Al-’Ankabût (Surah 29)

Introduction

This Meccan sûrah takes its name from the parable of the spider in verse 41. The beginning of the sûrah emphasizes the role of trials and tribulations in revealing those who are truly steadfast and those who are not. Noah, Abraham, Lot, and Shu’aib are noted for their perseverance. References are made to various peoples and the different ways they were destroyed for their denial of the truth (verse 40). The pagan arguments against the Prophet and the Quran are thoroughly refuted. The sûrah concludes by commending those who put their trust in Allah and strive in His cause. This conclusion paves the way for the opening of the next sûrah. In the Name of Allah—the Most Compassionate, Most Merciful