82. Infitaar

Syed Abu-Ala' Maududi's Chapter Introductions to the Quran



Name

It is derived from the word infatarat in the first verse. Infitar is an infinitive which means to burst or split asunder thereby implying that it is the Sura in which the splitting asunder of the sky has been mentioned.

Period of Revelation

This Sura and the Sura At-Takwir closely resemble each other in their subject matter. This shows that both were sent down in about the same period.

Theme and Subject Matter

Its theme is the Hereafter. Accroding to a tradition related in Musnad Ahmad Tirmidhi Ibn al-Mundhir Tabarani Hakim and Ibn Marduyah on the authority of Hadrat Abdullah bin Umar the Holy Messenger (upon whom be peace) said: "The one who wants that he should see the Resurrection Day as one would see it with one's eyes should read Sura At-Takwir" In this Sura first the Resurection Day has been described and it is said that when it occurs every person will see whatever he has done in the world. After this man has been asked to ponder thc question: "O man what has deluded you into thinking that the God Who brought you into being and by Whose favor and bounty you possess the finest body limbs and features among all creatures is only bountiful and not just?His being bountiful and generous does not mean that you should become fearless of His justice."Then man has been warned so as to say: "Do not remain involved in any misunderstanding. Your complete record is being prepared. There are trustworthy writers who are writing down whatever you do." In conclusion it has been forcefully stated that the Day of Resurrection will surely take place when the righteous shall enjoy every kind of bliss in Paradise and the wicked shall be punished in Hell. On that day no one shall avail anyone anything. All powers of judgement shall be with Allah.