It was named after the first word of the Surah ‘Ta-ha’. This name, like the names of many other surahs, is merely symbolic.
Period of Revelation
The period of its revelation is the same as of Surat Maryam. It is just possible that it was sent down during the Migration to Habashah
or just after it. Anyhow, it is certain that this Surah was revealed
before `Umar (may Allah be pleased with him) embraced Islam.
Virtues of Surat Ta-ha
1- It is one of the old properties of the Prophet (peace be upon him)
`Abdullah ibn Mas`ud (may Allah be pleased with him) narrated that,
“Surat Bani Israel, Al-Kahf (The Cave), Maryam, Ta-ha, Al-Anbiya’ (The
prophets) are amongst my first earnings and my old property, and (in
fact) they are my old property.” (Al-Bukhari)
2- It includes the greatest Name of Almighty Allah.
It was narrated that Al-Qasim said: “The Greatest Name of Allah, if He is called by which He will respond, is in three surahs: Al-Baqarah, Aal `Imran and Ta-Ha.” (Ibn Majah)
Is it a Makki or Madani Surah?
There is a consensus among scholars that surat Ta-ha was revealed in Makkah after surat Maryam.
Topics of the Surah
1- This surah begins and ends with an address to the Prophet explaining his task and outlining the limits of his duties.
2- Between the opening and the close, the surah relates the history
of Moses from the point when he received his first revelations to the
adoption by the Israelites of the calf as an object of worship.
3- Adam’s story is given in a short, quick account, highlighting the grace God bestowed on him after he committed his offence.
4- The fundamental principles presented by Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) tawhid and the Hereafter are just the same as were taught to Prophet Moses at the time of his appointment.
5- A great emphasis has been laid on prayer so that it may create in
the believers the virtues of patience, forbearance, contentment,
resignation to the will of God and self- analysis for these are greatly
needed in the service of the Message of the Truth.
Life lessons from the Story of Musa in the Surah
1- Family comes first
Musa (peace be upon him) seeks to ensure his family’s safety and
comfort by asking them to wait for him in the cold darkness of the night
while he departs to investigate the source of fire at a distance from
them.
2- Present Danger is better than Hidden Danger
Musa (peace be upon him) knows it is dangerous to leave his family in
the dark expanse of the desert that they lost their way in. Yet, that
is less a danger than walking into a campfire of what could possibly be a
group of brigands who would harm him and his family. The known danger
is clear and evident, but at least it is predictable.
3- One person takes the Final Decision
In trying circumstances, defined, clear and unambiguous directions
can be the difference between life and death, health and sickness,
safety and tragedy. In all decisions, especially within the household, a
unified singular voice needs to provide leadership and direction.
4- Don’t promise what is not assured
Musa (peace be upon him) says, “Maybe/perhaps I can bring you” and
does not speak in definite. Nothing undermines credibility of a parent
with their children more than unfulfilled promises. The greatest wedge
between a husband and wife are vows that are not maintained and
assurances not met. Speak the truth and do not embellish.
5- Prioritize
Musa (peace be upon him) speaks about warmth and a flaming brand to
return with and provide comfort and light for his family, before he
speaks about finding their way. He understands the greatest need and
seeks to fulfill it before other essentials.
6- Take responsibility
Musa (peace be upon him) says “Ini (I can)” to legitimize his
decision. He assumes responsibility for the decision and intends a
positive outcome, even though he does not guarantee it. Families
disintegrate due to a lack of responsibility. Standing up and assuming
leadership equally necessitates being responsible when things go bad.
Post a Comment