تَبَارَكَ الَّذِيَُْ ْ 1444 اَلْمُزَّمِّل
يَا أَيُّهَا الْمُزَّمِّلُ ﴿۱﴾
﴾1﴿ Ya aiyuhal muzzammil
﴾1﴿ O who is responsibile for (Qur'an and Prophethood)
Relevancy:
This chapter has many connections with the previous chapter. In the preceding chapters, various forms of shirk (polytheism) were explicitly refuted, while in this chapter, encouragement to recite the Qur'an is given as a means of steadfastness upon Tawhid (monotheism). The second connection is that in the two previous chapters, the call (invitation) and the method of calling were mentioned, whereas this chapter discusses preparation for delivering the invitation.
Claim of this surah:
It encourages the people of the Qur'an to perform Qiyam al-Layl (standing in prayer at night) for the sake of the Qur'an, relying upon Allah and adhering firmly to Tawhid (monotheism). To encourage this, sixteen imperative forms are mentioned, along with eight emphases using the particle "إنَّ" (indeed). All these contents prepare one for inviting others towards the Qur'an and Tawhid. The basis for this claim is found in verses (2), (4), and (8).
Summary of the surah:
It encourages Qiyam al-Layl (standing in night prayer) with emphasis (mubalagha), mentioning three durations for the night prayers. The purpose of this night prayer is explained in verse (4). Additionally, three reasons for the recommended durations (lengthy standing and exceptions) are detailed respectively in verses (5), (6), and (7). It further describes the etiquette of reciting the Qur'an in verse (8), and the ultimate objective of the Qur'an in verse (9). Then, it provides consolation and encouragement to the people of the Qur'an regarding four matters related to their opponents in verses (10) and (11). Afterward, verses (12), (13), and (14) contain warnings of the Hereafter for deniers, and an example of worldly punishment is illustrated through Pharaoh’s story, along with the cause of his punishment in verses (15) and (16) (which also serves as consolation and affirmation of the Prophet, may Allah bless him and give him peace). Again, warnings of the Hereafter appear in verses (17) and (18), with encouragement to adhere to the Qur'an for salvation from punishment stated in verse (19).
In the second part (Ruku), the Surah mentions a reduction of the requirement for lengthy night recitation, as strict observance is unnecessary due to awareness of those among the believers who have valid excuses, such as fighters, travelers, and traders (each group needing this concession). Finally, five matters are outlined in verse (20) for establishing firmness in faith and practical adherence to the Qur'an.
[1] This address is directed towards the Prophet (may Allah bless him and give him peace), derived from the word "Zaml," meaning "to carry," and a secondary meaning is "one wrapped in garments." Addressing the Prophet with this description has two benefits:
The first benefit indicates generalization, implying that anyone who calls towards the Qur'an and Sunnah is included in this address.
The second benefit is gentleness and affection; when someone is engaged in an important task and is addressed with a description suitable to their state, it signifies contentment and approval.