Surah al- Imran - WordPress.com · 2 Surah Ali ‘Imran (Lecture 1) Surah Ali ‘Imran was revealed in Madinah after Surah Al-Anfal. However, it was sequenced as the third surah in

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Surah al-‘Imran

Dr. Lamya Shahin, MB BCh., MD

[email protected]

Director of Outreach Activity Programs & Lecturer of Comparative Beliefs, IEF Centre –

Jeddah

Member at the International Commission of Scientific Signs in the Qur’an & Sunnah - Jeddah

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Surah Ali ‘Imran (Lecture 1)

Surah Ali ‘Imran was revealed in Madinah after Surah Al-Anfal. However, it was

sequenced as the third surah in the Holy Qur’an.

Revelation commenced after the battle of Badr, the 2nd

year of Hijrah, until after the

Battle of Uhud in the 3rd

year of Hijrah.

It is the twin sister of Surah al-Baqarah, and Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) described them

as "al-zahrawain" (the two blossoms).

Both surahs start with alif, lam, meem, and both end with a du‘aa’ (supplication).

Du‘aa’ al-Fatihah:

راط المستقيم اهدنــــا {6}الص"Guide us to the straight path."

Du‘aa’ al-Baqarah:

علينا إصرا كما حملته على الذين من قبلنا ربنا وال وال تحمل ربنا ال تؤاخذنا إن نسينا أو أخطأنا ربنا

لنا ما ال طاقة لنا به واعف عنا واغفر لنا وارحمنا }282}أنت موالنا فانصرنا على القوم الكافرين تحم

"Our Lord, do not impose blame upon us if we have forgotten or erred. Our Lord, and lay not

upon us a burden like that which You laid upon those before us. Our Lord, and burden us not

with that which we have no ability to bear. And pardon us; and forgive us; and have mercy

upon us. You are our protector, so give us victory over the disbelieving people."

Du‘aa’ Ali ‘Imran:

نا سمعنا مناديا ينادي لإليمان أن بنا إن سيئاتنا وتوفنا مع آمنوا بربكم فآمنا ربنا فاغفر لنا ذنوبنا وكفر عنا ر

}191}األبرار “Our Lord, so forgive us our sins and remove from us our misdeeds and cause us to die among

the righteous.”

Three principles appear in this surah:

1. The real meaning of Islam as the religion of truth

2. Muslims' submission to Allah

3. Muslims are warned against the different factors that dissuade their role in fulfilling

their responsibilities.

People are faced with many trials affecting their feelings and actions.

Allah revealed the Qur’an out of His mercy, to remind the old and new believers, and to teach

them how to be steadfast and secure in their roles and responsibilities as believers.

Faith is the covenant that ties Muslims together and is their homeland.

It is the base of their communications and bonds.

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Relations have no value and are torn apart once this faith is disrupted and opposed by

other factors.

The enemies of the true belief gather their efforts to disrupt this faith so that Muslims

are no longer as one family.

Reasons for going astray:

1. Ideological or internal factors

2. Practical or external factors

The goal of this surah is to inform and remind the believer to adhere firmly to the truth.

The surah is divided into two parts:

The 1st part (verses 1-120):

• Teaches ideological adherence to the truth when exposed to influential external factors

• Describes the People of the Scripture

• The first debate between different beliefs

The 2nd part (verses 120-200):

• Teaches practical firm adherence to the truth when faced with influential internal factors

• Describes the events of the Battle of Uhud as an example to learn from.

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Surah Ali ‘Imran

حيم حمن الر }1{بسم هللا الرIn the name of Allah, Most Beneficent, Most Merciful.

ال إلـه إال هو الحي القيوم {1}الم }2}هللاه1. Alif, Lam, Meem.

2. Allah – there is no deity except Him, the Ever-Living, the Sustainer of existence.

وراة واإلنجيل قا لما بين يديه وأنزل الت ل عليك الكتاب بالحق مصد {1}نز3. He has sent down upon you,[O Muhammad], the Book in truth, confirming what was before

it. And He revealed the Torah and the Gospel

ع م لهم عذاب شديد وهللاه اس وأنزل الفرقان إن الذين كفروا بآيات هللاه زيز ذو ن قبل هدى للن {4}انتقام

4. Before, as guidance for the people. And He revealed the Criterion [i.e., the Quran].

Indeed, those who disbelieve in the verses of Allah will have a severe punishment, and

Allah is Exalted in Might, the Owner of Retribution.

ماء ال يخفى عليه شيء في األرض وال في الس {5}إن هللاه5. Indeed, from Allah nothing is hidden in the earth nor in the heaven.

ركم في األرحام كيف يشاء ال إلـه إال هو العزيز الحكيم { 2}هو الذي يصو6. It is He who forms you in the wombs however He wills. There is no deity except Him, the

Exalted in Might, the Wise.

Qur’anic Values My Requirements

1 - God "Allah" is one. • Be sure of this fact.

• Rely on Allah alone.

• Recognize Allah by His names and

attributes.

• Our book helps us to be firm in our

belief.

2 - The Qur’an confirmed monotheism, as

did the previous scriptures.

• Know the difference between Muslim

beliefs and the beliefs of others.

• Our path is a distinctive and decisive

one which is different from manmade

beliefs.

• Adhere firmly to it

3 - Allah's punishment is great. • Fear Him as He deserves to be feared.

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ا حكمات هن أم الكتاب وأخر متشابهات فأم الذين في هو الذي أنزل عليك الكتاب منه آيات مبعون ما تشابه منه ابتغاء الفتنة وابتغاء تأويله وما يعلم ت قلوبهم زيغ فيت أويله إال هللاه

ر إال أولوا األلباب ك نا وما يذ ن عند رب ا به كل م اسخون في العلم يقولون آمن {7} والر7. It is He who has sent down to you, [O Muhammad], the Book; in it are verses [that are]

precise – they are the foundation of the Book – and others unspecific. As for those in whose

hearts is deviation [from truth], they will follow that of it which is unspecific, seeking discord

and seeking an interpretation [suitable to them]. And no one knows its [true] interpretation

except Allah. But those firm in knowledge say, "We believe in it. All [of it] is from our Lord."

