English Translation and Commentary of the Holy Quran (2010)
by Maulana Muhammad Ali
Chapter 43: Az-Zukhruf — Gold (Revealed at Makkah: 7 sections, 89 verses)
Introduction:
This chapter is named Gold from its mention in v. 35, where it is stated that it is not gold and silver and the like but righteous deeds that are acceptable to God. Chapters 40 to 46 form one group; see the introductory note to chapter 40. The chapter opens by declaring that the revelation of the Quran has come as a favour from the Merciful God, despite people’s wrongdoing. Then, after condemning polytheism, it answers the objection as to why an influential or wealthy man was not chosen as God’s messenger instead of the Prophet Muhammad. It goes on to state that those who deny the revelation will, in the end, regret their deeds, and even the powerful Pharaoh was destroyed when he refused to listen to Moses. Then the objection of the idolaters is answered as to why Muslims accept Jesus when he is also taken as god by his followers. Lastly, the chapter contrasts the fate of the believers and the disbelievers.
List of Sections (Rukus):
- Revelation is a Divine Favour (Verses 43:1–43:15)
- Polytheism Condemned (Verses 43:16–43:25)
- Allah’s Choice of a Prophet (Verses 43:26–43:35)
- Opposition to Truth is Punished (Verses 43:36–43:45)
- Pharaoh’s Opposition to Moses (Verses 43:46–43:56)
- Jesus as Prophet (Verses 43:57–43:67)
- The Two Parties (Verses 43:68–43:89)