Discover Surah 23: Al-Mu’minun (The Believers) with clear English translation and insightful comments. Explore its themes of faith, guidance, morality, and the qualities of true believers in this profound Quranic chapter.
Surah 23: Al-Mu’minun (The Believers)
Introduction
Surah Al-Mu’minun is a powerful and deeply reflective chapter of the Qur’an that focuses on the qualities of true believers and the consequences of belief and disbelief. It was revealed in Makkah during a time when the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and his followers were facing intense opposition from the Quraysh.
The Surah begins by describing the successful believers—those who are humble in prayer, avoid useless talk, give charity, guard their modesty, and are faithful to their trusts and promises. These qualities show that true faith is not just belief in the heart, but actions that reflect sincerity, discipline, and responsibility.
The Surah then takes us through the history of earlier prophets such as Prophet Nuh (Noah), Musa (Moses), and Isa (Jesus) (peace be upon them), and how their people rejected the truth. These stories serve as a warning that those who deny the messengers of Allah often face destruction, while those who follow the guidance are saved.
It also talks about how human beings were created from a drop of fluid and gradually shaped into a complete person. This is a reminder of Allah’s power in creation and a call for reflection on the signs around and within us.
Towards the end, the Surah describes the Day of Judgment—when people’s good and bad deeds will be weighed. Those with heavy scales (full of good deeds) will succeed, while those with light scales will face eternal punishment. It warns those who live carelessly and mock the believers, and it shows that turning to Allah with sincerity and patience is the path to real success.
The Surah ends with a beautiful supplication:
“My Lord, forgive and have mercy, for You are the Best of those who show mercy.” (Verse 118) 0 0 0
Surah 23: Al-Mu’minun (The Believers): Text
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.
1. Certainly, the believers have succeeded.
2. Those who are humble and focused in their prayers,
3. And who stay away from useless talk,
4. And who give the required charity (Zakat),
5. And who guard their private parts,
6. Except with their wives or those they rightfully possess—then they are not to be blamed.
7. But whoever seeks beyond that, then they are the ones who cross the limits.
8. And those who are trustworthy with what they are given and keep their promises,
9. And those who regularly guard their prayers—
10. These are the ones who will inherit,
11. They will inherit Paradise, and they will stay in it forever.
12. Indeed, We created man from a mixture of clay.
13. Then We placed him as a drop of sperm in a secure resting place.
14. Then We turned the drop into a clinging clot, and then We shaped the clot into a lump of flesh. Then We shaped the lump into bones, and then We clothed the bones with flesh. Then We brought him out as a new creation. So blessed is Allah, the best of creators.
15. Then, after that, you will surely die.
16. And on the Day of Resurrection, you will be brought back to life.
17. And We made above you seven paths (layers in the heavens), and We are never unaware of the creation.
18. And We send down water from the sky in a measured amount, and We settle it in the earth. And indeed, We are fully able to take it away.
19. With it, We grow for you gardens of date palms and grapevines, in which you have many fruits, and from them you eat.
20. And We also made grow a tree that comes out from Mount Sinai, producing oil and a seasoning for those who eat.
21. And indeed, in the livestock there is a lesson for you: We give you drink from what is inside them, and you benefit from them in many ways, and you also eat from them.
22. And upon them and upon ships you are carried.
23. And We sent Nuh (Noah) to his people. He said, ‘O my people, worship Allah. You have no other god besides Him. Will you not be mindful of Him?’
24. But the leaders of his people who disbelieved said, ‘This man is just a human like you. He only wants to be better than you. If Allah had willed, He could have sent angels. We never heard of anything like this from our forefathers.’
25. ‘He is just a man possessed with madness, so wait and see him for a while.’
26. Noah said, ‘My Lord, help me because they have denied me.’
27. So We revealed to him: ‘Build the Ark under Our watch and as We reveal to you. And when Our command comes and water gushes out from the oven, then board on it a pair from every kind (male and female), and your family—except those against whom the Word has already been given. And do not speak to Me about those who have done wrong; they will surely be drowned.’
28. And when you and those with you are settled in the Ark, say, “Praise be to Allah, who has saved us from the wrongdoing people.”
