Chapter 76 - 9
Human Being (Surah Al-Insan1)
(31 verses in total; revealed in middle Makkan period)
In parallel with the first revelation (chapter 96-1) where God mentioned creation of humankind out of love, this revelation draws attention to human reproductive capacity through the union of sperm and egg and their being subject to trials after their endowment with knowledge, sensory and intellectual capabilities, and guidance sent from God.
Key themes in this chapter are as follows:
The significance of human beings comes not from their biological origin but endowment of divine essence, intellectual and spiritual capabilities, free-will and directed guidance sent through prophets and other messengers.
Contrast is laid out between those who acknowledge God and do good vs. those who deny God and act unjustly in this life
Some aspects of afterlife from rewards in heaven and consequences in hellfire are described in literal term, perhaps as examples, so one can visualize and relate such descriptions to our earthly experience.
In the Name of God, the God of Mercy and the Endower of Mercy!
Had there been a time
When the human species was nothing worthy of a mention?
Surely, We (God) created them from sperm and egg
And to put them under trial
We gave them hearing and sight!
Offered them guidance to the path (to God)
They can be thankful or in denial! (v. 1-3)
We have prepared for the deniers
Chains, iron collars and blazing fire (sa’yir) (v. 4)
But for the righteous
A drink from a cup
A drink effusing fragrance
A fountain from which only servants of God drink
Flowing in abundance
They fulfill their promises
Mindful of a day
When dire consequences will be widespread
They feed the poor, the orphans, and the captives
Out of love for God
(they say): “We feed you for God’s pleasure
Aspiring no rewards or thanks from you
We are mindful of our Cherisher God
About a Day
Grim and distressing” (v. 5-10)
On that Day
God will protect them from the day’s evils
Bring them to splendor and happiness
A reward for being steadfast
Gardens and silk (dresses)
Reclining on couches elevated
Experiencing neither intense heat nor cold
With branches leaning over them
Providing shade
And fruit clusters within reach
Being served with
Vessels of silver
Goblets and shiny silver platters
Measured in due portions
From cups a drink
Infused with ginger
From a fountain named Salsabil
Served by youth as they go around
Never changing in age
Like scattered pearls
To the beholders
As you look around
You see blessings
The expanse of a grand kingdom!
Garments made of fine green silk and brocade
Sliver bracelets
A pure drink – made by their Sustainer God (v. 11-21)
Indeed, this is a reward for you
Your strivings duly recognized! (v. 22)
Indeed, We Ourselves have revealed this Qur’an
In portions to you (Prophet)
Patiently wait for judgment from your Sustainer
Don’t give in to the sinners and the ungrateful amongst them
Glorify the essence of your Cherisher God
Mornings and evenings
In part of the night, prostrate to your Sustainer
Glorify throughout the long night
These deniers
Love this transitory life
Neglecting the grim day ahead of them
We (God) created them
And made their constitutions firm
But We can replace them
if We so please! (v. 23 – 28)
Again, this is a Reminder
Whoever desires it
Let them follow their path to The Cherisher
But they will not be able to
Unless God so pleases
God is ever Knowing, Wise!
(God) admit to His Mercy as He pleases
But for the unjust and oppressor
God has prepared a terrible consequence! (v. 29-31)
1The word used is “insan” which I have rendered as Human being (here) or in other instances as Humankind or Mankind as opposed to “Man” which though generally imply male but also both male and female in standard English.
