Ayaat 111-115 ~ Hud

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

Listen to Recitation

111. And indeed, each [of the believers and disbelievers] – your Lord will fully compensate them for their deeds. Indeed, He is Acquainted with what they do.

112. So remain on a right course as you have been commanded, [you] and those who have turned back with you [to Allah], and do not transgress. Indeed, He is Seeing of what you do.

113. And do not incline toward those who do wrong, lest you be touched by the Fire, and you would not have other than Allah any protectors; then you would not be helped.

114. And establish prayer at the two ends of the day and at the approach of the night. Indeed, good deeds do away with misdeeds. That is a reminder for those who remember.

115. And be patient, for indeed, Allah does not allow to be lost the reward of those who do good.

Sura 11. Hud

Ayaat 1-5 ~ Al-Alaq (The Clot)

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

1. Read! In the Name of your Lord, Who has created (all that exists),

2. Has created man from a clot (a piece of thick coagulated blood).

3. Read! And your Lord is the Most Generous,

4. Who has taught (the writing) by the pen,

5. Has taught man that which he knew not.

Sura 96. Al-Alaq (The Clot)

Commentary: These verses of Sura Al-Alaq are the first verses of the revelation of Allah the Exalted. The revelation of the Qur’an began in the night of Lailat-ul-Qadr (Night of Decree) during Ramadan after the Prophet Muhammad (SAWS) had passed the fortieth year of his life. Here is a part of the Hadith as reported in the Sahih of Bukhari:

Narrated Aisha (DAS) the mother of the faithful believers: The commencement of the divine inspiration to Allah’s apostle was in the form of good dreams which came like bright daylight (i.e. true) and then the love of seclusion was bestowed upon him. He used to go in seclusion in the Cave of Hira’ (near Makkah), where he used to worship (Allah alone) continuously for many days before his desire to see his family. He used to take with him food for the stay and then come back to (his wife) Khadija to take his food likewise again, till suddenly the truth descended upon him while he was in the Cave of Hira’.

The angel came to him and asked him to read. The Prophet replied ‘I do not know how to read’. The Prophet added, ‘The angel caught me (forcibly) and pressed me so hard that I could not bear it any more. He then released me and again asked me to read and I replied, “I do not know how to read”. Thereupon he caught me again and pressed me a second time till I could not bear it any more. He then released me and again asked me to read, but again I replied, “I do not know how to read”. Thereupon he caught me for the third time and pressed me, and then released me and said: “Read, in the name of Your Lord, who created, created man from a clot. Read! And Your Lord is the most bountiful” … (Bukhari, I, No. 3; VI, No. 478; Muslim I, No. 301.)

Ayaat 183-187 ~ Al-Baqarah (The Cow)

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

Listen to Recitation

183. O you who have believed, decreed upon you is fasting as it was decreed upon those before you that you may become righteous –

184. [Fasting for] a limited number of days. So whoever among you is ill or on a journey [during them] – then an equal number of days [are to be made up]. And upon those who are able [to fast, but with hardship] – a ransom [as substitute] of feeding a poor person [each day]. And whoever volunteers good [i.e., excess] – it is better for him. But to fast is best for you, if you only knew.

185. The month of Ramadan [is that] in which was revealed the Quran, a guidance for the people and clear proofs of guidance and criterion. So whoever sights [the new moon of] the month[1], let him fast it; and whoever is ill or on a journey – then an equal number of other days. Allah intends for you ease and does not intend for you hardship and [wants] for you to complete the period and to glorify Allah for that [to] which He has guided you; and perhaps you will be grateful.

186. And when My servants ask you, [O Muhammad], concerning Me – indeed I am near. I respond to the invocation of the supplicant when he calls upon Me. So let them respond to Me [by obedience] and believe in Me that they may be [rightly] guided.

187. It has been made permissible for you the night preceding fasting to go to your wives [for sexual relations]. They are clothing for you and you are clothing for them. Allah knows that you used to deceive yourselves[2], so He accepted your repentance and forgave you. So now, have relations with them and seek that which Allah has decreed for you [i.e., offspring]. And eat and drink until the white thread of dawn becomes distinct to you from the black thread [of night]. Then complete the fast until the night [i.e., sunset]. And do not have relations with them as long as you are staying for worship in the mosques. These are the limits [set by] Allah, so do not approach them. Thus does Allah make clear His verses [i.e., ordinances] to the people that they may become righteous.

Sura 2. Al-Baqarah (The Cow)

[1] Also, “whoever is present during the month.”

[2] Prior to this revelation, marital relations were unlawful during nights preceding fasting. Some were unable to refrain and secretly disobeyed, but they did not deceive Allah.