And no one will be reminded except those of understanding,

اب ك أنت الوه نا ال تزغ قلوبنا بعد إذ هديتنا وهب لنا من لدنك رحمة إن {8}رب8. [Who say], "Our Lord, let not our hearts deviate after You have guided us and grant us from

Yourself mercy. Indeed, You are the Bestower.

ال يخلف الميعاد اس ليوم ال ريب فيه إن هللاه ك جامع الن نا إن {9}رب9. Our Lord, surely You will gather the people for a Day about which there is no doubt.

Indeed, Allah does not fail in His promise."


1- The Qur’an brings ideological adherence to

the truth.

• Understand the exact meaning of the

Qur’an's words.

• Do not interpret it according to your

own imagination or ideas.

2- Allah is the one who helps us to adhere to

the truth.

• Remember to ask Allah to help and

support you in keeping the faith within

His guidance.

3- The Qur’an is from Allah. Remember:

• Our source of information is secure, as

everything from Allah is the truth.

• Harbor no doubts.

• Our questions are answered.

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شيئا وأولـئك هم وقو ن للاه { 01}د النار إن الذين كفروا لن تغني عنهم أموالهم وال أوالدهم م10. Indeed, those who disbelieve – never will their wealth or their children avail them against

Allah at all. And it is they who are fuel for the Fire.

شديد بذنوبهم وللاه بوا بآياتنا فأخذهم للاه { 00}العقاب كدأب آل فرعون والذين من قبلهم كذ11. [Theirs is] like the custom of the people of Pharaoh and those before them. They denied

Our signs, so Allah seized them for their sins. And Allah is severe in penalty.

{12}قل للذين كفروا ستغلبون وتحشرون إلى جهنم وبئس المهاد 12. Say to those who disbelieve, "You will be overcome and gathered together to Hell, and

wretched is the resting place."


1-The fate of disbelief is known in this life

and the Hereafter.

• Hold tight to this religion and be

confident of your eternal fate.

• Do not be deceived with what is

given to the disbelievers in this life.

2- History proves it • Seeking righteous things for Allah's

sake brings victory.

ثل وأخرى كافرة يرونهم م يهم رأي العين قد كان لكم آية في فئتين التقتا فئة تقاتل في سبيل هللاهولي األبصار د بنصره من يشاء إن في ذلك لعبرة أل يؤي {11}وهللاه

13. Already there has been for you a sign in the two armies which met [in combat at Badr] –

one fighting in the cause of Allah and another of disbelievers. They saw them [to be] twice

their [own] number by [their] eyesight. But Allah supports with His victory whom He wills.

Indeed in that is a lesson for those of vision.


The battle at Badr taught Allah's rules for

victory.

• Put full confidence and trust in Allah

during hardships.

• Realize that victory is in Allah's

hands.

• Maintain self-discipline.

• Proper preparation and training for

war is essential.

• Follow the program prescribed by

Allah.

• Uphold order and obedience.

• Have awareness of Allah's wisdom.

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هوات من النساء والبنين والقناطير اس حب الش ن للن ة والخيل زي هب والفض المقنطرة من الذ عنده حسن المآب نيا وهللاه مة واألنعام والحرث ذلك متاع الحياة الد {14}المسو

14. Beautified for people is the love of that which they desire – of women and sons, heaped-

up sums of gold and silver, fine branded horses, and cattle and tilled land. That is the

enjoyment of worldly life, but Allah has with Him the best return [i.e., Paradise].

قوا عند رب ن ذلكم للذين ات ئكم بخير م ات تجري من تحتها األنهار خالدين فيها قل أؤنب هم جن بصير بالعباد وهللاه ن هللاه رة ورضوان م طه {15}وأزواج م

15. Say, "Shall I inform you of [something] better than that? For those who fear Allah will

be gardens in the presence of their Lord beneath which rivers flow, wherein they abide

eternally, and purified spouses and approval from Allah. And Allah is Seeing [i.e., aware]

of [His] servants –

ا فاغفر لنا ذن نا آمن نا إن ار الذين يقولون رب {12}وبنا وقنا عذاب الن16. Those who say, "Our Lord, indeed we have believed, so forgive us our sins and

protect us from the punishment of the Fire,"


1. The love of worldly enjoyments is a natural

instinct but should be put in its right place.

• Evaluate this life properly.

• Know that worldly pleasures are not

lasting, so do not make them your goal.

• Beware of their threat to your given

responsibility.

• Adherence to the right path is possible

with self-control.

2. Enjoyment in the worldly life is very little

compared to the eternal enjoyment in Paradise.

• Free yourself from worldly enjoyment

to be able to attain a better quality of

enjoyment in Paradise.

• The righteous, responsible person

deserves Paradise and eternal

enjoyment.

3. Repentance is a recovery. • Remember to ask for forgiveness;

Allah is the Most Forgiving.

4. The value of obedience • By being obedient you are fulfilling the

meaning of worship.

• Keep your pride and freedom by

obeying only Allah.

5. The value of spending money for Allah • It should free me from the love of

money.

• It raises the importance of brotherhood

over personal enjoyment.

6. The value of seeking forgiveness before

dawn

• Enjoy Allah's love and company when

all others are asleep.

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ادقين والقانتين والمنفقين والمستغفرين باألسحار ابرين والص {17}الص17. The patient, the true, the obedient, those who spend [in the way of Allah], and those who

seek forgiveness before dawn.


