Discover Surah 27: An-Naml (The Ant) with English translation. This chapter of the Holy Quran highlights the stories of Prophet Solomon, the Queen of Sheba, and the miracles of divine guidance, reminding believers of faith, wisdom, and the power of Allah.
Surah 27: An-Naml (The Ant)
Introduction
Surah An-Naml means ‘The Ant’ and gets its name from the incident mentioned in verse 18, where an ant warns the other ants about Prophet Solomon’s approaching army. This shows a miraculous event from the life of Prophet Solomon. The Surah was revealed in Makkah and is considered a Makki Surah. It contains 93 verses and mainly focuses on belief in the truth of Allah’s message, the rejection of previous nations, and the consequences they faced.
The Surah begins by describing the Qur’an as a clear book of guidance for those who believe. It shares the stories of several prophets, including Moses, Solomon, Salih, and Lot. These stories highlight how people in the past denied the truth and were punished, serving as warnings for those who do the same.
One of the special parts of this Surah is the story of Prophet Solomon, who was given knowledge, power, and the ability to speak to birds and animals. The event where an ant speaks and Solomon smiles is a reminder of Allah’s unique gifts to His prophets. The Surah also tells us about the Queen of Sheba, who at first worshipped the sun but later submitted to Allah after witnessing Solomon’s wisdom and the signs of Allah.
The Surah draws attention to the signs of Allah in creation—like the heavens, the earth, the mountains, rivers, and the way life is sustained. These are all reminders of His power and mercy. It also warns of the Day of Judgment, the blowing of the Trumpet, and the final reward or punishment that awaits every soul.
The Surah gives encouragement to believers and reminds Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) to remain patient and trust in Allah. It assures that truth will overcome falsehood, no matter how strong the opposition may seem.
Surah An-Naml teaches us to reflect on the world around us, be grateful to Allah, and remain sincere in worship. It reminds us that true wisdom lies in recognizing the signs of Allah and submitting humbly to Him. 0 0 0
Surah 27: An-Naml (The Ant): Text
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.
1. Ta, Seen. These are the verses of the Qur’an, a clear Book.
2. A guide and good news for those who believe,
3. Who perform prayer, give charity, and are certain of the Hereafter.
4. Indeed, those who do not believe in the Hereafter—We have made their deeds seem pleasing to them, so they wander blindly.
5. They will suffer a terrible punishment, and in the Hereafter they will be the greatest losers.
6. And truly, you are receiving this Qur’an from the One who is All-Wise, All-Knowing.
7. Remember when Moses said to his family, ‘I see a fire. I will bring you some news from it, or a burning torch so that you may warm yourselves.’
8. But when he came to it, he was called: ‘Blessed is the one near the fire, and whoever is around it. And Glory be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds!’
9. ‘O Moses! It is truly I—Allah, the Almighty, the Wise.’
10. ‘Throw down your staff.’ When he saw it move as if it were a snake, he turned away and ran without looking back. ‘O Moses! Do not be afraid. Messengers are not to fear in My presence.’
11. ‘Except those who do wrong—then replace the evil with good. For I am Most Forgiving, Most Merciful.’
12. ‘Now put your hand into your garment—it will come out white, without harm. These are among nine signs to Pharaoh and his people. They have truly been rebellious.’
13. But when Our clear signs came to them, they said, ‘This is clearly magic!’
14. Even though their hearts were convinced, they denied them arrogantly and wickedly. So see what was the end of the corrupt ones!
15. And We gave knowledge to David and Solomon, and they said, ‘All praise belongs to Allah, who has preferred us over many of His believing servants.’
16. Solomon inherited from David and said, ‘O people! We have been taught the language of birds and have been given a share of everything. This is truly a clear favor.’
17. Solomon’s army of jinn, humans, and birds was assembled before him, and they were all lined up in order.
18. When they came to the Valley of the Ants, an ant said, ‘O ants! Enter your homes, so that Solomon and his armies do not crush you without realizing it.’
19. So he smiled in amusement at her words and said, ‘My Lord, inspire me to be grateful for Your favor which You have given me and my parents, and to do good deeds that please You. And admit me by Your mercy among Your righteous servants.’
20. Then he inspected the birds and said, ‘Why do I not see the hoopoe? Is he absent?’
21. ‘I will surely punish him severely, or even kill him, unless he brings me a clear excuse.’
