Unveil the powerful message of Surah 101: Al-Qariah (The Striking Calamity), a dramatic Quranic chapter that describes the Day of Judgment, the weighing of deeds, and the eternal destiny of every soul.
Surah 101: Al-Qariah (The Striking Hour)
Introduction
Surah Al-Qariah is the one hundred and first chapter of the Holy Quran, revealed in Makkah. It contains eleven concise verses describing the “Striking Hour,” a powerful name for the Day of Judgment. The Surah begins with an emphatic repetition of the event’s name, drawing attention to its terror and significance. It asks rhetorical questions to stir reflection on the reality of that day. The Surah then portrays vivid imagery: people scattering like moths and mountains turning to light wool, symbolizing the overwhelming chaos and transformation on the Day of Judgment. The outcome depends on the balance of one’s deeds — those with heavy scales of good deeds will enjoy a pleasant life, while those with light scales will face a blazing fire. 0 0 0
Surah 101: Al-Qariah (The Striking Hour): Text
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.
(1) The Striking Hour –
(2) What is the Striking Hour?
(3) And what can make you know what the Striking Hour is?
(4) It is the Day when people will be like scattered moths,
(5) And the mountains will be like fluffed wool.
(6) Then, as for one whose scales are heavy [with good deeds],
(7) He will be in a pleasant life.
(8) But as for one whose scales are light,
(9) His refuge will be an abyss.
(10) And what can make you know what that is?
(11) It is a fire, intensely hot. 0 0 0
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Comment
This Surah uses powerful imagery to convey the magnitude and seriousness of the Last Day. The scattering of people like moths shows helplessness and confusion, while the mountains turning to wool symbolize the complete upheaval of the natural world. The concept of scales weighing deeds highlights the divine justice system, emphasizing accountability. The clear distinction between the fate of the righteous and the wicked encourages believers to strive for good deeds that tip the balance in their favor. The repetition of questions stresses the importance of understanding and reflecting on the Day of Judgment. This Surah serves as a vivid reminder to live a life conscious of the inevitable reckoning and to prepare accordingly. 0 0 0
Frequently Asked Questions on Surah 101: Al-Qariah (The Striking Calamity):
Q1. What is Surah 101: Al-Qariah (The Striking Calamity) about?
Ans: Surah Al-Qariah (The Striking Calamity) is about the terrifying reality of the Day of Judgment, which will strike mankind with shock and awe. The Surah describes how people will be scattered like moths and the mountains will become like fluffed wool, showing the total destruction and transformation of the universe. It then highlights the weighing of deeds, where those with heavy scales of good deeds will be in a state of bliss, while those with light scales will face the blazing abyss of Hell. This Surah conveys the certainty of accountability and the seriousness of preparing for the Hereafter.
Q2. Why is Surah Al-Qariah (The Striking Calamity) significant?
Ans: Surah Al-Qariah (The Striking Calamity) is significant because it presents a vivid picture of the final reckoning, leaving no doubt about the severity of the Day of Judgment. It emphasizes that worldly distractions will hold no value when every soul is judged based on its deeds. The Surah is a reminder for believers to focus on building a life of righteousness, as even the smallest deed will be weighed. Its strong and alarming tone shakes the heart and motivates self-reflection, repentance, and sincerity in faith.
Q3. How many verses are in Surah Al-Qariah (The Striking Calamity)?
Ans: Surah Al-Qariah (The Striking Calamity) contains 11 verses. These verses are short, rhythmic, and powerful, capturing the essence of the Quran’s early style in Makkan revelation. Despite their brevity, they convey profound imagery and deep spiritual lessons about life, death, and the Hereafter.
Q4. What lessons can we learn from Surah Al-Qariah (The Striking Calamity)?
Ans: From Surah Al-Qariah (The Striking Calamity), we learn the importance of preparing for the Day of Judgment through righteous deeds, sincerity, and gratitude toward Allah. It teaches that worldly possessions and pride will mean nothing when deeds are weighed. The Surah also reminds us that small deeds matter, whether good or bad, and that Allah’s justice will be perfect. It inspires mindfulness in daily life, urging believers to strengthen their faith, increase charity, and avoid sin, knowing that everything will be accounted for on that decisive day.
Q5. When was Surah Al-Qariah (The Striking Calamity) revealed?
Ans: Surah Al-Qariah (The Striking Calamity) was revealed in Makkah. Its short and forceful verses reflect the Makkan style of focusing on faith, the Hereafter, and accountability. It came at a time when early Muslims were being reminded of the certainty of the resurrection and encouraged to remain firm in their belief despite worldly trials.
Q6. How can reciting Surah Al-Qariah (The Striking Calamity) benefit a believer?
Ans: Reciting Surah Al-Qariah (The Striking Calamity) benefits a believer by instilling fear of accountability and motivating self-purification. It awakens the heart to the reality of death and the Day of Judgment, urging one to focus on accumulating good deeds. Recitation strengthens faith, increases awareness of Allah’s justice, and encourages humility by reminding us that the true measure of success lies in the weight of righteous actions. Spiritually, it softens the heart, builds mindfulness in worship, and inspires believers to live with purpose and sincerity.