1. The value of patience • Do not complain to anyone other than

Allah.

• Hold tight to the right path.

• Be determined when you apply the

rites of Islam.

• Accept the trials Allah gives you.

2. The value of truthfulness • Be proud of the truth that you hold.

• Never be weak and succumb to

hiding the truth.

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Adherence to the firm truth is the role of Surah Ali ‘Imran, as shown in various occasions:

1. When the believers are faced with their enemies

ثل وأخرى كافرة يرونهم م يهم رأي العين قد كان لكم آية في فئتين التقتا فئة تقاتل في سبيل هللاهولي األبصار د بنصره من يشاء إن في ذلك لعبرة أل يؤي {11}وهللاه

13. Already there has been for you a sign in the two armies which met [in combat at Badr] –

one fighting in the cause of Allah and another of disbelievers. They saw them [to be] twice

their [own] number by [their] eyesight. But Allah supports with His victory whom He wills.

Indeed in that is a lesson for those of vision.

وما ضعف يون كثير فما وهنوا لما أصابهم في سبيل هللاه بي قاتل معه رب ن ن وا وما وكأين مابرين يحب الص {142}استكانوا وهللاه

146. And how many a prophet [fought in battle and] with him fought many religious scholars.

But they never lost assurance due to what afflicted them in the cause of Allah, nor did they

weaken or submit. And Allah loves the steadfast.

اس قد جمعوا لكم فاخشوهم فزاد اس إن الن ونعم الذين قال لهم الن هم إيمانا وقالوا حسبنا هللاه { 171} الوكيل

173. Those to whom people [i.e., hypocrites] said, "Indeed, the people have gathered against

you, so fear them." But it [merely] increased them in faith, and they said, "Sufficient for us is

Allah, and [He is] the best Disposer of affairs."

ذو فضل ع وهللاه بعوا رضوان هللاه وفضل لم يمسسهم سوء وات ن هللاه { 174} ظيم فانقلبوا بنعمة م174. So they returned with favor from Allah and bounty, no harm having touched them.

And they pursued the pleasure of Allah, and Allah is the possessor of great bounty.

2. When the believers in Jesus protected their prophet and religion against the call of

disbelief

ا أحس عيسى منهم الكفر ق ا فلم آمن قال الحواريون نحن أنصار هللاه ال من أنصاري إلى هللاها مسلمون واشهد بأن .بالله

52. "But when Jesus felt [persistence in] disbelief from them, he said, "Who are my supporters

for [the cause of] Allah?" The disciples said, "We are supporters for Allah. We have believed

in Allah and testify that we are Muslims [submitting to Him].'

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3. When Allah's prophets stood firm during their missions for His sake

ين لما آتيتك بي ميثاق الن ق لما معكم وإذ أخذ هللاه صد ن كتاب وحكمة ثم جاءكم رسول م م مه قال أأقررتم وأخذتم على ذلكم إصري قالوا أقررنا قال فاش هدوا وأنا لتؤمنن به ولتنصرن

اهدين ن الش .معكم م81. And [recall, O People of the Scripture], when Allah took the covenant of the prophets,

[saying], "Whatever I give you of the Scripture and wisdom and then there comes to you a

messenger confirming what is with you, you [must] believe in him and support him." [Allah]

said, "Have you acknowledged and taken upon that My commitment?" They said, "We have

acknowledged it." He said, "Then bear witness, and I am with you among the witnesses."

4. Stay adherent to the truth until death.

سلمون حق تقاته وال تموتن إال وأنتم م .يا أيها الذين آمنوا اتقوا للاه102. O you who have believed, fear Allah as He should be feared and do not die except as

Muslims [in submission to Him].

عليكم إذ كنتم أعداء فألف بين واعتصموا بحب قوا واذكروا نعمت هللاه جميعا وال تفر ل هللاهنها كذل ار فأنقذكم م ن الن قلوبكم فأصبحتم بنعمته إخوانا وكنتم على شفا حفرة م لكم ك يبين هللاه

.آياته لعلكم تهتدون

103. And hold firmly to the rope of Allah all together and do not become divided. And

remember the favor of Allah upon you – when you were enemies and He brought your hearts

together and you became, by His favor, brothers. And you were on the edge of a pit of the Fire,

and He saved you from it. Thus does Allah make clear to you His verses that you may be

guided.


Allah gave us the safety keys to grant a

secure, safe end.

• To be safe, hold firm to the way of

truth.

• Train yourself to live this way so that

when the time comes you apply it

easily.

• Think of Allah's attributes, such as the

King and Lord of the universe; He

owns our hearts.

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ة يدعون إلى الخير ويأمرون بالمعروف وينهون عن المنكر وأولـئك نكم أم هم ولتكن م {114}المفلحون

104. And let there be [arising] from you a nation inviting to [all that is] good, enjoining

what is right and forbidding what is wrong, and those will be the successful.

نات وأولـئك لهم عذاب ع قوا واختلفوا من بعد ما جاءهم البي {115}ظيم وال تكونوا كالذين تفر105. And do not be like the ones who became divided and differed after the clear proofs had

come to them. And those will have a great punishment.

ت وجوههم أكفرتم بعد إيمانكم فذوق ا الذين اسود وا العذاب يوم تبيض وجوه وتسود وجوه فأم { 112}فرون بما كنتم تك

106. On the Day [some] faces will turn white and [some] faces will turn black. As for those

whose faces turn black, [to them it will be said], "Did you disbelieve [i.e., reject faith] after

your belief? Then taste the punishment for what you used to reject."


Adherence to the truth is the way to success. • Ways to adhere to the truth:

1. Hold tight to the Qur’an

2. Guide people to good and teach them

how to live righteously.

3. Educate people about wrong and teach

them how to avoid it.

4. Be close to those who teach you the

truth and Allah's guidance.

