Surah Yaseen
Surah Yaseen holds a significant place in the hearts of Muslims worldwide. It is the 36th chapter of the Quran, composed of 83 verses, and is often regarded as one of the most revered and powerful Surahs in the Quran.
Considered the heart of the Quran, holds immense significance in traditional Islamic piety. It is widely recited by Muslims as part of their voluntary acts of devotion. In fact, for many, Surah Yaseen is the only surah of substantial length that they have memorized in its entirety. The profound impact and spiritual value of this surah are evident in various practices and traditions of Muslims.
One well-known hadith states, “Recite Yaseen over your dead”. Hence, it is recited for those who are on the verge of death, those who have recently passed away, and at the graves of loved ones. This recitation serves as a supplication and a means of seeking forgiveness for the departed souls.
Surah Yaseen is also recited for the sick. Another hadith affirms, “Verily, in the Quran, there is a surah that intercedes through its recitation and forgives through its being heard—indeed, that is Surat Yaseen”. Muslims believe in the healing and comforting power of reciting Surah Yaseen for the sick, seeking divine mercy and solace during times of illness.
Furthermore, many Muslims make it a practice to recite Surah Yaseen after the obligatory prayers in the morning and evening. While the hadith explicitly mentioning this practice may not be found, it is commonly attributed to the statement of Ibn Abbas: “Whosoever recites Yaseen when he awakens is given ease for his day until the evening comes. And whosoever reads it in the midst of the night is given ease for his night until he awakens”.
The Virtues of Surah Yaseen
Syeda Aisha related that the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:
Everything has a heart, and the heart of the Qur’an is Surah Yaseen. Whoever recites Surah Yaseen once receives the reward of reciting ten complete Qur’ans.1Durr al Manthoor fi’l tafsir bi’l Mathoor of Imam As Suyuti
Mu’aqqal bin Yassar narrates that the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:
Surah Yaseen is the heart of the Qur’an. Whoever recites it for the pleasure of Allah and the Hereafter, all their previous sins will be forgiven.2Durr al Manthoor fi’l tafsir bi’l Mathoor of Imam As Suyuti
Hassan bin Atiya and Syeduna Ali relate that the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:
Whoever recites Surah Yaseen receives the goodness of both this world and the Hereafter. They will be protected from the trials and tribulations of both worlds. Surah Yaseen has the power to cure illnesses. Whoever writes it and then consumes it will experience an increase in faith and belief, blessings in sustenance, and the descent of mercy and light.3Durr al Manthoor fi’l tafsir bi’l Mathoor of Imam As Suyuti
Ibn Abbas narrates that the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ revealed:
I desire that every individual of my ummah (community) knows Surah Yaseen by heart.4Durr al Manthoor fi’l tafsir bi’l Mathoor of Imam As Suyuti
Anas narrates that the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:
Whoever recites Surah Yaseen every night will die as a martyr.5Durr al Manthoor fi’l tafsir bi’l Mathoor of Imam As Suyuti
Ata bin Abi Rubah recounts a hadith in which the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ declared:
Whoever recites Surah Yaseen in the morning will have their needs fulfilled.6Durr al Manthoor fi’l tafsir bi’l Mathoor of Imam As Suyuti
Abu Darda narrates that the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:
If Surah Yaseen is recited in the presence of a dying person, the agonies of death will be eased by its blessings. The profound wisdom behind reciting Surah Yaseen in such a moment lies in the diminishing strength of the physical body while the believer’s heart turns entirely towards Allah. The recitation strengthens their heart, heightens their awareness, and illumines their heart and vision with faith and recognition, ensuring the steadfastness of their iman.7Tafsir Ruh al Biyan
According to Shaykh Muhammad al-Yaqoubi, it is highly recommended for individuals who are approaching death, have recently passed away, or in the period following their demise, to recite Surah Yaseen. Additionally, he advises reciting Surah al-Rad (the 13th Surah) as a means to alleviate the pains experienced during the process of death, known as sakarat al-mawt. These valuable recommendations can be found in Shurunbulali’s Nur al-Idah.