Ayaat 1-7 ~ Al-Fatiha

In the name of Allah, the Entirely Merciful, the Especially Merciful

Listen to Recitation

1. In the name of Allah, the Entirely Merciful, the Especially Merciful[1].

2. [All] praise is [due] to Allah, Lord of the worlds –

3. The Entirely Merciful, the Especially Merciful,

4. Sovereign of the Day of Recompense.

5. It is You we worship and You we ask for help.

6. Guide us to the straight path –

7. The path of those upon whom You have bestowed favor, not of those who have evoked [Your] anger or of those who are astray[2].

Sura 1. Al-Fatiha

[1] This is the formula that the Muslim pronounces at the beginning of any act, thus remembering his Creator and his Guide and asking for His help to accomplish it well.

[2] After the recitation, the word “Amine” is pronounced.

Ayaat 9-11 ~ Al-Jumu’ah (Friday)

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

Listen to Recitation

9. O you who believe (Muslims)! When the call is proclaimed for the Salât (prayer) on the day of Friday (Jumu’ah prayer), come to the remembrance of Allâh [Jumu’ah religious talk (Khutbah) and Salât (prayer)] and leave off business (and every other thing), that is better for you if you did but know!

10. Then when the (Jumu’ah) Salât (prayer) is finished, you may disperse through the land, and seek the Bounty of Allâh (by working, etc.), and remember Allâh much, that you may be successful.

11. And when they see some merchandise or some amusement [beating of Tambur (drum) etc.] they disperse headlong to it, and leave you (Muhammad ) standing [while delivering Jumu’ah’s religious talk (Khutbah)]. Say “That which Allâh has is better than any amusement or merchandise! And Allâh is the Best of providers.”

Sura 62. Al-Jumu’ah (Friday)

Importance of Charity (Zakat and Sadaqah) – Especially during Ramadan

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

And spend (in charity) of that with which We have provided you, before death comes to one of you and he says: “My Lord! If only You would give me respite for a little while (i.e. return to the worldly life), then I should give Sadaqah (i.e. Zakât) of my wealth, and be among the righteous. (Koran 63.10)

…And whatever you spend in good, it is for yourselves, when you spend not except seeking Allâh’s Countenance. And whatever you spend in good, it will be repaid to you in full, and you shall not be wronged. (Koran 2.272)

Those who spend their wealth (in Allâh’s Cause) by night and day, in secret and in public, they shall have their reward with their Lord. On them shall be no fear, nor shall they grieve. (Koran 2.274 )

Say: “Truly, my Lord enlarges the provision for whom He wills of His slaves, and (also) restricts (it) for him, and whatsoever you spend of anything (in Allâh’s Cause), He will replace it. And He is the Best of providers.” (Koran 34.39)

Ibn Abbas (MAPH) reported: the Messenger of Allah (SAWS) was the most generous of the men; and he was the most generous during the month of Ramadan when Jibril visited him every night and recited the Quran to him. During this period, the generosity of Messenger of Allah (SAWS) waxed faster than the rain bearing wind. (Al-Bukhari and Muslim).

Abu Hurairah (MAPH) reported: The Prophet (SAWS) said: “Two angels descend every morning, and one says: ‘O Allah, give him who spends something, in place of what he spends.’ The other one says: ‘O Allah, give destruction to him who withholds”. (Al-Bukhari and Muslim).

SAWS: May Allah exalt his mention and protect him from imperfection
MAPH: May Allah be pleased with him

Riyaadiss-Saliheen (The Meadows of the Righteous)
By Imam An Nawawi
Hadith 1: Chapter 218, Page 356, No 1222
Hadith 2: Chapter 36, Page 99, No 295

Ayaat 255 (Ayaat-ul-Kursi) ~ Al-Baqarah (The Cow)

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

Listen to Recitation

Lecture about Ayaat-ul-Kursi (61Mb)

255. Allâh! Lâ ilâha illa Huwa (none has the right to be worshipped but He), the Ever Living, the One Who sustains and protects all that exists. Neither slumber, nor sleep overtake Him. To Him belongs whatever is in the heavens and whatever is on earth. Who is he that can intercede with Him except with His Permission? He knows what happens to them (His creatures) in this world, and what will happen to them in the Hereafter . And they will never compass anything of His Knowledge except that which He wills. His Kursî extends over the heavens and the earth, and He feels no fatigue in guarding and preserving them. And He is the Most High, the Most Great. [This Verse 2:255 is called Ayaat-ul-Kursî.]

Sura 2. Al-Baqarah (The Cow)

Ayaat 14-16 ~ Ta-Ha

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

Listen to Recitation

14. “Verily! I am Allâh! Lâ ilâha illa Ana (none has the right to be worshipped but I), so worship Me, and perform As­Salât for My Remembrance.

15. “Verily, the Hour is coming and My Will is to keep it hidden[1] that every person may be rewarded for that which he strives.

16. “Therefore, let not the one who believes not therein, but follows his own lusts, divert you therefrom[2], lest you perish.

Sura 20. Ta-Ha

[1]: Meaning that Allah (subuanahu wa taala) keeps knowledge of the Hour hidden from everyone except Himself.

