THIS CHAPTER containing 11 verses from the Madinese period was revealed after the previous one on Battle Array 61 and before Victory 48. It describes the Prophet's increasing troubles with his Jewish neighbors in and around Madina, and contains the famous parable on "The Donkey Carrying Books" (i), concerning those who do not practise what they preach, nor profit from what they can learn.
In the name of God, the Mercy-giving, the Merciful!
(i) * Whatever is in Heaven
and whatever is on Earth
celebrates God the Sovereign
[Who is] the Holy, the Powerful, the Wise!
* He is the One Who has despatched a messenger from the Unlettered [people] among themselves, to recite His verses to them and purify them and teach them the Book and wisdom, even though previously they were in obvious error; * as well as others of them who have not yet joined them.
He is the Powerful, the Wise!
* Such is God's bounty which He gives
to anyone He wishes.
God possesses splendid bounty!
The Donkey Carrying Books
** Those who are laden with the Old Testament, yet do not carry it out may be compared to a donkey who is carrying scriptures. It is such a dreadful way to have to compare people who reject God's signs! God does not guide such wrongdoing folk.
* SAY: "You who are Jews, if you claim to be God's adherents ahead of [other] people, then long for death if you are so truthful." They will never long for it because of what their hands have already done. God is Aware as to who are wrongdoers.
* SAY: "If it is death that you flee, it will still overtake you. Then you will be sent back to the Knower of the Unseen and the Visible; He will notify you about whatever you have been doing."
Friday's Prayers
ii) * You who believe, when [the call to] prayer is announced on the day of Congregation. hasten to remember God and close your [place of] business. That will be better for you if you only realized it.
** Once prayer has been performed, then disperse throughout the land and seek God's bounty. Remember God frequently so that you may prosper. * Yet whenever they see some business or some sport they flock towards it and leave you standing there [alone].
SAY: "Whatever God has is better
than any sport or business.
God is the Best Provider!"
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Published with authorization from Dr.T.B.Irving.