Discover Surah 68: Al-Qalam (The Pen), one of the earliest revelations of the Quran. Discover its themes, virtues, and lessons that emphasize the value of knowledge, patience, and the triumph of truth over falsehood. Understand why Al-Qalam highlights the importance of character and faith in Allah’s guidance.
Surah 68: Al-Qalam (The Pen)
Al-Qalam: Introduction
Surah Al-Qalam is the sixty-eighth chapter of the Holy Quran, revealed in Makkah, and consists of 52 verses. It is among the early revelations to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and begins with the mysterious letter “Nun”, followed by an oath on the Pen and what it writes, emphasizing the divine importance of knowledge, writing, and recording. The surah opens with a powerful declaration clearing the Prophet of the false accusations made by his opponents, affirming his noble character. It then warns against following those who spread falsehood, slander, and corruption.
A parable of the owners of a garden is given to teach the dangers of greed, selfishness, and ignoring the poor. The surah moves on to contrast the fate of the righteous and the wicked, stresses the certainty of the Day of Judgment, and recalls the story of Prophet Yunus (Jonah) as a lesson in patience and obedience. The chapter closes by confirming that the Quran is a reminder for all creation and not the product of madness as some had claimed. 0 0 0
Surah 68: Al-Qalam (The Pen):Text
In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful
1. Nun (Arabic letter, the mystery of it is known only to Allah). By the Pen and what they write.
2. You are not, by the grace of your Lord, mad.
3. And indeed, for you is a reward that will never end.
4. And indeed, you are surely upon an exalted standard of character.
5. So you will see, and they will see,
6. Which of you is afflicted with madness.
7. Surely your Lord knows best who has strayed from His path, and He knows best those who are guided.
8. So do not obey those who deny the truth.
9. They wish that you should compromise, so they would compromise.
10. And do not obey every worthless habitual swearer,
11. A slanderer, going about spreading gossip,
12. A preventer of good, transgressor, sinner,
13. Harsh, and moreover ignoble.
14. Just because he possesses wealth and sons.
15. When Our verses are recited to him, he says, “Tales of the ancients!”
16. We shall brand him upon the snout.
17. Indeed, We tested them as We tested the owners of the garden, when they swore to harvest its fruit in the morning,
18. And made no exception.
19. Then there came upon it a disaster from your Lord while they slept,
20. And in the morning it became like a field already harvested.
21. Then they called out to one another in the morning,
22. “Go early to your crop if you would reap it.”
23. So they went, whispering to one another,
24. “Let no poor person enter it today while you are there.”
25. And they went early, determined in their purpose.
26. But when they saw it, they said, “Indeed, we are lost.”
27. “Rather, we are deprived!”
28. The most moderate among them said, “Did I not say to you, why do you not glorify Allah?”
29. They said, “Glory be to our Lord! Indeed, we were wrongdoers.”
30. Then they began blaming one another.
31. They said, “Woe to us! Surely we were transgressors.
32. Perhaps our Lord will give us something better in its place. Indeed, we turn to our Lord in hope.”
33. Such is the punishment, and the punishment of the Hereafter is greater, if only they knew.
34. Surely for the righteous are gardens of bliss with their Lord.
35. Shall We then treat the Muslims like the criminals?
36. What is wrong with you? How do you judge?
37. Or do you have a book in which you study,
38. That you will have in it whatever you choose?
39. Or do you have oaths from Us, binding until the Day of Resurrection, that you will have whatever you decide?
40. Ask them which of them will guarantee that.
41. Or do they have partners? Then let them bring their partners, if they are truthful.
42. On the Day when the shin will be exposed, and they will be called to prostrate, but they will not be able.
43. Their eyes humbled, humiliation will cover them, for they were called to prostrate while they were sound, but they refused.
44. So leave Me with those who deny this Word. We will gradually draw them to destruction from where they do not know.
45. And I will grant them respite. Indeed, My plan is firm.
46. Or is it that you ask them for a payment, so they are burdened with debt?
47. Or do they have the unseen, so they write it down?
48. So be patient for the decision of your Lord, and do not be like the man of the fish, when he called out in despair.
49. Had it not been that a favour from his Lord reached him, he would have been thrown upon the shore while he was blameworthy.
50. But his Lord chose him and made him among the righteous.
51. And indeed, those who disbelieve almost make you slip with their eyes when they hear the Reminder, and they say, “Surely he is mad.”
52. But it is nothing less than a Reminder to the worlds. 0 0 0
Al-Qalam: Comment
Surah Al-Qalam powerfully addresses themes of truth, moral integrity, and accountability before Allah. The opening verses defend the Prophet against charges of insanity, affirming his “exalted standard of character”, which remains a model for all believers. The surah warns against being influenced by corrupt individuals who possess wealth and power but lack moral values. The parable of the garden owners illustrates how greed and the refusal to share with the needy lead to divine punishment and regret, but also how repentance can open the door to hope.
The surah repeatedly reminds us that the Day of Judgment will separate the righteous from the criminals and that no worldly alliance or false claim will save the wrongdoers. The mention of Prophet Yunus serves as a gentle warning to remain steadfast and patient in times of trial, even when facing rejection.
In its conclusion, the surah reaffirms that the Quran is a universal reminder, untainted by falsehood, and a guiding light for all of humanity. This chapter calls upon believers to uphold justice, remain patient in adversity, avoid arrogance, and stay committed to truth regardless of opposition. 0 0 0
You May Like: Surah 61: As-Saff
Frequently Asked Questions on Surah 68: Al-Qalam
Q1. What is Surah Al-Qalam and why is it called “The Pen”?
