Unveil Surah 2: Al-Baqara (The Heifer), the 2nd surah of Al Quran in Plain English with introduction and Comment.
Surah 2: Al-Baqara (The Heifer)
Introduction
Surah Al-Baqara is the second and longest chapter of the Qur’an. The name “Al-Baqara” means “The Heifer (young cow),” and it comes from a story in the surah about a cow during the time of Prophet Musa (Moses), which teaches lessons about obedience and faith. This surah was revealed in Medina after the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) migrated there. It was revealed over a period of time and contains guidance for building a strong Muslim community based on justice, belief, and good character.
The surah begins by declaring that the Qur’an is a book of guidance for those who are mindful of Allah. It talks about different types of people—those who believe, those who disbelieve, and those who pretend to believe but are actually hypocrites. A large part of the surah speaks about the history of the Children of Israel (Bani Israel), showing how they were blessed by Allah but often disobeyed His commands. These stories are meant to teach Muslims to avoid similar mistakes.
It also includes the stories of important prophets like Adam, Ibrahim (Abraham), and Musa (Moses), showing how they trusted Allah and followed His guidance. One of the key events mentioned is the change of the direction of prayer (Qibla) from Jerusalem to the Kaaba in Mecca. This change marked the independence of the Muslim community and their connection to the faith of Prophet Ibrahim.
Many Islamic rules are introduced in this surah, such as those about prayer, fasting, giving charity (zakat), pilgrimage (hajj), marriage, divorce, business, and justice. The surah strongly warns against taking interest (usuray/riba) and encourages fairness in trade and honesty in dealings. It teaches that success in life and the hereafter comes from obeying Allah, helping others, and living with truth and kindness.
Surah Al-Baqara ends with verses full of wisdom, reminding the believers to stay firm in their faith and ask Allah for forgiveness, mercy, and support. The final prayer in this surah is one of the most beautiful supplications in the Qur’an. Overall, Surah Al-Baqara provides a complete guide for personal life, social order, and spiritual growth.
Al-Baqara (The Heifer): Text
In the name of Allah, the most Gracious, the Most Merciful
1. Alif. Lam. Meem.
2. This is the Book; there is no doubt in it. It is a guide for those who are mindful of God.
3. Those who believe in the unseen, establish prayer, and give from what We have given them.
4. And who believe in what was sent down to you (O Prophet), and what was sent before you, and have sure belief in the Hereafter.
5. These are rightly guided by their Lord, and they will be successful.
6. Those who disbelieve—it makes no difference whether you warn them or not—they will not believe.
7. God has sealed their hearts and hearing, and over their eyes is a covering. They will have a great punishment.
8. Some people say, “We believe in God and the Last Day,” but they are not true believers.
9. They try to deceive God and the believers, but they only fool themselves and do not realize it.
10. Their hearts are sick, and God has increased their sickness. They will have a painful punishment because they lie.
11. When told, “Do not spread corruption in the land,” they say, “We are only doing good!”
12. Truly, they are the ones who spread corruption, but they don’t understand.
13. When told, “Believe like the others believe,” they say, “Should we believe like the foolish?” But truly, they are the foolish ones—though they don’t realize.
14. When they meet the believers, they say, “We believe.” But when they are alone with their evil leaders, they say, “We are with you; we were only mocking.”
15. God mocks them and lets them wander blindly in their rebellion.
16. They have traded guidance for misguidance, but their trade brings no profit, and they are not guided.
17. Their example is like someone who lights a fire, and once it brightens the surroundings, God takes away their light, leaving them in darkness—unable to see.
18. They are deaf, dumb, and blind, so they will not return.
19. Or like people caught in a rainstorm from the sky, full of darkness, thunder, and lightning. They put their fingers in their ears out of fear of death. But God surrounds the disbelievers.
20. The lightning almost snatches away their sight. Whenever it lights up, they walk in it. But when it goes dark, they stop. If God wanted, He could take away their hearing and sight—God has power over everything.
21. O people, worship your Lord who created you and those before you, so you may become mindful.
22. He made the earth your resting place and the sky a roof, and He sends rain from the sky to bring forth fruits for your food. So don’t set up partners with God when you know the truth.
23. If you doubt what We have sent down to Our servant (the Prophet), then produce one chapter like it, and call your helpers besides God—if you are truthful.
24. But if you cannot—and you will never be able to—then fear the Fire whose fuel is people and stones, prepared for disbelievers.
25. And give good news to those who believe and do good: they will have gardens under which rivers flow. Whenever they are given fruits from it, they will say, “This is what we were given before.” They will be given similar things, and there they will have pure spouses, and they will stay there forever.
26. God does not shy away from giving examples, even as small as a mosquito. Believers know it is truth from their Lord, but those who disbelieve say, “What does God mean by this?” He guides many with it and misleads many—but only the rebellious.
27. They break God’s covenant after accepting it, cut what God ordered to be joined, and spread corruption on earth. These are the losers.
28. How can you deny God when you were lifeless and He gave you life, then He will cause you to die and give you life again, and then you will return to Him?
29. He created everything on earth for you, then turned to the sky and made it into seven heavens. He knows everything.
30. When your Lord said to the angels, “I will place a human being on earth,” they said, “Will You place someone who will spread corruption and shed blood, while we glorify You and praise You?” He said, “I know what you do not know.”
31. He taught Adam the names of all things. Then He showed them to the angels and said, “Tell Me the names of these, if you are truthful.”
32. They said, “Glory be to You! We have no knowledge except what You have taught us. You are the All-Knowing, the Wise.”
33. God said, “O Adam, tell them their names.” When Adam did, God said, “Did I not tell you I know the unseen of the heavens and the earth, and I know what you reveal and what you hide?”
34. And when We told the angels to bow down to Adam, they all bowed down—except Iblis (Satan). He refused and was proud, and became one of the disbelievers.
