Explore Wonderful Surah 67: Al-Mulk (The Sovereignty) with detailed insights into its meaning, significance, and benefits. Learn about the virtues of reciting Al-Mulk, its protection in the grave, and how Al-Mulk strengthens faith in the power and sovereignty of Allah.
Surah 67: Al-Mulk (The Sovereignty)
Al-Mulk: Introduction
Surah Al-Mulk, the 67th chapter of the Holy Qur’an, beautifully highlights the absolute sovereignty and power of Allah over all creation. It reminds believers that Allah is the Creator and Sustainer of the heavens and the earth, the One who controls life and death, and the One who tests human beings through their deeds. This Surah encourages reflection on the perfection and order in the universe as signs of Allah’s greatness. It also warns disbelievers about the consequences of ignoring these signs and rejecting the message of the Qur’an.
Surah 67: Al-Mulk (The Sovereignty): Text
1: Blessed is He in whose hand is the kingdom, and He is over all things competent.
2: [He] who created death and life to test you [as to] which of you is best in deed – and He is the Exalted in Might, the Forgiving.
3: [He] who created seven heavens in layers. You do not see any in the creation of the Most Merciful any inconsistency. So return your vision to the sky, do you see any breaks?
4: Then return your vision twice again. Your vision will return to you humbled while it is fatigued.
5: And We have certainly beautified the nearest heaven with stars and [made [it] for] [the] adornment of [the] sky for the observers.
6: And We have protected it from every devil, expelled.
7: Except one who steals a hearing and is pursued by a burning flame.
8: And the earth – We spread it out and placed therein firm mountains and caused to grow therein every kind of noble species.
9: And We made for you therein means of living, and for those for whom you provide sustenance.
10: And there is no thing but with Us are its stores, and We do not send it down except in an appointed measure.
11: And We sent the winds fertilizing, and We sent down water from the sky in measure and settled it in the earth. And indeed, We are able to take it away.
12: And We gave you gardens of date palms and vines, and We caused to burst forth therefrom some springs.
13: That you may eat of its fruit and your hands have not produced it. So will they not be grateful?
14: Exalted is He who created all things in due proportion. And who created for you from the green trees fire, and then from it you ignite.
15: Is not He who created the heavens and the earth able to create the like of them? Yes, and He is the Knowing Creator.
6: But they are in doubt about the meeting with their Lord.
17: Say, “Travel through the earth and observe how He began creation. Then Allah will produce the final creation. Indeed, Allah is, over all things, competent.”
18: He who created you from one soul and made its mate, and spread from both of them many men and women. And fear Allah, through whom you ask one another, and the wombs [of mothers]. Verily, Allah is ever over you, over all things, a Watcher.
19: And give the orphans their property, and do not exchange the bad for the good. And do not consume their property, and do not exchange it for your own. Verily, this is a great sin.
20. And if you fear that you will not deal justly with the orphans, then marry those that please you of [other] women, two or three or four. But if you fear that you will not be just, then [marry only] one or those your right hand possesses. That is more suitable that you may not incline [to injustice].
21. And give full measure when you measure, and weigh with an even balance. That is the best [way] and best in result.
22. And do not pursue that of which you have no knowledge. Indeed, the hearing, the sight and the heart – about all those [one] will be questioned.
23. And do not walk upon the earth exultantly. Indeed, you will never tear the earth [apart], and you will never reach the mountains in height.
24. All that – its evil is ever to be feared by your Lord – and all that is before you and all that is behind you. And ever is Allah, of what you do, encompassing.
25. Have you not seen that Allah has sent down rain from the sky and made it flow as springs in the earth? Then He produces thereby crops of different colors; then they dry and you see them turned yellow; then He makes them [scattered] debris. Indeed in that is a reminder for those of understanding.
26. And Allah presents an example: a man [who is] hollowed out on the surface of the earth, but when there comes to him good fortune, he is content with it; but if he receives an affliction, he is despairing.
27. Do you feel secure that He who [holds authority] in the heaven would not cause the earth to swallow you and suddenly it would sway?
28. Or do you feel secure that He who [holds authority] in the heaven would not send against you a storm of stones? Then you would know how [severe] was My warning.
29. And indeed, those before them denied, and how [terrible] was My reproach.
30. Do they not observe the birds above them with wings outspread and [sometimes] folded in? None holds them except the Most Merciful. Indeed He is, of all things, Seeing.
31. Or who is it that could be an army for you to aid you other than the Most Merciful? The disbelievers are not but in delusion.
32. Or who is it that could provide for you if He withheld His provision? But they have persisted in insolence and aversion.
33. Then is one who walks fallen on his face better guided or one who walks erect on a straight path?
34. Say, “It is He who has produced you and made for you hearing and vision and hearts; little are you grateful.”
35. And say, “It is He who has multiplied you throughout the earth, and to Him you will be gathered.”
36. And they say, “When is this promise, if you should be truthful?”
37. Say, “The knowledge is only with Allah, and I am only a clear warner.”
38. But when they see it approaching, the faces of those who disbelieve will be distressed, and it will be said, “This is that for which you used to call.”
39. Say, “Have you considered: whether Allah should cause my death and those with me or have mercy upon us, who can protect the disbelievers from a painful punishment?”
