Tafseer of Surah Rahman in English
Most Muslims believe that reciting Surah Rehman often can protect us during difficult times. It is said to bring peace to the heart and help people deal with problems and hardships.
Let’s take a closer look at this beautiful Surah and understand its meaning through its Tafseer.
Ayat 1-5: How Allah Shows His Mercy
Verses
- The Most Merciful,
- Taught the Quran,
- Created man,
- [And] taught him eloquence.
- The sun and the moon [move] by precise calculation.
Explanation
Surah Rahman starts by calling Allah Ar-Rahman (The Most Merciful), showing that His mercy is at the core of everything He does. Allah’s greatest act of mercy is teaching the Quran, which guides humanity toward the right path and helps us live a meaningful life.
Next, Allah reminds us that He created humans and gave them the unique ability to communicate and express themselves (eloquence). This gift allows us to share ideas, build relationships, and worship Allah in meaningful ways.
The fifth verse shifts our attention to the sun and the moon, which move in perfect order according to Allah’s precise calculations.
Ayat 6-10: The Balance in Creation
Verses
- And the stars and trees prostrate.
- And the heaven He raised and imposed the balance
- That you not transgress within the balance.
- And establish weight in justice and do not make deficient the balance.
- And the earth He laid [out] for the creatures.
Explanation
In these verses, Allah speaks about the harmony and order in His creation. The stars and trees “prostrate” to Allah, meaning they follow His command and reflect His power and glory. Every part of creation submits to Allah’s will, showcasing His authority over everything.
Allah mentions that He raised the heavens and established balance in the universe. This balance is perfect and precise, allowing everything to function smoothly. Allah instructs humans not to disrupt this balance, either in their relationships, dealings with others, or interactions with nature.
He commands us to live justly, weighing everything fairly and not cheating or taking more than what is right. Upholding justice and maintaining balance are key to preserving the harmony Allah created.
Finally, Allah reminds us of His generosity in laying out the earth as a place where all creatures can live comfortably.
Ayat 11-15: The Gifts of the Earth
Verses
11. Therein is fruit and palm trees having sheaths [of dates].
12. And grain having husks and scented plants.
13. So which of the favors of your Lord would you deny?
14. He created man from clay like [that of] pottery.
15. And He created the jinn from a smokeless flame of fire.
Explanation
In these verses, Allah lists the various blessings found on Earth that He has provided for humanity. The fruits, palm trees, grains, and scented plants are mentioned as examples of the endless gifts that sustain us and bring us comfort and beauty.
The repeated question, “So which of the favors of your Lord would you deny?” asks us to reflect on these blessings. It challenges us to be grateful and recognize Allah’s kindness, as denying His favors would show ungratefulness.
Allah then reminds us of the origins of humans and jinn. He created humans from clay, showing His ability to create life from simple elements. This reminds us of our humble beginnings and teaches us to stay humble.
Similarly, Allah created the jinn from a smokeless flame of fire, emphasizing the diversity and uniqueness of His creation.
Ayat 16-20: The Seas and Their Miracles
Verses
16. So which of the favors of your Lord would you deny?
17. [He is] Lord of the two sunrises and Lord of the two sunsets.
18. So which of the favors of your Lord would you deny?
19. He released the two seas, meeting [side by side];
20. Between them is a barrier [so] neither of them transgresses.
Explanation
Allah continues to highlight His countless blessings and repeatedly asks, “So which of the favors of your Lord would you deny?” to encourage reflection and gratitude.
In verse 17, Allah is described as the “Lord of the two sunrises and the two sunsets.” This refers to the rising and setting of the sun across the seasons, as the position of sunrise and sunset changes throughout the year.
In verses 19-20, Allah mentions the miracle of the two seas that meet but do not mix due to an invisible barrier. This refers to freshwater and saltwater meeting in places like estuaries or rivers flowing into seas.
Ayat 21-25: The Blessings of the Seas
Verses
21. So which of the favors of your Lord would you deny?
22. From both of them emerge pearl and coral.
23. So which of the favors of your Lord would you deny?
24. And to Him belong the ships [with sails] elevated in the sea like mountains.
25. So which of the favors of your Lord would you deny?
Explanation
In verse 22, Allah mentions the pearls and coral that are extracted from the seas, treasures that humans value for their beauty and rarity. These are gifts from Allah that bring comfort, adornment, and economic benefits to humanity.
