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:

...وَكَذَلِكَ نَجْزِي الْمُفْتَرِينَ ﴿١٥٢﴾

thus do We recompense those who invent (falsehoods).

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

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.

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

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.

7: 153

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

********************************

Ali’s notes

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- spiritual, in that Allah's grace is withdrawn, and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

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.

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

5. Surah al-Maida, Medina 112

The Quranic Text & Ali’s Version:

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.

5. Surah al-Maida, Medina 112

The Quranic Text & Ali’s Version:

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.

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).

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

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).

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

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.]]

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

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).

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

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).

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

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

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

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).

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

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.]

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

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).

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

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).

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

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).

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

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).

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

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) ]]

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

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).

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

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:

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

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."

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

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.

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

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.