The Majestic Quran

40. Mu’min The Believer This Makkan chapter was revealed around the sixth year, at a time of intense persecution of the Muslims. The name Mu’min comes from verse 28, “A believing man from Pharaoh’s family who kept his faith secret...”. Its other name is chapter Ghafir, it is mentioned in verse 3, “the forgiver of sins...”. The chapter opens with a claim: “This is a revelation from God the Almighty, the Knower” (2). The disbelievers rejected this, so arguments from human history, experience and the natural world around them are presented. The underlying cause of their rejection is false pride in their knowledge and wealth, which leads to delusion and conceit. They mistakenly think material things will save them, and that they have no need of the Almighty: “So when Our Messengers came to them with clear signs, they smugly continued to boast about their knowledge and eventually were engulfed by the punishment they mocked” (83). The central theme of the chapter is false pride; humans think they’re the centre of the world, they’re deceived in thinking they’re independent and self-sufficient. Their wealth, talents and networks make them smug and self-satisfied. The chapter opens by acknowledging the dignity of the faithful through prayer of the angels: Our Lord, everything is under the cover of Your Kindness and Knowledge, therefore forgive those who repent and follow Your way, and protect them from the punishment of Hell (7). Scenes from Judgement Day: Divine Justice in full swing, people’s limbs testifying against them, disbelievers being hurled into