Allah then reminds us that He is the One who controls the massive ships that sail across the seas, carrying goods and people. The image of these ships, as grand as mountains, floating on the vast oceans is a reminder of Allah’s power.
Despite their size, these ships are able to move safely across the seas by His command.
The repeated question, “So which of the favors of your Lord would you deny?” continues to urge humans to reflect on these incredible blessings and to be grateful for them.
Ayat 26-30: The Mortality of Creation and Allah’s Eternality
Verses
26. Everyone upon the earth will perish,
27. And there will remain the Face of your Lord, Owner of Majesty and Honor.
28. So which of the favors of your Lord would you deny?
29. Whoever is within the heavens and earth asks Him; every day He is in [His] affair.
30. So which of the favors of your Lord would you deny?
Explanation
These verses remind us of the temporary nature of life and the eternal existence of Allah. In verse 26, Allah declares that every living being on Earth will eventually die. No matter how powerful or strong someone is, everything is bound to come to an end.
Verse 27 assures us that while all creation will perish, Allah, the Owner of Majesty and Honor, will remain forever. This reminds us of His eternal power and that all authority belongs to Him.
In verse 29, Allah tells us that all beings in the heavens and the earth depend on Him. Every creation turns to Allah for its needs, and He manages the affairs of the world every single moment, sustaining His creation and demonstrating His mercy and care.
The repeated question, “So which of the favors of your Lord would you deny?” once again calls us to acknowledge Allah’s power and to appreciate the blessings we receive from Him, knowing that life is temporary and Allah alone is eternal.
Ayat 31-35: The Warning to Humans and Jinn
Verses
31. We will attend to you, O prominent beings.
32. So which of the favors of your Lord would you deny?
33. O company of jinn and mankind, if you are able to pass beyond the regions of the heavens and the earth, then pass. You will not pass except by authority [from Allah].
34. So which of the favors of your Lord would you deny?
35. There will be sent upon you a flame of fire and smoke, and you will not defend yourselves.
Explanation
In verse 31, Allah declares that He will pay attention to both humans and jinn on the Day of Judgment. This emphasizes that everyone will be held accountable for their deeds, whether they are human or jinn.
In verse 33, Allah challenges humans and jinn, saying that even if they try to escape the bounds of the heavens and the earth, they cannot do so without His permission.
This shows that no one has the power to escape Allah’s authority, no matter how strong or advanced they may think they are.
Verse 35 warns of the punishment for those who deny Allah’s signs and favors. It describes how flames of fire and smoke will be sent upon the wrongdoers, leaving them defenseless.
The repeated question, “So which of the favors of your Lord would you deny?” once again urges humans and jinn to reflect on Allah’s power and mercy and to turn to Him before it is too late.
Ayat 36-40: The Reality of Judgment and Accountability
Verses
36. So which of the favors of your Lord would you deny?
37. And when the heaven is split open and becomes rose-colored like oil.
38. So which of the favors of your Lord would you deny?
39. Then on that Day, none will be asked about his sin among men or jinn.
40. So which of the favors of your Lord would you deny?
Explanation
In these verses, Allah shifts the focus to the events of the Day of Judgment, warning both humans and jinn about the reality of that Day.
In verse 37, Allah describes how the heavens will be torn apart on the Day of Judgment, and their appearance will change to something unimaginable, like a red rose or molten oil.
This vivid imagery shows the power and might of Allah and serves as a reminder of the terrifying events of the Last Day.
Verse 39 emphasizes that on that Day, no one will be questioned about their sins in the way they might expect. Instead, everyone’s deeds will be clear and apparent.
The repeated question, “So which of the favors of your Lord would you deny?” continues to remind humans and jinn to reflect on Allah’s power and the countless blessings they have received, warning them to be mindful of their actions before it is too late.
Ayat 41-45: The Punishment for the Guilty
Verses
41. The criminals will be known by their marks, and they will be seized by the forelocks and the feet.
42. So which of the favors of your Lord would you deny?
43. This is Hell, which the criminals deny.
44. They will go around between it and scalding water, heated [to the utmost degree].
45. So which of the favors of your Lord would you deny?
Explanation
In these verses, Allah describes the punishment awaiting the wrongdoers (criminals) in Hell.
In verse 41, it is mentioned that the guilty will be recognized by their marks, possibly referring to signs of shame, fear, or the results of their sins.
They will be dragged harshly by their forelocks and feet as a sign of their disgrace and humiliation in the Hereafter.