5. Do not fight and become divided from

one another.

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Adherence to the truth is tough. So Allah warned us from the factors that would

influence and affect it.

Love of this world can lead to disobedience

ة و هب والفض هوات من النساء والبنين والقناطير المقنطرة من الذ اس حب الش ن للن الخيل زي نيا وهللاه مة واألنعام والحرث ذلك متاع الحياة الد {14}عنده حسن المآب المسو

14. Beautified for people is the love of that which they desire – of women and sons, heaped-up

sums of gold and silver, fine branded horses, and cattle and tilled land. That is the enjoyment

of worldly life, but Allah has with Him the best return [i.e., Paradise].

يطان ببعض ما كسبوا ما استزلهم الش إن الذين تولوا منكم يوم التقى الجمعان إن ولقد عفا هللاه غفور حليم {155}عنهم إن هللاه

155. Indeed, those of you who turned back on the day the two armies met [at Uhud] – it was

Satan who caused them to slip because of some [blame] they had earned.

Repentance is your solution

ا فاغفر لنا ذنوبنا وقنا عذاب نا آمن نا إن ار الذين يقولون رب {12}الن16. Those who say, "Our Lord, indeed we have believed, so forgive us our sins and protect

us from the punishment of the Fire."

حيم {89}إال الذين تابوا من بعد ذلك وأصلحوا فإن هللا غفور ر89. Except for those who repent after that and correct themselves. For indeed, Allah is

Forgiving and Merciful.

قين ت للمت ماوات واألرض أعد ة عرضها الس كم وجن ب ن ر {111}وسارعوا إلى مغفرة م133. And hasten to forgiveness from your Lord and a garden [i.e., Paradise] as wide as the

heavens and earth, prepared for the righteous.

اب ك أنت الوه نا ال تزغ قلوبنا بعد إذ هديتنا وهب لنا من لدنك رحمة إن {8}رب8. [Who say], "Our Lord, let not our hearts deviate after You have guided us and grant us from

Yourself mercy. Indeed, You are the Bestower.

ال يخلف الميعاد اس ليوم ال ريب فيه إن هللاه ك جامع الن نا إن {9}رب9. Our Lord, surely You will gather the people for a Day about which there is no doubt.

Indeed, Allah does not fail in His promise."

ن تشاء وتعز من تشاء وتذل من قل اللهم مالك الملك تؤتي الملك من تشاء وتنزع الملك ممك على هار في الليل {22}كل شيء قدير تشاء بيدك الخير إن هار وتولج الن تولج الليل في الن

ت من الحي وترزق من تشاء بغير حساب ت وتخرج المي { 27}وتخرج الحي من المي26. Say, "O Allah, Owner of Sovereignty, You give sovereignty to whom You will and You

take sovereignty away from whom You will. You honor whom You will and You humble

whom You will. In Your hand is [all] good. Indeed, You are over all things competent.

27. You cause the night to enter the day, and You cause the day to enter the night; and You

bring the living out of the dead, and You bring the dead out of the living. And You give

provision to whom You will without account [i.e., limit or measure].


Factors that strengthen the believer to adhere

to the truth

• Rely on Allah and call upon Him as

He is the only one who can help us

adhere to His way.

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Allah has given examples for calling upon Him at all times and of His continuous

acceptance

ميع العليم إذ قالت امرأة ع ل مني إنك أنت الس را فتقب {15}مران رب إني نذرت لك ما في بطني محر 35. [Mention, O Muhammad], when the wife of ‘Imran said, "My Lord, indeed I have pledged

to You what is in my womb, consecrated [for Your service], so accept this from me. Indeed,

You are the Hearing, the Knowing."

ت أقدامن نا اغفر لنا ذنوبنا وإسرافنا في أمرنا وثب ا وانصرنا على وما كان قولهم إال أن قالوا رب {147}القوم الكافرين

147. And their words were not but that they said, "Our Lord, forgive us our sins and the excess

[committed] in our affairs and plant firmly our feet and give us victory over the disbelieving

people."

نيا وحسن ثواب ثواب الد يحب المحسنين فآتاهم هللاه {148}اآلخرة وهللاه148. So Allah gave them the reward of this world and the good reward of the Hereafter.

And Allah loves the doers of good.



to the truth

• Worship Allah to help you through

His way.

Examples for worship

ا المحراب ... ...كلما دخل عليها زكري

37. “…Every time Zechariah entered upon her in the prayer chamber…”

...في المحراب فنادته المآلئكة وهو قائم يصلي ...

39. "So the angels called him while he was standing in prayer in the chamber…"

ماوات واألرض ر قياما وقعودا وعلى جنوبهم ويتفكرون في خلق الس بنا ما خلقت هذا الذين يذكرون للاه

{191}ال سبحانك فقنا عذاب النار باط

191. "Who remember Allah while standing or sitting or [lying] on their sides and give

thought to the creation of the heavens and the earth…"



to the truth

• Convey the truth of your religion for

Allah's sake.

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Muslims are from many different nations and cultures. All Muslims believe in Islam, but

some Muslims fall short in their Islamic identity. In order for Islam to be your identity,

you should teach and practice it. Through your example and teachings, the religion

becomes a part of you.

ة يدعون إلى الخير ويأمرون بالمعروف وينهون عن المنكر وأولـئك نكم أم {114}هم المفلحون ولتكن م104. And let there be [arising] from you a nation inviting to [all that is] good, enjoining what is

right and forbidding what is wrong, and those will be the successful.

و ة أخرجت للناس تأمرون بالمعروف وتنهون عن المنكر وتؤمنون بالله لو آمن أهل الكتاب لكان كنتم خير أم

نهم ال {111}مؤمنون وأكثرهم الفاسقون خيرا لهم م110. You are the best nation produced [as an example] for mankind. You enjoin what is right

and forbid what is wrong and believe in Allah. If only the People of the Scripture had believed,

it would have been better for them. Among them are believers, but most of them are defiantly

disobedient.



to the truth • The goal is clear. Our responsibility

on earth is to spread and apply Islam

in our daily practices.

