Surah Nur Reflection

Ayah 1 & 2)

This tafsir explains how important Surat An-Nur is, especially because it deals with rules that protect the
morals and purity of society. Allah clearly says that He revealed this Surah and made its laws mandatory,
showing that what’s in it must be taken seriously.

One of the main topics in this Surah is the punishment for zina (unlawful sex). The tafsir tells us that:

If someone who is not married commits zina, they should get 100 lashes and be sent away from their
home for a year.

If someone is married, then the punishment is stoning to death, as taught by the Prophet (SAW) and
practiced by his companions.

These rules are not meant to be cruel, but to protect society and stop people from doing harmful things.
The punishment should be done in public, so that others see it and learn from it.

Allah also says that we should not feel so much pity that we ignore the punishment. This means that,
even if we feel sorry for the person, we must still follow Allah’s laws when it comes to justice.

At the same time, Islam teaches kindness and fairness—the punishment only happens when there is
clear proof, like a confession or strong evidence. No one should be punished without this.

Ayah 3)

This verse teaches that a man or woman who commits zina (unlawful sex) should not marry someone
who is pure and faithful. Instead, such people usually end up marrying someone who is also sinful or
someone who doesn’t believe that such behavior is wrong (like a mushrik – a person who worships
others besides Allah).

Allah tells believers that this kind of marriage is not allowed for them. A believer should aim to marry
someone who is chaste, good, and respects Allah’s limits.

The Prophet (SAW) once refused a man’s request to marry a woman known for zina. He reminded him
with this very verse, showing that believers should avoid such marriages to protect their faith and
values.

Ayah 4 & 5)

This verse talks about a very serious sin: accusing a good, innocent woman (or man) of zina (unlawful
sex) without proof. Islam protects people’s honor and dignity, so making such a false claim is a major
offense.

If someone makes this accusation but cannot bring four witnesses, then three punishments are given:
They are whipped 80 times.

Their testimony is never accepted again.

They are called a "fasiq", which means someone known for sin.

But Allah also gives hope. If the person repents and changes their behavior, then Allah is Most Forgiving
and Merciful. If they truly regret what they did and do good, some scholars say their reputation can be
restored and their testimony accepted again.

Ayah 6-10)

The story of Li`an teaches us about Allah’s mercy and wisdom in difficult situations. When a husband
sees something wrong but has no proof, Islam gives a fair and peaceful way to deal with it. Both the
husband and wife are asked to swear by Allah, which shows how serious the matter is. It reminds us not
to lie, especially when swearing by Allah.

This also shows how important it is to protect people’s honor and not accuse anyone without strong
proof. Even when feelings like jealousy are strong, we must follow Allah’s rules. In the end, Allah gives a
way out for both the husband and wife without harming them unfairly.

This teaches us to be honest, careful with our words, and always fear Allah when making big decisions.

Ayah 11)

This story reminds us how Allah protects the truth and defends the innocent. A’ishah (may Allah be
pleased with her) was wrongly accused, and it caused her great pain. But she stayed patient, trusted
Allah, and waited for His help. In the end, Allah sent down verses from the Qur'an to show she was
innocent. This teaches us to avoid spreading lies, to be careful with our words, and to always turn to
Allah when we are hurt. It also shows the love Allah had for His Prophet Muhammad ‫ ﷺ‬and his family.
Allah is always fair and just, and He never leaves the truth hidden.

Ayah 12 & 13)

Allah corrected the believers when some of them repeated lies about A’ishah (may Allah be pleased
with her). Instead of staying silent or thinking good, they passed along what they heard. But believers
like Abu Ayyub and his wife gave the right example. They said, “We wouldn’t do that, and A’ishah is
better than us.” This is how we should respond—by thinking well of others and refusing to believe or
spread bad things without clear proof.

 We should always assume the best about other Muslims.

 Never spread news or rumors, especially without proof.
 Even repeating a false story is a serious mistake.
 A true believer speaks up and says, “This is a lie.”

If you hear something bad about someone, stop and ask:

Would I want others to say this about me without proof?
Always choose to protect others’ honor and speak what is right.

Ayah 14 & 15)

This passage shows us how kind and merciful Allah is. Even though some believers spoke wrongly about
A’ishah (may Allah be pleased with her), Allah gave them a chance to repent and forgave them. Their
mistake was serious, but because they had faith and turned back to Allah, He accepted their repentance.

