Adapted from Tafsir Ibn Ashur

Themes and purpose:

This surah addresses the creation of humanity and the necessity of the Resurrection. Its primary purpose is to distinguish between the two paths (grateful and ungrateful), focusing heavily on describing the eternal rewards and spiritual stature of the righteous. It commands the Prophet (ﷺ) to be steadfast, patient, and to persevere in conveying the message despite the rejection of the disbelievers.

Context of Revelation:

Era: Makkan according to the soundest opinion.

Context: The style and themes are overwhelmingly Makkan, revolving around Monotheism, creation, and the denial of Resurrection.

Chronology: It has been placed immediately before Sūrat al-Mursalāt in the chronological order.

Name and Ayah Count:

Name: The surah is known by several names: "Sūrat al-Insān" (The Man) and "Sūrat al-Dahr" (The Time) for words in the opening ayah, as well as by its opening phrase: "Sūrat Hal atā". It has also been called "Sūrat al-Amshāj" (The Mixed Drop) due to this word in ayah 2, and "Sūrat al-Abrār" (The Righteous) for ayah 5.

Virtue: The Prophet (ﷺ) customarily recited this surah (along with Sūrat al-Sajdah) in the Fajr prayer on Fridays.

Ayah Count: 31 ayahs by consensus.

Surah Overview:

• Affirming that humankind was brought into existence from nothing, thereby proving the possibility of recreation (Resurrection). [1-3]
• Establishing that humanity is obligated to single out Allah for worship in gratitude to their Creator. [3]
• Warning of the severe punishment awaiting those who deny the Hereafter and fail to thank Allah for their existence. [4]
• Establishing recompense for deeds and detailing the eternal bliss and rewards reserved for the grateful and righteous. [12-22]
• Consoling the Prophet (ﷺ), commanding him to be patient in conveying the message, and warning him against inclining to the disbelievers. [24]
• Commanding the remembrance of Allah and prayer at specific times of the day and night. [25-26]