English Translation and Commentary of the Holy Quran (2010)
by Maulana Muhammad Ali
Chapter 10: Yunus — Jonah (Revealed at Makkah: 11 sections, 109 verses)
Introduction:
This chapter makes a brief reference to the Prophet Jonah (v. 98), which gives it its title, to indicate that as the people of Jonah benefited by his warning, so would the Arabs ultimately believe in the Prophet Muhammad. While this chapter asserts the truth of revelation, it also lays stress on the merciful dealing of God with mankind. It tells us that He does not send punishment quickly and that evidence of His mercy is also found in nature. It also refers to the histories of Noah and Moses. This chapter was revealed during the last four years of the Makkan period of the Holy Prophet’s life.
List of Sections (Rukus):
- Truth of Revelation (Verses 10:1–10:10)
- Punishment of Rejection (Verses 10:11–10:20)
- Merciful Dealing (Verses 10:21–10:30)
- Uniqueness of Divine Gifts (Verses 10:31–10:40)
- The Guilty and their Punishment (Verses 10:41–10:53)
- Mercy takes Precedence over Punishment (Verses 10:54–10:60)
- Good News for the Faithful (Verses 10:61–10:70)
- Noah and Moses (Verses 10:71–10:82)
- End of Opposition to Moses (Verses 10:83–10:92)
- Those who Heed Warning will Benefit (Verses 10:93–10:103)
- Divine Judgment (Verses 10:104–10:109)