Ayaat 138-140 ~ Al-Imran (The Family of Imran)

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

138. This [Quran] is a clear statement to [all] the people and a guidance and instruction for those conscious of Allah.[1]

139. So do not weaken and do not grieve, and you will be superior if you are [true] believers.

140. If a wound should touch you – there has already touched the [opposing] people a wound similar to it. And these days [of varying conditions] We alternate among the people so that Allah may make evident those who believe and [may] take to Himself from among you martyrs – and Allah does not like the wrongdoers –

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

[1] The image attached was found in the debris after the earthquake in Morocco on 2023.09.08. SubhanAllah. Allah is Great.

Ayaat 17-22 ~ Ar-Rum

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

17. So exalted is Allah when you reach the evening and when you reach the morning.

18. And to Him is [due all] praise throughout the heavens and the earth. And [exalted is He] at night and when you are at noon.

19. He brings the living out of the dead and brings the dead out of the living and brings to life the earth after its lifelessness. And thus will you be brought out.

20. And of His signs is that He created you from dust; then, suddenly you were human beings dispersing [throughout the earth].

21. And of His signs is that He created for you from yourselves mates that you may find tranquility in them; and He placed between you affection and mercy. Indeed in that are signs for a people who give thought.

22. And of His signs is the creation of the heavens and the earth and the diversity of your languages and your colors. Indeed in that are signs for those of knowledge.

Sura 30. Ar-Rum

Ayaat 1-3 ~ At-Talaq

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

1. O Prophet, when you [Muslims] divorce women, divorce them for [the commencement of] their waiting period [1] and keep count of the waiting period,1 and fear Allah, your Lord. Do not turn them out of their [husbands’] houses, nor should they [themselves] leave [during that period] unless they are committing a clear immorality. And those are the limits [set by] Allah. And whoever transgresses the limits of Allah has certainly wronged himself. You know not; perhaps Allah will bring about after that a [different] matter [2].

2. And when they have [nearly] fulfilled their term, either retain them according to acceptable terms or part with them according to acceptable terms. And bring to witness two just men from among you and establish the testimony for [the acceptance of] Allah. That is instructed to whoever should believe in Allah and the Last Day. And whoever fears Allah – He will make for him a way out [3]

3. And will provide for him from where he does not expect. And whoever relies upon Allah – then He is sufficient for him. Indeed, Allah will accomplish His purpose. Allah has already set for everything a [decreed] extent.

Sura 65. At-Talaq

[1]: Perhaps the husband who has divorced his wife may change his mind and restore the marriage before the end of her waiting period (after the first or second count of revocable divorce).

[2]: A husband may separate from his wife after each of the first two counts of divorce or at the end of her waiting period with dignity. If he chooses to stay with her after the first two counts of divorce then divorces her a third time, the marriage is terminated at the end of her third waiting period. The wife will have to marry and divorce another man before she can be remarried to her ex-husband (see 2:230). However, a woman marrying someone with the intention of getting divorced, in order to return to her first husband, is forbidden.

[3]: i.e., relief from distress.

Ayaat 33-34 ~ Luqman

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

33. O mankind, fear your Lord and fear a Day when no father will avail his son, nor will a son avail his father at all. Indeed, the promise of Allah is truth, so let not the worldly life delude you and be not deceived about Allah by the Deceiver [i.e., Satan].

34. Indeed, Allah [alone] has knowledge of the Hour and sends down the rain and knows what is in the wombs. And no soul perceives what it will earn tomorrow, and no soul perceives in what land it will die. Indeed, Allah is Knowing and Acquainted.

Sura 31. Luqman

Ayaat 80-84 ~ Al-A’raf (The Heights)

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

80. And [We had sent] Lot when he said to his people, “Do you commit such immorality as no one has preceded you with from among the worlds [i.e., peoples]?[1]

81. Indeed, you approach men with desire, instead of women. Rather, you are a transgressing people.”

82. But the answer of his people was only that they said, “Evict them from your city! Indeed, they are men who keep themselves pure.”

83. So We saved him and his family, except for his wife; she was of those who remained [with the evildoers].

84. And We rained upon them a rain [of stones]. Then see how was the end of the criminals.

Sura 7. Al-A’raf (The Heights)

[1]: such as none preceding you has committed: To learn more about the Prophet Lut (Lot) (peace be upon him) and the sins that his nation committed (i.e. homosexuality, every kind of unlawful sexual intercourse, sodomy, etc.) there is an excellent series on the lives of the Prophets here and a 2nd series specifically on the characteristics of perished nations here.

Ayaat 20-23 ~ Al-Hadid (Iron)

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

20. Know that the life of this world is but amusement and diversion and adornment and boasting to one another and competition in increase of wealth and children – like the example of a rain whose [resulting] plant growth pleases the tillers; then it dries and you see it turned yellow; then it becomes [scattered] debris. And in the Hereafter is severe punishment and forgiveness from Allah and approval. And what is the worldly life except the enjoyment of delusion.