[2]: From preparation for the Hour or for the Hereafter.

Ayaat 12-19 ~ Luqman

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

Listen to Recitation

12. And We had certainly given Luqman wisdom [and said], “Be grateful to Allah.” And whoever is grateful is grateful for [the benefit of] himself. And whoever denies [His favor] – then indeed, Allah is Free of need and Praiseworthy.

13. And [mention, O Mohammad], when Luqman said to his son while he was instructing him, “O my son, do not associate [anything] with Allah. Indeed, association [with Him] is great injustice.”

14. And We have enjoined upon man [care] for his parents. His mother carried him, [increasing her] in weakness upon weakness, and his weaning is in two years. Be grateful to Me and to your parents; to Me is the [final] destination.

15. But if they endeavor to make you associate with Me that of which you have no knowledge, do not obey them but accompany them in [this] world with appropriate kindness and follow the way of those who turn back to Me [in repentance]. Then to Me will be your return, and I will inform you about what you used to do.

16. [And Luqman said], “O my son, indeed if it [i.e., a wrong] should be the weight of a mustard seed and should be within a rock or [anywhere] in the heavens or in the earth, Allah will bring it forth. Indeed, Allah is Subtle and Acquainted.

17. O my son, establish prayer, enjoin what is right, forbid what is wrong, and be patient over what befalls you. Indeed, [all] that is of the matters [requiring] resolve.

18. And do not turn your cheek [in contempt] toward people and do not walk through the earth exultantly. Indeed, Allah does not like everyone self-deluded and boastful.

19. And be moderate in your pace and lower your voice; indeed, the most disagreeable of sounds is the voice of donkeys.”

Sura 31. Luqman

Ayaat 1-10 ~ Al-Araf

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

Listen to recitation

1. Alif, Lam, Mim, Sad.

2. [This is] a Book revealed to you, [O Muhammad] – so let there not be in your breast distress therefrom – that you may warn thereby and as a reminder to the believers.

3. Follow, [O mankind], what has been revealed to you from your Lord and do not follow other than Him any allies. Little do you remember.

4. And how many cities have We destroyed, and Our punishment came to them at night or while they were sleeping at noon.

5. And their declaration when Our punishment came to them was only that they said, “Indeed, we were wrongdoers!”

6. Then We will surely question those to whom [a message] was sent, and We will surely question the messengers[2].

7. Then We will surely relate [their deeds] to them with knowledge, and We were not [at all] absent.

8. And the weighing [of deeds] that Day will be the truth. So those whose scales are heavy – it is they who will be the successful.

9. And those whose scales are light – they are the ones who will lose themselves for what injustice they were doing toward Our verses.

10. And We have certainly established you upon the earth and made for you therein ways of livelihood. Little are you grateful.

Sura 7. Al-Araf

[1] Al-Araf: The Elevations, referring to the partition between Paradise and Hell. We will keep the word al-Araf because there is no equivalent in English.

[2] the messengers: here the Prophets (peace be upon them) who have a mission with men or the Angels (peace be upon them) who carry out the orders of Allah.

Ayaat 17-19 ~ An-Naml (The Ants)

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

Listen to Recitation

17. And there were gathered before Sulaimân (Solomon) his hosts of jinns and men, and birds, and they all were set in battle order (marching forwards).

18. Till, when they came to the valley of the ants, one of the ants said: “O ants! Enter your dwellings, lest Sulaimân (Solomon) and his hosts crush you, while they perceive not.”

19. So he [Sulaimân (Solomon)] smiled, amused at her speech and said: “My Lord! Inspire and bestow upon me the power and ability that I may be grateful for Your Favours which You have bestowed on me and on my parents, and that I may do righteous good deeds that will please You, and admit me by Your Mercy among Your righteous slaves.” [1]

Sura 27. An-Naml (The Ants)

[1]: Beautiful Dua (supplication) we should memorize and make often inchaAllah.

Ayaat 87-88 ~ Al-Anbiyah’ (The Prophets)

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

Listen to Recitation

87. And (remember) Dhan-Nûn (Jonah), when he went off in anger, and imagined that We shall not punish him (i.e. the calamites which had befallen him)! But he cried through the darkness (saying): Lâ ilâha illa Anta [none has the right to be worshipped but You (O Allâh)], Glorified (and Exalted) are You [above all that (evil) they associate with You]. Truly, I have been of the wrong-doers.”

88. So We answered his call, and delivered him from the distress. And thus We do deliver the believers (who believe in the Oneness of Allâh, abstain from evil and work righteousness).

Sura 21. Al-Anbiyah’ (The Prophets)

Ayaat 63-77 ~ Al-Furqan (The Criterion)

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

Listen to Recitation

63. And the slaves of the Most Beneficent (Allâh) are those who walk on the earth in humility and sedateness, and when the foolish address them (with bad words) they reply back with mild words of gentleness.