It also reminds us how easy it is to say something without thinking—just repeating what others say. But
what seems like small talk to us might be something very big and dangerous in Allah’s sight. Speaking
without knowing the truth can lead to great harm. That’s why Allah warns us here: even one careless
word can carry heavy consequences.

This verse teaches us to be more thoughtful and cautious with our words, especially when it comes to
others’ honor and reputation.

Ayah 16-18)

This part reminds us how careful we must be with our words. Even if something doubtful comes to our
minds, we should not speak about it, especially if it involves good, respected people. Allah teaches us to
respond by saying, “It is not right for us to speak of this,” and to remember that such false talk is a
serious lie.

We also see how Allah, out of His kindness, is warning us so that we don’t fall into this mistake again. He
guides us clearly, showing us what is right and wrong. This shows how much Allah wants to protect us
from harm, both in this world and the next.

It’s a reminder that if we truly believe, we must watch our speech and always think the best of others.

Ayah 19)

This part reminds us how serious it is to spread shameful talk among believers. Allah warns against liking
or enjoying when bad things are said about others, even if they are only rumors. It is not just the act of
speaking, but even liking such talk that brings punishment.

Allah teaches us to protect each other’s honor, not look for faults, and not spread stories that cause
harm. He knows everything, even what is hidden, while we don’t. So we are told to leave matters to Him
and not act based on gossip or curiosity.

This is a strong reminder to guard our hearts, words, and actions when it comes to the dignity of others.

Ayah 20 & 21)

This verse is a gentle reminder of how kind and merciful Allah is. If it weren’t for His mercy, none of us
would ever be free from sin. He is the One who helps us stay pure and return to the right path.

Allah also warns us not to follow the footsteps of Shaytan—his whispers and suggestions that lead to
sinful thoughts and actions. Shaytan encourages shameful behavior and wrongdoing. So, we are told to
stay away from anything that even starts to lead us down that path.

It’s comforting to know that Allah listens to everything and knows who truly wants to be guided. His
mercy and help are what keep us from falling, and He gives purity to those He chooses—those who turn
to Him sincerely.

Ayah 22)
This part reminds us how important it is to forgive others, even if they hurt us badly.

Abu Bakr was very upset with Mistah, a poor relative he used to help with money, because Mistah took
part in spreading lies about A’ishah. So Abu Bakr promised he wouldn’t help him anymore. But then
Allah revealed this verse, telling the believers not to stop helping their relatives and those who are poor
or have made sacrifices for Islam, just because they made a mistake.

Allah told them to forgive and move on. He asked, “Don’t you want Allah to forgive you?” That question
touched Abu Bakr’s heart. He said, “Yes, I want Allah to forgive me,” and started helping Mistah again.

This shows us that forgiving others, even when it’s hard, brings us closer to Allah’s mercy. Just like we
want Allah to forgive us, we should try to forgive others too.

Ayah 23-25)

This verse warns us not to falsely accuse innocent, believing women. Allah tells us that doing so is a very
serious sin. Those who spread lies like this are cursed in this life and the next, and they will face painful
punishment.

On the Day of Judgment, even a person's own hands, feet, and tongue will speak the truth about what
they did. No one can hide from Allah.

It reminds us to be careful with our words, to avoid spreading rumors, and to always speak the truth.
Allah is always just, and He will give everyone what they truly deserve.

Ayah 26)

This verse highlights the honor and purity of ʿĀ’ishah (may Allah be pleased with her), the wife of the
Prophet ‫ﷺ‬. It teaches us that good people are for good people, and evil people are for evil people.
Since the Prophet ‫ ﷺ‬is the best of mankind, it only makes sense that his wife would also be someone
pure and good.

When hypocrites spread lies about ʿĀ’ishah, Allah made it clear that she was innocent and far removed
from what they said. He promised forgiveness and a great reward in Paradise for her, showing her high
status in both this life and the next.

This reminds us not to believe or spread rumors, especially about righteous people, and to trust in
Allah’s justice and wisdom.

Ayah 27-29)

Islam teaches us how to behave when visiting someone’s home. Allah tells believers not to enter houses
that aren’t theirs unless they ask for permission first and say Salam (peace) to the people inside.

 Ask permission three times: If no one answers or says you can’t come in, you should leave
politely. This is what the Prophet Muhammad ‫ ﷺ‬taught, and his companions followed it.
 Don’t stand right in front of the door: Stand to the side so you don’t look into the house before
being allowed in.
 Say your name clearly when asked, “Who is it?” Don’t just say “Me” because that doesn’t tell
who you are.
  Even with family members: Ibn Abbas said we should also ask permission before entering on
family, like sisters or mothers, so we don’t see them when they might not be ready.