35. We said, “O Adam, live in the garden—you and your wife—and eat freely, but do not go near this tree, or you will be wrongdoers.”
36. But Satan made them slip and caused them to leave the garden. We said, “Go down as enemies to one another. You will live and die on earth, and from it you will be raised.”
37. Then Adam received words from his Lord, and God accepted his repentance. He is the Forgiving, the Merciful.
38. We said, “Go down, all of you. When guidance comes to you from Me, whoever follows My guidance will have nothing to fear or grieve.”
39. But those who deny and reject Our signs will live in the Fire forever.
40. O Children of Israel, remember My favor to you. Fulfill your promise to Me, and I will fulfill My promise to you. And fear only Me.
41. Believe in what I have sent down, confirming what you already have. Do not be the first to disbelieve in it. Do not sell My verses for a small price. Be mindful of Me.
42. Do not mix truth with falsehood or hide the truth when you know it.
43. Establish prayer, give charity, and bow with those who bow.
44. Do you tell others to do good and forget yourselves, though you read the Scripture? Will you not understand?
45. Seek help through patience and prayer. It is hard, except for those who are humble.
46. They are certain they will meet their Lord and return to Him.
47. O Children of Israel, remember how I favored you above all nations.
48. Be aware of the Day when no soul can help another, no payment will be taken, and no intercession will be accepted.
49. Remember when We saved you from Pharaoh’s people, who were oppressing you, killing your sons, and keeping your women alive. That was a great trial from your Lord.
50. And when We parted the sea for you and saved you, and drowned Pharaoh’s people as you watched.
51. And when We gave Moses the Book and guidance, so you might be thankful.
52. But you took the calf (idol) after that, and you did wrong.
53. Yet We forgave you, so you might be thankful.
54. And when Moses said to his people, “You have done wrong by worshipping the calf. So turn in repentance and kill your own guilty ones.” Then God accepted your repentance—He is the Most Accepting, the Most Merciful.
55. When you said, “O Moses, we won’t believe you until we see God with our own eyes,” a thunderbolt struck you while you were looking.
56. Then We raised you back to life after death, so you might be grateful.
57. We gave you shade from clouds and sent manna and quails to you. “Eat the good things We provided.” They did not wrong Us, but they wronged themselves.
58. And We said, “Enter this town and eat freely, but say ‘forgive us’ and enter humbly. We will forgive your sins and increase blessings for the good-doers.”
59. But the wrongdoers changed the words, so We sent punishment on them from the sky for their disobedience.
60. When Moses prayed for water, We said, “Strike the rock with your staff,” and twelve springs flowed out. Each group knew its drinking place. “Eat and drink, but do not act wickedly on earth.”
61. They said, “O Moses, we’re tired of one kind of food. Ask your Lord for vegetables, herbs, garlic, lentils, and onions.” Moses said, “Would you trade something better for something worse?” So they were made to live in humiliation and poverty for rejecting God’s words.
62. Surely those who believe, the Jews, Christians, and Sabians—who believe in God and the Last Day and do good—will be rewarded, and they will not fear or grieve.
63. And remember when We took a promise from you and raised the mountain above you, saying, “Hold tightly to what We gave you and listen.” They said, “We hear and disobey.” Their hearts were filled with love for the calf because of their disbelief.
64. Say: “What a terrible thing your belief commands you to do—if you truly believe!”
65. You surely know what happened to those among you who broke the Sabbath. We said to them, “Be like apes—disgraced and rejected.”
66. We made their punishment a warning for those who were there and for those who came after, and a lesson for those who are mindful of God.
67. And when Moses said to his people, “God commands you to sacrifice a cow,” they replied, “Are you making fun of us?” Moses said, “I seek refuge in God from being foolish.”
68. They said, “Ask your Lord to tell us what kind of cow it should be.” Moses said, “God says it should be neither too old nor too young, but somewhere in between. So do what you are told.”
69. They said, “Ask your Lord to tell us its color.” He said, “It is a bright yellow cow, pleasing to look at.”
70. They said, “Ask your Lord to make clear exactly what kind of cow it is, because all cows look alike to us. If God wills, we will be guided.”
71. He said, “It is a cow that has not been used to plow the land or water the fields. It is healthy and has no spot or defect.” They finally sacrificed it, though they were hesitant to do so.
72. Remember when you killed a man and argued over who was responsible, but God showed what you were hiding.
73. So We said, “Strike the body with part of the cow.” This is how God brings the dead back to life, and He shows you His signs so that you may understand.
74. Even after all this, your hearts became hard—like stones, or even harder. Some rocks let water flow from them, some split and water gushes out, and some fall down in awe of God. God is never unaware of what you do.
75. Do you still hope that they will believe what you say, when some of them used to hear God’s words, then knowingly changed them after understanding them?
76. And when they meet the believers, they say, “We believe.” But when they are alone with each other, they say, “Why are you telling them what God has revealed to us? They might use it against us with your Lord. Don’t you understand?”
77. Don’t they know that God knows everything they hide and everything they reveal?
78. Some among them are uneducated and don’t know the Book—they only follow guesses and hopes.
79. So, woe (destruction) to those who write the Book with their own hands and say, “This is from God,” to make some small profit. Woe to them for what their hands have written, and woe to them for what they gain.
80. They say, “We’ll only be in the Fire for a few days.” Say, “Have you made a promise with God? Then God will never break His promise. Or are you saying something about God you don’t know?”
81. No! Those who do evil and are surrounded by their sins—these people are the ones who will live forever in the Fire.
82. But those who believe and do good deeds—they will live forever in Paradise.
83. And when We took a promise from the Children of Israel: Worship only God, be kind to your parents, relatives, orphans, and the poor. Speak kindly to people, pray regularly, and give charity. But most of you turned away, except for a few, and you ignored the promise.
84. And when We took a promise from you: Do not shed blood among yourselves or drive one another out of your homes. Then you confirmed this and agreed.