40. Say, “He is the Most Merciful; we have believed in Him, and upon Him we have relied. And you will [come to] know who it is that is in clear error.” 0 0 0
Al-Mulk: Comment
Surah Al-Mulk serves as a profound reminder of the transient nature of this world and the importance of recognizing Allah’s dominion. By contemplating the heavens, the earth, and the life within them, believers are urged to deepen their faith and awareness of accountability before Allah. The Surah stresses the need for humility, gratitude, and justice in human behavior. It also comforts believers by emphasizing Allah’s mercy and His protection over the universe. Reciting and reflecting on this Surah can strengthen one’s trust in Allah’s wisdom and encourage a life guided by righteousness. 0 0 0
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Frequently Asked Questions on Surah 67: Al-Mulk
Q1. What is Surah Al-Mulk and why is it called “The Sovereignty”?
Surah Al-Mulk is the 67th chapter of the Holy Quran, revealed in Makkah, consisting of 30 verses. The name “Al-Mulk” translates to “The Sovereignty” or “The Kingdom,” highlighting the absolute dominion and authority of Allah over all creation. This Surah emphasizes that everything in the heavens and the earth belongs to Allah, and no one has any power or control except Him. Surah Al-Mulk reminds believers of their dependence on Allah and warns disbelievers of the consequences of rejecting divine truth. By reciting Al-Mulk, Muslims are constantly reminded of the reality of life, death, and accountability, making it a chapter of both deep reflection and spiritual strength.
Q2. What are the main themes and lessons of Surah Al-Mulk?
The central theme of Surah Al-Mulk is Allah’s complete sovereignty over the universe. It discusses how creation, life, and death are all in the control of Allah. It invites reflection on the perfection of creation, the beauty of the skies, and the order of the universe as signs of divine wisdom. Surah Al-Mulk stresses the inevitability of the Day of Judgment and the fate of disbelievers who ignore divine guidance. It also highlights that Al-Mulk is a reminder of mercy for those who submit to Allah’s will. Another important lesson from Surah Al-Mulk is that worldly power and wealth are temporary, while true sovereignty belongs only to Allah, the Lord of all dominion.
Q3. What virtues are associated with the recitation of Surah Al-Mulk?
Surah Al-Mulk carries many virtues according to authentic traditions. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) recommended reciting Al-Mulk every night, as it intercedes for the believer in the grave. A famous hadith mentions that Surah Al-Mulk will act as a shield, protecting its reciter from the punishment of the grave. This makes Al-Mulk not only a source of reflection but also a form of protection and mercy from Allah. The daily recitation of Surah Al-Mulk strengthens faith, increases mindfulness of death and accountability, and fills the heart with trust in Allah’s power. For this reason, many Muslims memorize Al-Mulk and recite it as part of their nightly routine.
Q4. How does Surah Al-Mulk strengthen a believer’s faith in Allah?
Surah Al-Mulk strengthens faith by reminding believers of Allah’s supreme authority and control over all aspects of life and death. By reflecting on the verses of Al-Mulk, one recognizes that everything in creation operates under divine wisdom, and nothing happens without Allah’s permission. This realization helps believers develop patience, gratitude, and trust in divine decree. Surah Al-Mulk also emphasizes accountability, making believers conscious of their actions and preparing them for the Hereafter. The Surah’s consistent reminder that worldly sovereignty is temporary while Allah’s sovereignty is eternal strengthens reliance on Him alone. Thus, Al-Mulk becomes a powerful chapter in building unshakable faith and devotion.
Q5. Why is Surah Al-Mulk recommended for nightly recitation?
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) specifically recommended the nightly recitation of Surah Al-Mulk because of its protective qualities. It is narrated that Al-Mulk will defend the one who recites it until forgiveness is granted. Its nightly recitation acts as a light in the grave, shielding believers from punishment and loneliness. Moreover, reciting Al-Mulk before sleep instills peace of mind, reflection on the majesty of Allah, and a renewed sense of submission to His will. By making Al-Mulk part of nightly worship, a Muslim strengthens the bond with Allah and prepares spiritually for both the present life and the Hereafter.
Q6. How does Surah Al-Mulk relate to the concept of accountability in Islam?
Surah Al-Mulk is deeply tied to the Islamic concept of accountability. The Surah repeatedly warns that human beings will be questioned about their actions, their rejection of truth, and their neglect of Allah’s signs in creation. By reflecting on Al-Mulk, believers are reminded that life is a test, and every soul will face consequences based on faith and deeds. The Surah also contrasts the destiny of those who reject guidance with the reward of those who submit to Allah. This constant reminder of accountability helps Muslims live with a greater sense of purpose, righteousness, and fear of displeasing Allah. Surah Al-Mulk therefore serves as both a guide and a warning.
Q7. What is the significance of Surah Al-Mulk being revealed in Makkah?
Surah Al-Mulk was revealed in Makkah during the early period of Islam when Muslims faced opposition and persecution. Its Makkan style focuses on the foundations of faith—belief in the Oneness of Allah, the Hereafter, and accountability. The significance of Al-Mulk being a Makkan Surah lies in its role as a source of comfort and strength for early Muslims who endured hardships. By stressing that sovereignty belongs only to Allah, Surah Al-Mulk reassured believers that worldly powers and tyrants hold no real authority. This message continues to inspire Muslims today, reminding them that no matter how powerful worldly rulers may seem, true sovereignty rests only with Allah. 0 0 0
