English Translation and Commentary of the Holy Quran (2010)
by Maulana Muhammad Ali
Chapter 29: Al-Ankabut — The Spider (Revealed at Makkah: 7 sections, 69 verses)
Introduction:
This chapter is entitled The Spider as v. 41 compares false beliefs with a spider’s web, which shall be swept away by the current of truth. It begins by stating that believers must undergo trials and persecutions, even by their parents, before truth can triumph. These sufferings purify them. Then it relates histories of prophets who underwent suffering. It goes on to refer to the purifying effect of the Quran on the believers. Finally, it warns the opponents of their fate and comforts the believers by stating that their sufferings will change to a state of happiness and their exertions and striving in the cause of truth will be fruitful. Chapters 29 to 32 form one group revealed near the close of the early period at Makkah.
List of Sections (Rukus):
- Trials Purify (Verses 29:1–29:13)
- Noah and Abraham (Verses 29:14–29:22)
- Abraham and Lot (Verses 29:23–29:30)
- Opposition to Truth ever a Failure (Verses 29:31–29:44)
- The Quran is a Purifier (Verses 29:45–29:51)
- Warning and Consolation (Verses 29:52–29:63)
- Triumph of the Faithful (Verses 29:64–29:69)