29. And say, “My Lord, let me land at a blessed place. You are the best of those who bring to safety.”
30. Surely in this are signs, and surely We put people to the test.
31. Then after them, We raised another generation.
32. And We sent a messenger to them from among themselves, saying, ‘Worship Allah. You have no other god but Him. Will you not be mindful?’
33. But the leaders of his people who disbelieved and denied the meeting of the Hereafter, and whom We had given comfort in this life, said, ‘This is only a human like you. He eats what you eat and drinks what you drink.
34. If you obey a man like yourselves, you will surely be losers.
35. Does he promise you that when you die and become dust and bones, you will be brought out again?
36. Impossible, so impossible is what you are promised!
37. There is nothing but this life of ours—we die and live, and we will not be raised again.
38. He is just a man who makes up lies about Allah, and we will not believe in him.’
39. The messenger said, ‘My Lord, help me, for they have denied me.’
40. Allah said, ‘They will be sorry soon.’
41. Then a terrible cry seized them with justice, and We made them like dead leaves, dry and lifeless. So away with the wrongdoers!
42. Then after them, We raised other generations.
43. No nation can advance or delay its appointed time.
44. Then We sent Our messengers one after the other. Whenever a messenger came to a people, they denied him. So We made them follow one another in destruction, and We made them stories. So away with the people who do not believe!
45. Then We sent Moses and his brother Aaron with Our signs and clear authority
46. To Pharaoh and his chiefs, but they behaved arrogantly, for they were a proud people.
47. They said, ‘Should we believe in two men like ourselves, while their people are our slaves?’
48. So they rejected both of them, and they became among those who were destroyed.
49. And We certainly gave Moses the Scripture, so that they might be guided.
50. And We made the son of Mary and his mother a sign, and We gave them shelter on a high ground, peaceful and with flowing water.
51. O messengers, eat from what is pure, and do good deeds. I am fully aware of what you do.
52. And indeed, this religion of yours is one religion, and I am your Lord, so be mindful of Me.
53. But they split their religion among themselves into groups—each group rejoicing in what they had.
54. So leave them for a while in their ignorance.
55. Do they think that by giving them wealth and children,
56. We are rushing to reward them with good things? No, they do not understand.
57. Surely those who live in awe of their Lord,
58. And those who believe in the signs of their Lord,
59. And those who do not associate anything with their Lord,
60. And those who give what they give while their hearts are afraid, because they know they will return to their Lord—
61. These are the ones who rush to do good deeds, and they are the first to do so.
62. We do not place a burden on anyone except what they are able to bear. And with Us is a record that speaks the truth. They will not be wronged.
63. But their hearts are distracted by ignorance, and they continue doing evil deeds besides that.
64. Until, when We seize their wealthy ones with punishment, they begin to cry for help.
65. Do not cry out today. Surely, you will not be helped by Us.
66. My verses were recited to you, but you turned away from them,
67. Acting arrogantly, talking nonsense about them as if you were joking.
68. Have they not reflected on the Word? Or has something come to them that did not come to their ancestors?
69. Or do they not recognize their Messenger, so they deny him?
70. Or do they say, ‘He is possessed’? No! He has come to them with the truth, but most of them hate the truth.
71. If the truth followed their desires, the heavens and the earth and everyone in them would be corrupted. But We have brought them a reminder, and they turn away from it.
72. Or are you asking them for a payment? But the reward of your Lord is better, and He is the best provider.
73. And you are truly calling them to the Straight Path.
74. But those who do not believe in the Hereafter are turning away from the Path.
75. Even if We had mercy on them and removed their troubles, they would still blindly persist in rebellion.
76. We already seized them with punishment, but they did not humble themselves before their Lord, nor did they beg Him in submission.
77. “Or do they say, ‘There is madness in him’? Rather, he has brought them the truth, but most of them hate the truth.”
78. He is the One who gave you hearing, sight, and hearts—but how little you are thankful!
79. And He is the One who created you on the earth, and to Him you will be gathered.
80. And He is the One who gives life and causes death, and the alternation of night and day is under His control. Will you not understand?