22. But the hoopoe did not stay long and soon returned. He said, ‘I have discovered something you do not know. I have come to you from Sheba with sure news.’
23. ‘Indeed, I found a woman ruling over them. She has been given everything and has a magnificent throne.’
24. ‘But I found her and her people prostrating to the sun instead of Allah. Satan has made their deeds look good to them and turned them away from the right path, so they are not guided.’
25. ‘Why do they not worship Allah, who brings forth what is hidden in the heavens and the earth, and knows everything you conceal and what you reveal?’
26. ‘Allah—there is no god but Him, the Lord of the Mighty Throne.’
27. Solomon said, ‘We shall see whether you have told the truth or are one of the liars.’
28. ‘Take this letter of mine and deliver it to them. Then step back and see how they respond.’
29. The queen said, ‘O chiefs! A noble letter has been delivered to me.’
30. ‘It is from Solomon, and it begins: “In the Name of Allah, the Most Compassionate, the Most Merciful.”’
31. ‘Do not be arrogant with me, but come to me in submission.’
32. She said, ‘O chiefs! Give me your advice in this matter. I do not decide anything until you are present.’
33. They replied, ‘We are strong and experienced fighters, but the command is yours—so consider what you will command us to do.’
34. She said, ‘Indeed, when kings enter a land, they ruin it and humiliate its nobles. This is how they usually act.’
35. ‘But I will send them a gift and see what the messengers come back with.’
36. When the envoy came to Solomon, he said, ‘Do you offer me wealth? What Allah has given me is far better than what He has given you. It is you who rejoice in gifts!’
37. ‘Go back to them. We will come to them with an army they cannot resist, and we will drive them out from there in disgrace, humiliated.’
38. He said, ‘O chiefs, which of you can bring me her throne before they come to me in submission?’
39. A powerful jinn said, ‘I will bring it to you before you rise from your place. I am strong and trustworthy for this task.’
40. But the one who had knowledge from the Scripture said, ‘I can bring it to you in the blink of an eye.’ When Solomon saw the throne set before him, he said, ‘This is by the grace of my Lord to test whether I will be grateful or ungrateful. And whoever is grateful, it is only for their own good. But whoever is ungrateful—surely my Lord is Free of all needs, Most Generous.’
41. Solomon said, ‘Disguise her throne for her. We shall see whether she will recognize it or if she is one of those who do not recognize.’
42. When she arrived, it was said to her, ‘Is your throne like this?’ She replied, ‘It looks as if it is the same.’ Solomon said, ‘We were given knowledge before her, and we have submitted to Allah.’
43. But she had been prevented from believing earlier, for she was from a people who worshipped the sun instead of Allah.
44. Then she was told, ‘Enter the palace.’ When she saw it, she thought it was a body of water and tucked up her skirt. He said, ‘It is a palace made of crystal.’ She said, ‘My Lord, I have wronged myself. I submit with Solomon to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds.’
45. And We sent to the people of Thamud their brother Salih, saying, ‘Worship Allah.’ But they became two groups arguing with each other.
46. He said, ‘O my people, why do you rush towards evil rather than good? Why do you not ask Allah for forgiveness so you may receive mercy?’
47. They replied, ‘We see a bad omen in you and those with you.’ He said, ‘Your omen is with Allah. No! You are a people being tested.’
48. There were nine wicked men in the city who spread corruption in the land and did not reform.
49. They said, ‘Let us plot against Salih and his family. We will kill him by night, then say to his guardian, “We did not see who killed his family. We are telling the truth.”’
50. So they plotted a plan, and We planned a plan, but they did not realize it.
51. See, then, what was the end of their plot: We destroyed them and their people entirely.
52. These are their homes—collapsed in ruin—because of their wrongdoing. Surely, there is a sign in this for people who know.
53. And We saved those who believed and were mindful of Allah.
54. And remember Lot, when he said to his people, ‘Do you commit such indecent acts while you can clearly see?’
55. ‘Do you really approach men with desire instead of women? You are truly an ignorant people.’
56. But the only answer of his people was to say, ‘Drive out the family of Lot from your town! They are people who want to remain pure!’
57. So We saved him and his family—except for his wife; We determined she would be one of those who stayed behind.
58. And We rained down on them a rain of destruction. How terrible was the rain upon those who had been warned!
59. Say, ‘All praise is for Allah, and peace be upon His servants whom He has chosen. Is Allah better, or what they associate with Him?’