One time, a man entered without saying Salam or asking. The Prophet ‫ ﷺ‬told him to go back and do it
the right way—first say Salam, then ask to enter.

Allah says in the Qur’an:

“O you who believe! Do not enter homes other than your own unless you ask permission and greet those
inside.” (Surah An-Nur 24:27)

This teaches us to respect people’s privacy and protect their modesty.

If someone tells you “Go back,” then go back without being upset. Allah says this is better and purer for
you.

It’s okay to enter public places like guest houses or open shops, as long as they are meant for visitors.

Ayah 30)

This teaching from the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) reminds us about the importance of manners, self-
control, and being mindful in public spaces. When sitting in places like streets or gathering areas, we
should not bother others and must behave in a good way—by lowering our gaze, returning greetings,
encouraging good, and stopping wrong when we see it.

The Prophet (SAW) also taught that if we can protect just six things; our words, promises, trust, eyes,
hands, and private parts—then Paradise is promised. This shows how much Islam values honesty, purity,
and respect for others.

Lowering the gaze is strongly emphasized, because the eyes are often the first step toward sinful
thoughts and actions. Islam teaches us that protecting our eyes helps protect our heart and actions.
Even things we think are small, like a look or a thought, matter in the sight of Allah.

In the end, this reflection reminds us that true modesty starts from the eyes and heart, and that our
actions—big or small—are always seen by Allah.

Ayah 31)

This ayah teaches us about hijab and why it is important in Islam. Allah gave this rule to help protect
women and make them different from those who don’t follow the right way. Hijab is not just a scarf—
it’s about how a woman dresses, acts, and speaks. It helps her stay modest and respected.

The Quran tells believing women to lower their gaze, protect their private parts, and not show their
beauty to anyone except close family members, like their husbands, fathers, brothers, and sons. They
should also cover their hair, neck, and chest and wear clothes that are not tight or revealing.

The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) taught that women should also walk respectfully, not wear perfume
outside, and not try to attract attention. In the past, women used to stamp their feet to make noise with
their jewelry, and Islam taught them to stop doing that. They were also told not to walk in the middle of
the road but to walk along the sides, showing respect and care.
When the verse about hijab was revealed, the women quickly obeyed. They even tore pieces of their
clothes to cover themselves properly. This shows their love and obedience to Allah.

In short, hijab is not something to make life hard; it is a way for Muslim women to be honored, safe, and
special. It shows that they follow Allah’s guidance and want to live a clean and respectful life.

Ayah 32-34)

Allah has clearly commanded believers to promote and support marriage among those who are single,
whether they are free or slaves. This reflects Islam’s encouragement of modesty, stability, and
community building. The Prophet (SAW) emphasized this by saying that marriage helps lower the gaze
and guards chastity. Even if someone is poor, Allah promises to enrich them from His bounty, showing
us that financial fear should not be a barrier to marriage.

For those who cannot afford marriage, Allah commands them to stay chaste and patient until He
provides for them. This teaches us self-control and reliance on Allah’s plan.

Allah also encourages the freeing of slaves through contracts of emancipation when they are capable
and trustworthy. This shows Islam’s concern for justice, freedom, and human dignity.

Importantly, Islam strictly forbids forcing slave-girls into prostitution. This was common in pre-Islamic
times, but Allah clearly condemned it, stating that even if they are forced, He will forgive them—
showing His mercy and protection for the oppressed.

All these commands are part of a broader guidance sent by Allah to clarify right from wrong. He reminds
us through examples from past nations and urges us to follow the path of Taqwa (God-consciousness).

Ayah 35)

In this verse, Allah says that He is the Light of the skies and the earth. This means Allah is the One who
guides everything. Just like we need light to see, we need Allah’s guidance to live the right way.

Allah gives an example (parable) of this guidance:

It's like a small space in a wall (a niche),

Inside that space is a lamp,

The lamp is in clear, shining glass,

The glass looks like a bright star,

The lamp is lit with pure oil from a blessed olive tree,

The tree is in a place that gets sunlight all day.

This shows how beautiful and bright Allah’s guidance is in a believer’s heart. The lamp is like the faith
inside a person. The glass is like the pure heart of a believer. The oil is like the person’s natural love for
truth. Even without fire, the oil almost shines — meaning some people are ready for guidance even
before they hear it.
Then Allah says: “Light upon Light”, this means faith and the Qur’an together make the heart full of light
and understanding.

