Juz 30 of the Quran is one that is quite special in the sense that it not only concludes the revelations that are sent down to Prophet Muhammad (SAWW), but there are many chapters within it that have become a part of our daily lives since we were children. Often, when children are encouraged to memorize chapters from the Quran, they begin from the ones mentioned in the 30th juz typically due to how short they may be. However, out of the several chapters, beautiful chapters, that exist within the Quran, nothing tops the attachment that I have for Surah Al-Fajr. Here is my analysis.
The bliss of the truly tranquil soul
Surah Al-Fajr is the 89th surah of the Quran and contains many themes which we’ve already discussed and looked at before such as trials and tribulations, God’s justice, and how this world is a temporary abode for us Muslims. However, the reason why this chapter is not only my favorite, but sticks out to me above the many chapters discussed in Juz 30, is that within Shi’i traditions, this surah is attributed to Imam Hussain (as), the grandson of the Prophet (SAWW). Although this chapter does not mention the Imam (as) by name, numerous scholars have drawn unique parallels between the themes that have been discussed and the tragic events that occurred on the 10th of Muharram (Day of Ashura) in the land of Karbala.
Uniquely, the surah begins with a very solemn tone, and when I read “by the dawn,” “the ten nights,” and “the even and the odd,” I think these are alluding to the many events that have occurred in Islamic history of which include the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (as). When the next verses emphasize that those who have come before us acted very arrogantly and unjustly, it reminds me of the corruption and treachery that the Imam (as) witnessed during his leadership which caused to take the ultimate step against the tyrannical regime at the time. It also gives us yet another lesson that Islam, from the beginning of time, has been a religion that has always taught its believers to stand up against oppression and to never remain a bystander.
In Surah Al-Fajr, God says:
Now, whenever a human being is tested by their Lord through His generosity and blessings, they boast, ‘My Lord has deservedly honoured me!’ But when He tests them by limiting their provision, they protest, ‘My Lord has undeservedly humiliated me!’
— Quran (89:15-16)
During Imam Hussain (as)’s leadership, he witnessed people of the Ummah moving away from the teachings of the Quran and Islam, and instead succumbing to the pressures of the tyrannical regime, where a life of comfort and luxury was promised so long as the believers pledged allegiance to corruption and immorality. The stand that the Imam (as) took was a testament to the Quran that true success in the eyes of God is when you remain firm on the path of justice, truth, and completion submission to your Creator, even when all odds are against you.
It is the last verses of this surah that affirm to me this chapter is about Imam Hussain (as). God says:
Allah will say to the righteous, ‘O tranquil soul! Return to your Lord, well pleased with Him and well-pleasing to Him. So join My servants, and enter My Paradise.’
— Quran (27-30)
In these verses, God declares that there is a promise of divine satisfaction and eternal paradise to the one whose soul is most at peace.
For those that are familiar with the story of what happened on that day, they know that there came a time when the grandson of the Prophet (SAWW) was surrounded by approximately 30,000 men, and was the center of brutal and violent attacks. An individual whom the Prophet (SAWW) referred to as a part of him was pelted with thousands of arrows, struck with swords, spears, and rocks, and those who didn’t have anything but still wanted to harm the Imam (as), they would throw sand on his open wounds.
Despite the anguish and the pain, when the call to Asr prayers was called, the Imam (as) got off his horse and bowed his head in sujood (prostration) one last time before His Creator. This is the best example to exist for someone who is nafs al-mutma’innah.
His martyrdom becomes a great example of divine steadfastness, echoing the Quran’s assurance of a great reward for all those who embody righteousness and patience.
What about you? What are your takeaways from this Juz? Let us know on social media platforms!
