English Translation and Commentary of the Holy Quran (2010)
by Maulana Muhammad Ali
Chapter 57: Al-Hadid — Iron (Revealed at Madinah: 4 sections, 29 verses)
Introduction:
In reference to the punishment of the opponents who were bent on extirpating Islam with the sword, this chapter is entitled Iron, from the word occurring in v. 25. It opens with a prophecy of the future conquests of Islam, for which Muslims will have to make sacrifices. Then it speaks of the hypocrites and prophesies that, due to the passage of a long time, the hearts of the believers will harden but again they will receive spiritual life after that. It goes on to say that worldly enjoyments are temporary and one should strive for permanent good. The chapter ends with a promise of two kinds of Divine grace which were in store for the believers. Chapters 57–66 constitute the last group of chapters in the Quranic arrangement that were revealed at Madinah. Chapters 57–60, 65 and 66 were revealed in the period 4 A.H. to 7 A.H.
List of Sections (Rukus):
- Establishment of the Kingdom of God (Verses 57:1–57:10)
- Light and Life Given by the Prophet (Verses 57:11–57:19)
- Truth shall be Established (Verses 57:20–57:25)
- Double Reward for Believers (Verses 57:26–57:29)