As-salaam wa-alaikum, brothers and sisters.
Summary
Today’s selection is the entirety of Surah 92, Al-Lail or the Night, verses 1-21. This Surah identifies two different ways of life and explains the contrast between their ultimate ends and results. It is stated that these two modes of action, cannot be alike in respect of their results.
Tafseer for this selection concerns the complementarity of the sexes.
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Verses
Bis-millahi ar-rahman, ar-raheem.
In the name of Allah, most gracious, most merciful.
By the night, when it covers with darkness;[1] and by the day, when it spreads its brightness.[2] By the mystery of the creation of the male and the female,[3] surely your efforts are directed towards various ends.[4] 92:[1-4]
So for him who gives in charity, fears Allah[5] and testifies to goodness,[6] We shall facilitate for him the easy way.[7] 92:[5-7]
As for him who is stingy and considers himself independent of Allah[8] and rejects the goodness,[9] We shall facilitate for him the hard way.[10] Just think! What benefit will he get from his wealth, if he himself is doomed.[11] 92:[8-11]
Surely it is for Us to give guidance,[12] and surely to Us belong the end and the beginning.[13] Therefore, I warn you of the blazing fire,[14] in which none shall burn except the wretched[15] who deny the truth and give no heed.[16] 92:[12-16]
But the pious shall be kept away from it,[17] the one who spends in charity for self-purification,[18] not seeking any favor from anyone for which a reward is expected in return,[19] except seeking the good pleasure of his Lord, the Most High.[20] Such persons shall soon be well-pleased with Allah.[21] 92:[17-21]
Ameen.
Tafseer
Concerning verse 3 and the complementarity of the sexes:
The mystery of the sexes runs through all life. There is attraction between opposites; each performs its own functions, having special characters within limited spheres, and yet both have common characteristics in many other spheres. Each is indispensable to the other. Love in its noblest sense is the type of heavenly love and the highest good; in its debasement it leads to the lowest sins and the worst crimes. Here, then, striving [jihad] is necessary for the highest good.
This concludes today’s episode of the 17 Verses Podcast. I hope that this selection has helped increase your understanding of the holy Qur’an just a little bit.
Thank you and be well.