Verse 43 points out the reality of Hell, which the criminals arrogantly rejected in their worldly lives. Despite being warned repeatedly, they denied its existence and failed to prepare for it.
In verse 44, the torment of Hell is described. The criminals will suffer by being taken between Hellfire and scalding water, which will cause immense pain.
This is a vivid depiction of their suffering, showing that they will face unbearable punishment for their denial and rebellion against Allah.
The repeated question, “So which of the favors of your Lord would you deny?” is especially meaningful here.
Even in warning about Hell, Allah reminds humans and jinn that they had countless opportunities to turn to Him and be grateful for His mercy, but they chose to reject His guidance.
Ayat 46-50: The Rewards of Paradise for the Righteous
Verses
46. But for he who has feared the position of his Lord are two gardens.
47. So which of the favors of your Lord would you deny?
48. Having [spreading] branches.
49. So which of the favors of your Lord would you deny?
50. In both of them are two springs flowing.
Explanation
After describing the punishment for the wrongdoers, these verses shift to the rewards prepared for the righteous. Allah highlights the blessings awaiting those who lived their lives with fear and respect for Him, mindful of their accountability on the Day of Judgment.
In verse 46, Allah promises two gardens for the righteous, a reward for their piety and good deeds. These gardens are places of peace, joy, and eternal comfort.
Verse 48 describes the gardens as having spreading branches, which symbolize lush greenery, shade, and beauty. These branches reflect the abundance of blessings and the perfect, serene environment of Paradise.
In verse 50, Allah mentions the presence of two springs flowing in these gardens. Flowing water is a sign of life, purity, and endless blessings in Paradise, providing comfort and delight to its inhabitants.
The repeated question, “So which of the favors of your Lord would you deny?” reminds us that such unimaginable rewards are only possible due to Allah’s mercy and generosity.
It encourages us to strive for Paradise by living a righteous and grateful life.
Ayat 51-55: The Delights of Paradise
Verses
51. So which of the favors of your Lord would you deny?
52. In both of them are two kinds of every fruit.
53. So which of the favors of your Lord would you deny?
54. Reclining on beds whose linings are of silk brocade, and the fruit of the two gardens is hanging low.
55. So which of the favors of your Lord would you deny?
Explanation
In verse 52, Allah mentions that the two gardens of Paradise will have two kinds of every fruit. This signifies abundance and variety, providing endless choices and satisfaction for the inhabitants of Paradise.
These fruits will be perfect in taste and appearance, far beyond anything we can imagine in this world.
Verse 54 describes the comfort of reclining on luxurious beds lined with silk brocade, a symbol of peace, rest, and elegance. This imagery paints a picture of a life free from hardship or discomfort.
Additionally, the fruits of the gardens will hang low, making them easy to reach, showing how effortlessly the blessings of Paradise will be enjoyed.
The repeated question, “So which of the favors of your Lord would you deny?” reminds us of Allah’s immense generosity in preparing such rewards for the righteous.
It urges us to reflect on His favors in this world and to work for the eternal delights of the Hereafter by living in obedience and gratitude.
Ayat 56-60: Companionship and Ultimate Reward in Paradise
Verses
56. In them are women limiting [their] glances, untouched before them by man or jinn.
57. So which of the favors of your Lord would you deny?
58. As if they were rubies and coral.
59. So which of the favors of your Lord would you deny?
60. Is the reward for good [anything] but good?
Explanation
In these verses, Allah describes the blessings of companionship and the ultimate reward in Paradise for those who have earned it.
In verse 56, Allah speaks of pure companions in Paradise who are described as modest, devoted, and untouched by anyone before.
This highlights the purity and beauty of the relationships in Paradise, free from any imperfections or faults.
In verse 58, these companions are compared to rubies and coral, symbolizing their radiant beauty, purity, and value.
The imagery reflects the perfection and elegance of life in Paradise, where everything is created in the most ideal form.
Verse 60 asks a rhetorical question: “Is the reward for good [anything] but good?” This means that those who do good in this world, live righteously, and follow Allah’s commands will inevitably receive good as a reward – the eternal blessings of Paradise.
This verse reassures believers that their efforts in this life will be rewarded generously in the Hereafter.
The repeated question, “So which of the favors of your Lord would you deny?” continues to remind us of Allah’s endless blessings and encourages us to reflect on His generosity and strive for His pleasure.
