ فَإِنَّ اللّهَ غَفُورٌ رَّحِيمٌ ﴿١١٥﴾  

But if one is forced by necessity, without wilful disobedience, nor transgressing due limits, then Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

ثُمَّ إِنَّ رَبَّكَ لِلَّذِينَ عَمِلُواْ السُّوءَ بِجَهَالَةٍ ثُمَّ تَابُواْ مِن بَعْدِ ذَلِكَ وَأَصْلَحُواْ...   

16: 119. But verily thy Lord, to those who do wrong in ignorance, but who thereafter repent and make amends,

... إِنَّ رَبَّكَ مِن بَعْدِهَا لَغَفُورٌ رَّحِيمٌ ﴿١١٩﴾  

thy Lord, after all this, is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

C2155. See above, 16:110 and n. 2147.

The parallelism in construction confirms the suggestion of the alternative reading which is made in that note.

The similarity of expressions also rounds off the argument, as by a refrain in poetry.

What follows now in this Surah is an exhortation to right conduct.

Pickthall’s Version:

16: 18

Pickthall And if ye would count the favor of Allah ye cannot reckon it. Lo! Allah is indeed Forgiving, Merciful.

Transliteration Wa in ta'uddu_ ni'matalla_hi la_ tuhsu_ha_, innalla_ha lagafu_rur rahim(un).

16: 110

Pickthall Then lo! thy Lord--for those who become fugitives after they had been persecuted, and then fought and were steadfast--lo! thy Lord afterward is (for them) indeed Forgiving, Merciful,

Transliteration Summa inna rabbaka lillazina ha_jaru_ mim ba'di ma_ futinu_ summa ja_hadu_ wa sabaru_, inna rabbaka mim ba'diha_ lagafu_rur rahim(un).

16: 114

Pickthall So eat of the lawful and good food which Allah hath provided for you, and thank the bounty of your Lord if it is Him ye serve.

Transliteration Fa kula_ mimma_ razaqakumulla_hu hala_lan tayyiba_(w), wa-sykuru_ ni'matalla_hi in kuntum iyya_hu ta'budu_n(a).

16: 115

Pickthall He hath forbidden for you only carrion and blood and swine-flesh and that which hath been immolated in the name of any other than Allah; but he who is driven thereto, neither craving nor transgressing, lo! then Allah is Forgiving, Merciful.

Transliteration Innama_ harrama 'alaikumul maitata wad dama wa lahmal khinziri wa ma_ uhilla ligairilla_hi bih(i), faman-idturra gaira ba_giw wa la_ 'a_din fa innalla_ha gafu_rur rahim(un).

16: 119

Pickthall Then lo! thy Lord for those who do evil in ignorance and afterward repent and amend--lo! (for them) thy Lord is afterward indeed Forgiving, Merciful.

Yuksel Yet, your Lord, to those who repent and reform after committing evil out of ignorance, your Lord after that is Forgiving, Compassionate

Transliteration Summa inna rabbaka lillazina 'amilus su_'a bi jaha_latin summa ta_bu_ mim ba'di za_lika wa aslahu_ inna rabbaka mim ba'diha_ lagafu_rur rahim(un).

[[ Ali’s note - 2155 See above, xvi. 110 and n. 2147. The parallelism in construction confirms the suggestion of the alternative reading which is made in that note. The similarity of expressions also rounds off the argument, as by a refrain in poetry. What follows now in this Sura is an exhortation to right conduct. (16.119) ]]

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17. [al-Israa, Mecca 50 ]

The Quranic Text & Ali’s Version:

رَّبُّكُمْ أَعْلَمُ بِمَا فِي نُفُوسِكُمْ...   

17: 25.  Your Lord knoweth best what is in your hearts:

...إِن تَكُونُواْ صَالِحِينَ فَإِنَّهُ كَانَ لِلأَوَّابِينَ غَفُورًا ﴿٢٥﴾

if ye do deeds of righteousness, verily He is Most Forgiving to those who turn to Him again and again (in true penitence).

C2207. It is the heart, and its hidden and secret motives, by which we are judged: for Allah knows them all.

Pickthall’s Version:

17: 25

Pickthall Your Lord is best aware of what is in your minds. If ye are righteous, then lo! He was ever Forgiving unto those who turn (unto Him).