عليكم إذ كنتم أعداء فأ قوا واذكروا نعمت للاه جميعا وال تفر لف بين قلوبكم فأصبحتم واعتصموا بحبل للاه

{111}...بنعمته إخوانا 103. And hold firmly to the rope of Allah all together and do not become divided. And

remember the favor of Allah upon you – when you were enemies and He brought your hearts

together and you became, by His favor, brothers.



to the truth

• Hold close to your brothers and sisters

in Islam to remain united.

15


Discussion of faith with other beliefs (verses 1-120)

The goals:

• No one should be humiliated because of his faith

• Mental reassurance to the believers that what they hold is the truth

• Clearing doubts that might interfere with a Muslim's responsibility on earth

أنه ال إلـه إال هو والمالئكة وأولوا العلم قآئما بالقسط ال إلـه إال { 18}كيم هو العزيز الح شهد للاه18. Allah witnesses that there is no deity except Him, and [so do] the angels and those of

knowledge – [that He is] maintaining [creation] in justice. There is no deity except Him, the

Exalted in Might, the Wise.

ين عند للاه يكفر اإلسالم وما اختلف الذين أوتوا الكتاب إال من بعد ما جاءهم العلم بغيا بينهم ومن إن الد

سريع الحساب فإن للاه { 19}بآيات للاه19. Indeed, the religion in the sight of Allah is Islam. And those who were given the Scripture

did not differ except after knowledge had come to them – out of jealous animosity between

themselves. And whoever disbelieves in the verses of Allah, then indeed, Allah is swift in

[taking] account.

وك فقل أ يين أأسلمتم فإن أسل فإن حآج ومن اتبعن وقل للذين أوتوا الكتاب واألم موا فقد اهتدوا سلمت وجهي لله

بصير بالعباد إن تولوا فإنما عليك البالغ وللاه { 21}و20. So if they argue with you, say, "I have submitted myself to Allah [in Islam], and [so have]

those who follow me." And say to those who were given the Scripture and [to] the unlearned,

"Have you submitted yourselves?" And if they submit [in Islam], they are rightly guided; but if

they turn away – then upon you is only the [duty of] notification. And Allah is Seeing of [His]

servants.


Islam is the correct faith that Allah made for

His created authority on earth.

• Live Islam

• Submit to Allah and obey Him.

• Obey His prophets.

• Follow the way of His prophets.

• Apply His Book in everyday affairs.

• Judge based on His teachings.

12

وال نشرك به شيئا وال يتخذ بعضنا بعضا قل يا أهل الكتاب تعالوا إلى كلمة سواء بيننا وبينكم أال نعبد إال للاه

فإن تولوا فقولوا اشهدوا بأنا مسلمون ن دون للاه {24}أربابا م64. Say, "O People of the Scripture, come to a word that is equitable between us and you – that

we will not worship except Allah and not associate anything with Him and not take one another

as lords instead of Allah." But if they turn away, then say, "Bear witness that we are Muslims

[submitting to Him]."

وما أنزل علينا وما أنزل على إبراهيم وإسماعيل وإسحاق ويعقوب واألسباط وما أوتي موسى قل آمنا بالله

نهم ونحن له مسلمون ق بين أحد م بهم ال نفر { 84}وعيسى والنبيون من ر84. Say, "We have believed in Allah and in what was revealed to us and what was revealed to

Abraham, Ishmael, Isaac, Jacob, and the Descendants [al-Asbat], and in what was given to

Moses and Jesus and to the prophets from their Lord. We make no distinction between any of

them, and we are Muslims [submitting] to Him."


There are points of agreement. • Search for common ground and use

them to convey the truth of Islam.

• Let others know that all prophets

brought the same message of Islam.

كمثل آدم خلقه من تراب ثم قال له كن فيكون {59}إن مثل عيسى عند للاه59. Indeed, the example of Jesus to Allah is like that of Adam. He created him from dust;

then He said to him, "Be," and he was.

ون في إبراهيم وما أنزلت التوراة واإلنجيل إال من بعده أفال تعقلون يا أهل الكت { 25}اب لم تحآج65. O People of the Scripture, why do you argue about Abraham while the Torah and the

Gospel were not revealed until after him? Then will you not reason?

ة ثم يقول للناس كونوا عبادا لي الكتاب والحكم والنبو ولـكن كونوا ما كان لبشر أن يؤتيه للاه من دون للاه

{79}درسون ربانيين بما كنتم تعلمون الكتاب وبما كنتم ت 79. It is not for a human [prophet] that Allah should give him the Scripture and authority and

prophethood and then he would say to the people, "Be servants to me rather than Allah," but

[instead, he would say], "Be pious scholars of the Lord because of what you have taught of the

Scripture and because of what you have studied."

{ 81}سلمون وال يأمركم أن تتخذوا المالئكة والنبيين أربابا أيأمركم بالكفر بعد إذ أنتم م 80. Nor could he order you to take the angels and prophets as lords. Would he order you to

disbelief after you had been Muslims?

Qur’anic values My requirements

Logical and reasonable proofs • Stand firm when Islam is discussed.

• Use the proofs given by Allah to teach the unity of

His Lordship over the universe.

• Clarify how they divided this unity and assigned

Jesus lordship with no authority and fought among

themselves to advocate this misconception.

• Show them that their arguments and debates were

caused by their transgression.

17

وأنتم تشهدون {71}يا أهل الكتاب لم تكفرون بآيات للاه70. O People of the Scripture, why do you disbelieve in the verses of Allah while you witness

[to their truth]?

