Al-A’râf (Surah 7)

Introduction

This sûrah takes its name from the heights mentioned in verse 46. Like many other Meccan sûrahs, it recounts the stories of earlier prophets who were denied by their own people and how the deniers were eventually destroyed. As mentioned in the previous sûrah (6:10-11), these stories are meant to reassure the Prophet (ﷺ) and warn his people of Allah’s torment. The story of Satan’s arrogance and Adam’s temptation and fall are detailed, along with lessons for the believers to beware of Satan’s whispers. Details about Paradise and Hell (verses 36-53) here are unmatched by any previous sûrah. The powerlessness of idols is further emphasized. Full obedience to Allah and His prophets is stressed in this sûrah and the next. In the Name of Allah—the Most Compassionate, Most Merciful