The Majestic Quran

45. Al-Jathiyah Kneeling The central theme of this Makkan chapter is to acknowledge Tawhid , the Unity of God, and depose idols. This seminal teaching of the Quran sums up the mission of Islam. A passage about nature opens the chapter: marvellous signs in the creation clearly point to a Creator, from the plant kingdom to animals, the celestial bodies and the rain cycle. Attention is drawn to Divine creativity, and the idolaters are invited to reflect on the helplessness of their idols: “This Quran is full of insights for humanity, a guidance and beneficial for faithful people” (20). The leaders of Quraysh vehemently opposed the Messenger r because he was too radical, and posed a serious threat to their status, wealth and belief systems. They opposed him to preserve their hegemony and customs: they sought to defend their gods, protect the status quo and the wealth they earned from pilgrims who visited the shrines. They weren’t prepared to accept the Sovereignty and the Oneness of the God of Muhammad r . Too much was at stake; loss of status and power. The disbelievers are warned of the consequences of their rebellion: “When you will see all the communities kneeling down. Today, each community will be summoned to its Book of Deeds” (28). They “mocked God’s verses and were deceived by worldly life” (35) to their own detriment. The chapter ends as it began, by emphasising the greatness of God. In the name of God, the Kind, the Caring. 1 Ha Meem .