The Majestic Quran

41. Ha Meem Sajdah Ha Meem Prostration This chapter was revealed in the middle Makkan period, a few days after Hamza, the uncle of the Messenger r , accepted Islam. Persecution against the Messenger r and his small band of followers was at its worst. The acceptance of Islam by this prominent young Qurayshi substantially strengthened the Muslims. After this momentous conversion, the Quraysh held a meeting about the growing threat from Islam. Utbah ibn Rabiah, a wealthy leader, took the responsibility of ‘striking a deal’ with the Messenger r , so he went and said to him: My nephew ... you have brought to your people something of grave concern whereby you have created a rift between the community ... here is a proposal, see if you can accept it; if it is wealth that you seek then we will put together a fortune for you ... if it is honour you seek we will make you our overlord ... and if it is that you cannot rid yourself of the spirit that appears to you we will find the best physician until you are cured (Lings). The Prophet r replied: “Father of Walid, now listen to me,” and began reciting this chapter. Utbah listened attentively; he was captivated by the words of the Quran. Utbah put his finger on his mouth and requested the Prophet r to stop reciting when the Prophet r came to the line: “If they turn away say, ‘I warned you of a thunderbolt like the thunderbolt of Ad and Thamud’” (13). Utbah returned to the group and told them: “I’ve heard some words the like of which I have never heard before. It is not poetry, by God, neither is it a sorcery nor a soothsaying ... come not between this man and what he is about, but let him be.”