21. Race [i.e., compete] toward forgiveness from your Lord and a Garden whose width is like the width of the heavens and earth, prepared for those who believed in Allah and His messengers. That is the bounty of Allah which He gives to whom He wills, and Allah is the possessor of great bounty.

22. No disaster strikes upon the earth or among yourselves except that it is in a register (i.e., the Preserved Slate (al-Lawú al-Maúf´th)) before We bring it into being – indeed that, for Allah, is easy –

23. In order that you not despair over what has eluded you and not exult [in pride] over what He has given you. And Allah does not like everyone self-deluded and boastful –

Sura 57. Al-Hadid (Iron)

Ayaat 130-132 ~ Ta-Ha

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

130. So be patient over what they say and exalt [Allah] with praise of your Lord before the rising of the sun and before its setting; and during periods of the night [exalt Him] and at the ends of the day, that you may be satisfied.

131. And do not extend your eyes toward that by which We have given enjoyment to [some] categories of them, [its being but] the splendor of worldly life by which We test them. And the provision of your Lord is better and more enduring.

132. And enjoin prayer upon your family [and people] and be steadfast therein. We ask you not for provision; We provide for you, and the [best] outcome is for [those of] righteousness.

Sura 20. Ta-Ha

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

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

Listen to Recitation

53. Say, “O My servants who have transgressed against themselves [by sinning], do not despair of the mercy of Allah. Indeed, Allah forgives all sins[1].

54. And return [in repentance] to your Lord and submit to Him before the punishment comes upon you; then you will not be helped.

55. And follow the best of what was revealed to you from your Lord [i.e., the Quran] before the punishment comes upon you suddenly while you do not perceive,

56. Lest a soul should say,[2] “Oh, [how great is] my regret over what I neglected in regard to Allah and that I was among the mockers.”

57. Or [lest] it say, “If only Allah had guided me, I would have been among the righteous.”

58. Or [lest] it say when it sees the punishment, “If only I had another turn[3] so I could be among the doers of good.”

Sura 39. Az-Zumar (The Groups)

[1]: For those who repent and correct themselves.
[2]: On the Day of Resurrection.
[3]: At worldly life.

Ayaat 103-108 ~ Al-Kahf (The Cave)

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

103. Say, [O Muhammad], “Shall we [believers] inform you of the greatest losers as to [their] deeds?

104. [They are] those whose effort is lost in worldly life, while they think that they are doing well in work.”

105. Those are the ones who disbelieve in the verses of their Lord and in [their] meeting Him, so their deeds have become worthless; and We will not assign to them on the Day of Resurrection any weight [i.e., importance].

106. That is their recompense – Hell – for what they denied and [because] they took My signs and My messengers in ridicule.

107. Indeed, those who have believed and done righteous deeds – they will have the Gardens of Paradise[1] as a lodging,

Wherein they abide eternally. They will not desire from it any transfer.

Sura 18. Al-Kahf (The Cave)

[1] i.e., the highest part of Paradise, al-Firdaus.

Ayaat 39-48 ~ al-Muddaththir (The One Who Covers Himself (with a garment))

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

39. Except the companions of the right,

40. [Who will be] in gardens, questioning each other

41. About the criminals,

42. [And asking them], “What put you into Saqar?”

43. They will say, “We were not of those who prayed,

44. Nor did we used to feed the poor.

45. And we used to enter into vain discourse with those who engaged [in it],

46. And we used to deny the Day of Recompense

47. Until there came to us the certainty [i.e., death].”[1]

48. So there will not benefit them the intercession of [any] intercessors.

Sura 74. al-Muddaththir (The One Who Covers Himself (with a garment))

[1] Four reasons that have brought people to Hell. Let’s avoid these actions so as not to be among them inshaAllah.

Ayaat 151-153 ~ Al-An’am (The Cattle)

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

Listen to Recitation

151. Say, “Come, I will recite what your Lord has prohibited to you. [He commands] that you not associate anything with Him, and to parents, good treatment, and do not kill your children out of poverty; We will provide for you and them. And do not approach immoralities – what is apparent of them and what is concealed. And do not kill the soul which Allah has forbidden [to be killed] except by [legal] right. This has He instructed you that you may use reason.”

152. And do not approach the orphan’s property except in a way that is best [i.e., intending improvement] until he reaches maturity. And give full measure and weight in justice. We do not charge any soul except [with that within] its capacity. And when you speak [i.e., testify], be just, even if [it concerns] a near relative. And the covenant of Allah fulfill. This has He instructed you that you may remember.And do not approach the orphan’s property except in a way that is best [i.e., intending improvement] until he reaches maturity. And give full measure and weight in justice. We do not charge any soul except [with that within] its capacity. And when you speak [i.e., testify], be just, even if [it concerns] a near relative. And the covenant of Allah fulfill. This has He instructed you that you may remember.