{ 71}وتكتمون الحق وأنتم تعلمون يا أهل الكتاب لم تلبسون الحق بالباطل 71. O People of the Scripture, why do you mix [i.e., confuse] the truth with falsehood and

conceal the truth while you know [it]?


Allah is warning the People of the Scripture. • Make sure they understand the

concept of true faith.

• We are ordered to believe in the truth

revealed to all the prophets and to the

final Prophet.

• Deliver this truth to everyone you see.

ة قآئمة ي ن أهل الكتاب أم آناء الليل وهم يسجدون ليسوا سواء م {111}تلون آيات للاه113. They are not [all] the same; among the People of the Scripture is a community standing

[in obedience], reciting the verses of Allah during periods of the night and prostrating [in

prayer].

واليوم اآلخر ويأمرون بالمعروف وينهون عن المنكر ويسارعون في الخي رات وأولـئك من يؤمنون بالله

الحين {114}الص114. They believe in Allah and the Last Day, and they enjoin what is right and forbid what is

wrong and hasten to good deeds. And those are among the righteous.

عليم بالمتقين { 115}وما يفعلوا من خير فلن يكفروه وللاه115. And whatever good they do – never will it be removed from them. And Allah is Knowing

of the righteous.


• Islam is a sophisticated religion.

• It grants non-Muslims rights as well.

• Judge them with fairness, as among

them are worshipers.

• Be fair when you deal with non-

Muslims.

The surah is named after the family of ‘Imran, describing details about this family and

their sacred position.

اصطفى آدم ونوحا وآل إبراهيم وآل عمران على العالمين {11}إن للاه33. Indeed, Allah chose Adam and Noah and the family of Abraham and the family of Ali

‘Imran over the worlds –

اصطفاك وطهرك واصطفاك على نساء العالمين { 42}وإذ قالت المالئكة يا مريم إن للاه42. And [mention] when the angels said, "O Mary, indeed Allah has chosen you and purified

you and chosen you above the women of the worlds.

18


Islam encourages fair evaluation. • The prophets of Allah are sacred, so do not allow

their personalities to be humiliated or disgraced.

• Do not transgress when discussing the prophets

and Virgin Mary.

وكم بعد إيمانكم ن الذين أوتوا الكتاب يرد {111}كافرين يا أيها الذين آمنوا إن تطيعوا فريقا م100. O you who have believed, if you obey a party of those who were given the Scripture, they

would turn you back, after your belief, [to being] unbelievers.

قوا واختلفوا من بعد ما جاءهم البينات وأولـئك لهم عذاب ع { 115}ظيم وال تكونوا كالذين تفر105. And do not be like the ones who became divided and differed after the clear proofs had


وا ع هاأنتم أوالء تحبونهم وال يحبونكم وتؤمنون بالكتاب كله وإذا لقوكم قالوا آمنا ليكم األنامل وإذا خلوا عض

دور عليم بذات الص {119}من الغيظ قل موتوا بغيظكم إن للاه119. Here you are loving them but they are not loving you, while you believe in the Scripture –

all of it. And when they meet you, they say, "We believe." But when they are alone, they bite

their fingertips at you in rage. Say, "Die in your rage. Indeed, Allah is Knowing of that within

the breasts."


The Qur’an warns against blind following. • Allah clarified their faith to us so as not

to be deceived by them.

• We have to recognize their intentions

towards us.

بما يعملون محيط كم كيدهم شيئا إن للاه { 121}وإن تصبروا وتتقوا ال يضر120. And if you are patient and fear Allah, their plot will not harm you at all. Indeed, Allah is

encompassing of what they do.

لعلكم تفلحون {211}يا أيها الذين آمنوا اصبروا وصابروا ورابطوا واتقوا للاه200. O you who have believed, persevere and endure and remain stationed and fear Allah that

you may be successful.


Self-control for Allah's sake leads to success. • Be successful by steadfastness and

patience.

• Do not let them push you out of the

way.

19


Practical (external) supportive ways are expounded, using events which took place during

the battle of Uhud.

And we are reminded of Allah's favors upon the believers as witnessed in the Battle of

Badr.

فل إذ همت طآئفتان منكم أن تفشال وليهما وعلى للاه {122}يتوكل المؤمنون وللاه122. When two parties among you were about to lose courage, but Allah was their ally; and

upon Allah the believers should rely.

ببدر وأنتم أذ لعلكم تشكرون ولقد نصركم للاه {121}لة فاتقوا للاه123. And already had Allah given you victory at [the battle of] Badr while you were weak

[i.e., few in number]. Then fear Allah; perhaps you will be grateful.

مين بلى إن تصبروا وتتقوا وي ن المآلئكة مسو ن فورهم هـذا يمددكم ربكم بخمسة آالف م {125}أتوكم م125. Yes, if you remain patient and conscious of Allah and they [i.e., the enemy] come upon

you [attacking] in rage, your Lord will reinforce you with five thousand angels having marks

[of distinction].


Patience and righteousness are keys to victory. • Recognize Allah's enemies.

• Be patient when you face them.

• Count upon Allah for ultimate victory;

not upon ourselves.

• Allah supports the righteous with His

angels.

ماوات واألرض أعدت للمتقين بكم وجنة عرضها الس ن ر {111}وسارعوا إلى مغفرة م133. And hasten to forgiveness from your Lord and a garden [i.e., Paradise] as wide as the

heavens and earth, prepared for the righteous

فاستغفروا لذنوبهم ومن يغف وا والذين إذا فعلوا فاحشة أو ظلموا أنفسهم ذكروا للاه ولم يصر نوب إال للاه ر الذ

{ 115}مون على ما فعلوا وهم يعل

135. And those who, when they commit an immorality or wrong themselves [by transgression],

remember Allah and seek forgiveness for their sins – and who can forgive sins except Allah? –

and [who] do not persist in what they have done while they know.


