English Translation and Commentary of the Holy Quran (2010)
by Maulana Muhammad Ali
Chapter 73: Al-Muzzammil — The One Covering Himself Up (Revealed at Makkah: 2 sections, 20 verses)
Introduction:
This chapter receives its title from the Holy Prophet’s description in the first verse as one who had covered himself up, which signifies one who has prepared himself for prayer. The previous chapter promises protection to the Holy Prophet and here he is told to seek that protection through prayer. The chapter begins by telling the Holy Prophet to pass the night in prayer, and it ends with a general command to all believers always to be mindful of prayer. In between, the Holy Prophet is told to bear patiently the ill-treatment by his enemies, who would soon receive their punishment as did Pharaoh when he wanted to destroy Moses. The revelation of this chapter belongs to the early period at Makkah. The reference to fighting in v. 20 does not make that verse a later revelation, as that reference is prophetical.
List of Sections (Rukus):
- The Prophet Enjoined to Pray (Verses 73:1–73:19)
- Prayer Enjoined on Muslims (Verse 73:20)