Surah Al-Fil | Benefits & Meaning In Arabic
Surah Al-Fil, or “The Elephant,” stands as the 105th chapter of the Quran, originating from Mecca and comprising five verses. The title arises from its narrative involving Abraha’s army, which included elephants, attempting to assail the Kaaba in Mecca.
Arabic Significance:
Here presents the Arabic rendition of Surah Al-Fil:
بِسْمِ اللّٰهِ الرَّحْمٰنِ الرَّحِيْمِ
اَلَمْ تَرَ كَيْفَ فَعَلَ رَبُّكَ بِاَصْحٰبِ الْفِيْلِ
اَلَمْ يَجْعَلْ كَيْدَهُمْ فِى التَّضْلِيْلِ
وَاَرْسَلَ عَلَيْهِمْ طَيْرًا اَبَابِيْلَ
تَرْمِيْهِمْ بِحِجَارَةٍ مِّنْ سِجِّيْلٍ
Transliteration:
Bismillāhir-Raḥmānir-Raḥīm
Alam tara kayfa fa’ala rabbuka bi-Ashābil-Fīl
Alam yaj’al kaydahum fī at-taḍlīl
Wa arsala ‘alayhim ṭayran abābīla
Tarmīhim bi-ḥijāratin min sijjīl
English Interpretation:
1. In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.
2. Have you not observed, [O Muhammad], how your Lord dealt with the companions of the elephant?
3. Did He not turn their scheme into misguidance?
4. And He dispatched against them flocks of birds,
5. Striking them with stones of compacted clay.
Significance:
The crux of Surah Al-Fil centers on Allah’s power and safeguarding, underscoring that, regardless of apparent strength, all forces ultimately lie under Allah’s command. The incident recounted, where divinely sent birds thwarted Abraha’s army, serves as a testament to divine intervention and protection.
Spiritually and personally, Muslims often recite Surah Al-Fil to seek protection from harm, calamities, and adversaries. It is perceived as a source of divine shelter and a conduit to implore Allah’s aid during challenging times.
It is noteworthy that, during Quranic recitation, Muslims perceive spiritual and therapeutic benefits, seeking guidance, forgiveness, protection, and blessings through specific surahs.
What is the story behind Surah Al-Fil?
Surah Al-Fil recounts a historical incident during the Year of the Elephant, a pre-Islamic era event. It involves Abraha, the ruler of Yemen, and his army with elephants, aiming to destroy the Kaaba in Mecca.
Abraha, displeased by the reduced pilgrimage to his cathedral in Yemen, marched towards Mecca in 570 CE. He planned to demolish the Kaaba and redirect the pilgrimage to his cathedral. Meccans sought refuge in the mountains as Abraha approached.
A miraculous intervention unfolded as Abraha neared Mecca. Allah intervened to safeguard the Kaaba, sending birds carrying stones that wreaked havoc on Abraha’s army, incapacitating even the mighty elephants.
Surah Al-Fil encapsulates this event, emphasizing Allah’s power and protection. It underscores the supremacy of Allah over seemingly formidable human forces. The story symbolizes the sanctity of the Kaaba and the divine shield it enjoys.
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What are the lessons of Surah Al-Fil?
Surah Al-Fil imparts several important teachings and morals, drawing from the historical events it recounts. Here are some key insights derived from the surah:
1. Acknowledging Allah’s Supreme Control:
Surah Al-Fil underscores the absolute control of Allah over all things. Regardless of the perceived might and resources of any force, it ultimately bows to Allah’s will. The surah serves as a reminder for individuals to acknowledge and submit to the supreme authority of Allah in their lives.
2. Divine Shelter:
The narrative of the birds sent by Allah to safeguard the Kaaba underscores the concept of divine intervention and protection. It reinforces the belief that Allah is the ultimate protector, and those who seek refuge in Him will find shelter even in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges.
3. Sanctity of the Kaaba:
The surah accentuates the unique status of the Kaaba as a sacred house of worship. The attempted destruction of the Kaaba by Abraha’s army and the subsequent divine intervention highlight the holiness and importance of this revered site in Islam.
4. Strength of Faith:
Faced with a formidable threat, the people of Mecca sought refuge in the mountains, placing their trust in Allah. This underscores the strength of faith and the importance of relying on Allah during times of adversity. The surah encourages believers to turn to Allah in times of need and trust in His wisdom and protection.
5. Cultivating Humility and Gratitude:
The incident in Surah Al-Fil serves as a humbling reminder for individuals and communities. Regardless of how advanced or powerful a civilization may perceive itself, it remains ultimately dependent on Allah. The surah promotes humility, recognizing humanity’s reliance on its Creator, and fosters gratitude for divine blessings.
6. Lessons for Those Inclined to Oppression:
The fate of Abraha and his army acts as a cautionary tale for those who unjustly seek to harm or oppress others. The surah suggests that oppressive actions are ultimately fruitless and may invite divine consequences.