Before being blamed, the command for

repentance is given.

• Hasten in repentance and asking for

forgiveness.

• Learn how to deal with people in the

same ideal way that Allah used.

• Do not pick on others' mistakes, and

hasten to excuse their weaknesses and

mistakes.

21

Soothing the believers

ؤمنين { 119}وال تهنوا وال تحزنوا وأنتم األعلون إن كنتم م139. So do not weaken and do not grieve, and you will be superior if you are [true] believers.

ثله وتلك األيام نداولها بين الناس وليعلم الذين آمنوا ويتخذ منكم إن يمسسكم قرح فقد مس القوم قرح م للاه

ال يحب الظالمين {141}شهداء وللاه140. 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 –


Affirmation and full support are given by

these soft words from Allah, the Lord of the

universe.

• Remember the morals expected of a

Muslim, especially during hardships.

• It is important to remember to

implement this and make it a "talent."

ابرين الذين جاهدوا منكم ويعلم الص ا يعلم للاه {142}أم حسبتم أن تدخلوا الجنة ولم142. Or do you think that you will enter Paradise while Allah has not yet made evident those of

you who fight in His cause and made evident those who are steadfast?


Paradise is worth the effort. • One should work hard to achieve this

goal.

{141}فقد رأيتموه وأنتم تنظرون ولقد كنتم تمنون الموت من قبل أن تلقوه 143. And you had certainly wished for death [i.e., martyrdom] before you encountered it, and

you have [now] seen it [before you] while you were looking on.

د إال رسول قد خلت من قب ات أو قتل انقلبتم على أعقابكم ومن ينقلب على عقبيه فلن وما محم سل أفإن م له الر

اكرين الش شيئا وسيجزي للاه {144}يضر للاه144. Muhammad is not but a messenger. [Other] messengers have passed on before him. So

if he was to die or be killed, would you turn back on your heels [to unbelief]? And he who

turns back on his heels will never harm Allah at all; but Allah will reward the grateful.

ن نبي قاتل معه ربيون كثير ف يحب وكأين م وما ضعفوا وما استكانوا وللاه ما وهنوا لما أصابهم في سبيل للاه

ابرين {142}الص146. And how many a prophet [fought in battle and] with him fought many religious scholars.



21

A Living Example from Previous Nations

If reprimand is necessary, do so in a loving manner

سول ا بغم لكيال تحزنوا على ما فاتكم إذ تصعدون وال تلوون على أحد والر يدعوكم في أخراكم فأثابكم غم

خبير بما تعملون {151}وال ما أصابكم وللاه153. [Remember] when you [fled and] climbed [the mountain] without looking aside at anyone

while the Messenger was calling you from behind. So Allah repaid you with distress upon

distress so you would not grieve for that which had escaped you [of victory and spoils of war]

or [for] that which had befallen you [of injury and death]. And Allah is [fully] Acquainted with

what you do.

Softening the Prophet's heart

وا من حولك فاعف عنهم لنت لهم ولو كنت فظها غليظ القلب النفض ن للاه واستغفر لهم وشاورهم فبما رحمة م

لين في األمر فإذا عز يحب المتوك إن للاه {159}مت فتوكل على للاه159. So by mercy from Allah, [O Muhammad], you were lenient with them. And if you had

been rude [in speech] and harsh in heart, they would have disbanded from about you. So

pardon them and ask forgiveness for them and consult them in the matter. And when you have

decided, then rely upon Allah. Indeed, Allah loves those who rely [upon Him].

Qur’anic values My requirements

1. Allah loves His followers. • We belong to a great religion.

• Allah loves the believers and supports

them in spite of their weaknesses.

2. The Prophet was commanded by Allah to

consult the companions in spite of their

human errors.

• It is important to consult each other

even if we have wronged one another.

• Unity of this nation is vital to its

strength.

22

Reasons for the defeat are mentioned so that they are avoided in the future.

1. Disobedience and division

ونهم بإذنه حتى إذا فشلتم وتنازع وعده إذ تحس ا ولقد صدقكم للاه ن بعد ما أراكم م تم في األمر وعصيتم م

نيا ومنكم من يريد اآلخرة ثم صرفكم عنهم ليبتليكم ولقد ذو فضل تحبون منكم من يريد الد عفا عنكم وللاه

{152}على المؤمنين

152. And Allah had certainly fulfilled His promise to you when you were killing them [i.e., the

enemy] by His permission until [the time] when you lost courage and fell to disputing about the

order [given by the Prophet and disobeyed after He had shown you that which you love.

Among you are some who desire this world, and among you are some who desire the Hereafter.

Then He turned you back from them [defeated] that He might test you. And He has already

forgiven you, and Allah is the possessor of bounty for the believers.

2. Sins are causes of defeat.

إن الذين تولوا منكم يوم التقى الجمعان إنما استزلهم الشيطان ببعض ما كسبوا عنهم إن للاه ولقد عفا للاه

{155} غفور حليم 155. Indeed, those of you who turned back on the day the two armies met [at Uhud] – it was

Satan who caused them to slip because of some [blame] they had earned. But Allah has already

forgiven them. Indeed, Allah is Forgiving and Forbearing.

3. Clinging to individuals rather than to faith

ات أو قتل انقلبتم على أعقابكم سل أفإن م د إال رسول قد خلت من قبله الر ومن ينقلب على عقبيه فلن وما محم

اكرين الش شيئا وسيجزي للاه {144} يضر للاه144. Muhammad is not but a messenger. [Other] messengers have passed on before him. So if

he was to die or be killed, would you turn back on your heels [to unbelief]? And he who turns

back on his heels will never harm Allah at all; but Allah will reward the grateful.