64. And those who spend the night before their Lord, prostrate and standing.

65. And those who say: “Our Lord! Avert from us the torment of Hell. Verily! Its torment is ever an inseparable, permanent punishment.”

66. Evil indeed it (Hell) is as an abode and as a place to dwell.

67. And those, who, when they spend, are neither extravagant nor niggardly, but hold a medium (way) between those (extremes).

68. And those who invoke not any other ilâh (god) along with Allâh, nor kill such life as Allâh has forbidden, except for just cause, nor commit illegal sexual intercourse and whoever does this shall receive the punishment.

69. The torment will be doubled to him on the Day of Resurrection, and he will abide therein in disgrace;

70. Except those who repent and believe (in Islâmic Monotheism), and do righteous deeds, for those, Allâh will change their sins into good deeds, and Allâh is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

71. And whosoever repents and does righteous good deeds, then verily, he repents towards Allâh with true repentance.

72. And those who do not witness falsehood, and if they pass by some evil play or evil talk, they pass by it with dignity.

73. And those who, when they are reminded of the Ayât (proofs, evidences, verses, lessons, signs, revelations, etc.) of their Lord, fall not deaf and blind thereat.

74. And those who say: “Our Lord! Bestow on us from our wives and our offspring who will be the comfort of our eyes, and make us leaders for the Muttaqûn” (pious – see V.2:2 and the footnote of V.3:164).”

75. Those will be rewarded with the highest place (in Paradise) because of their patience. Therein they shall be met with greetings and the word of peace and respect.

76. Abiding therein; excellent it is as an abode, and as a place to dwell.

77. Say: “My Lord pays attention to you only because of your invocation to Him. But now you have indeed denied (Him). So the torment will be yours for ever (inseparable permanent punishment).”

Sura 25. Al-Furqan (The Criterion)

Ayaat 14-19 ~ Muhammad

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

14. Is he who is on a clear proof from his Lord, like those for whom their evil deeds that they do are beautified for them, while they follow their own lusts (evil desires)?

15. The description of Paradise which the Muttaqûn (pious – see V.2:2) have been promised is that in it are rivers of water the taste and smell of which are not changed; rivers of milk of which the taste never changes; rivers of wine delicious to those who drink; and rivers of clarified honey (clear and pure) therein for them is every kind of fruit; and forgiveness from their Lord. (Are these) like those who shall dwell for ever in the Fire, and be given, to drink, boiling water, so that it cuts up their bowels?

16. And among them are some who listen to you till, when they go out from you, they say to those who have received knowledge: “What has he said just now? Such are men whose hearts Allâh has sealed, and they follow their lusts (evil desires).

17. While as for those who accept guidance, He increases their guidance, and bestows on them their piety.

18. Do they then await (anything) other than the Hour, that it should come upon them suddenly? But some of its portents (indications and signs) have already come, and when it (actually) is on them, how can they benefit then by their reminder?

19. So know that Lâ ilâha ill-Allâh (none has the right to be worshipped but Allâh), and ask forgiveness for your sin, and also for (the sin of) believing men and believing women. And Allâh knows well your moving about, and your place of rest (in your homes).

Sura 47. Muhammad

Ayaat 22-31 ~ An-Nahl (The Bees)

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

Listen to Recitation

22. Your Ilah (God) is One Ilah (God Allah, none has the right to be worshipped but He). But for those who believe not in the Hereafter, their hearts deny (the faith in the Oneness of Allah), and they are proud.

23. Certainly, Allah knows what they conceal and what they reveal. Truly, He likes not the proud.

24. And when it is said to them: “What is it that your Lord has sent down (unto Muhammad)?” They say: “Tales of the men of old!”

25. They will bear their own burdens in full on the Day of Resurrection, and also of the burdens of those whom they misled without knowledge. Evil indeed is that which they shall bear!

26. Those before them indeed plotted, but Allah struck at the foundation of their building, and then the roof fell down upon them, from above them, and the torment overtook them from directions they did not perceive.

27. Then, on the Day of Resurrection, He will disgrace them and will say: “Where are My (so called) ‘partners’ concerning whom you used to disagree and dispute (with the believers, by defying and disobeying Allah)?” Those who have been given the knowledge (about the Torment of Allah for the disbelievers) will say: “Verily! Disgrace this Day and misery are upon the disbelievers.

28. “Those whose lives the angels take while they are doing wrong to themselves (by disbelief and by associating partners in worship with Allah and by committing all kinds of crimes and evil deeds).” Then, they will make (false) submission (saying): “We used not to do any evil.” (The angels will reply): “Yes! Truly, Allah is All-Knower of what you used to do.

29. “So enter the gates of Hell, to abide therein, and indeed, what an evil abode will be for the arrogant.”

