Exegesis of Quran Surahs

Surah Al-Quraysh (Surah 106)

Surah Al-Quraysh (Surah 106) – Explanation, Tafsir, Theme, and References

Arabic and Translation (Sahih International)

Surah Quraysh (106) – 4 Verses:

1. For the accustomed security of the Quraysh
2. Their accustomed security [in] the caravan of winter and summer
3. Let them worship the Lord of this House
4. Who has fed them, [saving them] from hunger and made them safe [saving them] from fear.

Tafsir Summary

1. Historical Context

This Surah was revealed in Mecca and addresses the tribe of Quraysh, the dominant tribe in Mecca, and caretakers of the Kaaba. It comes right after Surah Al-Fil (105), which narrates Allah’s protection of the Kaaba from the army of the elephant. Surah Quraysh follows to remind the Quraysh of Allah’s continuous blessings upon them.

2. Verse-by-Verse Tafsir

• Verse 1-2:
  Allah refers to the “iilaaf” (affiliation, safety, and trade advantage) granted to Quraysh. They had special privileges and respect in Arabia, allowing them to conduct two major trade journeys safely:
  • Winter to Yemen, and
  • Summer to Syria.
    These commercial routes were critical for their economy and status.
• Verse 3:
  Therefore, they should worship the Lord of the Kaaba, instead of idols. Allah connects their worldly benefits directly to His favor, urging gratitude through exclusive worship.
• Verse 4:
  Allah reminds them that He protected them from hunger (through trade) and fear (through sanctity of Mecca and political status).

Theme of the Surah

• Gratitude and Worship: The central message is to acknowledge Allah’s favors and respond with sincere worship.
• Divine Protection: It highlights how Allah ensures physical security and sustenance for those under His care.
• Moral Accountability of Privileged People: Quraysh, despite their privileges, are reminded of their duty to worship the One true God.

Key Lessons

1. Economic security is a blessing from Allah.
2. Divine favors come with moral responsibility.
3. Worship must be directed to Allah alone, not idols.
4. Privilege does not exempt one from spiritual obligations.

Reference from Classical Tafsir

• Tafsir Ibn Kathir:
  Emphasizes the sequence between Surah Al-Fil and Surah Quraysh. The Quraysh were protected from the army of the elephant, and hence, they should respond by worshiping Allah alone.
• Tafsir Al-Jalalayn:
  States that Allah’s gifts — peace and prosperity — should lead the Quraysh to recognize His Lordship.

Cross-reference from the Qur’an

• Surah Ibrahim (14:7):
  “If you are grateful, I will surely increase your favor…” — links to the gratitude theme.
• Surah An-Nahl (16:112):
  “And Allah presents an example: a city [Mecca] that was safe and secure…” — echoes the message of peace and provision.

Index of Quran Surah’s