Summary of Quran Chapter 87 Surah At-A’la The Most High

Introductory Words: 

Surah Al-A'la (The Most High) and Surah Al-Ghashiyah (The Overwhelming) form a pair. The Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) often recited Surah Al-A'la in the first rak'ah and Surah Al-Ghashiyah in the second rak'ah during the prayers of Jumu'ah (Friday) and Eid. The reason behind this selection seems to be the special emphasis on tazkir (reminder) in these two Surahs (Surah Al-A'la, Ayah 9, and Surah Al-Ghashiyah, Ayah 21). Similarly, the prayers of Jumu'ah and Eid also prominently highlight the aspect of tazkir. The sermons delivered on these occasions are specially arranged to provide reminders. 

Summary of Surah Al-A'la (The Most High) - Chapter 87 

Surah Al-A'la is a Makki surah consisting of 19 verses. It emphasizes the greatness of Allah, His divine attributes, and the guidance He provides to humanity. 

Praise for Allah (Verses 1-5): 

The Surah begins with a command to glorify Allah, "the Most High," who has created and perfectly proportioned all things. It highlights Allah’s power in creation, His ability to bring forth vegetation, and His wisdom in balancing the natural order. 

Revelation and Guidance (Verses 6-8): 

Allah reassures the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) that the Qur'an will be preserved in his memory, and he will not forget it except what Allah wills. This section highlights the importance of divine guidance and the mercy inherent in Allah's commands. 

Human Accountability (Verses 9-13): 

The Surah calls on people to accept the reminders and guidance of the Qur'an, emphasizing that only those with fear of Allah and a heart inclined toward Him will benefit from it. Conversely, those who reject the message are warned of a severe punishment in the Hereafter. 

The Hereafter and Divine Justice (Verses 14-17): 

Success is promised to those who purify themselves, remember Allah, and prioritize the Hereafter over the transient pleasures of this world. The Surah contrasts the eternal nature of the Hereafter with the fleeting nature of worldly life. 

Conclusion (Verses 18-19): 

The Surah ends by affirming that the message of the Qur'an aligns with the teachings of previous scriptures, such as the scrolls of Abraham and Moses. It emphasizes the continuity of Allah's guidance throughout history. 

• Key Themes: 
• Glorification of Allah’s attributes: His perfection in creation and management of the universe. 
• Reminder and guidance: The importance of divine reminders for human success. 
• Accountability and the Hereafter: A stark contrast between those who seek purification and those who neglect the truth. 
• Continuity of revelation: The Qur'an is part of a divine message consistent with earlier scriptures. 

Surah Al-A'la calls believers to reflect on Allah's greatness, prioritize their eternal salvation, and align their lives with His guidance for ultimate success.