Surah Al-Qalam is the 68th chapter of the Holy Quran, revealed in Makkah, consisting of 52 verses. The name “Al-Qalam” translates to “The Pen,” symbolizing knowledge, wisdom, and divine revelation. The opening verse begins with the mysterious letter “Nun” followed by “By the Pen and what they inscribe,” indicating the sacredness of writing and the preservation of divine truth. Al-Qalam reminds believers that knowledge is not just a human tool but a gift from Allah that records deeds, reveals truth, and conveys guidance. By naming this chapter Al-Qalam, the Quran emphasizes the importance of learning, literacy, and moral responsibility.
Q2. What are the main themes and messages of Surah Al-Qalam?
The central themes of Surah Al-Qalam revolve around the authority of revelation, the moral integrity of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), and the ultimate victory of truth over falsehood. Surah Al-Qalam refutes the accusations of the disbelievers who labeled the Prophet as mad, assuring him that his character is of the highest standard. Another theme in Al-Qalam is the parable of the owners of the garden, who were punished for their greed and arrogance, teaching the consequences of denying Allah’s blessings. The Surah also stresses patience in the face of opposition, accountability in the Hereafter, and the inevitability of justice. Overall, Al-Qalam conveys that knowledge, guided by faith, leads to success, while arrogance leads to ruin.
Q3. How does Surah Al-Qalam defend the character of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)?
Surah Al-Qalam strongly defends the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) against the accusations of his enemies. At a time when disbelievers mocked him, calling him insane and deluded, Allah revealed Al-Qalam to affirm that the Prophet was divinely guided and possessed an exalted character. Verse 4 of Al-Qalam declares, “And indeed, you are of a great moral character,” which has become one of the most famous verses highlighting his noble traits. Through this verse, Surah Al-Qalam reminds believers that truth will prevail regardless of slander and false claims. This defense not only comforts the Prophet but also strengthens the faith of Muslims by affirming his role as a model of integrity and patience.
Q4. What is the parable of the owners of the garden in Surah Al-Qalam?
One of the most striking parts of Surah Al-Qalam is the story of the owners of the garden. This parable tells of wealthy individuals who owned a fruitful garden but were arrogant and ungrateful. They decided to harvest the crops secretly without giving any share to the poor, forgetting the rights of the needy and Allah’s command. As a punishment for their greed, Allah destroyed their garden, reducing it to a barren land. This story in Al-Qalam teaches a profound lesson: wealth and blessings are temporary and must be shared with humility and generosity. The parable of the garden owners in Al-Qalam continues to remind Muslims that arrogance, selfishness, and ingratitude can lead to divine punishment.
Q5. What virtues are associated with the recitation of Surah Al-Qalam?
Although not as frequently mentioned as some other Surahs, Surah Al-Qalam carries immense virtues for believers. Its recitation strengthens one’s faith in the truth of the Quran and the Prophethood of Muhammad (peace be upon him). Al-Qalam also instills patience, reminding readers that trials are part of divine wisdom. By reflecting on the story of the garden owners in Al-Qalam, a believer learns the importance of gratitude and generosity. Reciting Al-Qalam regularly encourages strong character, humility, and reliance on Allah. Furthermore, Al-Qalam is among the Surahs that highlight the honor of writing and knowledge, making it a chapter of reflection for scholars, students, and all who seek wisdom.
Q6. How does Surah Al-Qalam emphasize the role of knowledge and writing in Islam?
Surah Al-Qalam places great emphasis on the pen as a symbol of knowledge, literacy, and the transmission of divine truth. The opening oath, “By the Pen and what they inscribe,” highlights the sacred role of writing in preserving revelation and recording human deeds. Al-Qalam teaches that knowledge should not be misused but must be guided by faith and morality. In Islam, knowledge is considered a form of light, and Al-Qalam elevates the pen as a divine tool that connects humanity with guidance. This emphasis makes Al-Qalam deeply relevant for education, scholarship, and the pursuit of wisdom, reminding Muslims that knowledge must always align with righteousness.
Q7. How does Surah Al-Qalam prepare believers for patience and perseverance?
Surah Al-Qalam was revealed during the early Makkan period when Muslims faced ridicule and persecution. Through its verses, Allah reassured the Prophet and the believers that patience is necessary in the face of false accusations. Al-Qalam highlights that prophets before Muhammad also faced rejection, but truth always triumphed in the end. By reminding believers of divine justice and accountability, Al-Qalam strengthens their resolve to remain steadfast. The Surah teaches that hardships are temporary, but rewards for patience and perseverance are eternal. Thus, Al-Qalam serves as a guide for believers facing difficulties, inspiring them to trust in Allah’s plan and continue walking the path of righteousness.
Q8. What is the significance of Surah Al-Qalam being revealed in Makkah?
The Makkan revelation of Surah Al-Qalam is significant because it addressed the early struggles of Islam when the Prophet and his followers were mocked and opposed. During this time, disbelievers claimed the Prophet was insane, and Al-Qalam firmly rejected such accusations while affirming his great moral character. The Surah also provided spiritual strength to Muslims by reminding them of the fate of previous nations who denied the truth. By focusing on themes of knowledge, patience, and justice, Al-Qalam prepared Muslims to endure persecution with hope and faith. Its Makkan nature makes Al-Qalam a timeless chapter of reassurance, reminding believers that truth, though challenged, always prevails. 0 0 0