Abu Qullaba narrates:
When Surah Yaseen is recited near a woman in labor, it alleviates the pains of childbirth.8Durr al Manthoor fi’l tafsir bi’l Mathoor of Imam As Suyuti
Those who recite Surah Yaseen at night will experience happiness until the morning, while those who recite it in the morning will find security and comfort until the evening. This has been witnessed and affirmed through practice.9Tafseer al Qurtubi
In times of a hardened heart, a Muslim can write Surah Yaseen using saffron in a container, and upon drinking it, their heart will be softened.10Durr al Manthoor fi’l tafsir bi’l Mathoor of Imam As Suyuti
Syeduna Anas narrates that the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ declared:
Whenever a Muslim visits a graveyard and recites Surah Yaseen, Allah diminishes the punishment for all those buried in that cemetery for that day. Moreover, the reciter will be rewarded with deeds equal to the good deeds of all those laid to rest in that graveyard.11Tafseer al Qurtubi
The Various Names of Surah Yaseen
Yaseen: The Heart of the Qur’an
- Significance of Yaseen as the heart of the Quran
- Emphasis on belief and certainty in the Hereafter
- Connection between well-being of faith and understanding Yaseen
Al-Azeema: The Grand
- Surah Yaseen’s highly dignified and magnificent rank with Allah
- Prophetic narration on the intercession of its reciter on the Day of Judgment
- Yaseen as a Surah known to Allah as Al-Azeema
Al-Mu’imma: The Involver
- Involvement of the reciter in the goodness of this world and the Hereafter
- Protection from worldly and Hereafter challenges through the recitation of Yaseen
Al-Mudafi’a: The Ridding One
- Surah Yaseen’s ability to rid the reciter of all evil
- Protection and purification through the recitation of Yaseen
Al-Qadiya: The Fulfiller
- Yaseen as the means for the fulfillment of the reciter’s needs
- Barakah and divine wisdom in the recitation of Surah Yaseen
- Connection between recitation and the fulfillment of permissible desires
These various names of Surah Yaseen highlight its central role in the Quran and its profound benefits for those who recite it with sincerity and understanding.
Reason for Revelation
The revelation of Surah Yaseen was a direct response to the disbelief and rejection exhibited by the idol-worshipping people of Makkah. They denied and refused to accept the fundamental concepts of the Day of Judgement, the resurrection after death, and the ultimate accountability before Allah’s court. However, these essential teachings formed the core of Islam, propagated by every prophet who emphasized the absolute Oneness of Allah and the abandonment of any partners. Moreover, they emphasized the inevitable dissolution of this world when Qiyamah, the Day of Judgement, would be established. On that fateful day, every individual would be raised from their graves and brought before Allah for their deeds to be weighed.
When the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ began to convey these beliefs, the disbelievers of Makkah turned against him and vehemently refused to accept him as a prophet of Allah. They stubbornly rejected the concept of the Oneness of Allah and persisted in their idol worship. They adamantly refuted the inevitable occurrence of Qiyamah and the resurrection after death. It was in response to this rejection and obstinacy that Surah Yaseen was revealed. This Surah addressed the disbelief of the pagans, emphasizing the core principles of Islam, and inviting them to reflect upon the truth and abandon their false beliefs.
Timing of revelation
Surah Yaseen is universally recognized as a Makkan Surah, meaning it was revealed before the migration to Madinah. According to Ibn ‘Ashur, it was revealed after Surah al-Jinn, which itself was revealed in the 10th year of Prophethood. This chronological understanding provides valuable insights into the historical context of Surah Yaseen’s revelation.
The 10th year in Makkah was an immensely challenging period for the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ as he faced two profound personal tragedies. In this year, he experienced the heartbreaking loss of his beloved wife Khadija and his supportive uncle Abu Talib. The sorrowful events of this year have led it to be known as the “Year of Sorrow.”