85. But here you are—killing each other and forcing some of your own people out of their homes. You help others against them in sin and wrongdoing. If they come to you as captives, you ransom them—though it was forbidden to drive them out in the first place. Do you believe in part of the Book and ignore other parts? Then what should be the reward for those who do this—except disgrace in this life, and on the Day of Judgment, a severe punishment? God is not unaware of what you do.
86. These are the ones who bought this worldly life at the cost of the Hereafter. Their punishment will not be lightened, and they will not be helped.
87. We gave Moses the Book and followed him with many messengers. We gave Jesus, son of Mary, clear signs and strengthened him with the Holy Spirit. But whenever a messenger came to you with something you didn’t like, you were arrogant—some you called liars, and others you even killed!
88. They say, “Our hearts are sealed.” No! God has cursed them because of their disbelief. They believe very little.
89. And when a Book came to them from God, confirming what they already had, even though before this they used to pray for victory over disbelievers—when it came, they rejected it. So God’s curse is on the disbelievers.
90. Miserable is the price for which they sold themselves: denying what God sent down, out of jealousy, because God sends His blessings to whomever He wills. So they brought anger upon anger. And the disbelievers will have a humiliating punishment.
91. When they are told, “Believe in what God has revealed,” they say, “We only believe in what was sent to us.” They reject what came after it, even though it is the truth, confirming what they already have. Say, “Why then did you kill the prophets of God if you truly believed?”
92. Moses came to you with clear signs, yet you took the calf as a god after he left—you were wrongdoers.
93. And when We took a strong promise from you and raised the mountain above you: “Hold firmly to what We’ve given you and listen.” They said, “We hear and disobey!” Their hearts were filled with love for the calf because of their disbelief. Say, “How evil is what your belief leads you to—if you are truly believers.”
94. Say, “If the Home of the Hereafter with God is just for you alone—and not for anyone else—then wish for death, if you are truthful.”
95. But they will never wish for it—because of what their own hands have done. God knows the wrongdoers very well.
96. You will surely find them the most eager to cling to life—even more than idol worshippers. Each one of them wants to live a thousand years. But even if they lived that long, it would not save them from the punishment. God sees everything they do.
97. Say, “Whoever is an enemy to Gabriel—it is he who brought the Quran down to your heart by God’s command, confirming what came before, and as a guide and good news for the believers.”
98. Whoever is an enemy to God, His angels, His messengers, Gabriel and Michael—then surely God is the enemy of those who disbelieve.
99. We have sent down to you clear signs, and only those who disobey will deny them.
100. Is it not true that every time they made a promise, some of them broke it? In fact, most of them do not truly believe.
101. Whenever a messenger came from God confirming the truth in their holy book, some people would ignore him as if they didn’t know the truth, throwing God’s book behind their backs.
102. They followed the teachings of devils about magic during the time of Solomon. But Solomon never disbelieved — it was the devils who taught people false magic. They also taught people things that caused problems between husband and wife. But they could never harm anyone without God’s permission. People learned what only brought harm and no benefit. They knew that whoever practiced such things would lose their share in the Hereafter. What a bad deal they made by selling their souls!
103. If they had believed and feared God, they would’ve had a better reward from Him. If only they understood!
104. O believers! Don’t use rude words when speaking to the Prophet. Speak with respect and listen carefully. Disbelievers will suffer a painful punishment.
105. The disbelievers from the People of the Book and the idolaters don’t like it when God sends blessings and guidance to you. But God chooses whomever He wishes to bless. His mercy is vast.
106. If God replaces one verse with another, He knows what is best. Some people complain, but they don’t understand that God has full knowledge of everything.
107. Don’t you know that God controls everything in the heavens and earth? You have no protector or helper except Him.
108. Do you want to question your Messenger like Moses was questioned before? Whoever replaces faith with disbelief has gone far from the right path.
109. Many from the People of the Book wish to turn you back to disbelief out of jealousy, even after the truth has come to them. But forgive and be patient until God brings His decision. He has power over everything.
110. Keep up your prayers and give to charity. Whatever good you send ahead for yourselves, you’ll find it with God. He sees all you do.
111. Some say, “Only Jews or Christians will enter Paradise.” These are their wishes. Tell them to bring proof, if they are truthful.
112. In reality, whoever submits to God and does good will be rewarded by God. They will have nothing to fear or be sad about.
113. Jews say the Christians are wrong, and Christians say the Jews are wrong, even though both read the Scriptures. The ignorant say the same. But God will judge between them on the Day of Judgment.
114. Who is more unjust than someone who prevents people from worshipping God in His places and tries to ruin them? Such people don’t deserve to enter those places except with fear. They’ll face disgrace in this world and punishment in the next.
115. The East and the West belong to God. Wherever you turn, there is God’s Face. God is vast in mercy and all-knowing.
116. They say, “God has a son.” Glory be to Him! Everything in the heavens and earth belongs to Him. Everything obeys Him.
117. He is the Creator of the heavens and earth. When He wants something to happen, He just says, “Be!” and it is.
118. The ignorant say, “Why doesn’t God speak to us or show us a sign?” People before them said the same. Their hearts are alike. But We have made the truth clear to people who believe.
119. We have sent you with truth as a bringer of good news and a warner. You won’t be blamed for those who refuse to believe.
120. The Jews and Christians won’t be pleased with you unless you follow their ways. But say, “God’s guidance is the true guidance.” If you follow their desires after knowledge has come to you, you’ll have no one to help or protect you from God.
121. Those to whom We gave the Book and read it with care and understanding — they truly believe in it. But those who reject it will be the losers.
122. O Children of Israel! Remember My favor that I gave you and that I chose you above all other people.
123. Be afraid of the Day when no soul can help another, no payment will be accepted, and no intercession will help. No one will be saved except by God’s mercy.
124. When Abraham was tested by God with certain commands and he fulfilled them, God said, “I will make you a leader for all people.” Abraham asked, “And what about my children?” God said, “My promise does not include wrongdoers.”