Allah gives this light (guidance) to whoever He wants, meaning we should always pray for Allah to guide
us.

Ayah 36-38)

Masjids are very special places in Islam. They are the houses of Allah, where people come to pray,
remember Him, and learn about Islam. Allah tells us in the Qur’an that He loves those who build and
take care of the Masjids. The Prophet (SAW) said that if someone builds a Masjid for Allah, Allah will
build a house for them in Paradise.

We should be respectful in the Masjid—no shouting, joking, or doing business there. It should stay clean,
peaceful, and full of remembrance of Allah. Even walking to the Masjid with the right intention earns
great rewards. Angels pray for us when we sit quietly waiting for prayer.

Let’s love the Masjid, go there often, and help take care of it. It’s a place where our hearts find peace,
and where we grow closer to Allah.

Ayah 39 & 40)

In these verses, Allah gives us two examples of disbelievers. The first is like a man in the desert who sees
a mirage and thinks it is water. He runs to it, hoping to find something, but when he gets there, there is
nothing. This shows how some disbelievers think they are doing good deeds, but on the Day of
Judgment, they will find that those deeds are worthless because they lacked faith and sincerity.

The second example is of a person in deep darkness in the sea, with waves and clouds covering him. He
cannot see anything, not even his own hand. This shows how some people live in total ignorance. They
follow others blindly and don’t know where they are going. Their hearts are full of darkness, and without
Allah’s light, they will never find the right path.

These parables remind us that only Allah can guide us. We should always ask Him to give us light in our
hearts, to guide us to the truth, and to keep us away from darkness and false beliefs.

Ayah 41 & 42)

Everything in the heavens and the earth glorifies Allah — the angels, people, animals, birds, and even
things we think are lifeless. Each one knows how to worship and praise Allah in its own special way.
Birds glorify Him while flying, and even the stars and the sky praise Him in ways we may not understand.

Allah sees and knows everything they do, because He is All-Knowing. He is the King of everything, and
everything belongs to Him. In the end, we will all return to Allah, and He will reward or punish everyone
according to their deeds.

This reminds us to worship Allah sincerely, to praise Him often, and to remember that He is always in
control. Just like all of creation worships Him, we too should glorify Him with our hearts, words, and
actions.

Ayah 43 & 44)

Allah shows us His great power through the clouds, rain, and lightning. He gently brings the clouds
together, piles them up, and from them, rain falls. Sometimes, even hail comes down — and it all
happens by His command. He sends rain to some people as a mercy and keeps it away from others,
sometimes as a test or a punishment.

The lightning is so bright that it can almost blind the eyes. The night and day also follow one another
perfectly, changing in length and timing as Allah wills.

All of these are signs for people who think and reflect. They remind us that Allah is powerful, wise, and
in complete control of everything. We should look at the sky, the clouds, the rain, and even the changing
of day and night, and remember the greatness of our Creator.

Ayah 45)

Allah is the Creator of all animals, big and small. Some animals crawl on their bellies, like snakes. Others
walk on two legs, like humans and birds. Some walk on four legs, like cows and many other animals.

All of them come from water, showing how Allah’s power brings different creatures to life in many ways.
Allah creates whatever He wants, and nothing happens except by His will. He is able to do all things, and
His power is limitless.

This reminds us to appreciate the amazing variety in nature and to recognize the greatness of Allah, who
controls everything.

Ayah 46)

Allah alone guides people to the Straight Path—the way that leads to goodness and success in this life
and the next. He chooses whom He wills to receive this guidance. This shows us how important it is to
ask Allah for guidance and to be thankful when we find the right way. It also reminds us to keep seeking
Allah’s help to stay on the path that pleases Him.

Ayah 47-52)

These verses teaches us about two very different kinds of people: the hypocrites and the true believers.
The hypocrites say with their tongues that they believe and obey Allah and His Messenger, but in their
hearts, they hide the opposite. When things don’t go their way, they turn away and refuse to follow the
truth, showing their dishonesty and weakness in faith. Allah warns us that such people are not truly
believers and are actually wrongdoers.

On the other hand, the true believers listen carefully and obey Allah and His Messenger without
hesitation, even when it is difficult or when they don’t feel like it. They say, “We hear and we obey.”
Their faith is sincere and consistent, and this obedience leads them to success in this life and the
Hereafter.

