A Medinan sura which takes its title from the instruction to the believers to observe the Friday prayer promptly and reliably when called (verses 9–11). The sura reminds the Muslims of God’s grace in granting them a prophet and the chance to grow spiritually (verses 2–4). Those who do not act in accordance with the knowledge they have been given are criticized (verses 5–8).
In the name of God, the Lord of Mercy, the Giver of Mercy
God is the Provider of Sustenance
1 Everything in the heavens and earth glorifies God, the Controller, the Holy One, the Almighty, the Wise. 2 It is He who raised a messenger, among the people who had no Scripture, to recite His revelations to them, to make them grow spiritually and teach them the Scripture and wisdom––before that they were clearly astray–– 3 to them and others yet to join them. He is the Almighty, the Wise: 4 such is God’s favor that He grants it to whoever He will; God’s favor is immense. 5 Those who have been charged to obey the Torah, but do not do so, are like asses [a] carrying books: how base such people are who disobey God’s revelations! God does not guide people who do wrong.
6 Say [Prophet], ‘You who follow the Jewish faith, if you truly claim that out of all people you alone are friends of God, then you should be hoping for death.’ 7 But because of what they have stored up for themselves with their own hands they would never hope for death––God knows the wrongdoers very well–– 8 so say, ‘The death you run away from will come to meet you and you will be returned to the One who knows the unseen as well as the seen: He will tell you everything you have done.’
Entertainment and Trade Do Not Compare to God's Love
9 Believers! When the call to prayer is made on the day of congregation, hurry towards the reminder of God and leave off your trading––that is better for you, if only you knew–– 10 then when the prayer has ended, disperse in the land and seek out God’s bounty. Remember God often so that you may prosper. 11 Yet they scatter towards trade or entertainment whenever they observe it, and leave you [Prophet] standing there. [b] Say, ‘God’s gift is better than any entertainment or trade: God is the best provider.’
Footnotes
a. Literally ‘an ass’, but the plural English construction requires the plural.
b. This refers to two occasions. During congregational prayers at a time of famine, a caravan arrived and some of the worshippers rushed out, leaving the Prophet standing on the minbar (pulpit). On another occasion, worshippers rushed out because there was a band playing for a wedding.
The Qur'an (Oxford World's Classics)
The Qur'an / a new translation by M. A. S. Abdel Haleem, copyright © 2004 Oxford World's Classics (Oxford University Press). Used by permission. All rights reserved.