125. We made the Ka‘bah in Mecca a sacred place for people. Make the place of Abraham a place of prayer. We told Abraham and Ishmael to purify the Ka‘bah for those who circle it, pray there, and bow and prostrate.
126. Abraham said, “My Lord, make this a peaceful land and provide its people with fruits — those who believe in You and the Last Day.” God said, “Even those who disbelieve, I will give them some blessings, but later they will face the punishment of the Fire.”
127. Abraham and Ishmael built the Ka‘bah and prayed, “Our Lord! Accept this from us. You are the All-Hearing, the All-Knowing.”
128. “Make us both devoted to You, and from our children raise a community that is devoted to You. Show us how to worship You, and forgive us. You are the Most Forgiving.”
129. “Our Lord! Send among them a messenger from among themselves to recite Your verses, teach them the Book and wisdom, and purify them. You are the Mighty and Wise.”
130. Only someone foolish would turn away from Abraham’s way. We chose him in this world, and in the next he’ll be among the righteous.
131. When God told him, “Submit,” he replied, “I submit to the Lord of the worlds.”
132. Abraham advised his children to do the same, and so did Jacob: “O my sons, God has chosen this faith for you. Don’t die except as Muslims (those who submit to God).”
133. Were you there when Jacob was dying and told his children, “What will you worship after me?” They said, “We will worship your God — the God of your fathers: Abraham, Ishmael, and Isaac — one God. We are Muslims.”
134. That was a nation who passed away. Theirs is what they earned, and yours is what you earn. You won’t be asked about what they did.
135. Some say, “Be a Jew or Christian to be guided.” Say, “No, we follow the faith of Abraham, who was upright and not among the idolaters.”
136. Say, “We believe in God and what was sent to us, and what was sent to Abraham, Ishmael, Isaac, Jacob, and the Tribes, and what was given to Moses, Jesus, and all the prophets. We make no distinction between them, and we submit to God.”
137. If they believe like you believe, they are rightly guided. But if they turn away, they are in disagreement, and God will protect you from them. He is All-Hearing and All-Knowing.
138. We take on God’s color (faith), and who is better than God in coloring (shaping faith)? We worship Him alone.
139. Ask them, “Are you arguing with us about God when He is our Lord and your Lord? We are responsible for our deeds, and you for yours. We worship Him alone.”
140. Do you claim that Abraham, Ishmael, Isaac, Jacob, and the Tribes were Jews or Christians? Say, “Do you know better, or does God?” Who is more unjust than someone who hides what God has revealed?
141. That nation is gone. Theirs is what they earned, and yours is what you earn. You will not be questioned about what they did.
142. Some foolish people will ask, “Why did they change their direction in prayer (qiblah)?” Say, “To God belongs the East and West. He guides whom He wills to the straight path.”
143. We made you a balanced community, so you may be witnesses over people, and the Messenger a witness over you. We changed the qiblah to test who truly follows the Messenger. It was hard for some, except those guided by God. God wouldn’t waste your faith.
144. We see you turning your face to the sky (in prayer). So We will turn you towards a qiblah that pleases you. Turn your face toward the Sacred Mosque (Ka‘bah), and wherever you are, face it. The disbelievers may argue, but God is not unaware of what they do.
145. Even if you brought all the signs to the People of the Book, they would not follow your qiblah. You won’t follow theirs either. And they won’t follow each other. If you follow their desires after knowledge has come to you, you will be wrong.
146. Those who received the Book know the truth of the Prophet as clearly as they know their own children. But some hide the truth.
147. The truth is from your Lord, so do not be among the doubters.
148. Everyone has a direction they turn to. So race to do good deeds. Wherever you are, God will bring you all together. He is powerful over everything.
149. Wherever you go, turn your face toward the Sacred Mosque (Ka‘bah). This is the truth from your Lord, and God is not unaware of what you do.
150. So turn your face toward the Ka‘bah, and wherever you are, turn your faces toward it when you pray. That way, people will have no reason to argue against you — except for the wrongdoers. Don’t fear them — fear Me. I will complete My blessings upon you so you may be guided.
151. Just as We sent a messenger from among you, who recites Our verses to you, makes you pure, teaches you the Book and wisdom, and teaches you what you didn’t know before.
152. So remember Me, and I will remember you. Be thankful to Me and do not be ungrateful.
153. O you who believe! Seek help through patience and prayer. Truly, God is with those who are patient.
154. Do not say that those who are killed in God’s path are dead. No—they are alive, but you don’t realize it.
155. We will surely test you with fear, hunger, loss of wealth, lives, and crops. But give good news to those who are patient—
156. Those who, when hardship strikes them, say, “We belong to God, and we will return to Him.”
157. They are the ones who will have blessings and mercy from their Lord. They are the ones who are truly guided.
158. Indeed, the hills of Safa and Marwah are among the signs of God. So whoever performs the pilgrimage (Hajj) or minor pilgrimage (Umrah) and walks between them, there is no sin on him. And whoever does good willingly—God is thankful and knows everything.
159. Those who hide the clear teachings and guidance that We sent, after We made it clear for the people in the Book—God curses them, and so do all who curse.
160. But those who repent, correct themselves, and make things right—God will forgive them. He is Most Forgiving, Most Merciful.
161. As for those who disbelieve and die in that state, God’s curse is on them, and on the angels and all people.
162. They will remain under the curse forever. The punishment will not be lightened for them, and they will not be given a second chance.
163. Your God is One God. There is no god but Him—Most Merciful, Most Compassionate.
164. Surely, in the creation of the heavens and the earth, the change of night and day, the ships that sail the seas with goods, the rain that God sends down to give life to the earth after it was dead, the animals of all kinds spread throughout the earth, the movement of the winds, and the clouds held between the sky and earth—there are signs for people who think.