81. But they said the same things that the former people said.
82. They said, ‘When we are dead and have become dust and bones, will we really be raised up again?
83. We and our ancestors were promised this before. This is nothing but ancient myths.’
84. Say, ‘To whom does the earth belong, and everyone in it, if you truly know?’
85. They will say, ‘To Allah.’ Say, ‘Then will you not remember Him?’
86. Say, ‘Who is the Lord of the seven heavens and the Lord of the mighty Throne?
87. They will say, ‘Allah.’ Say, ‘Then will you not be mindful of Him?’
88. Say, ‘In whose hand is the authority over everything? He protects, and none can protect against Him—if you truly know?’
89. They will say, ‘Allah.’ Say, ‘Then how are you being deluded?’
90. No! We have brought them the truth, but they are liars.
91. Allah has never taken a son, nor is there any god with Him. If that were the case, each god would have taken away what he created, and they would have tried to overpower each other. Glory be to Allah, far above what they describe!
92. He knows what is hidden and what is open. He is far above what they associate with Him.
93. Say, ‘My Lord, if You show me what they are threatened with,
94. Then, my Lord, do not include me among the wrongdoers.’
95. And indeed, We are capable of showing you what We have promised them.
96. Repel evil with what is better. We know well what they say.
97. And say, ‘My Lord, I seek refuge in You from the temptations of the devils.
98. And I seek refuge in You, my Lord, from them coming near me.’
99. Until when death comes to one of them, he says, ‘My Lord, send me back,
100. So that I may do good in what I left behind!’ Never! It is only a word he speaks. And behind them is a barrier until the Day they are resurrected.
101. Then, when the Trumpet is blown, there will be no family ties among them that Day, and they will not even ask about one another.
102. Those whose scales are heavy with good deeds—it is they who will succeed.
103. But those whose scales are light—these are the ones who have lost their souls. They will remain in Hell forever.
104. The Fire will burn their faces, and they will grin with their lips deformed.
105. Were My verses not recited to you, and you used to deny them?
106. They will say, ‘Our Lord, our misfortune overcame us, and we became a people who went astray.
107. Our Lord, bring us out from it. If we return to evil, then we truly will be wrongdoers.’
108. He will say, ‘Stay in it, and do not speak to Me.
109. There was a group of My servants who used to say, “Our Lord, we believe, so forgive us and have mercy on us, for You are the Best of those who show mercy.”
110. But you made fun of them, so much so that it made you forget My remembrance, and you used to laugh at them.
111. Today I have rewarded them for their patience—they are indeed the successful ones.’
112. He will say, ‘How many years did you remain on earth?’
113. They will say, ‘We stayed a day or part of a day. Ask those who keep count.’
114. He will say, ‘You only stayed a little—if only you had known!
115. Did you think that We created you for no purpose, and that you would not be returned to Us?’
116. So exalted is Allah, the True King. There is no god but Him, the Lord of the Noble Throne.
117. Whoever calls upon another god besides Allah, for which he has no proof—his reckoning is only with his Lord. Indeed, the disbelievers will never succeed.
118. And say, ‘My Lord, forgive and have mercy, for You are the Best of those who show mercy.’ 0 0 0
Comment
Surah Al-Mu’minun, the 23rd chapter of the Holy Qur’an, is a deeply meaningful Surah that highlights the qualities of true believers and the consequences of ignoring Allah’s message. It begins with a powerful statement: “The believers have succeeded.” This sets the tone for the rest of the Surah, which shows how success in the sight of Allah is based not on wealth or power, but on faith, good character, and obedience to His commands.
In the first few verses, Allah clearly describes who the true believers are. They are people who pray with focus and humility, stay away from useless talk, give charity, control their desires, keep their promises, and guard their daily prayers. These qualities show that belief in Islam is not just about words, but about action. A true believer is disciplined, respectful, and always trying to live a clean and honest life.
The Surah also reminds us how human beings were created. Allah explains the stages of creation—from a drop of fluid to a fully formed person. This shows His power and wisdom, and it reminds us that we were once weak and helpless. One day, we will return to Him. This section of the Surah helps us stay humble and realize how much we depend on our Creator.
Surah Al-Mu’minun also shares lessons from the past. It tells the stories of earlier prophets like Nuh (Noah), Musa (Moses), and Isa (Jesus), peace be upon them. All of these messengers were sent with the truth, but many people refused to listen. Some mocked the messengers, others called them liars, and many rejected their message because of arrogance or blind tradition. As a result, they were punished. These stories are not just history—they are warnings for us today. If we ignore the truth, we too may face regret and loss.
