Surah Study

Read the Surah. Optionally, consider reading Tafsir to understand how classical scholars interpreted the verses.

See recommended tool and translations: https://hskc.ca/recommended/ .

Your submission must include following sections:

  1. Context
  2. Interpretation
  3. Analysis
  4. Conclusion

These sections explained and questions are provided bellow.

Context

Must answers to following question:

  1. Was the Surah revealed in Makkah or Madinah, and how does this location impact its message? (Learn more bellow in the “Notes” section)

And any 3-5 of following questions:

  1. What historical event or circumstance led to the revelation of this Surah?
  2. How does the social or political environment during the time of revelation influence the themes of the Surah?
  3. What challenges were the Muslim community facing when this Surah was revealed, and how does it address those challenges?
  4. Are there specific individuals or groups mentioned or alluded to in the Surah? If so, what was their role during that period?
  5. What other Surahs were revealed around the same time, and how do they complement the message of this Surah?
  6. How did the revelation of this Surah affect the relationship between Muslims and the Quraysh (or other non-Muslim communities)?
  7. Does this Surah offer solutions to specific legal, social, or moral issues relevant to its time of revelation? If so, how?

Interpretation

In your own words, explain what you understood.

Avoid directly copying translations. If I notice any outdated or overly complex language, I will ask to clarify. Focus on using clear, simple terms that reflect your personal understanding.

Analysis

Must answer the following questions:

  1. What are the major themes of the Surah?
  2. Is it focused on moral, theological, legal, or eschatological issues (relating to death, judgement, and the final destiny of the soul and of humankind.)?
  3. How does the Surah build its argument or narrative? Does it use parables and metaphors?
  4. Does it follow a chronological order?
  5. Are there recurring phrases, warnings, or promises throughout the Surah?

Answer either one of “Option A” or “Option B”:

Option A – Can you find examples of these attributes in the verses?

  • How does the Surah emphasise key attributes of Allah? (E.g. mercy, justice, wisdom, etc.) 
  • How does the Surah emphasise themes of gratitude, repentance, or humility in the Surah?

Option B – Does the Surah address specific Ahkam (legal rulings) or jurisprudence principles (Fiqh)? E.g.

  • Principles of Halal and Haram.
  • Guidelines for personal and communal behavior (community and society at large).
  • Family and inheritance laws.
  • Business and financial transactions.
  • What are some ethical or behavioral guidelines presented in the Surah for personal and communal life?

    Conclusion

    Must include:

    • Summarise the message of the Surah in your own words. (3-5 sentences).
    • Reflect on any practical lessons from the Surah that you can apply to your daily life.

    Notes

    Makki Surahs vs. Madani Surahs

    Makki Surahs (Before the Hijrah):

    • Focus on Tawhid: Emphasizes the oneness of Allah and the rejection of polytheism.
    • Prophethood: Highlights Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) mission and recounts stories of past Prophets.
    • Afterlife: Stresses belief in the Day of Judgment, Heaven, and Hell, as well as the consequences of disobedience.
    • Short Verses and Powerful Language: These Surahs often contain short, poetic, and emotionally impactful verses to address the Quraysh and challenge their beliefs.

    Madani Surahs (After the Hijrah):

    • Legal and Social Guidance: Provides detailed instructions on laws (Shariah), family matters, inheritance, and governance.
    • Community Building: Focuses on the unity of the Muslim Ummah, including relations with non-Muslims, hypocrites, and other communities.
    • Longer Verses: Typically feature more detailed legal and social guidance, as the Muslim community was now more established.