These personal tragedies occurred amidst a broader backdrop of hostility, aggression, and oppression towards the Prophet and his followers in Makkah. The revelation of Surah Yaseen during such a difficult time sheds light on the message and lessons it contains, offering solace, guidance, and encouragement to the Prophet and the early Muslim community in the face of immense hardships.
Subject Matters of Surah Yaseen
The subject matter of Surah Yaseen revolves around several key themes. Firstly, it confirms the prophethood of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and establishes his legitimacy as a messenger of Allah. The Surah also serves as evidence for the Oneness of Allah (Tawhid) and highlights the consequences faced by those who reject the prophets and deny the truth.
Surah Yaseen encompasses six interconnected sections, each addressing a unique theme.
Section One [1-12] – The Qur’an and the Heedless
- The oath by the Qur’an as a source of wisdom
- The purpose of the Qur’an to warn those whose forefathers were not warned (verse 3)
- The indifference and disbelief of the heedless people
Section Two [13-32] – Lessons from History
- The account of the People of the Town and their rejection of three Messengers
- The fate of the disbelievers and the message as a warning to the Quraysh
- Drawing lessons from history and awakening from heedlessness
Section Three [33-44] – Signs in Nature
- Highlighting the physical signs in nature as evidence of design by a compassionate Creator
- Beauty, organization, variety, and function in nature
- Encouraging reflection on the purpose behind creation
Section Four [45-47] – The Stubborn & The Blind
- Describing the stubborn and blind who reject the signs in nature, history, and direct messages
- Their lack of understanding of the purpose of charity and poverty
- Addressing the question of God’s existence in the face of suffering
Section Five [48-68] – The Blind of the Day of Judgement
- Contemplating the consequences for those who persistently ignore compassionate advice
- The reminder of the Day of Judgement and the consequences of disbelief
- Warning against arrogance and the need for humility
Section Six [69-83] – The Qur’an and the Arrogant
- Refuting the notion of the Qur’an being mere poetry
- Affirming the authenticity and divine nature of the message delivered by the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ
- Emphasizing the Prophet’s role as a messenger on the straight path
Style
The presentation of these topics in Surah Yaseen showcases a unique and highly elegant style. The surah discusses these subjects in a manner that ordinary minds can comprehend and that deeply resonates within the heart. This style aligns perfectly with the miraculous nature of the Qur’an, which is not only a miracle in its entirety but also encompasses a multitude of individual miracles.
The letters “Ya” and “Seen” are part of the letters known as Haruf-ul-Muqatta’at. that appear at the beginning of twenty-nine Surahs in the Quran. These letters have a special significance, and their exact meaning is known only to Allah. Some have tried to interpret the meanings of these letters.
Interpretation 1: “Ya Insan” – O Human
According to some scholars, the letters Ya and Seen in Surah Yaseen may signify “Ya Insan” (O Human) in the Abyssinian or Banu Te language. However, Syeduna Ibn Abbas offers a different understanding. He explains that “Insan” refers to the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, as he embodies the most complete form of Insan. The term “Insan” is derived from “Uns,” meaning love, and the Prophet’s ﷺ love for Allah is the greatest and most complete. Consequently, Allah addresses the Prophet ﷺ as “Ya Insan” (O you who are the most complete in My love).
Interpretation 2: “Ya Seen” as a Name of Allah
Some scholars believe that “Ya Seen” is one of the Names of Allah. The exact interpretation varies among different scholars and sources.
- Some claim it to be one of the names of the Qur’an (Tabari).
- Others state that “Ya Seen” is a name attributed to Allah (Ruhil Ma’ani).
Interpretation 3: “Ya Seen” as a Name of the Prophet
Another perspective suggests that “Ya Seen” is a name specifically associated with the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.
- A hadith confirms the name of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ as “Muhammad, Ahmad, Ya Seen, and Ta-Ha” (As Shifa vol 1 p.47).
Interpretation 4: “Ya” as a Call and “Seen” as “Sayyid”
Another perspective suggests that “Ya” serves as an expression of a call (nida), while “Seen” stands for Sayyid (chief). This interpretation highlights the exalted status of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.
