Summary of Quran Chapter 47, Surah Mohammad, Surat Al-Qital, The Fighting

Summary of Quran Chapter 47, Surah Mohammad, Surat Al-Qital, The Fighting 

This Surah was revealed during the early years of the Islamic life of Madinah and, according to the majority of scholars, after the Battle of Badr. It was a time when the disbelievers of Arabia were making various attempts to undermine the rising Islamic government in Al-Madinah, and they were preparing to launch attacks against it. 

This Surah (Quran chapter) is called Surah Al-Muhammad because it mentions the blessed name of the Messenger of Allah, Muhammad (peace be upon him), in the second verse. It is also known as Surah Al-Qital (the chapter of fighting) because it contains instructions regarding jihad (struggle) and combat. 

Therefore, this Surah primarily outlines the laws related to jihad and warfare. It also highlights the virtues of those who strive for the cause of Allah and raise the word of Allah high. In Al-Madinah, there were a considerable number of hypocrites who professed Islam with their tongues but were disbelievers at heart. 

When discussions about jihad and warfare took place in front of these hypocrites, they would seek excuses to avoid fighting, driven by their cowardice and deceitful intentions. This Surah condemns their behavior and warns them of the consequences. The Surah also includes instructions regarding the treatment of prisoners of war during times of conflict. 

The Surah is a reminder that the struggle for the cause of Allah requires sincerity and determination. It was revealed during a critical period in Islamic history when the nascent Muslim community faced external threats and internal challenges, and it provides guidance on how to navigate these challenges with faith and integrity. 

Because in the second verse of this Surah, the blessed name of the Messenger of Allah, Muhammad (peace be upon him), is mentioned, it is called Surah Al-Muhamamd (PBUH). Additionally, since it contains instructions regarding jihad and combat, it is also referred to as Surah Al-Qital (سورۂ قتال), which means "the chapter of fighting.