60. Who is it that created the heavens and the earth, and sends down for you rain from the sky—by which We cause beautiful gardens to grow? You could not make their trees grow. Is there any god besides Allah? No! But they are a people who ascribe equals to Him.
61. Who is it that made the earth a stable place to live, placed rivers through it, and set mountains upon it, and created a barrier between the two seas? Is there any god besides Allah? No! But most of them do not know.
62. Who responds to the desperate when they call upon Him, removes evil, and makes you successors on earth? Is there any god besides Allah? How little you reflect!
63. Who guides you through darkness on land and sea, and sends the winds as a sign of His mercy before the rain? Is there any god besides Allah? Exalted is Allah above what they associate with Him!
64. Who begins creation, then repeats it, and provides you from the heavens and the earth? Is there any god besides Allah? Say, ‘Produce your proof, if you are truthful.’
65. Say, ‘None in the heavens or the earth knows the unseen except Allah. And they do not know when they will be resurrected.’
66. But their knowledge of the Hereafter stops short. In fact, they are in doubt about it. Rather, they are blind to it.
67. And those who disbelieve say, ‘When we have become dust—along with our forefathers—shall we really be brought forth again?’
68. ‘We and our ancestors were already promised this before. These are just old tales!’
69. Say, ‘Travel throughout the earth and see what was the end of the wicked.’
70. But do not grieve over them, nor be distressed by what they plot.
71. They ask, ‘When will this promise come to pass, if what you say is true?’
72. Say, ‘Perhaps part of what you’re asking to be hastened is close behind you.’
73. Truly, your Lord is full of grace to humanity, but most of them are not thankful.
74. Surely your Lord knows what their hearts hide and what they reveal.
75. There is nothing hidden in the heavens or the earth that is not in a clear book (Quran).
76. This Qur’an certainly explains to the Children of Israel most of what they differ about.
77. And truly, it is guidance and mercy for the believers.
78. Surely your Lord will decide between them by His judgment, and He is the Almighty, the All-Knowing.
79. So put your trust in Allah. Surely, you are upon the clear truth.
80. You cannot make the dead hear, nor can you make the deaf hear the call when they turn away.
81. Nor can you guide the blind out of their misguidance. You can only make those hear who believe in Our signs and submit.
82. When the Word comes to pass against them, We will bring out for them a creature from the earth that will speak to them, because people were not certain about Our signs.
83. On that Day, We will gather from every nation a group of those who denied Our signs, and they will be arranged in ranks.
84. When they come, He will say, ‘Did you deny My signs without fully understanding them? Or what exactly were you doing?’
85. And the sentence will fall upon them because of the wrong they did, and they will not be able to speak.
86. Do they not see that We made the night for them to rest in, and the day bright for seeing? Surely in that are signs for people who believe.
87. On the Day the Trumpet is blown, everyone in the heavens and the earth will be terrified—except those whom Allah wills. And all will come to Him humbled.
88. You will see the mountains, which you think are firm, passing by like clouds. This is the work of Allah, who has perfected everything. Truly, He is All-Aware of what you do.
89. Whoever comes with a good deed will be rewarded with something better, and they will be safe from fear on that Day.
90. But those who come with evil deeds—they will be thrown face down into the Fire. ‘Are you being repaid for anything except what you used to do?’
91. Say, ‘I have only been commanded to worship the Lord of this city (Makkah), who made it sacred, and to whom everything belongs. And I have been commanded to be among the Muslims.’
92. ‘And to recite the Qur’an.’ So whoever chooses to be guided, it is only for their own benefit. And whoever goes astray, say, ‘I am only a warner.’
93. And say, ‘All praise belongs to Allah. He will soon show you His signs, and you will recognize them. And your Lord is not unaware of what you do.’ 0 0 0
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Ccomment
The introduction to Surah An-Naml beautifully captures the essence of this powerful chapter of the Qur’an. It gives a clear overview of the Surah’s themes—especially the importance of belief, the consequences of rejecting the truth, and the signs of Allah found in both history and nature. The mention of Prophet Solomon’s unique miracles and the story of the Queen of Sheba reminds us of how knowledge, power, and humility can lead a person toward faith when used rightly.
The Surah invites us to look beyond the surface of things—to reflect deeply on the natural world and the stories of those before us. It teaches that guidance is for those who are open-hearted, and that arrogance and disbelief lead to destruction. The reminder of the Day of Judgment urges us to live with responsibility and awareness.