This reminds us how important it is to be honest with ourselves and with Allah. True faith is shown by
both our words and actions, by following Allah’s guidance sincerely, especially when it’s not easy.
Success comes from trusting Allah, obeying Him, and having patience and humility.

Ayah 53 & 54)

Allah tells the Prophet to say: Don’t make promises you won’t keep. Many people only say they obey,
but don’t act on it and lie a lot.

Some hypocrites pretend to support others but won’t help when it matters. Allah commands everyone
to obey Him and His Messenger.

If people refuse, the Prophet’s duty is just to clearly share the message. If they obey, they will be guided
on the right path.

The Prophet is not responsible for forcing anyone—only for delivering the message. Guidance is from
Allah alone.

Ayah 55)

Allah promised the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) that His followers (the Ummah) would become leaders
on earth and spread Islam far and wide. This happened when the Prophet and his companions gained
control over many lands, including the Arabian Peninsula, Persia, Syria, Egypt, and beyond.

After the Prophet’s death, the first Caliphs—Abu Bakr, Umar, and Uthman—continued expanding the
Muslim rule, bringing many nations under Islam’s influence. This was all part of Allah’s promise to give
the believers safety, security, and the ability to practice their religion freely.

The Prophet (SAW) also taught that Allah’s right over people is to worship Him alone without associating
partners with Him, and in return, Allah promises not to punish those who obey Him.

Despite challenges and changes, a group from the Prophet’s Ummah will always remain firm on the
truth until the end of time, continuing to uphold Islam and fight against falsehood.

Ayah 56 & 57)

Allah commands believers to pray to Him alone, give charity (Zakah) to help the poor, and obey the
Messenger ‫ ﷺ‬by following his teachings. If they do this, Allah will show them mercy.

Allah tells the Prophet ‫ ﷺ‬not to think that disbelievers can escape Him on earth. They cannot run away
from His punishment. Their final home will be the Fire (Hell), which is a terrible and awful place.

Ayah 58-60)

Allah teaches us to respect privacy in our homes. Servants and young children should ask permission
before entering at certain times, like early morning, afternoon rest, and night, to protect everyone’s
privacy. When children grow up, they should always ask permission like adults.

Also, older women who are no longer looking to marry can dress more comfortably, but it’s still good to
be modest.

This shows how Islam cares about respect, privacy, and kindness in families and homes.

Ayah 61)

Sometimes people feel shy or worried about eating at their relatives’ homes, especially if they have
disabilities or if they think they might cause trouble. But Allah tells us there is no shame or harm in this.
Eating together or even eating alone at someone’s home is allowed and not wrong, as long as it doesn’t
upset anyone.

Allah encourages us to be kind and open with family and friends. Also, greeting each other with peace
(Salam) when entering a house helps spread love and blessings.

This teaches us that family ties, respect, and kindness are very important in Islam, and Allah makes
things easy for us to live happily and peacefully together.

Ayah 62)

Just like it’s polite to ask permission before entering, it’s also good manners to ask before leaving,
especially when you are with the Prophet ‫ ﷺ‬or in important gatherings like prayers or meetings. This
shows respect and care for others.

The Prophet ‫ ﷺ‬taught us to greet with peace (say Salam) when we come and also when we leave. This
reminds us that being polite and thoughtful in our actions, whether arriving or leaving, is part of being a
good believer.

Ayah 63)

We should always show respect and honor when we speak to or about the Prophet Muhammad ‫ﷺ‬.
Instead of using casual or ordinary names, we use respectful titles like "O Prophet of Allah" or "O
Messenger of Allah" to show how important and special he is.

Also, it is very important to follow the Prophet’s teachings and commands. His way is the right path, and
if we ignore or go against it, we risk getting lost or facing trouble in this life or the hereafter. The Prophet
‫ ﷺ‬is like a guide who tries to keep us safe from harm, but we must listen to him and not ignore his
advice.

Ayah 64)

Allah is fully aware of everything about us ; our actions, words, secrets, and what we do openly or
privately. Nothing escapes His knowledge, no matter how small or hidden. He is the Sovereign of the
heavens and the earth, the All-Hearing, All-Knowing. Every leaf that falls, every grain in the earth, and
every movement is recorded in a clear book that only He controls.

On the Day of Judgment, Allah will show each person all that they did in this life—good or bad, large or
small. No deed will be overlooked or forgotten. This knowledge should remind us to be mindful and
sincere in all our actions, trusting in Allah’s mercy but also fearing His justice.

We should take comfort that Allah truly understands our condition, including our struggles and
intentions, and seek His guidance and forgiveness.