165. Some people love others like they should love God. But those who believe love God more deeply. If the wrongdoers could only see the punishment and realize that all power belongs to God, and His punishment is severe!
166. When those who were followed will disown those who followed them, and they will all see the punishment, and all ties between them will be broken—
167. The followers will say, “If only we had one more chance, we would turn away from them as they turned away from us!” In this way, God shows them their deeds as regrets. They will never escape the Fire.
168. O people! Eat from what is lawful and good on the earth, and do not follow Satan’s footsteps. He is truly your open enemy.
169. He commands you to do evil, shameful things, and to say things about God that you do not know.
170. When they are told, “Follow what God has revealed,” they say, “We follow what we found our forefathers doing.” Even if their forefathers understood nothing and were not guided?
171. The example of those who disbelieve is like someone calling out to animals who hear nothing but sounds and cries—they are deaf, dumb, and blind, and do not understand.
172. O you who believe! Eat from the good things We have given you and be thankful to God, if you truly worship Him.
173. He has only forbidden for you dead animals, blood, the flesh of pigs, and animals sacrificed to other than God. But if someone is forced by need, not by desire or sin—then there is no sin on him. God is Forgiving, Merciful.
174. Those who hide what God has revealed in the Book and trade it for a small gain—they are filling their bellies with fire. God will not speak to them or purify them on the Day of Judgment. They will face a painful punishment.
175. They are the ones who bought error in place of guidance, and punishment in place of forgiveness. How terrible is what they have chosen!
176. That is because God sent down the Book with truth, but those who disagree about it are deeply lost.
177. Righteousness is not turning your face to the east or the west. Righteousness is believing in God, the Last Day, the angels, the Books, and the prophets; giving wealth—out of love for God—to relatives, orphans, the needy, travelers, beggars, and freeing slaves; establishing prayer; giving charity; keeping promises; being patient in hardship, illness, and battle. These are the truthful, the ones who truly fear God.
178. O you who believe! Fair justice is required for murder: the free for the free, the slave for the slave, the woman for the woman. But if the killer is forgiven by the family of the victim, then follow what is fair and pay compensation in a good way. This is a mercy from your Lord. Whoever goes beyond this will face a painful punishment.
179. In this law of justice, there is life for you, O people with understanding—so that you may avoid wrongdoing.
180. It is written for you: when death comes and one is leaving behind wealth, he should make a will in favor of parents and close relatives in a fair way. This is a duty for those who are mindful of God.
181. If anyone changes the will after hearing it—then the sin is on those who change it. God hears everything and knows everything.
182. But if someone fears that the person making the will made a mistake or acted unfairly, and makes peace between the people—there is no sin on him. God is Forgiving and Merciful.
183. O you who believe! Fasting is prescribed for you as it was for those before you, so that you may become mindful of God.
184. Fast for a set number of days. But if anyone is sick or traveling, he can fast an equal number on other days. For those who cannot fast at all, they must feed a poor person for each day. But whoever does more good—like feeding extra—it is better for him. But fasting is better for you, if you only knew.
185. The month of Ramadan is when the Quran was revealed—a guide for people with clear proofs of guidance and truth. So whoever sees this month should fast in it. But if anyone is sick or traveling, they can fast later. God wants ease for you, not hardship. He wants you to complete the number of days, glorify Him for guiding you, and be thankful.
186. When My servants ask you about Me, say: I am near. I answer the call of the one who prays to Me. So let them respond to Me and believe in Me—so that they may be rightly guided.
187. You are allowed to be intimate with your wives during the nights of fasting. They are like clothing for you, and you are like clothing for them. God knows you were secretly doing this, so He forgave you. Now be close to them and seek what God has written for you. Eat and drink until the white thread of dawn becomes clear from the black thread of night. Then complete the fast until night. Do not be intimate while staying in the mosque for worship. These are God’s limits—do not cross them. God explains His signs to people so that they may be mindful.
188. Do not take each other’s money unjustly or bribe officials to take away the rights of others sinfully while you know better.
189. They ask you about the new moons. Say: They are signs to mark time for people and for Hajj. It is not righteousness to enter houses from the back. Rather, righteousness is to fear God. So enter homes through their proper doors and fear God, so that you may succeed.
190. Fight in God’s path against those who fight you, but do not go beyond limits. God does not love those who go too far.
191. Kill them wherever you find them, and drive them out from where they drove you out. Persecution is worse than killing. But do not fight them near the Sacred Mosque unless they fight you there. If they do fight you, then fight back. That is the reward of the disbelievers.
192. But if they stop, then surely God is Forgiving and Merciful.
193. Fight them until there is no more oppression and worship is for God alone. But if they stop, then there should be no more fighting—except against wrongdoers.
194. A sacred month for a sacred month, and for violations, there is equal retaliation. So whoever attacks you, attack them back in the same way. But fear God and know that He is with those who are mindful of Him.
195. Spend in God’s cause and do not throw yourselves into destruction with your own hands. Do good—God loves those who do good.
196. Complete Hajj and Umrah for God. If you are prevented, then offer whatever sacrifice you can. Do not shave your head until the sacrifice has reached its place. If someone is sick or has a problem with their head, they should offer a fast, or charity, or a sacrifice. When you are safe again, whoever wants to do Umrah before Hajj must offer what he can. If he cannot, then fast for three days during Hajj and seven after returning. That is ten days in total. This applies only to those who do not live near the Sacred Mosque. Fear God and know that God is strict in punishment.
197. The months of Hajj are known. Whoever decides to perform Hajj during those months should avoid indecent talk, misbehavior, and arguments during Hajj. Whatever good you do—God knows it. Take provisions, but the best provision is to be mindful of God. So be mindful of Me, O people of understanding.
198. There is no sin if you seek God’s blessings by doing business during Hajj. When you leave Arafat, remember God at the sacred place. Remember Him as He guided you—though you were lost before.
