English Translation and Commentary of the Holy Quran (2010)
by Maulana Muhammad Ali
Chapter 21: Al-Anbiya — The Prophets (Revealed at Makkah: 7 sections, 112 verses)
Introduction:
This chapter deals with the deliverance of the prophets, hence its title, and the ultimate triumph of their cause. It tells us that judgment on the opponents is approaching and the truth must triumph now as always. Then it draws attention to the truth of revelation, after which it speaks of God’s merciful dealing with people as this is how the Holy Prophet’s opponents would be dealt with. Next, examples of a number of prophets are cited who were delivered from their enemies. At the end we are told that the righteous will be made to inherit the land. This chapter was revealed in the early period at Makkah, about or before the fifth year of the Holy Prophet’s mission.
List of Sections (Rukus):
- Judgment Approaches (Verses 21:1–21:10)
- Truth has Always Triumphed (Verses 21:11–21:29)
- Truth of Revelation (Verses 21:30–21:41)
- Allah Deals with People Mercifully (Verses 21:42–21:50)
- Abraham is Delivered (Verses 21:51–21:75)
- Allah Always Delivers Prophets (Verses 21:76–21:93)
- The Righteous will Inherit the Land (Verses 21:94–21:112)