153. And, [moreover], this is My path, which is straight, so follow it; and do not follow [other] ways, for you will be separated from His way. This has He instructed you that you may become righteous.

Sura 6. Al-An’am (The Cattle)

Ayaat 30-33 ~ Fussilat (Explained in detail)

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

Interesting Tafseer about these Ayaat (49 minutes)

30. Indeed, those who have said, “Our Lord is Allah” and then remained on a right course – the angels will descend upon them, [saying], “Do not fear and do not grieve but receive good tidings of Paradise, which you were promised.

31. We [angels] were your allies in worldly life and [are so] in the Hereafter. And you will have therein whatever your souls desire, and you will have therein whatever you request [or wish]

32. As accommodation from a [Lord who is] Forgiving and Merciful.”

33. And who is better in speech than one who invites to Allah and does righteousness and says, “Indeed, I am of the Muslims.”

Sura 41. Fussilat (Explained in detail)

Ayaat 34-35 ~ Al-Ahzab

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

Listen to Recitation

34. And remember what is recited in your houses of the verses of Allah and wisdom.1119 Indeed, Allah is ever Subtle and Acquainted [with all things].

35. Indeed, the Muslim men and Muslim women, the believing men and believing women, the obedient men and obedient women, the truthful men and truthful women, the patient men and patient women, the humble men and humble women, the charitable men and charitable women, the fasting men and fasting women, the men who guard their private parts and the women who do so, and the men who remember Allah often and the women who do so – for them Allah has prepared forgiveness and a great reward.

Sura 33. Al-Ahzab

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

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

Listen to Recitation

17. And gathered for Solomon were his soldiers of the jinn and men and birds, and they were [marching] in rows.

18. Until, when they came upon the valley of the ants, an ant said, “O ants, enter your dwellings that you not be crushed by Solomon and his soldiers while they perceive not.”

19. So [Solomon] smiled, amused at her speech, and said, “My Lord, enable me[1] to be grateful for Your favor which You have bestowed upon me and upon my parents and to do righteousness of which You approve. And admit me by Your mercy into [the ranks of] Your righteous servants[2].”[3]

Sura 27. An-Naml (The Ants)

[1]: More literally, “gather within me the utmost strength and ability.”

[2]: Or “with Your righteous servants [into Paradise].”

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

Ayaat 1-5 ~ Al-Qadr (The Night of Decree)

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

Listen to Recitation

1. Indeed, We sent it [i.e., the Quran] down during the Night of Decree[1].

2. And what can make you know what is the Night of Decree?

3. The Night of Decree is better than a thousand months[2].

4. The angels and the Spirit [i.e., Gabriel] descend therein by permission of their Lord for every matter[3].

5. Peace it is until the emergence of dawn.

Sura 97. Al-Qadr (The Night of Decree)

[1] Al-Qadr: Decree or Destiny. Other meanings are “precise measurement [i.e., amount or extent],” “value,” “gravity” or “greatness.”

[2] a thousand months: worshipping Allah in that night is better than worshipping Allah a thousand months, i.e. 83 years and 4 months.

[3] They bring down the decree for everything destined to occur in the coming year.

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. Allah – there is no deity except Him, the Ever-Living, the Sustainer of [all] existence. Neither drowsiness overtakes Him nor sleep. To Him belongs whatever is in the heavens and whatever is on the earth. Who is it that can intercede with Him except by His permission? He knows what is [presently] before them and what will be after them,[1] and they encompass not a thing of His knowledge except for what He wills. His Kursi[2] extends over the heavens and the earth, and their preservation tires Him not. And He is the Most High, the Most Great. [This Verse 2:255 is called Ayaat-ul-Kursî.]

Sura 2. Al-Baqarah (The Cow)

[1] Allah’s knowledge encompasses every aspect of His creations in the past, present and future.

[2] Chair or footstool. It is not to be confused with al-Arsh (the Throne), which is infinitely higher and greater than al-Kursi.

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

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

And spend [in the way of Allah] from what We have provided you before death approaches one of you and he says, “My Lord, if only You would delay me for a brief term so I would give charity and be among the righteous.” (Koran 63.10)

…And whatever good you [believers] spend is for yourselves, and you do not spend except seeking the countenance of Allah. And whatever you spend of good (i.e., wealth, property, resources, time, effort, etc.) – it will be fully repaid to you, and you will not be wronged. (Koran 2.272)

Those who spend their wealth [in Allah’s way] by night and by day, secretly and publicly – they will have their reward with their Lord. And no fear will there be concerning them, nor will they grieve. (Koran 2.274 )

Say, “Indeed, my Lord extends provision for whom He wills of His servants and restricts [it] for him. But whatever thing you spend [in His cause] – He will compensate 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 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)

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 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.

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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.

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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 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.