The Provisions of Surah Al-Mulk

Exegesis of Surah Al-Mulk

In his esteemed work “Ahkam Al-Quran,” Ibn Al-Arabi highlights a specific verse in Surah Al-Mulk that delineates a divine ruling for mankind. This verse states: (He is the One Who has made the earth subservient to you; so traverse in its pathways and partake of the sustenance He has provided, and unto Him shall you be resurrected). Here, Allah (SWT) articulates a form of His bounties bestowed upon humanity by rendering the earth conducive for their habitation, setting it as a stable platform beneath their feet. Subsequently, He instructs them to journey, seek, and explore the land in pursuit of provisions, fruits, and trade. Allah (SWT) emphasizes that such endeavors bear fruit only by His permission and facilitation.

Themes of Surah Al-Mulk

The verses of Surah Al-Mulk encompass several significant themes, including but not limited to the following:

  • The affirmation of Allah’s greatness, omnipotence, and absolute authority over the universe.
  • An exploration of some manifestations of His might and strength, such as the creation of the heavens and their adornment.
  • A depiction of the state of wrongdoers as they endure various forms of punishment, contrasted with the condition of the believers who are luxuriating in comfort.
  • The enumeration of some of Allah’s blessings granted to His servants.
  • Presentation of various signs of Allah’s might and beautiful creation, illustrated through images such as birds in flight and the provision of sustenance.

Surah Al-Mulk

Surah Al-Mulk is universally recognized by scholars as a Meccan surah, celebrated for its numerous virtues. It is known by several titles, some of which are popular while others stem from descriptions by the companions. Below are a few of its names:

  • Surah Al-Tawakkul ‘Ala Al-Malik; this name derives from a prophetic tradition recounted by the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him).
  • Surah Al-Mulk; this is the most commonly used name, and it is under this title that Al-Bukhari categorized its interpretation.
  • The Protector; as mentioned by Ibn Mas’ud (RA).
  • Tasbeeh Al-Malik.
  • The Deliverer; this title is also referenced in one of the Hadiths of the Prophet Muhammad.
  • The Safeguard; as noted in “Al-I’tqan” by Al-Suyuti.
  • The Inhibitor and The Strong Inhibitor, an emphatic form of the term “The Inhibitor.”
  • The Arguer; a name attributed by Ibn Abbas (RA) due to its role in interceding for its reciter during questioning by the angels.

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