Overall, the introduction shows that Surah An-Naml is not just a collection of old stories—it is a timeless message that speaks to the heart and mind of anyone seeking truth. It inspires gratitude, reflection, and submission to Allah, which are the qualities of true believers. 0 0 0
An-Naml: Additional Study
Frequently Asked Questions on Surah 27: An-Naml
Q1. What is Surah An-Naml about?
Ans: Surah An-Naml focuses on the stories of Prophet Moses, Prophet Solomon, and the Queen of Sheba, showing Allah’s wisdom, power, and guidance.
Q2. Why is Surah 27 called An-Naml (The Ant)?
Ans: It is named after the story of an ant who warned its fellow ants when Prophet Solomon’s army was passing by, highlighting communication and awareness among creatures.
Q3. How many verses are in Surah An-Naml?
Ans: Surah An-Naml contains 93 verses.
Q4. What are the main lessons from Surah An-Naml?
Ans: The surah teaches about faith in Allah, gratitude for His blessings, the importance of wisdom, and the consequences of rejecting divine truth.
Q5. What miracles are mentioned in Surah An-Naml?
Ans: The surah mentions the miracles given to Prophet Moses, the knowledge and power granted to Prophet Solomon, and the submission of the Queen of Sheba to Allah.
Q6. Is Surah An-Naml a Meccan or Medinan surah?
Ans: Surah An-Naml is a Meccan surah, revealed before the Prophet Muhammad’s migration to Medina.
Q7. What is the significance of the Queen of Sheba’s story in this surah?
Ans: Her story shows how wisdom, reflection, and openness to truth can lead to accepting faith in Allah.
Q8. How does Surah An-Naml inspire believers today?
Ans: It inspires believers to trust in Allah’s plan, value knowledge and wisdom, and remain grateful for His countless blessings. 0 0 0
An-Naml: The Song of Faith and Wisdom
In ancient lands where prophets tread,
The words of Allah, eternal, spread.
Signs for the mindful, verses that glow,
Guiding the heart to the path we should know.
Moses was called from a mountain of flame,
With miracles granted, in Allah’s name.
The staff became serpent, the hand shone bright,
A message of truth against Pharaoh’s might.
Yet the proud turned away, hearts full of disdain,
And their arrogance brought only ruin and pain.
Then Solomon, king with wisdom vast,
Ruled o’er creation, both first and last.
The winds obeyed him, the jinn took heed,
Birds and beasts followed his noble lead.
One day an ant gave a humble call,
“Enter your homes, lest the army should fall!”
Solomon smiled at the tiny creature’s plea,
Grateful to Allah for eyes that could see.
From the south came Sheba’s throne of gold,
A queen of wisdom, proud yet bold.
She heard of Solomon’s truth and might,
And wondered if faith was within her sight.
The hoopoe bird carried words so clear,
Inviting her heart to draw near.
When truth was shown, her pride was released,
She bowed to Allah, her soul found peace.
These stories remind, through ages passed,
That worldly pride shall never last.
Gratitude raises, arrogance falls,
Faith is the answer when Allah calls.
From desert winds to the ant’s small voice,
All creation praises, all rejoice.
The surah sings of lessons deep,
For hearts that ponder, for souls that weep.
Wisdom, mercy, and guidance shine,
Forever preserved in each sacred line.
So walk in humility, gentle and kind,
With faith in Allah, true peace you will find.
For signs surround in the earth and sky,
Calling the soul to the One Most High. 0 0 0
Surah An-Naml: Critics’ Viewpoints
The poem inspired by Surah An-Naml (The Ant) reflects both literary beauty and spiritual depth. Surah An-Naml itself is one of the most captivating chapters of the Quran, weaving together the stories of Prophet Moses, Prophet Solomon, the Ant, and the Queen of Sheba. The poem takes these powerful narratives from An-Naml and translates them into rhythmic verse, making the wisdom of the surah accessible to readers of all backgrounds. By retelling these stories in a poetic form, the poem keeps alive the themes of divine guidance, humility, and gratitude that are central to An-Naml.
One of the strongest features of the poem is how it highlights the miracle stories preserved in Surah An-Naml. In An-Naml, Prophet Moses is shown with signs given by Allah, such as the staff turning into a serpent and the shining hand. The poem echoes this imagery, showing how Moses stood firm against Pharaoh’s pride. Critics observe that the poem captures the tension between arrogance and humility, a recurring theme in An-Naml. By retelling Moses’ confrontation, the poem underlines the lesson that An-Naml conveys: those who turn away from truth are ultimately destroyed by their own pride.
