Surah An-Nazi'at (Those Who Pull Out)

Surah An-Nazi'at (Those Who Pull Out) is the 79th chapter (sura) of the Quran. It consists of 46 verses and is classified as a Meccan sura, meaning it was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad during his time in Mecca. This sura deals with themes of the afterlife, the resurrection, and the ultimate accountability before God.

Text and Translation

Here is an excerpt of the initial verses of Sura An-Nazi'at along with an English translation:

بِسْمِ اللَّهِ الرَّحْمَـٰنِ الرَّحِيمِ

1. وَالنَّازِعَاتِ غَرْقًا
By those [angels] who extract with violence

2. وَالنَّاشِطَاتِ نَشْطًا
And [by] those who remove with ease

3. وَالسَّابِحَاتِ سَبْحًا
And [by] those who glide [as if] swimming

4. فَالسَّابِقَاتِ سَبْقًا
And those who race each other in a race

5. فَالْمُدَبِّرَاتِ أَمْرًا
And those who arrange [each] matter

Themes and Significance

1. Oaths by the Angels: The sura begins with a series of oaths referring to different types of angels and their actions. These actions include extracting souls (with varying degrees of difficulty), guiding them, and executing divine commands. These oaths highlight the roles angels play in the process of death and the afterlife.

2. The Resurrection: A central theme of An-Nazi'at is the resurrection and the Day of Judgment. The sura describes the resurrection as a momentous event that will shake the very foundations of existence.

3. The Story of Moses and Pharaoh: The sura briefly recounts the story of Moses and Pharaoh, emphasizing the consequences of Pharaoh's arrogance and tyranny. This serves as a reminder of the fate awaiting those who reject divine guidance.

4. Human Accountability: The sura underscores the certainty of the Day of Judgment and the subsequent accountability of every individual for their deeds. It warns against the denial of the afterlife and highlights the importance of preparing for it through righteous actions.

5. Signs of God's Power: The sura points to various signs of God's power and creation, urging reflection on the natural world as evidence of the divine reality and the certainty of the resurrection.

Context in Islamic Practice

Sura An-Nazi'at, like many Meccan suras, is recited to remind believers of the transient nature of this world and the certainty of the afterlife. Its vivid descriptions of the Day of Judgment and the resurrection are intended to instill a sense of urgency and accountability.

Interpretation and Exegesis

Islamic scholars interpret Sura An-Nazi'at as a powerful reminder of the afterlife and divine justice. The oaths by the angels at the beginning of the sura are seen as emphasizing the seriousness and inevitability of the resurrection. The story of Moses and Pharaoh serves as a historical example of divine retribution against tyranny and disbelief.

Conclusion

Sura An-Nazi'at provides a compelling narrative about the afterlife, emphasizing the roles of angels, the certainty of resurrection, and the accountability of humans before God. Its themes of divine power, justice, and the transient nature of worldly life serve as essential reminders for believers to live righteously and prepare for the hereafter.