The Majestic Quran

44. Ad-Dukhan The Smoke According to some commentators, this Makkan chapter was revealed after a famine struck Makkah; the dust blew, and Makkah was covered with a cloud of dust. The Makkans came to the Prophet r and asked him to pray for relief from the famine, they promised to believe if they were relieved. He r prayed and it rained, but the Makkans didn’t keep their word, like the people of Pharaoh they broke their promise. The Quran tells the story as a deterrent. Some commentators believe the smoke cloud refers to a catastrophe that will occur near the Final Hour, possibly a nuclear explosion. The chapter paints a frightening picture of the people of Hell; fed from the tree known as Zaqqum, when its fruit enters the stomach, it boils. What a contrast to the delights that await the pious people of Paradise. The purpose of the Quran is to awaken God-consciousness in people: “So wait, they the disbelievers are also waiting” (59). In the name of God, the Kind, the Caring. 1 Ha Meem . T Q 2 By the clear readable book, 3 We revealed it on a blessed night and have been warning humanity . 4 In it every matter is decided wisely; 5 all the commands come from Ourselves, We send Message and messengers, 6 a favour from Your Lord – the Hearer, the Knower, 7 the Lord of the Heavens and the Earth and what is between them – if only you are firm believers.