These are reflections and lessons from Surah Ad-Duha, exploring what several of its verses teach us about faith, gratitude, and our relationship with Allah (swt).
Surah Ad-Duha Lessons
Verse 3:
مَا وَدَّعَكَ رَبُّكَ وَمَا قَلَىٰ
Verse 4:
وَلَلْـَٔاخِرَةُ خَيْرٌۭ لَّكَ مِنَ ٱلْأُولَىٰ
“And [by] the night when it covers with darkness,”
“And the Hereafter is better for you than the first [life].”
The Hereafter is indeed better for you than this first life, provided you choose it over this world. For the one whose state is such, they will never be abandoned by their Lord. This contains guidance for the believers on the essence of a servant’s closeness to the Exalted and Glorified. Simultaneously, it serves as a rebuke to the polytheists for their attachment to worldly matters and their turning away from the Hereafter.
What is the characteristic of a servant who is close to his Lord?
He consistently chooses the Hereafter over the fleeting desires of this life.
Verse 10:
وَأَمَّا ٱلسَّآئِلَ فَلَا تَنْهَر
“And as for the petitioner, do not repel [him].”
This include the one who asks for money and the one who asks for knowledge. Therefore, the teacher is commanded to treat the student with good character and show him kindness and compassion. This approach is not just a moral duty; it is practical, as it creates an environment that helps the student achieve their goal.
Is the prohibition against rebuking restricted to those asking for money?
No. The prohibition applies to the beggar asking for wealth and, perhaps even more importantly, to the student seeking knowledge.
To scold a student is to "repel" them from the path of learning.
Verse 11 :
وَأَمَّا بِنِعْمَةِ رَبِّكَ فَحَدّث
“But as for the favor of your Lord, report [it].”
Speaking of Allah’s (swt) blessings encourages gratitude and fosters deep affection for the One who bestowed them.
How does speaking about these blessings increase faith?
It reinforces our awareness of His presence. By constantly mentioning His favors, we nurture a stronger love and attachment to the Almighty, which naturally strengthens our faith.
Speaking of a blessing is an expression of gratitude for it. Therefore, some of the early Muslims considered it desirable to speak of the good deeds one has done if the intention is not to show off or boast, so that others may learn to emulate them."
Why was the command to speak of God’s blessings given?
Speaking of a blessing is an act of gratitude only when the intention is to honor the Giver (Allah) rather than to elevate the self.
Action points :
1. Give charity even if it is a small amount of your wealth
2. Pray two rakat of salatul ad Duha
3. Be kind to the orphan