ভূমিকা

Similar to other Meccan Chapters, the Chapter in question treats of resurrection and an exposition of the destinies of former nations as well as those of the good and the vicious. The Chapter opens with the opponents’ denial of resurrection and proceeds with making mention of the examples of resurrection in nature and creation.

Merits of Recitation of the Chapter According to Islamic traditions, the Noble Prophet (S) accorded great significance to the Chapter in question such that he recited it every Friday at the sermon of the congregation prayer.[^1] It is narrated from the Noble Prophet (S): “Whoever recites the Chapter Qaf, Allah shall alleviate the difficulties and throes of death for him.” [^2] According to a tradition narrated from Imam Baqir (as): “One who recites the Chapter Qaf in obligatory and supererogatory prayers at all times, Allah shall increase his means of subsistence, shall give him the letter of his deeds to his right hand, and shall make facilitate his account on the Day of Judgment.” [^3] It is worthy of note that so many glories and merits may not be accrued through mere recitation of the words, but it may open a path toward awakening of thought as a means of doing righteous good deeds consistent with the contextual meaning of the Chapter.

Taking an oath to the Holy Qur’an is of significance, since it is Glorious. Thus, if you seek glory, turn to the Glorious Qur’an. A number of Qur’anic Chapters open with detached letters and the Chapter in question opens with the detached letter Qaf.