30. And (when) it is said to those who are the Muttaqûn (pious – see V.2:2) “What is it that your Lord has sent down?” They say: “That which is good.” For those who do good in this world, there is good, and the home of the Hereafter will be better. And excellent indeed will be the home (i.e. Paradise) of the Muttaqûn.

31. ‘Adn (Eden) Paradise (Gardens of Eternity) which they will enter, under which rivers flow, they will have therein all that they wish. Thus Allah rewards the Muttaqûn.

32. Those whose lives the angels take while they are in a pious state (i.e. pure from all evil, and worshipping none but Allah Alone) saying (to them): Salamun ‘Alaikum (peace be on you) enter you Paradise, because of (the good) which you used to do (in the world).

Sura 16. An-Nahl (The Bees)

Ayaat 53-58 ~ Az-Zumar (The Groups)

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

Listen to Recitation

53. Say: “O ‘Ibâdî (My slaves) who have transgressed against themselves (by committing evil deeds and sins)! Despair not of the Mercy of Allâh, verily Allâh forgives all sins. Truly, He is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

54. “And turn in repentance and in obedience with true Faith (Islâmic Monotheism) to your Lord and submit to Him, (in Islâm), before the torment comes upon you, then you will not be helped.

55. “And follow the best of that which is sent down to you from your Lord (i.e. this Qur’ân, do what it orders you to do and keep away from what it forbids), before the torment comes on you suddenly while you perceive not!”

56. Lest a person should say: “Alas, my grief that I was undutiful to Allâh (i.e. I have not done what Allâh has ordered me to do), and I was indeed among those who mocked [at the truth! i.e. Lâ ilâha ill-Allâh (none has the right to be worshipped but Allâh), the Qur’ân, and Muhammad and at the faithful believers, etc.]

57. Or (lest) he should say: “If only Allâh had guided me, I should indeed have been among the Muttaqûn (pious and righteous persons – see V.2:2).”

58. Or (lest) he should say when he sees the torment: “If only I had another chance (to return to the world) then I should indeed be among the Muhsinûn (good-doers – see V.2:112).”

Sura 39. Az-Zumar (The Groups)

Ayaat 64-82 ~ Al-Kahf (The Cave)

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

64. [Mûsa (Moses)] said: “That is what we have been seeking.” So they went back retracing their footsteps.

65. Then they found one of Our slaves, unto whom We had bestowed mercy from Us, and whom We had taught knowledge from Us.

66. Mûsa (Moses) said to him (Khidr) “May I follow you so that you teach me something of that knowledge (guidance and true path) which you have been taught (by Allâh)?”

67. He (Khidr) said: “Verily! You will not be able to have patience with me!

68. “And how can you have patience about a thing which you know not?”

69. Mûsa (Moses) said: “If Allâh will, you will find me patient, and I will not disobey you in aught.”

70. He (Khidr) said: “Then, if you follow me, ask me not about anything till I myself mention it to you.”

71. So they both proceeded, till, when they embarked the ship, he (Khidr) scuttled it. Mûsa (Moses) said: “Have you scuttled it in order to drown its people? Verily, you have committed a thing “Imra” (a Munkar – evil, bad, dreadful thing).”

72. He (Khidr) said: “Did I not tell you, that you would not be able to have patience with me?”

73. [Mûsa (Moses)] said: “Call me not to account for what I forgot, and be not hard upon me for my affair (with you).”

74. Then they both proceeded, till they met a boy, he (Khidr) killed him. Mûsa (Moses) said: “Have you killed an innocent person who had killed none? Verily, you have committed a thing “Nukra” (a great Munkar – prohibited, evil, dreadful thing)!”

75. (Khidr) said: “Did I not tell you that you can have no patience with me?”

76. [Mûsa (Moses)] said: “If I ask you anything after this, keep me not in your company, you have received an excuse from me.”

77. Then they both proceeded, till, when they came to the people of a town, they asked them for food, but they refused to entertain them. Then they found therein a wall about to collapse and he (Khidr) set it up straight. [Mûsa (Moses)] said: If you had wished, surely, you could have taken wages for it!”

78. (Khidr) said: “This is the parting between me and you, I will tell you the interpretation of (those) things over which you were unable to hold patience.

79. “As for the ship, it belonged to Masâkîn (poor people) working in the sea. So I wished to make a defective damage in it, as there was a king after them who seized every ship by force.

80. “And as for the boy, his parents were believers, and we feared lest he should oppress them by rebellion and disbelief.

81. “So we intended that their Lord should change him for them for one better in righteousness and near to mercy.

82. “And as for the wall, it belonged to two orphan boys in the town; and there was under it a treasure belonging to them; and their father was a righteous man, and your Lord intended that they should attain their age of full strength and take out their treasure as a mercy from your Lord. And I did it not of my own accord. That is the interpretation of those (things) over which you could not hold patience.”

