English Translation and Commentary of the Holy Quran (2010)
by Maulana Muhammad Ali
Chapter 13: Al-Rad — The Thunder (Revealed at Makkah: 6 sections, 43 verses)
Introduction:
This chapter is named Thunder from the analogy of rain which is often likened to revelation in the Quran. As rain is accompanied by thunder and lightening, so is revelation accompanied by warning of punishment, although its real purpose is mercy. The chapter points to signs in physical nature to the truth of revelation and deals with the demand from the disbelievers to see the sign of punishment befalling them. It then tells them about the Divine laws which govern reward and punishment, and explains that the real miracles were the spiritual life that the Quran awakened in people and the transformation it would bring in the world despite facing great mountains of obstacles. This chapter was revealed during the last four years of the period of the Holy Prophet’s life at Makkah.
List of Sections (Rukus):
- Truth of Revelation (Verses 13:1–13:7)
- Fall and Rise of Nations (Verses 13:8–13:18)
- Good and Evil Bring their Own Reward (Verses 13:19–13:26)
- Revolution to be Brought About by the Quran (Verses 13:27–13:31)
- Opposition will Fail (Verses 13:32–13:37)
- Steady Progress of Truth (Verses 13:38–13:43)