Ayat 61-65: The Beauty of Paradise Continues
Verses
61. And below them both [in excellence] are two [other] gardens.
62. So which of the favors of your Lord would you deny?
63. Dark green [in color] from lushness.
64. So which of the favors of your Lord would you deny?
65. In both of them are two springs, spouting.
Explanation
In these verses, Allah describes an additional set of gardens in Paradise, which are also full of blessings and beauty but are distinct from the first two gardens mentioned earlier.
In verse 61, Allah mentions two other gardens, showing that there are varying levels of Paradise depending on the deeds and rank of the righteous.
These gardens, while below the first two in rank, are still incredible in beauty and blessings, emphasizing that every level of Paradise is filled with unimaginable joy.
Verse 63 describes these gardens as dark green with lushness, a sign of abundant vegetation and life.
This lush greenery symbolizes peace, tranquility, and endless blessings, creating an atmosphere of perfection for its inhabitants.
In verse 65, Allah mentions two springs spouting in these gardens, signifying continuous streams of water flowing with ease and abundance.
Flowing water in Paradise is a symbol of eternal life, purity, and comfort for its dwellers.
The repeated question, “So which of the favors of your Lord would you deny?” once again reminds us of Allah’s mercy in preparing such unimaginable rewards for the righteous.
Ayat 66-70: More Blessings of the Second Set of Gardens
Verses
66. In both of them are fruit and palm trees and pomegranates.
67. So which of the favors of your Lord would you deny?
68. In them are good and beautiful companions.
69. So which of the favors of your Lord would you deny?
70. Fair ones reserved in pavilions.
Explanation
In verse 66, Allah mentions the abundance of fruits, palm trees, and pomegranates in these gardens.
This illustrates the richness and diversity of the provision in Paradise, with endless supplies of delicious and refreshing fruits, far superior to anything in this world.
Verse 68 introduces good and beautiful companions who will share in the blessings of Paradise.
These companions are described as pure, kind, and beautiful, symbolizing the perfect relationships in the Hereafter, full of peace and joy.
In verse 70, these companions are described as fair ones reserved in pavilions. This shows their purity, modesty, and value, as they are protected and preserved by Allah.
The pavilions add a sense of elegance and luxury to the surroundings, showing the care Allah has taken to create a perfect environment for the believers.
The repeated question, “So which of the favors of your Lord would you deny?” continues to remind us to acknowledge and be grateful for Allah’s endless blessings, both in this world and in the Hereafter.
Ayat 71-78: The Final Blessings and Allah’s Majesty
Verses
71. Untouched before them by man or jinn.
72. So which of the favors of your Lord would you deny?
73. Reclining on green cushions and beautiful fine carpets.
74. So which of the favors of your Lord would you deny?
75. Blessed is the name of your Lord, Owner of Majesty and Honor.
76. So which of the favors of your Lord would you deny?
77. Blessed is the name of your Lord, Owner of Majesty and Honor.
Explanation
These final verses beautifully conclude the description of the rewards awaiting the righteous in Paradise and shift focus to the greatness and majesty of Allah, the Creator of all these blessings.
In verse 71, Allah reaffirms the purity of the companions in Paradise. They are untouched by man or jinn, emphasizing their exclusivity and honor as a reward for the righteous.
Verse 73 shifts the focus to the comfort of the believers in Paradise, where they will recline on green cushions and fine carpets.
These items symbolize luxury, relaxation, and peace. Allah promises that the righteous will live in complete ease and contentment, enjoying every blessing without worry or hardship.
Finally, in verse 75 and again in verse 78, Allah reminds us of His supreme greatness by declaring, “Blessed is the name of your Lord, Owner of Majesty and Honor.”
This serves as a powerful conclusion to the Surah, praising Allah’s greatness, sovereignty, and mercy. It reinforces the idea that all blessings—both in this life and in the Hereafter—come from Allah alone, and He deserves all praise and worship.
The repeated question, “So which of the favors of your Lord would you deny?” is now complete, reminding us throughout the Surah of Allah’s immense mercy, blessings, and power. It serves as a call to gratitude, reflection, and devotion to Allah.
Summary
Surah Rehman beautifully highlights Allah’s mercy and countless blessings. From the Quran to the creation of humans, the balance of the universe, the treasures of the earth and seas, and the eternal rewards of Paradise, Allah’s kindness is evident everywhere.
The recurring question, “So which of the favors of your Lord would you deny?” serves as a reminder to reflect on Allah’s gifts, be grateful, and live a life that pleases Him.
It teaches us to recognize His mercy and power, seek forgiveness, and prepare for the life to come.
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