Reasons for the defeat are named. • Learn the reasons for defeat and avoid

situations and factors that lead to it.

21

Conclusions from Ali ‘Imran

• Division causes loss of adherence to the faith.

• Division disrupts the foundation of faith.

• Division can be either ideological or practical.

Examples of Warning are Given Throughout the Surah

1. Do not use unspecific or partial parts of verses to satisfy your desires

ا الذين في قلوبهم زيغ فيتبعون { 7}. ما تشابه منه ابتغاء الفتنة وابتغاء تأويله فأم7. As for those in whose hearts is deviation [from truth], they will follow that of it which is

unspecific, seeking discord and seeking an interpretation [suitable to them].

2. Do not divide for minor reasons

قوا جميعا وال تفر {103} واعتصموا بحبل للاه103. And hold firmly to the rope of Allah all together and do not become divided.

قوا واختلفوا من بعد ما جاءه {115} م البينات وأولـئك لهم عذاب عظيم وال تكونوا كالذين تفر105. And do not be like the ones who became divided and differed after the clear proofs had


3. Interest causes division.

لعلكم تفلحون يا أيها ال ضاعفة واتقوا للاه با أضعافا م {111} ذين آمنوا ال تأكلوا الر130. O you who have believed, do not consume usury, doubled and multiplied, but fear Allah

that you may be successful.

4. Judging with a single opinion is cause for division.

{159} .فاعف عنهم واستغفر لهم وشاورهم في األمر فإذا عزمت فتوكل على للاه159. So pardon them and ask forgiveness for them and consult them in the matter. And when

you have decided, then rely upon Allah.

5. Men perish so we must hold on to the faith in the Creator who sent them.

كمثل آدم خلقه من تراب ثم قال له كن فيكون {59} إن مثل عيسى عند للاه59. Indeed, the example of Jesus to Allah is like that of Adam. He created him from dust; then

He said to him, "Be," and he was.

ات أو قتل انقلبتم على أعقابكم سل أفإن م د إال رسول قد خلت من قبله الر {144} وما محم 144. Muhammad is not but a messenger. [Other] messengers have passed on before him. So if

he was to die or be killed, would you turn back on your heels [to unbelief]?

6. Believing in the prophets' message is the way to Allah and is a must for unity.

ا أحس عيسى منهم الكف فلم قال الحواريون نحن أنصار للاه {52}ر قال من أنصاري إلى للاه52. But when Jesus felt [persistence in] disbelief from them, he said, "Who are my supporters

for [the cause of] Allah?" The disciples said, "We are supporters for Allah."

وما ضعف ن نبي قاتل معه ربيون كثير فما وهنوا لما أصابهم في سبيل للاه يحب وكأين م وا وما استكانوا وللاه

ابرين {142} الص

24

146. And how many a prophet [fought in battle and] with him fought many religious scholars.



سول يدعوكم في أخر {151}اكم إذ تصعدون وال تلوون على أحد والر153. [Remember] when you [fled and] climbed [the mountain] without looking aside at anyone

while the Messenger was calling you from behind.

The Value of Women Is Given in This Surah

ميع العليم إذ قالت امرأة عمران رب إني نذرت لك را فتقبل مني إنك أنت الس {15}ما في بطني محر35. [Mention, O Muhammad], when the wife of ‘Imran said, "My Lord, indeed I have pledged

to You what is in my womb, consecrated [for Your service], so accept this from me. Indeed,

You are the Hearing, the Knowing."

كر كاألنثى و أعلم بما وضعت وليس الذ ا وضعتها قالت رب إني وضعتها أنثى وللاه يتها مريم فلم إني سم

يتها من الش جيم وإني أعيذها بك وذر {12}يطان الر36. But when she delivered her, she said, "My Lord, I have delivered a female." And Allah

was most knowing of what she delivered, and the male is not like the female. And I have

named her Mary, and I seek refuge for her in You and [for] her descendants from Satan, the

expelled [from the mercy of Allah]."

فتقبلها ربها بقبول حسن وأنبتها نباتا حسنا 37. So her Lord accepted her with good acceptance and caused her to grow in a good manner.

Qur’anic Values Our Requirements

1- Steadiness and sincerity were seen in

the wife of ‘Imran.

• Steadiness in belief leads to sincerity in

application.

• When sincerity and love are for Allah, He

accepts them.

2- Her good intention was a reason for

supporting the true religion through the

birth of the mother of Jesus, the last

prophet to the Israelites.

• Good intention is important.

• Use the way of the Qur’an in approaching

the people of the Book through their dear

personal.

كلما دخل عليها زكريا المحراب إن للاه وجد عندها رزقا قال يا مريم أنى لك هـذا قالت هو من عند للاه

{17}يرزق من يشاء بغير حساب 37. Every time Zechariah entered upon her in the prayer chamber, he found with her provision.

He said, "O Mary, from where is this [coming] to you?" She said, "It is from Allah. Indeed,

Allah provides for whom He wills without account."

عاء ية طيبة إنك سميع الد {18}هنالك دعا زكريا ربه قال رب هب لي من لدنك ذر38. At that, Zechariah called upon his Lord, saying, "My Lord, grant me from Yourself a good

offspring. Indeed, You are the Hearer of supplication."

25

Qur’anic Values Our Requirements

1. Obedience and chastity are seen through the

Virgin Mary

2. Her modesty and obedience guided prophet

Zachariah

• Chastity is a reason for Allah's

love.

• Let her be a model to us.

This surah is named after the family of ‘Imran, namely, his wife and daughter.

Both women were symbols of steadiness and firmness in their beliefs.

This is what Allah loves.

Documents

Surah al- Imran - WordPress.com · 2 Surah Ali ‘Imran (Lecture 1) Surah Ali ‘Imran was revealed in Madinah after Surah Al-Anfal. However, it was sequenced as the third surah in