The Surah then speaks about the Day of Judgment. It says that on that Day, people will not care about their family or friends. Only those whose good deeds are heavy will succeed. Others will be thrown into Hell, where they will wish they could return to life and do good. But it will be too late. This part of the Surah is very serious and makes us think: are we really ready to meet Allah?
In the final verses, Allah reminds us that life is short. People will feel on Judgment Day as if they lived only a day or part of a day. This means our time in this world is very limited. We must not waste it. Instead, we should use it to do good, worship Allah, and stay away from bad behavior. The Surah ends with a beautiful prayer asking Allah for forgiveness and mercy.
In conclusion, Surah Al-Mu’minun teaches us what it really means to be a believer. It shows us the right path through examples, warnings, and reminders. A believer must be humble, sincere, and obedient to Allah. We must take life seriously and prepare for the Hereafter by doing good deeds and staying faithful. This Surah is a mirror for every Muslim to look at themselves and ask: Am I one of the true believers? 0 0 0
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Surah Al-Muminun: Additional Study
Frequently Asked Questions on Surah 23: Al-Mu’minun
Q. What is Surah Al-Mu’minun about?
Ans: Surah Al-Mu’minun highlights the qualities of true believers, the reality of life, the consequences of disbelief, and the ultimate success of the faithful in the Hereafter.
Q. How many verses are there in Surah Al-Mu’minun?
Ans: Surah Al-Mu’minun has 118 verses.
Q. Where was Surah Al-Mu’minun revealed?
Ans: It was revealed in Makkah, making it a Makkan Surah.
Q. Why is the Surah called Al-Mu’minun (The Believers)?
Ans: The Surah begins by describing the successful qualities of true believers, hence the name Al-Mu’minun.
Q. What are the key themes of Surah Al-Mu’minun?
Ans: The main themes include the attributes of true believers, the stages of human creation, reminders from past prophets, the rejection by disbelievers, and the reward of Paradise for the faithful.
Q. Which qualities of believers are described in the Surah?
Ans: The Surah describes believers as humble in prayer, avoiding vain talk, giving charity, guarding chastity, being faithful to trusts, and being regular in prayers.
Q. What lessons can be learned from Surah Al-Mu’minun?
Ans: The Surah teaches that faith combined with righteous deeds leads to success, while arrogance and denial of truth lead to loss in the Hereafter. 0 0 0
The Call of Surah Al-Mu’minun
Surah Al-Mu’minun begins with a call,
A reminder that faith will triumph all.
In Surah Al-Mu’minun the believers stand,
With humble hearts and guiding hand.
Surah Al-Mu’minun speaks of prayer,
Of voices lifted in worship and care.
In Surah Al-Mu’minun, the truth is clear,
That God is close, always near.
Surah Al-Mu’minun tells of the past,
Of prophets who struggled, yet held fast.
In Surah Al-Mu’minun, their stories live,
Lessons of patience that time will give.
Surah Al-Mu’minun shows mankind’s birth,
Created from clay upon the earth.
In Surah Al-Mu’minun, the stages are shown,
From weakness to strength, as humans are grown.
Surah Al-Mu’minun describes the just,
Those who honor every trust.
In Surah Al-Mu’minun, the faithful are strong,
Turning from falsehood, avoiding the wrong.
Surah Al-Mu’minun paints Paradise bright,
A home for believers filled with light.
In Surah Al-Mu’minun, success is clear,
The faithful rejoice, with nothing to fear.
Surah Al-Mu’minun warns of the proud,
Who mock the truth and laugh aloud.
In Surah Al-Mu’minun, their fate is known,
A loss eternal for seeds they’ve sown.
Surah Al-Mu’minun comforts the soul,
Faith and deeds make the spirit whole.
In Surah Al-Mu’minun, the message is plain,
Through trials of life, true faith will remain.
Surah Al-Mu’minun is a shining guide,
For hearts that seek the path inside.
In Surah Al-Mu’minun, the truth is sung,
That the faithful succeed, the believers are young.
Surah Al-Mu’minun ends with a plea,
“O Lord forgive, have mercy on me.”
In Surah Al-Mu’minun, hope takes flight,
Guiding believers from darkness to light. 0 00