Transliteration Rabbukum a'lamu bima_ fi nufu_sikum, in taku_nu_ sa_lihina fa innahu_ ka_na lil awwa_bina gafu_ra_(n).

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18. Surah al-Kahf, Mecca 69

The Quranic Text & Ali’s Version:

وَرَبُّكَ الْغَفُورُ ذُو الرَّحْمَةِ...   

18: 58.  But your Lord is Most Forgiving, Full of Mercy.

... لَوْ يُؤَاخِذُهُم بِمَا كَسَبُوا لَعَجَّلَ لَهُمُ الْعَذَابَ... 

If He were to call them (at once) to account for what they have earned, then surely He would have hastened their Punishment:

... بَل لَّهُم مَّوْعِدٌ لَّن يَجِدُوا مِن دُونِهِ مَوْئِلًا ﴿٥٨﴾

but they have their appointed time, beyond which they will find no refuge.

C2402. Min duni hi: should we take the pronoun to refer to "the appointed time." or to "your Lord" mentioned at the beginning of the verse?

Most Commentators take the former view, and I have translated accordingly. But I agree with those who take the latter view, and the better translation would be:

"But they have their appointed time, and except with Allah, they will find no refuge."

That means that even during the period allowed them, when they are left to wander astray as they have rejected Allah's Grace, Allah's Mercy is open to them if they will repent and return; but nothing but Allah's Mercy can save them.

Other Versions:

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25. [al-Furqan, Mecca 42]

Asad’s Version:

(25:6) Say [O Muhammad]: "He who knows all the mysteries of the heavens and the earth has bestowed from on high this (Qur'an upon me)! Verily, He is much-forgiving, a dispenser of grace!"

The Quranic Text & Ali’s Version:

قُلْ أَنزَلَهُ الَّذِي يَعْلَمُ السِّرَّ فِي السَّمَاوَاتِ وَالْأَرْضِ...

25: 6. Say:

"This (Qur'án) was sent down by Him Who knows the Mystery (that is) in the heavens and the earth:

C3059. The answer is that the Quran teaches spiritual knowledge of what is ordinarily hidden from men's sight, and such knowledge can only come from Allah, to Whom alone is known the secret of the whole Creation.

In spite of man's sin and shortcomings, He forgives, and He sends His most precious gift, i.e., the revelation of His Will.

... إِنَّهُ كَانَ غَفُورًا رَّحِيمًا ﴿٦﴾

verily He is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful."

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38. Surah Sad [88 verses]

Mecca Period 38

Asad’s Version:

38:65 SAY [O Muhammad]: "I am only a wamer; and there is no deity whatever save God, the One, who holds absolute sway over all that exists,

(38:66) the Sustainer of the heavens and the earth and all that is between them, the Almighty, the All-Forgiving!"

38:67 Say: "This is a message tremendous: (38:68) [how can] you turn away from it?" (38:69) [Say, O Muhammad:] "No knowledge would I have had of [what passed among] the host on high when they argued [against the creation of man]; 52

(38:70) had it not been revealed unto me [by God] - to no other end than that I might convey [unto you] a plain warning." 53

The Quranic Text & Ali’s Version:

قُلْ إِنَّمَا أَنَا مُنذِرٌ...

38: 65. Say:

"Truly am I a Warner:

... وَمَا مِنْ إِلَهٍ إِلَّا اللَّهُ الْوَاحِدُ الْقَهَّارُ ﴿٦٥﴾

no god is there but the One Allah,

Supreme and Irresistible --

C4219. Cf. 12:39, where Joseph preaches to the men in prison.

The one supreme Message of importance to mankind was (and is) the Unity of Allah:

- that He is the Creator and Sustainer of all:

- that His Will is supreme;

- that He can carry out His Will without question, and no powers of Evil can defeat it;

- and that He forgives by His grace again and again.

This Message the holy Prophet came to deliver, and he delivered it.

رَبُّ السَّمَاوَاتِ وَالْأَرْضِ وَمَا بَيْنَهُمَا...

38: 66. "The Lord of the heavens and the earth, and all between --

... الْعَزِيزُ ...

