Surah Quraysh (Arabic: قريش) is the 106th chapter of the Quran, consisting of 4 verses, and it is a Meccan Surah. The Surah is named after the Quraysh tribe, which was the dominant tribe in Mecca and the custodians of the Kaaba. The word "Quraysh" itself refers to this tribe.
History:
The Quraysh tribe held significant influence over the region, both economically and socially. They were the caretakers of the Kaaba in Mecca, which attracted pilgrims and traders from across the Arabian Peninsula. This brought wealth and stability to the Quraysh.
Surah Quraysh is closely related to the preceding Surah, Al-Fil (The Elephant), which describes the miraculous protection of the Kaaba from an invading army. Together, these Surahs are a reminder to the Quraysh tribe to recognize the divine favors they have received and to respond with gratitude by worshiping Allah ﷻ. It's also a reflection of the broader Quranic theme of acknowledging Allah's ﷻ blessings and relying on Him.
In Depth:
1. Economic and Social Status of Quraysh: The Quraysh were a powerful and influential tribe in Mecca, known for their control over the Kaaba, the most sacred site in Islam. This control brought them prestige, wealth, and security. They organized two major trade caravans: one in the winter to Yemen and another in the summer to Syria. These caravans were vital for the economic prosperity of the tribe, as they facilitated trade across the Arabian Peninsula.
2. Protection During Trade Journeys: The Quraysh enjoyed safe passage during their trade journeys, which was unusual in a region often plagued by tribal conflicts and raids. This safety was largely attributed to their position as guardians of the Kaaba, which was respected by other tribes. The peace and security during their travels were seen as a direct blessing from Allah ﷻ.
3. Connection to Surah Al-Fil: The preceding Surah, Al-Fil (The Elephant), recounts the miraculous protection of the Kaaba from an invading army led by Abraha, the Abyssinian governor of Yemen, who attempted to destroy it. This event further solidified the Quraysh's special status and their belief in the sanctity of the Kaaba. Surah Quraysh is seen as a continuation of this narrative, reminding the Quraysh of the divine protection they enjoy.
4. Moral and Spiritual Reminder: Despite their privileged position, many members of the Quraysh were entrenched in idolatry and were resistant to the message of monotheism that Prophet Muhammad was preaching. Surah Quraysh was revealed as a gentle reminder to the tribe to recognize and be grateful for the blessings Allah ﷻ had bestowed upon them, including their economic prosperity and safety. The Surah calls on them to worship Allah ﷻ, the Lord of the Kaaba, as a way of expressing their gratitude.
5. Honoring the Tribe: Surah Quraysh highlights the special virtues and blessings that Allah ﷻ bestowed upon the Quraysh tribe, setting them apart from all other Arab tribes. Among these blessings, the most significant is that the Messenger of Allah ﷺ, was chosen from among them, making them the tribe from which the Last of the Prophets emerged. Additionally, they were honored with the responsibility of being the custodians of the Kaaba and providing water to the pilgrims, roles that elevated their status among the Arabs.
6. Worshipping Allah: These blessings necessitate gratitude to the Creator and worship of Him. However, the Quraysh became accustomed to these blessings and denied giving thanks for them, responding to Allah ﷻ with ingratitude and defiance.
Translation:
- Verse 1: "For the protection of Quraysh—"
- Verse 2: "Their protection during their trading caravans in the winter and the summer—"
- Verse 3: "So let them worship the Lord of this House,"
- Verse 4: "Who has fed them, [saving them] from hunger and made them safe from fear.
Translation and Pronunciation:
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