The section of the poem on Prophet Solomon also draws directly from the narrative of An-Naml. In Surah An-Naml, Solomon is presented as a prophet with wisdom beyond compare, able to command the wind, the jinn, and even communicate with birds and animals. The poem carefully incorporates the famous moment when Solomon heard the ant’s warning to its colony, one of the most memorable passages of An-Naml. The critic notes that by highlighting this tiny creature, the poem reminds readers of the humility and awareness that An-Naml teaches. The imagery of Solomon smiling at the ant’s words is powerfully rendered in verse, showing how a king, despite his great power, still bows in gratitude to Allah for small signs of wisdom.
The poem also pays special attention to the Queen of Sheba, a central figure in An-Naml. In Surah An-Naml, she is first shown as a ruler of wealth and pride, surrounded by her throne of gold and her people’s worship of the sun. However, after receiving Solomon’s letter and witnessing his wisdom, she abandons falsehood and accepts the oneness of Allah. The poem brings this transformation to life in lyrical form, showing how the Queen of Sheba’s heart moved from pride to submission. Critics agree that the retelling is faithful to An-Naml, while also adding emotional depth. The Queen of Sheba’s journey in An-Naml is one of reflection, humility, and guidance, and the poem succeeds in expressing this inner awakening.
From a literary point of view, the poem mirrors the structure of An-Naml itself. Surah An-Naml alternates between narratives and lessons, between miracles and reflections on Allah’s power. Similarly, the poem shifts between storytelling and moral reflection, creating a rhythmic balance that echoes the surah. Critics note that the repetition of gratitude, humility, and divine guidance in the poem matches the repeated emphasis in An-Naml on remembering Allah’s signs. This stylistic alignment makes the poem more than just a retelling; it becomes a poetic reflection of the surah’s structure.
Another significant aspect of the poem is how it presents the theme of arrogance versus gratitude. In Surah An-Naml, the arrogant reject the truth, while the humble are elevated. The poem reinforces this lesson, reminding readers that gratitude lifts the soul, but pride causes downfall. The critic observes that the poem is able to condense the central teaching of An-Naml into lyrical lines that are easy to remember. This makes the poem valuable not only as a piece of literature but also as a tool for teaching the spiritual lessons of An-Naml.
Modern readers often find it challenging to engage with the layered narratives of Surah An-Naml, but the poem provides a bridge. By transforming the surah’s themes into flowing verse, it draws attention to the universality of the messages in An-Naml. Whether it is the ant’s humble wisdom, Solomon’s gratefulness, Moses’ courage, or the Queen of Sheba’s openness to truth, the poem ensures that the timeless wisdom of An-Naml is accessible in a new literary form. Critics suggest that such adaptations keep the spirit of An-Naml alive for younger generations, blending devotion with art.
The dense symbolism in the poem also reflects the richness of An-Naml. The ant is more than a small creature; in An-Naml, it becomes a symbol of awareness and protection. The Queen of Sheba is more than a monarch; in An-Naml, she represents the soul’s journey from pride to submission. Solomon is more than a king; in An-Naml, he stands for wisdom rooted in gratitude. Moses is more than a prophet confronting Pharaoh; in An-Naml, he embodies the victory of truth over falsehood. The critic emphasizes that the poem successfully captures these layered meanings from An-Naml, allowing readers to engage both emotionally and intellectually.
Finally, the poem ends on a note of humility and faith, echoing the conclusion of An-Naml. Just as Surah An-Naml urges reflection on Allah’s signs in nature, in history, and in human life, the poem closes with a call to walk in humility, guided by faith in the One Most High. Critics praise this ending as consistent with the overall message of An-Naml: gratitude and awareness lead to salvation, while arrogance leads to ruin.
In conclusion, the poem is a powerful reflection of Surah An-Naml. It is both a literary work and a spiritual reminder, drawing from the depth of An-Naml to create something beautiful and inspiring. Critics from literary, religious, and educational backgrounds agree that the poem captures the central lessons of An-Naml—the value of wisdom, the importance of gratitude, the rejection of arrogance, and the ultimate submission to Allah. Through its verses, the poem brings the timeless guidance of An-Naml into a modern and lyrical form, proving once again that the surah continues to inspire hearts and minds across generations. 0 0 0