199. Then leave from where the people leave and ask God for forgiveness. Surely God is Forgiving, Merciful.
200. When you have completed the rituals, remember God like you used to remember your forefathers—or even more. Some people say, “Our Lord, give us good in this world.” But they will have no share in the Hereafter.
201. And there are some people who say, “Our Lord, give us good in this world and good in the Hereafter, and protect us from the punishment of the Fire.”
202. These are the ones who will receive a share of what they earned. And God is swift in taking account.
203. Remember God during the appointed days. If someone leaves early after two days, there is no sin on him; and if someone stays longer, there is no sin—so long as he fears God. So be mindful of God and know that you will be gathered to Him.
204. Some people impress you with their speech about worldly life, and they even call God as a witness for what is in their hearts. But they are your worst enemies.
205. When they gain power, they spread corruption on the earth, destroy crops and livestock. God does not like corruption.
206. When they are told, “Fear God,” they become proud with arrogance. Hell is enough for them—a terrible place to be.
207. But there are others who sell themselves to seek the pleasure of God. And God is kind to His servants.
208. O you who believe! Enter fully into peace (Islam) and do not follow the steps of Satan. He is truly your open enemy.
209. If you slip after clear guidance has come to you, know that God is Almighty and Wise.
210. Are they waiting for God Himself to come with angels in the shadows of clouds and the matter be decided? To God all matters return.
211. Ask the Children of Israel how many clear signs We gave them. Whoever changes God’s favor after it comes to him—God is strict in punishment.
212. The life of this world looks beautiful to the disbelievers, and they mock the believers. But those who fear God will be above them on the Day of Judgment. And God gives to whomever He wills without limit.
213. All people were once one community. Then God sent prophets with good news and warnings, and sent down with them the Book in truth to judge between people in their disputes. But those who received the Book disagreed out of jealousy, even after clear signs came. So God guided the believers to the truth about which others differed, by His will. God guides whom He wills to the straight path.
214. Do you think you will enter Paradise without being tested like those before you? They faced hardship, suffering, and were shaken until even the prophet with them cried, “When will God’s help come?” Indeed, God’s help is near.
215. They ask you what they should spend in charity. Say: Whatever good you give should go to parents, relatives, orphans, the needy, and travelers. Whatever good you do, God knows it well.
216. Fighting has been prescribed for you, though you dislike it. You may hate something that is good for you, and love something that is bad for you. God knows, and you do not know.
217. They ask you about fighting in the sacred month. Say: Fighting in it is a great sin, but stopping people from God’s path, disbelieving in Him, preventing access to the Sacred Mosque, and driving people out are even worse in God’s sight. Oppression is worse than killing. They will keep fighting you until they turn you away from your religion—if they can. But whoever turns away and dies in disbelief, all his deeds will be wasted in this world and the next. They will be the people of the Fire, staying there forever.
218. Those who believed, migrated, and struggled in God’s way—they hope for God’s mercy. God is Forgiving and Merciful.
219. They ask you about wine and gambling. Say: In them there is great sin, and some benefit for people—but the sin is greater than the benefit. They also ask what they should give. Say: Give what is more than your need. In this way, God explains His signs so you may think.
220. About this world and the Hereafter. They also ask you about orphans. Say: Making things right for them is good. If you mix your affairs with theirs, they are your brothers. God knows who is corrupt and who intends good. If God had wanted, He could have made things difficult. He is Almighty, Wise.
221. Do not marry women who worship idols until they believe. A believing slave woman is better than an idol-worshipper, even if you like her. And do not let your daughters marry idol-worshipping men until they believe. A believing slave man is better than an idol-worshipper, even if you like him. These people invite you to the Fire, but God invites you to Paradise and forgiveness, by His will. He makes His messages clear to people so they may remember.
222. They ask you about menstruation. Say: It is a discomfort, so stay away from women during their periods and do not have relations with them until they are clean. When they have purified themselves, approach them in the way God has commanded. God loves those who are clean and pure.
223. Your wives are like a farmfield for you, so go to your field however you wish—but do good for yourselves. Fear God, and know that you will meet Him. Give good news to the believers.
224. Do not use God’s name in your oaths to avoid doing good, being mindful of God, making peace between people. God hears and knows everything.
225. God will not hold you accountable for useless oaths you say by habit, but He will hold you accountable for what you mean in your hearts. God is Forgiving and Gentle.
226. For those who swear not to be intimate with their wives, they have four months to think. If they go back, God is Forgiving and Merciful.
227. But if they decide on divorce, then God hears everything and knows everything.
228. Divorced women must wait for three monthly cycles. It is not lawful for them to hide what God has created in their wombs—if they believe in God and the Last Day. During this time, their husbands have the right to take them back if they want reconciliation. Women have similar rights and responsibilities, but men have a degree of responsibility over them. God is Mighty and Wise.
229. Divorce may happen twice, after which the couple should either reunite with kindness or separate with respect. It is not lawful for men to take back anything they gave their wives—unless both fear they cannot keep God’s limits. If you fear that, then there is no sin if the woman gives something to be released. These are the limits set by God—do not cross them. Whoever crosses God’s limits is truly wronging themselves.
230. If a man divorces his wife a third time, she is not lawful for him unless she marries another man and that marriage ends. If the second husband divorces her, there is no sin if the first husband and wife reunite, if they believe they can stay within God’s limits. These are God’s commands made clear for people who understand.
231. When you divorce women and their waiting period ends, either keep them with kindness or let them go with kindness. Do not keep them to harm them or for revenge. Whoever does that wrongs himself. Do not take God’s verses lightly. Remember God’s favor upon you and what He revealed to guide you. Fear God and know that He is aware of everything.
232. When you divorce women and they finish their waiting period, do not stop them from marrying someone else if they both agree with kindness. This is a lesson for those who believe in God and the Last Day. That is better and purer for you. God knows, and you do not know.