Sura 18. Al-Kahf (The Cave)

*Note: You can listen to a very good explanation of this story (I learned a lot) in three audio lectures series, the voyage of Musa (peace be upon him) here and Sura Kahf 80-81 a deeper look here and finally Sourate Kahf 82 a deeper look here.

Ayaat 45-51 ~ Al-Imran (The Family of Imran)

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

Listen to Recitation

45. (Remember) when the angels said: “O Maryam (Mary)! Verily, Allâh gives you the glad tidings of a Word [“Be!” – and he was! i.e. ‘Iesa (Jesus) the son of Maryam (Mary)] from Him, his name will be the Messiah ‘Iesa (Jesus), the son of Maryam (Mary), held in honour in this world and in the Hereafter, and will be one of those who are near to Allâh.”

46. “He will speak to the people in the cradle and in manhood, and he will be one of the righteous.”

47. She said: “O my Lord! How shall I have a son when no man has touched me.” He said: “So (it will be) for Allâh creates what He wills. When He has decreed something, He says to it only: “Be!” and it is.

48. And He (Allâh) will teach him [‘Iesa (Jesus)] the Book and Al-Hikmah (i.e. the Sunnah, the faultless speech of the Prophets, wisdom, etc.), (and) the Taurât (Torah) and the Injeel (Gospel).

49. And will make him [‘Iesa (Jesus)] a Messenger to the Children of Israel (saying): “I have come to you with a sign from your Lord, that I design for you out of clay, as it were, the figure of a bird, and breathe into it, and it becomes a bird by Allâh’s Leave; and I heal him who was born blind, and the leper, and I bring the dead to life by Allâh’s Leave. And I inform you of what you eat, and what you store in your houses. Surely, therein is a sign for you, if you believe.

50. And I have come confirming that which was before me of the Taurât (Torah), and to make lawful to you part of what was forbidden to you, and I have come to you with a proof from your Lord. So fear Allâh and obey me.

51. Truly! Allâh is my Lord and your Lord, so worship Him (Alone). This is the Straight Path.

Sura 3. Al-Imran (The Family of Imran)

*Note: You can listen to the true account of Prophet Isa’s (Jesus’s) life (peace be upon him) in two audio lectures series, lives of the Prophets and life of Issa here and an ebook by Ibn Kathir here.

Ayaat 20-23 ~ Al-Hadid (Iron)

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

Listen to Recitation

20. Know that the life of this world is only play and amusement, pomp and mutual boasting among you, and rivalry in respect of wealth and children, as the likeness of vegetation after rain, thereof the growth is pleasing to the tiller; afterwards it dries up and you see it turning yellow; then it becomes straw. But in the Hereafter (there is) a severe torment (for the disbelievers, evil-doers), and (there is) Forgiveness from Allâh and (His) Good Pleasure (for the believers, good-doers), whereas the life of this world is only a deceiving enjoyment.

21. Race one with another in hastening towards Forgiveness from your Lord (Allâh), and towards Paradise, the width whereof is as the width of heaven and earth, prepared for those who believe in Allâh and His Messengers. That is the Grace of Allâh which He bestows on whom He pleases. And Allâh is the Owner of Great Bounty.

22. No calamity befalls on the earth or in yourselves but is inscribed in the Book of Decrees (Al-Lauh Al-Mahfûz), before We bring it into existence. Verily, that is easy for Allâh.

23. In order that you may not be sad over matters that you fail to get, nor rejoice because of that which has been given to you. And Allâh likes not prideful boasters.

Sura 57. Al-Hadid (Iron)

Ayaat 1-3 ~ Al-Asr (The Time)

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

Listen to Recitation

1. By Al-‘Asr (the time).

2. Verily! Man is in loss,

3. Except those who believe[1] and do righteous good deeds, and recommend one another to the truth[2], and recommend one another to patience[3].

Sura 103. Al-Asr (The Time)

[1]: in Islâmic Monotheism

[2]: i.e. order one another to perform all kinds of good deeds (Al-Ma’rûf)which Allâh has ordained, and abstain from all kinds of sins and evil deeds (Al-Munkar)which Allâh has forbidden

[3]: For the sufferings, harms, and injuries which one may encounter in Allâh’s Cause during preaching His religion of Islâmic Monotheism or Jihâd, etc.

Ayaat 77-83 ~ Ya-Sin

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

77. Does not man see that We have created him from Nutfah (mixed male and female discharge semen drops). Yet behold! He (stands forth) as an open opponent.

78. And he puts forth for Us a parable, and forgets his own creation. He says: “Who will give life to these bones when they have rotted away and became dust?”

79. Say: “He will give life to them Who created them for the first time! And He is the All-Knower of every creation!”

80. He, Who produces for you fire out of the green tree, when behold! You kindle therewith.

81. Is not He, Who created the heavens and the earth Able to create the like of them? Yes, indeed! He is the All-Knowing Supreme Creator.

82. Verily, His Command, when He intends a thing, is only that He says to it, “Be!” and it is!

83. So Glorified is He and Exalted above all that they associate with Him, and in Whose Hands is the dominion of all things, and to Him you shall be returned.

