The Majestic Quran

did; He wouldn’t have left a single creature on the surface of the Earth ” (45). In terms of faith and good deeds, the chapter divides the believers into three grades: “Some wronged themselves, others were good and some by the grace of God were foremost in good works” (32). The implication is that the Ummah of Muhammad r will include a group who makes mistakes and pays no attention to their duties, here called “ zalim ”, the wrongdoers. The second group are “ muqtasid ”, the good: the moderates who fulfil religious obligations and avoid the forbidden, but are sluggish with regards to voluntary activities. The third group are “ al-sabiq ”, who are committed to “seeking the pleasure of God, avoid worldly luxuries, the trappings of the world, and never forget God” (Ibn Kathir). In the name of God, the Kind, the Caring. G ’ , 1 Praise be to God, the Originator of the Heavens and the Earth, Creator of the messenger angels with two, three and four pairs of wings. He adds to the creation whatever He pleases. God has power over everything. 2 How He treats people kindly is up to Him , no one can withhold it; and what He withholds, no one can take it after His decision . He is the Almighty, the Wise. 3 People, remember the gifts God gave you. Is there any other creator beside God who provides for you from the Earth and the sky? There is no god but Him. How then can you turn away from the truth ? M M r 4 If they deny you, so what ? Messengers before you were denied too . In the end all matters will be returned to God. 5 People, God’s promise is true, so don’t let this worldly life deceive you, and don’t let Satan , the arch- deceiver, draw you away from God. 6 Satan is your enemy, so treat him as such. He invites his followers to become companions of the fiery Blaze. 7 Those who disbelieved will suffer severe punishment, but those who believe and do righteous deeds will be forgiven and granted great reward.