- Imam Abu ‘Abd ur Rahman al Salama narrates from Imam Jafar as Sadiq that Allah addresses the Prophet ﷺ as “Ya Sayyid” (Qurtubi), with Sayyid meaning chief.
- The Prophet ﷺ holds the highest rank and is the most honored among all of creation.
- He is known as Sayyid ul Khalq (chief of all creation), serving as a means of salvation and resolution of all problems for believers.
- In a hadith, the Prophet ﷺ states, “I am the Sayyid (chief) of the children of Adam.” This emphasizes that the entire creation depends on his guidance and shelter, without any equal among all of creation (Naseem ur Riyad).
Surah Yaseen begins with an oath sworn by Allah, highlighting the significance of the Quran. In Arabic, an oath is taken to capture attention, emphasize the importance of the subject, and highlight the subsequent statement. This oath is a powerful rhetorical device used to emphasize the divine nature and authority of the Quran.
The Meaning of Hakim
The term “Hakim” used in the oath signifies the definitive, finalized, and perfected nature of the Quran. It implies that the Quran is not subject to alteration, substitution, contradiction, or being proved false. Scholars have provided various interpretations of this term:
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Al-Qurtubi explains that Hakim refers to the Quran being perfected in both its arrangement and its meanings. It is devoid of any defects, shortcomings, or errors.
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Abu Sa’ud suggests that Hakim means the Quran is infused with wisdom and articulates wisdom. As it is authored by the Inimitable and Wise Allah (al-Hakim), it contains marvelous wisdom.
Explanations by Scholars
Al-Qurtubi and Abu Sa’ud provide insights into the profound nature of the Quran:
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Al-Qurtubi emphasizes that the Quran’s perfection extends to its arrangement and meanings. Its flawless structure and profound teachings make it a remarkable divine revelation.
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Abu Sa’ud adds that the Quran is not just a compilation of words, but a book filled with divine wisdom. Its teachings and guidance reflect the wisdom of Allah.
The Magnificence of the Quran
The Quran stands unparalleled in its arrangement, meanings, legislation, and rulings. It surpasses the highest levels of rhetoric and eloquence (balagha) known to the Arabs. This divine book is a testament to the wisdom, mastery, and perfection of its author, Allah.
Emphasizing the Prophethood of Muhammad
The oath on the Quran in Surah Yaseen also serves to emphasize the prophethood of Muhammad ﷺ. By swearing an oath on the Quran, Allah glorifies and elevates the rank of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. This oath underscores the importance and significance of his role as the Messenger of Allah and the bearer of the divine message contained within the Quran.
Surah Yaseen: The Response to the Oath
Jawab al-Qasam: The Response to the Oath
In Arabic, this verse is referred to as “jawab al-qasam,” which means the response to the oath. It signifies the statement intended to be highlighted and emphasized by the preceding oath. In this context, the verse affirms that Prophet Muhammad is indeed among the messengers sent by the Lord of the Worlds for the guidance of humanity.
Tafsir al-Qurtubi’s Account
According to Tafsir al-Qurtubi (15/5), as transmitted from Imam al-Qushayri, Ibn ‘Abbas (may Allah be pleased with them) explained that the disbelievers of Quraysh challenged Prophet Muhammad, claiming that he was not sent by anyone and that Allah had not appointed him as a messenger to them. In response, Allah swears an emphatic oath by the Wise Quran to establish the undeniable fact that Muhammad is one of Allah’s chosen messengers.
Key Points
- This verse, known as jawab al-qasam, is the response to the preceding oath.
- It affirms that Prophet Muhammad is among the messengers sent by the Lord of the Worlds for the guidance of humanity.
- The disbelievers of Quraysh questioned Prophet Muhammad’s messengerhood, and Allah responds emphatically to confirm his status as a chosen messenger.
- The Wise Quran serves as evidence of Prophet Muhammad’s appointment as a messenger.
