Living in this world, we measure riches in the form of material things, whereas a true believer should know that the abundance of blessings is when they have plentiful good deeds over bad ones. Surah Shams contains lessons about this very fact, and elaborates on the difference between good and evil by giving the example of the sun and the sky, the day and night, and various celestial creations.
Surah Shams Listen Online
Origins Of Surah Shams
Surah Shams, also commonly known as Surah Ash-Shams, is the 91st chapter in the Holy Quran, and contains 15 verses that were revealed to our beloved Prophet (Peace Be Upon Him) in Makkah, hence making this a Makkan Surah. The Arabic word ‘Shams’ translates into English as ‘The Sun’, the reason being this Surah contains oaths taken by celestial bodies. The idea that the Sun, a true definition of marvel and a source of power and light for us, works as per Allah’s will, is a fact of amazement.
There is a total number of 11 oaths in this Surah—the most number of oaths taken compared to any other Surah in the Holy Quran.
The Surah was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) when he was facing extreme opposition to his call for belief in one God, Allah. He encountered significant pressure to take back his words and reject the belief in monotheism. The Surah also references past disputes that occurred in this regard.
A Brief Narrative Of The Surah
The purpose of life is one of the areas of thought and practice many people worry about. Salvation is a goal for the end of our time on Earth, but what makes up a life that leads to achieving that?
Surah Shams provides that answer and seals the message of worshipping one God with oaths taken by celestial bodies, the brightest jewels in the universe. It teaches us how to achieve salvation, and gives a simple equation: one should not only have faith but also purify their soul.
And to purify the soul, it is necessary to:
- Differentiate between right and wrong. Surah Ash-Shams is more than just about celestial bodies; just as the magnificent creations of Allah, especially the sun, moons, and stars, have different appearances, effects, and purposes, so is there a difference between good and evil.
- The other lesson to learn to purify the soul is to gain spiritual growth and let go of material things. The Surah is a warning for the worshippers of fake deities and those practicing magic, teaching them about the importance of focusing on the Day of reward and punishment.
The Surah also includes a well-known concept the creation of pairs. It also emphasizes the importance of community, and how one being affects the others, whether we speak of pairs or an entire group.
The story of the polytheistic people of the Thamud tribe is recounted here. As always, modern science confirms Quranic sayings, as archeologists discovered the remains of the Thamud tribe by identifying the splendid stone buildings they were known for.
Through his apostle, Prophet Saleh, Allah sent them guidance and even presented a miracle, which they belittled. The Thamud people were warned of dire consequences and asked to repent, and on failure to do so the entire tribe was destroyed with a storm, a thunderbolt, and an earthquake.
Benefits Of Reciting Surah Shams
Surah Shams holds incredible benefits for those who recite, learn, and memorize it. The Surah not only teaches us about the power of Allah and helps strengthen our belief in His Oneness, but it is also a means to gain forgiveness and shifa (good health).
Forgiveness On The Day Of Judgment
The Surah is one of the many that will help a person committed to reciting and learning it with true faith. There are various Hadith that affirm this benefit of the Surah.
Health & Wellness Benefits
According to Allama Alam Faqr, Surah Ash-Shams helps one ensure the safety of their life and that of their possessions. It is recommended to recite Surah Shams during the nafl (voluntary prayers) Ishraq prayer, for protection against infections.
Expecting women are advised to recite this Surah for the health and safety of their unborn children. The way of protecting the unborn child is to recite Surah Shams 41 times, blow into the water, and for the expecting mother to drink that water.
(Majmooa Wazaif p173)
Remedy For A Cursing Tongue
The Surah is also beneficial for people who have a constant habit of cursing. Reciting the Surah 41 times and blowing it onto water drunk by the person in question can help get rid of poor language and behavior.
(Majmooa Wazaif p173)
Hadith Referencing The Surah
About Surah Ash-Shams, Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) says “He who recites it (Surah ash-Ash-Shams) is like he who has given charity in the way of Allah to all things that the sun and the moon shine upon.” (Ṭabrisī, Majmaʿ al-bayān, vol. 10, p. 367.)
According to Imam Ja’far al-Sadiq (AS), the limbs and the adjacent objects near the one who recites Surah Shams will testify in favor of them on the Day of Judgment, and Allah will accept these testimonies and grant them a place in Heaven. (Ṣadūq, Thawāb al-aʿmāl, p. 123.)
Questions Asked About Surah Shams
The leading question asked about Surah Ash-Shams is one about the way and time to recite it to gain the blessings associated with it.
According to Abdullah bin Buradah (RA), Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) used to recite Surah Shams in the Isha prayer.
Learn Recitation Of Surah Shams Online
Tajweed Classes can guide you through learning and memorizing Surah Ash-Shams in a convenient and simplified way. Get enrolled today to learn Surah Shams from experienced online scholars. You will receive proper education regarding the Surah’s translation. If you intend to memorize it, our scholars can guide you through the journey.
Reach out to us if you need more information or sign up today for one-on-one Quran classes.
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