Surah Al-Qiyamah, the 75th chapter of the Quran, and a part of Juz 29, is an important conversation/reminder from God on the inevitability of the Day of Judgment, and the accountability every soul our Creator has created, will face. For me, the Day of Judgment has always been an interesting event or concept within our religion to discuss because of its signs, which we know many have already appeared, and the events that will take place.
It’s also a surah that oddly keeps me grounded and reminds me that I’ve been created not just for this world, but for the next. This surah, which was revealed in Makkah, dives deep into the themes of human nature, divine justice, and the afterlife, and it also serves as an opportunity for believers to deeply engage in reflection and self-examination.
The certainty of the Day of Judgment
The surah begins with a powerful affirmation of the Day of Judgment, emphasizing the certainty of this event and God’s complete control over the reassembly of bones and the restoration of fingertips, highlighting the precise and meticulous nature of divine power, and His miracle that God, indeed, can bring people back from the dead. This introduction serves not only as a reminder of the inevitable but also as a reflection on the marvels of human creation, encouraging a sense of humility and awe toward our Creator’s miracles.
A significant aspect of Surah Al-Qiyamah is its exploration of human psychology, particularly the self-deceiving nature of the human soul. It points to the inner conflicts individuals face, distinguishing between their desires and the reality of divine commands. This internal struggle is portrayed vividly, emphasizing the depth of denial and procrastination that can envelop a person, leading them away from acknowledging the truth of the afterlife and their own accountability.
But no! In fact, you love this fleeting world, and neglect the Hereafter.
— Quran (75:20-21)
Furthermore, the surah addresses the theme of divine guidance and human response. It explains that while guidance is offered to all, the ultimate choice to follow the right path rests within ourselves. This personal responsibility is highlighted by the portrayal of the Day of Judgment, where every soul will stand alone, stripped of any support or intercession, facing the consequences of their earthly deeds.
One of the most compelling aspects of Surah Al-Qiyamah is its vivid depiction of the Day of Resurrection. The imagery used not only serves to warn but also to paint a picture of the overwhelming reality that awaits every soul. From the despair of the wrongdoers to the serene confidence of the righteous, the surah encapsulates the full spectrum of human fate in the hereafter.
But when the sight is stunned, and the moon is dimmed, and the sun and the moon are brought together, on that Day one will cry, “Where is the escape?”
— Quran (75:7-10)
Finally, Surah Al-Qiyamah is a surah of reflection, urging believers and humanity at large to ponder over their existence, the certainty of the Hereafter, and the importance of living a life aligned with divine guidance. It invites readers to look beyond the immediate pleasures of the world and to consider the eternal implications of their actions. Through its imagery and important themes, Surah Al-Qiyamah is a timeless reminder of the core principles of faith and the ultimate return to our Creator.
What are your takeaways from Juz 29? Let us know in the DMs!