Exalted in Might, Able to enforce His will,

C4220. In n. 2818 to 22:40, 1 have explained the full import of 'Aziz as a title applied to Allah, and I have expressed two of the leading ideas involved, in the two lines here.

he argument in this Surah turns upon the contrast between earthly Power and the Divine Power: the one is impotent and the other is supreme.

... الْغَفَّارُ ﴿٦٦﴾

forgiving again and again."

C4221. Gaffar is the emphatic intensive form, and I have accordingly translated it as "forgiving again and again".

Cf. 20:82.

قُلْ هُوَ نَبَأٌ عَظِيمٌ ﴿٦٧﴾

38: 67. Say:

"That is a Message supreme (above all) --

أَنتُمْ عَنْهُ مُعْرِضُونَ ﴿٦٨﴾

38: 68. "From which ye do turn away!

C4222. The Message which is of supreme import to mankind,-from that they turn away. Instead of profiting by it, they turn away to side issues, or unprofitable speculation: such as: what is the origin of Evil; when will Judgment come? etc.

مَا كَانَ لِي مِنْ عِلْمٍ بِالْمَلَإِ الْأَعْلَى إِذْ يَخْتَصِمُونَ ﴿٦٩﴾

38: 69. "No knowledge have I of the Chiefs on high, when they discuss (matters) among themselves.

C4223. The hierarchy of angels in Heaven, discuss questions of high import in the Universe. Those are not necessarily revealed to men, except in so far as it is good for men to know, as in verses 71-85 below.

But the chief thing for man is to know that Allah is Most Merciful, that He forgives again and again, and that Evil has no power over those who trust in Allah.

إِن يُوحَى إِلَيَّ إِلَّا أَنَّمَا أَنَا نَذِيرٌ مُّبِينٌ ﴿٧٠﴾

38: 70. "Only this has been revealed to me: that I am to give warning plainly and publicly."

C4224. Two things are implied in Mubin:

1. that the warning should be clear and perspicuous;

there should be no mincing of matters, no ambiguity, no compromise with evil, 7:184;

2. that the warning should be delivered publicly, before all people, in spite of opposition and persecution, 26:115.

Both these ideas I have tried to express in this passage.

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40. Ghafir (Forgiving)/al mumin

Mecca 60 [85 verses]

The Quranic Text & Ali’s Version:

حم ﴿١﴾

40:1. Ha Mim.

C4356. See the Introduction to this Surah.

تَنزِيلُ الْكِتَابِ مِنَ اللَّهِ الْعَزِيزِ الْعَلِيمِ ﴿٢﴾

40: 2. The revelation of this Book is from Allah, Exalted in Power, Full of Knowledge --

C4357. This verse is the same as Surah 39:1, except for the last words describing the attribute of Allah.

In Surah 39:1, it was "Full of Wisdom", because stress was laid on the wisdom of Allah's Plan in ordering His World. In this Surah the stress is laid on Allah's Knowledge, before which the shallow knowledge of men is vain (40:83).

غَافِرِ الذَّنبِ وَقَابِلِ التَّوْبِ...

40: 3. Who forgiveth Sin, accepteth Repentance,

C4358. Allah's knowledge is supreme and all-reaching. But there are other attributes of His, which concern us even more intimately; e.g., He forgives sin and accepts our repentance when it is sincere and results in our change of heart and life:

but He is also just, and strict in punishment; and so no loophole will be left for Evil except in repentance. And further, all His attributes reach forward to everything: His Mercy, as well as His Knowledge and Justice; His Bounties as well as His Punishments.

... شَدِيدِ الْعِقَابِ ذِي الطَّوْلِ ...

is strict in Punishment, and hath a Long Reach (in all things).

... لَا إِلَهَ إِلَّا هُوَ ...

There is no god but He:

... إِلَيْهِ الْمَصِيرُ ﴿٣﴾

to Him is the Final Goal.

Asad’s Version:

40:1 Ha; Mim. 1

40:2 THE BESTOWAL from on high of this divine writ issues from God, the Almighty, the All- Knowing,

(40:3) forgiving sins and accepting repentance, severe in retribution, limitless in His bounty. There is no deity save Him: with Him is all journeys' end.