Al-An’âm (Surah 6)

Introduction

Like the previous sûrah, this Meccan sûrah masterfully demonstrates Allah’s power and knowledge, and thoroughly refutes pagan beliefs and unfounded practices, including animal offerings to the idols. Permissible and prohibited foods are explained in more detail than in the previous sûrah. The nature of prophethood is defined, making it clear that messengers cannot do anything without the Will of Allah. This sûrah begins by highlighting Allah’s authority, just like the ending of the previous sûrah, and concludes by emphasizing accountability for one’s deeds, just like the beginning of the next sûrah. In the Name of Allah—the Most Compassionate, Most Merciful