Sūrat al-Muzzammil

Sūrah No. 73. Revealed in the early Makkan period, 20 verses.

Merits of reciting the Sūrah

Whoever recites Sūrat al-Muzzammil in the Isha prayer or in the last part of the night, the night and the day, and the Sūrah itself, will be witnesses for him, and Allah will grant him a good life and a good death. Imam Ja‘far al-Sādiq (a).

Note: Quranic Scholars say that the reward 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) Injunction to the Holy Prophet a to recite the night prayer and prepare to receive a weighty task. (vv. 1-6)

2) Counsel to the Prophet not to worry about those who reject revelation. (vv. 10-11)

3) A discussion of the Day of Judgment. (vv. 14, 17-18)

4) An example from history – Nabī Mūsā (a) and Fir‘awn. (vv. 15-16)

5) Easing the injunction of the night prayer and enjoining prayer and giving charity. (v. 20)

Selected Lessons

1) The night prayer is an important component of the journey towards Allah i.

2) Believers must not be affected by those who reject faith.

3) Thinking of the Day of Judgment is an effective reminder to stay on the right path.

4) Recitation of Quran must be part of the worship at night.

Suggested verses for reflection and memorization.

1) 73:6 – Surely the rising by night is the firmest way to tread and more upright for speech

2) 73:8 – And remember the name of your Lord and dedicate yourself to Him with total dedication.

Activities for self-study

Read the last verse of the Sūrah. What allowances are made for those who recited the night prayer with the Prophet a, and why? Identify the different parts of this verse that show Allah’s compassion for the human being.