Download MP3 PDF of Surah Al-Ma’un English Translation

Surah Al-Ma’un, the 107th chapter of the Holy Quran, is a concise yet powerful surah consisting of seven verses. Revealed in Mecca, this surah, also known as “The Small Kindnesses,” addresses the importance of genuine faith, social responsibility, and compassion towards others. Surah Al-Ma’un serves as a reminder that true faith is reflected not only in worship but also in one’s conduct and treatment of others, particularly the less fortunate.

The Structure and Meaning of Surah Al-Ma’un

The verses of Surah Al-Ma’un are as follows:

1. Have you seen the one who denies the Recompense?
2. For that is the one who drives away the orphan
3. And does not encourage the feeding of the poor.
4. So woe to those who pray
5. [But] who are heedless of their prayer –
6. Those who make show [of their deeds]
7. And withhold [simple] assistance.

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Analysis and Reflection

Surah Al-Ma’un begins with a rhetorical question highlighting the characteristics of those who deny the Day of Judgment and are negligent in their social duties. The surah then criticizes both the lack of compassion towards orphans and the neglect of the poor, and it addresses the insincerity in worship and the withholding of basic assistance.

1. Have you seen the one who denies the Recompense?: This verse draws attention to the behavior of those who reject the concept of accountability in the Hereafter. It implies that such denial leads to moral corruption and social irresponsibility.

2. For that is the one who drives away the orphan: The surah identifies the mistreatment of orphans as a sign of moral decay. In Islamic teachings, caring for orphans is a significant act of virtue, and neglecting them is a serious transgression.

3. And does not encourage the feeding of the poor: This verse highlights the importance of supporting and encouraging acts of charity, specifically feeding the needy. It underscores that true faith involves active concern for the welfare of the less fortunate.

4. So woe to those who pray: Here, the surah issues a warning to those who engage in the outward act of prayer but lack sincerity and true devotion.

5. [But] who are heedless of their prayer –: This verse criticizes those who are careless and neglectful in their prayers, failing to observe them properly and sincerely.

6. Those who make show [of their deeds]: The surah condemns those who perform good deeds merely to be seen and praised by others, rather than out of genuine faith and compassion.

7. And withhold [simple] assistance: The final verse censures those who refuse to provide basic help and support to others, even when it involves minimal effort or resources. It emphasizes that small acts of kindness are essential in Islam.

The Significance of Surah Al-Ma’un

Surah Al-Ma’un serves as a powerful reminder that true faith is reflected in one’s actions and social behavior. It underscores the importance of sincerity in worship and compassion towards others, particularly the vulnerable and needy. The surah calls on Muslims to integrate their faith with their daily conduct, ensuring that their prayers and acts of worship are accompanied by genuine care for the welfare of others.

This surah also highlights the dangers of hypocrisy and the importance of aligning one’s inner beliefs with outward actions. It teaches that mere ritualistic worship without sincere intention and compassion is insufficient and condemned.

Conclusion

Surah Al-Ma’un, despite its brevity, delivers a profound message about the essence of true faith and social responsibility. It emphasizes that genuine belief in Allah and the Hereafter must be reflected in one’s treatment of orphans, the poor, and through sincere acts of worship and small kindnesses. By reflecting on Surah Al-Ma’un, Muslims are encouraged to practice their faith with sincerity, compassion, and a commitment to social justice.

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