Surah Yaseen mentions a noble and upright path that contains no deviation or crookedness. This path specifically refers to Islam, the religion practiced by the messengers before Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. These messengers brought faith (iman) and monotheism (tawhid) to their people.
Tafsir al-Qurtubi’s Explanation
Tafsir al-Qurtubi, as related by Qatada, records that this path refers to the Way of Islam, which is free from any deviation from guidance. It emphasizes the importance of adhering to the principles and teachings of Islam.
Insight from Ibn Munir
In his Commentary on Zamakhshari’s al-Kashshaf, Ibn Munir explains that the use of the indefinite noun “sirat” (without the aliflam before it) serves to elevate the honor and grandeur of the Way of Islam. It highlights the significance and greatness associated with following this path.
Affirmation of the Prophet’s Mission
Surah Yaseen includes statements to which Allah takes an oath, affirming and validating the mission of the Prophet. This further supports the interpretation that “Yaseen” is a reference to the Prophet himself, addressing him as the “dearest man.”
The Straight Path of the Prophets
The Prophet, along with all the previous messengers, is on a straight path. The word “sirat” in this context refers to a clear and well-demarcated pathway. It is described as “mustaqim,” meaning straight and not winding. This path is not only the sole route leading to Allah but also the quickest way to reach the destination, as followed by the Messenger and all the other messengers.
Key Points
- The noble path mentioned in Surah Yaseen refers to the religion of Islam.
- The messengers before Prophet Muhammad ﷺ brought faith and monotheism to their people.
- Tafsir al-Qurtubi emphasizes the importance of adhering to the Way of Islam without deviation.
- Ibn Munir highlights the honor and grandeur associated with following the Way of Islam.
- Surah Yaseen includes statements that affirm the mission of the Prophet.
- The Prophet and all the previous messengers are on a straight path, described as clear and well-demarcated.
- This path is the quickest route to reach Allah and the destination.
Validation of the Message
After validating the integrity of the Prophet as the holder of the message, Surah Yaseen proceeds to validate the message itself. It emphasizes that the Quran is not a fabrication originating from any specific direction, be it the east or the west. Rather, it is a magnificent revelation from the Almighty, the Most Merciful.
Insight from Rūh al-Ma’ānī
The author of Rūh al-Ma’ānī commented on the word “tanzīla” in Arabic, noting that the choice of the ending “a” instead of the usual “u” is intended to express praise. Thus, the translation should be modified to “A magnificent revelation of the Almighty, the Most Merciful.” This highlights the grandeur and excellence of the Quranic revelation.
Imām Al-Tabari’s Perspective
According to the renowned scholar of Tafsir, Imām Al-Tabari, the juxtaposition of the attributes “Mighty” and “Merciful” in this context signifies Allah’s justice and mercy. It indicates that Allah is both vengeful towards those who oppose Him and merciful towards those who obey Him. This balance between hope and fear is essential.
The Power of the Quranic Message
By using Allah’s attribute of “izza,” which signifies power, dominance, and strength, to describe the Quran, it is emphasized that the Quran contains a powerful message. Just as Allah’s attribute of “izza” is understood in its perfect sense, the Quran, being His literal word, should be regarded with the same level of significance. The Quran possesses the power to revive lifeless hearts and reach out to lost souls. It conveys a message of hope and warmth.
A Warning for Mankind
The following verse in Surah Yaseen indicates that the Quran contains warnings for humanity. This serves as a reminder of the consequences for those who disregard or oppose the message.
Key Points
- Surah Yaseen validates the message of the Quran after affirming the integrity of the Prophet.
- The Quran is not a fabrication from any particular direction but a magnificent revelation from the Almighty, the Most Merciful.
- Rūh al-Ma’ānī highlights the praise-worthy nature of the Quranic revelation.
- Imām Al-Tabari explains the balance between Allah’s attributes of Might and Mercy in the Quran.
- The Quran’s power is emphasized by using Allah’s attribute of “izza.”
- The Quran has the ability to revive lifeless hearts and reach lost souls.
- It contains warnings for humanity, reminding them of the consequences of disregarding the message.