Sura 36. Ya-Sin

Ayaat 30-33 ~ Fussilat (Explained in detail)

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

30. Verily, those who say: “Our Lord is Allâh (Alone),” and then they Istaqâmû, on them the angels will descend (at the time of their death) (saying): “Fear not, nor grieve! But receive the glad tidings of Paradise which you have been promised!

31. “We have been your friends in the life of this world and are (so) in the Hereafter. Therein you shall have (all) that your inner-selves desire, and therein you shall have (all) for which you ask for.

32. “An entertainment from (Allâh), the Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.”

33. And who is better in speech than he who [says: “My Lord is Allâh (believes in His Oneness),” and then stands straight (acts upon His Order), and invites (men) to Allâh’s (Islâmic Monotheism), and does righteous deeds, and says: “I am one of the Muslims.”

Sura 41. Fussilat (Explained in detail)

Ayaat 13-15 ~ Al-Hujuraat (The Dwellings)

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

13. O mankind! We have created you from a male and a female, and made you into nations and tribes, that you may know one another. Verily, the most honourable of you with Allâh is that (believer) who has At-Taqwa [i.e. one of the Muttaqûn (pious – see V.2:2)]. Verily, Allâh is All-Knowing, All-Aware.

14. The bedouins say: “We believe.” Say: “You believe not but you only say, ‘We have surrendered (in Islâm),’ for Faith has not yet entered your hearts. But if you obey Allâh and His Messenger, He will not decrease anything in reward for your deeds. Verily, Allâh is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.”

15. Only those are the believers who have believed in Allâh and His Messenger, and afterward doubt not but strive with their wealth and their lives for the Cause of Allâh. Those! They are the truthful.

Sura 49. Al-Hujuraat (The Dwellings)

Ayaat 36-42 ~ An-Nisa’ (The Women)

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

36. Worship Allâh and join none with Him in worship, and do good to parents, kinsfolk, orphans, Al-Masâkin (the poor), the neighbour who is near of kin, the neighbour who is a stranger, the companion by your side, the wayfarer (you meet), and those (slaves) whom your right hands possess. Verily, Allâh does not like such as are proud and boastful;

37. Those who are miserly and enjoin miserliness on other men and hide what Allâh has bestowed upon them of His Bounties. And We have prepared for the disbelievers a disgraceful torment.

38. And (also) those who spend of their substance to be seen of men, and believe not in Allâh and the Last Day [they are the friends of Shaitân (Satan)], and whoever takes Shaitân (Satan) as an intimate; then what a dreadful intimate he has!

39. And what loss have they if they had believed in Allâh and in the Last Day, and they spend out of what Allâh has given them for sustenance? And Allâh is Ever All­Knower of them.

40. Surely! Allâh wrongs not even of the weight of an atom (or a small ant) , but if there is any good (done), He doubles it, and gives from Him a great reward.

41. How (will it be) then, when We bring from each nation a witness and We bring you (O Muhammad) as a witness against these people?

42. On that day those who disbelieved and disobeyed the Messenger will wish that they were buried in the earth, but they will never be able to hide a single fact from Allâh.

Sura 4. An-Nisa’ (The Women)

Ayaat 18-25 ~ Al-Isra’ (The Journey by Night)

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

Listen to Recitation

18. Whoever wishes for the quick-passing (transitory enjoyment of this world), We readily grant him what We will for whom We like. Then, afterwards, We have appointed for him Hell, he will burn therein disgraced and rejected, (far away from Allâh’s Mercy).

19. And whoever desires the Hereafter and strives for it, with the necessary effort due for it (i.e. do righteous deeds of Allâh’s Obedience) while he is a believer (in the Oneness of Allâh Islâmic Monotheism), then such are the ones whose striving shall be appreciated, thanked and rewarded (by Allâh).

20. To each these as well as those We bestow from the Bounties of your Lord. And the Bounties of your Lord can never be forbidden.

21. See how We prefer one above another (in this world) and verily, the Hereafter will be greater in degrees and greater in preference.

22. Set not up with Allâh any other ilâh (god), (O man)!, or you will sit down reproved, forsaken (in the Hell-fire).

23. And your Lord has decreed that you worship none but Him. And that you be dutiful to your parents. If one of them or both of them attain old age in your life, say not to them a word of disrespect, nor shout at them but address them in terms of honour[1].

24. And lower unto them the wing of submission and humility through mercy, and say: “My Lord! Bestow on them Your Mercy as they did bring me up when I was small.”

25. Your Lord knows best what is in your inner-selves. If you are righteous, then, verily, He is Ever Most Forgiving to those who turn unto Him again and again in obedience, and in repentance.