233. Mothers may breastfeed their children for two full years if they wish to complete the period. The father must provide food and clothing for the mother in a fair way. No soul is burdened with more than it can bear. No mother should be harmed because of her child, nor the father. If both agree to stop breastfeeding after discussion, there is no sin. If you want someone else to breastfeed your child, there is no sin if you pay fairly. Fear God and know that He sees everything you do.
234. Those among you who die and leave wives behind—the widows must wait four months and ten days. After that, they may do whatever is appropriate for themselves. God knows what you do.
235. There is no sin if you indirectly propose marriage to widows during their waiting period, or keep it in your hearts. God knows what is in your heart. Do not make secret promises—only speak clearly. Do not finalize marriage until the waiting period ends. Know that God knows what is in your hearts, so fear Him. God is Forgiving and Kind.
236. There is no sin if you divorce women before touching them or assigning them a dowry. But still, give them a gift—the rich according to his means, and the poor according to his means. It is a duty on those who do good.
237. If you divorce them before touching them but after assigning a dowry, give half of what was agreed—unless the woman gives it up, or the man lets her keep it all. Letting her keep it all is closer to righteousness. Do not forget kindness between yourselves. God sees all that you do.
238. Guard your prayers—especially the middle prayer—and stand before God with full attention.
239. If you are in danger, you may pray while walking or riding. But when you are safe, remember God as He taught you what you did not know.
240. Those of you who die and leave behind wives should leave for them one year’s support and the right to stay in the home. If they leave on their own, there is no sin in what they choose for themselves. God is Mighty and Wise.
241. Divorced women have the right to a gift in fairness. This is a duty on those who are mindful of God.
242. In this way, God makes His messages clear to you, so that you may understand.
243. Have you not seen those who fled their homes in thousands for fear of death? God said to them, “Die,” then brought them back to life. Truly, God is kind to people—but most people are ungrateful.
244. Fight in God’s path, and know that God hears everything and knows everything.
245. Who will give God a good loan (charity), which He will multiply many times? God takes and gives wealth, and to Him you will return.
246. Have you not seen the leaders of the Children of Israel after Moses? They said to their prophet, “Appoint a king for us so we can fight in God’s path.” He said, “Will you fight if fighting is made mandatory?” They said, “Why wouldn’t we fight, when we’ve been driven from our homes and children?” But when fighting was required, they turned away—most of them.
247. Their prophet said, “God has appointed Saul (Talut) as your king.” They said, “How can he be king over us when we’re more worthy and he’s poor?” He said, “God has chosen him and given him great knowledge and strength.” God gives leadership to whom He wills. God is Generous and All-Knowing.
248. Their prophet said, “A sign of his kingship is that the Ark (wooden box) will come to you, carried by the angels. In it are peace and remains from the family of Moses and Aaron.” Surely, this is a sign for you—if you believe.
249. When Saul marched out with his army, he said, “God will test you with a river. Whoever drinks from it is not from my people, but whoever does not drink—except a handful—is from me.” Most of them drank, but a few remained with him. When they crossed it with Saul, they said, “We have no strength today against Goliath and his army.” But those who were certain they would meet God said, “How many small groups have defeated large ones—with God’s help! God is with the patient.”
250. When they faced Goliath and his army, they prayed: “Our Lord! Give us patience, make our steps firm, and help us against the disbelievers!”
251. By God’s will, they defeated Goliath. David killed him, and God gave David kingship and wisdom, and taught him what He wanted. If God didn’t stop some people through others, the world would be filled with corruption. But God is full of kindness to all people.
252. These are God’s messages. We recite them to you in truth. And surely you (O Prophet) are one of the messengers.
253. We gave some messengers more honor than others. Some of them God spoke to directly, and He raised some in rank. We gave Jesus, son of Mary, clear signs and strengthened him with the Holy Spirit. If God had wanted, the people who came after them wouldn’t have fought each other, after clear signs came. But they disagreed—some believed, and some didn’t. If God had willed, they wouldn’t have fought. But God does what He wants.
254. O you who believe! Give in charity from what We have provided you—before a day comes when there is no buying, no friendship, and no help. The disbelievers are the wrongdoers.
255. God! There is no god but Him—the Ever-Living, the Sustainer of all. He does not get tired or sleepy. Everything in the heavens and earth belongs to Him. Who can speak on behalf of others before Him, unless He allows? He knows what is before them and what is behind them. No one can grasp any of His knowledge—except what He wants. His throne extends over the heavens and the earth. He never tires of guarding them. He is the Most High, the Most Great.
256. There is no force in religion. The right way is clear from the wrong way. Whoever rejects false gods and believes in God has held onto the strongest bond—one that never breaks. God hears everything and knows everything.
257. God is the protector of those who believe. He brings them out of darkness into light. But those who disbelieve have false gods as protectors. They lead them from light into darkness. They will be people of the Fire, staying there forever.
258. Have you not heard of the one who argued with Abraham about his Lord, because God had given him kingship? Abraham said, “My Lord gives life and death.” The king replied, “I too give life and death.” Abraham said, “God brings the sun from the east—can you bring it from the west?” The disbeliever was silenced. God does not guide the wrongdoers.
259. Or the one who passed by a ruined town and said, “How can God bring this back to life after its destruction?” So God caused him to die for a hundred years, then brought him back to life. God said, “How long did you stay?” He said, “A day or part of a day.” God said, “No—you stayed a hundred years. Look at your food and drink—they haven’t changed. And look at your donkey. We will make you a sign for people. Look at how We raise bones and cover them with flesh.” When he saw it clearly, he said, “Now I know that God has power over all things.”
260. And when Abraham said, “My Lord, show me how You bring the dead to life.” God said, “Don’t you believe?” He said, “Yes, but I want my heart to be reassured.” God said, “Take four birds and train them to come to you. Then cut them into pieces and scatter them on different hilltops. Then call them back—they will fly to you in haste. And know that God is Almighty and Wise.”
