Sūrah No. 63. Revealed in Madīnah, 11 verses.
Sūrat al-Munāfiqūn
Merits of reciting the Sūrah
Whoever recites Sūrat al-Munāfiqūn will remain free from all forms of hypocrisy – The Holy Prophet a
Note: Quranic Scholars say that the benefit is connected to the contents of the Sūrah and requires that recitation be done with awareness, comprehension, reflection and having an intention of implementation.
General synopsis of contents
1) The signs of a hypocrite, manifested in attitude, speech, and behaviour (vv. 1-4)
2) Warning believers to be wary of the hypocrites in society (vv. 5-8)
3) Reminder to the believers not to be deluded by the material pleasures of the world (v. 9)
4) An invitation to spend in the way of Allah before death overtakes you (vv. 10-11)
Selected Lessons
1) The words of the hypocrites do not carry any value.
2) Hypocrites are often appealing in their speech and behavior.
3) Wealth and honor are from Allah, not from people.
4) Wealth and children can be distractions from the remembrance of Allah.
5) The approach of death can be a time of regrets. Avoid that by acting while still alive.
Suggested verses for reflection and memorization.
1) 63:9 – O you who have faith! Do not let your possessions and children distract you from the remembrance of Allah, and whoever does that—it is they who are the losers.
2) 63:11 – And Allah will never respite anyone when his time has come, and Allah is well aware of what you do
Activities for self-study
List all the characteristics of the hypocrites described in this Sūrah. What are the roots of these characteristics? Imam Ali (a) describes the hypocrites in Khutba 194 of Nahjul Balagha. Read it and identify the characteristics mentioned in the khutba.