Sura 17. Surah Al-Isra’ (The Journey by Night)

Ayaat 30-35 ~ Al-Anbiyah’ (The Prophets)

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

30. Have not those who disbelieve known that the heavens and the earth were joined together as one united piece, then We parted them? And We have made from water every living thing. Will they not then believe[1]?

31. And We have placed on the earth firm mountains, lest it should shake with them, and We placed therein broad highways for them to pass through, that they may be guided.

32. And We have made the heaven a roof, safe and well guarded. Yet they turn away from its signs.

33. And He it is Who has created the night and the day, and the sun and the moon, each in an orbit floating.

34. And We granted not to any human being immortality before you, then if you die, would they live forever?

35. Everyone is going to taste death, and We shall make a trial of you with evil and with good, and to Us you will be returned.

Sura 21. Al-Anbiyah’ (The Prophets)

[1] This verse contains truths about the formation of planets and the earth, which have been confirmed by recent scientific discoveries.

Ayaat 27-29 ~ Al-A’raf (The Heights)

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

27. O Children of Adam! Let not Shaitân (Satan) deceive you, as he got your parents [Adam and Hawwa (Eve)] out of Paradise, stripping them of their raiments, to show them their private parts. Verily, he and Qabîluhu (his soldiers from the jinns or his tribe) see you from where you cannot see them. Verily, We made the Shayâtin (devils) Auliyâ’ (protectors and helpers) for those who believe not.

28. And when they commit a Fâhisha[1], they say: “We found our fathers doing it, and Allâh has commanded us of it.” Say: “Nay, Allâh never commands of Fâhisha. Do you say of Allâh what you know not?

29. Say: My Lord has commanded justice and (said) that you should face Him only[2] in each and every place of worship, in prayers[3], and invoke Him only making your religion sincere to Him by not joining in worship any partner to Him and with the intention that you are doing your deeds for Allâh’s sake only. As He brought you (into being) in the beginning, so shall you be brought into being (on the Day of Resurrection) [in two groups, one as a blessed one (believers), and the other as a wretched one (disbelievers)].

Sura 7. Al-A’raf (The Heights)

[1]: Fâhisha: evil deed, going round the Ka’bah in naked state, every kind of unlawful sexual intercourse, etc.
[2]: you should face Him only: i.e. worship none but Allâh and face the Qiblah, i.e. the Ka’bah at Makkah during prayers
[3]: in prayers: and not to face other false deities and idols

Ayaat 130-132 ~ Ta-Ha

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

Listen to Recitation

130. So bear patiently what they say, and glorify the praises of your Lord before the rising of the sun, and before its setting, and during some of the hours of the night, and at the sides of the day (an indication for the five compulsory congregational prayers), that you may become pleased with the reward which Allâh shall give you.

131. And strain not your eyes in longing for the things We have given for enjoyment to various groups of them (polytheists and disbelievers in the Oneness of Allâh), the splendour of the life of this world that We may test them thereby. But the provision (good reward in the Hereafter) of your Lord is better and more lasting.

132. And enjoin As-Salât (the prayer) on your family, and be patient in offering them [i.e. the Salât (prayers)]. We ask not of you a provision (i.e. to give Us something: money, etc.); We provide for you. And the good end (i.e. Paradise) is for the Muttaqûn (pious).

Sura 20. Ta-Ha

Ayaat 94-97 ~ An-Nahl (The Bees)

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

94. And make not your oaths, a means of deception among yourselves, lest a foot may slip after being firmly planted, and you may have to taste the evil (punishment in this world) of having hindered (men) from the Path of Allâh (i.e. Belief in the Oneness of Allâh and His Messenger, Muhammad ), and yours will be a great torment (i.e. the Fire of Hell in the Hereafter).

95. And purchase not a small gain at the cost of Allâh’s Covenant. Verily! What is with Allâh is better for you if you did but know.

96. Whatever is with you, will be exhausted, and whatever with Allâh (of good deeds) will remain. And those who are patient, We will certainly pay them a reward in proportion to the best of what they used to do.

97. Whoever works righteousness, whether male or female, while he (or she) is a true believer (of Islâmic Monotheism) verily, to him We will give a good life (in this world with respect, contentment and lawful provision), and We shall pay them certainly a reward in proportion to the best of what they used to do (i.e. Paradise in the Hereafter).

Sura 16. An-Nahl (The Bees)

Ayaat 33-34 ~ Luqman

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

33. O mankind! Be afraid of your Lord (by keeping your duty to Him and avoiding all evil), and fear a Day when no father can avail aught for his son, nor a son avail aught for his father. Verily, the Promise of Allâh is true, let not then this (worldly) present life deceive you, nor let the chief deceiver (Satan) deceive you about Allâh.

34. Verily, Allâh! With Him (Alone) is the knowledge of the Hour, He sends down the rain, and knows that which is in the wombs. No person knows what he will earn tomorrow, and no person knows in what land he will die. Verily, Allâh is All­Knower, All­Aware (of things).

Sura 31. Luqman