Sūrat al-Tur

Sūrah No. 52 Revealed in Makkah, 49 verses.


Merits of reciting the Sūrah

Whoever recites the Sūrat al-Tūr it is incumbent on Allah to keep him safe from His punishment and favour him with Heaven – Holy Prophet a

Imam Muhammad al-Bāqir (a) said: Whoever recites Sūrah al-Tur Allah will combine for him the good of the world and the Hereafter.

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) The central theme of the Sūrah is the reward and punishment of the Hereafter.

2) The Sūrah starts with certain oaths and then a discussion on coming of the Day of Judgment and the punishment of the Hereafter (vv. 1-16)

3) Rewards of the Hereafter (vv. 17-24)

4) A conversation in Heaven (vv. 25-28)

5) Accusations against the Holy Prophet a (vv. 29-34)

6) The signs of Allah X (vv. 35-43)


Selected Lessons

1) People who spent their lives in amusement and sport will face the consequences in the Hereafter.

2) Families who believe will be united in the Hereafter (v. 21)

3) Conversations in the Hereafter will include discussions about life in the world.

4) The Sūrah asks many questions to make the rejecters of faith think about creation and the message of the Prophet a.

5) Knowing that Allah is with us and watching what is happening helps a believer be patient (v. 48)


Suggested verses for reflection and memorization.

1) 52:48-49 – And wait patiently for the judgment of your Lord, for surely you are before Our eyes, and sing the praise of your Lord when you rise. And in the night, give Him glory too, and at the setting of the stars.


Activities for self-study

1) What are the questions Allah asks the disbelievers in this Sūrah? (vv. 35-43). What concepts does He want them to think about?

2) The last two verses are a reassurance for the Prophet, and for believers. What are the different recommendations in these verses?