261. Those who give in charity for God’s sake are like a seed that grows seven stalks, and each stalk has a hundred grains. God multiplies the reward for whom He wills. God is generous and knows everything.
262. Those who give in charity and don’t follow it with reminders of their kindness or hurtful words—their reward is with their Lord. They will have nothing to fear, and they will not be sad.
263. Kind words and forgiveness are better than charity followed by hurtful speech. God is rich and kind.
264. O you who believe! Don’t cancel your charity by reminding others or hurting them—like those who give to show off and don’t really believe in God or the Last Day. Their example is like a rock with dust on it—then rain washes it clean. They gain nothing from what they give. God doesn’t guide disbelieving people.
265. But those who give with sincerity, seeking God’s pleasure, are like a garden on a hill. If heavy rain falls, it gives double crops. Even if no rain falls, it still produces. God sees all that you do.
266. Would anyone like to have a beautiful garden of date palms and grapes, with rivers flowing beneath, full of fruit—and then, when he grows old and his children are still young, a fire suddenly burns it down? In this way, God makes His signs clear to you, so you may think.
267. O you who believe! Give from the good things you’ve earned and what We’ve grown for you from the earth. Don’t give the worst of it, things you wouldn’t accept yourself. Know that God is free of need and deserving of all praise.
268. Satan threatens you with poverty and tells you to be greedy. But God promises you forgiveness and generosity. God is vast in His wealth and knows everything.
269. God gives wisdom to whomever He wants. And whoever is given wisdom has truly been given a great gift. Only people of understanding will take heed.
270. Whatever you give in charity or promise to give, God knows it. The wrongdoers will have no helpers.
271. If you give openly, it is good. But if you give in secret to the poor, it is even better—it will erase some of your sins. God knows everything you do.
272. It is not your job to guide everyone—God guides whom He wills. Whatever you give is for your own benefit—do it only for God’s pleasure. Whatever you give will be fully rewarded, and you will not be wronged.
273. Charity is for the poor who are too shy to ask for help, especially those working in God’s path and unable to earn. You may think they are rich because they don’t beg, but you’ll know them by their modest behavior. God knows what you give.
274. Those who give their wealth by night and day, in secret and in public, will have their reward from their Lord. They will have no fear, and they will not grieve.
275. Those who take interest (usury) will stand like those driven mad by Satan. That’s because they say, “Trade is just like interest.” But God made trade lawful and interest unlawful. Whoever stops after receiving this warning—his past is forgiven, and his case is with God. But those who return to it are people of the Fire.
276. God removes the blessing from interest and increases charity. God does not love every arrogant, sinful person.
277. Those who believe, do good deeds, pray regularly, and give charity—they will have their reward with their Lord. They will not fear, and they will not be sad.
278. O you who believe! Give up whatever is left of interest, if you truly believe.
279. If you do not, then be ready for war from God and His messenger. But if you repent, you can keep your original capital—without wronging anyone or being wronged.
280. If the debtor is in hardship, give him time. And if you forgive the debt completely, it is better for you—if you only knew.
281. Be aware of the Day when you will return to God. Every soul will be paid in full for what it earned, and no one will be wronged.
282. O you who believe! When you take a loan for a fixed time, write it down. Let a scribe write it fairly. The scribe should not refuse. Let him write as God taught him. The borrower should dictate, and he should fear God and not leave anything out. If the borrower is weak, then his guardian should dictate fairly. Bring two witnesses—men. If not two men, then one man and two women, so if one forgets, the other reminds her. Witnesses should not refuse when called. Do not get tired of writing the contract—small or big—up to its due date. This is fairer in God’s sight and more helpful in avoiding doubts. If the deal is immediate and you’re trading in person, there’s no need to write it. But have witnesses. Do not harm scribes or witnesses—if you do, it’s sinful. Fear God—He teaches you. God knows everything.
283. If you’re on a journey and cannot find a scribe, then pledge something valuable. If you trust each other, then no need for collateral. But the trusted person must return what he owes. Fear God. Don’t hide testimony—whoever hides it has a sinful heart. God knows all that you do.
284. To God belongs everything in the heavens and the earth. Whether you speak your thoughts or keep them secret, God will call you to account. He forgives whom He wills and punishes whom He wills. God has power over all things.
285. The Messenger (Prophet Muhammad) believes in what was sent to him from his Lord—and so do the believers. They all believe in God, His angels, His books, and His messengers. They say, “We make no distinction between His messengers.” They say, “We hear and obey. Forgive us, our Lord. To You is the return.”
286. God does not burden a soul beyond what it can bear. Each person gets what it earns—both good and bad. Our Lord, do not punish us if we forget or make a mistake. Our Lord, do not burden us like You did those before us. Our Lord, do not place on us what we cannot bear. Pardon us, forgive us, and have mercy on us. You are our protector, so help us against those who reject faith. 0 0 0
Comment on Al Baqara
The significance of Surah Al-Baqara lies in its depth, guidance, and comprehensive coverage of Islamic beliefs and laws. It is the longest Surah of the Qur’an and was revealed in Medina to help shape the early Muslim society. The 282 no verse of the surah is the longest verse in the Qruan. This Surah addresses the core principles of faith, including belief in Allah, the prophets, the afterlife, and the unseen. It also provides practical guidance on worship, charity, fasting, marriage, trade, justice, and community life.
One of its most powerful verses, Ayat al-Kursi (2:255), describes Allah’s greatness and is widely recited for protection and blessings. The last two verses (2:285–286) are known for their beauty and deep supplication, offering comfort and a direct connection to Allah. Surah Al-Baqara also warns against hypocrisy, highlights the consequences of disbelief, and recounts the lessons from the lives of previous prophets and nations.
Importantly, the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said that reciting Surah Al-Baqara in one’s home keeps Satan away. It is considered a shield of protection, wisdom, and blessing. In short, Surah Al-Baqara is a spiritual, moral, legal, and social guide that every Muslim is encouraged to understand and reflect upon. 0 0 0
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