At-Takathur (ٱلتَّكَاثُر)

Surah At-Takathur, translated to "The Multiplication or The Eagerness for Increase," is the 102nd chapter of the Holy Quran. It was revealed during the Prophet's (ﷺ) residence in Mecca, which makes it a Makki Surah. This surah can be found in the last juz, i.e., 30th para (juz), and it comprises 8 verses. Surah At-Takathur is a simple yet powerful chapter of the Quran. The name of this surah is derived from the very first verse where the word 'Takathur' has been used which means 'Competition in Increase'. 

At-Takathur awakens readers and warns them of the lust to possess materialistic things. The desire to have it all overcomes the passion of following rules set by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى)‎. It is a conversation between the most giving Allah and people, where He reminds them of the grave consequences they'll face if they choose the worldly life over the Hereafter. It speaks to those people who are always in pursuit of materialistic things over fulfilling their spiritual obligations. Allah warns His people that material things matter only till a person reaches their grave. Once in the grave, nothing in the world can do the dead any favor except good deeds. Allah promises that those who indulge in the joys of this transient life will soon see the truth of it. This surah is a warning and conversation with such transgressors. 

Theme and Subject Matter of Surah At-Takathur (ٱلتَّكَاثُر)

Surah At-Takathur delivers a potent message about humanity's misguided priorities. It is a scorn on people who love to boast because of the wealthy status that they have in this life. The central theme revolves around the condemnation of the pursuit to collect wealth, material possessions, and status. This surah underscores the result of such activities and the negative impact it will have on the Day of Resurrection.

Worldly Gains & Possessions Are a Distraction 

In the first verse, two precise yet insightful words are used. The word 'Alha' is used, which means diverts and refers to any activity that diverts a person from the true goal. Any inconsequential hustle that makes people forget about their real reason for being on this earth is a distraction. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى)‎ sent humans down to worship Him and be obedient to Him. However, in the hunt for materialistic things, humans forget their purpose and instead become a part of a competitive race to accumulate more worldly possessions and gains than their peers. 

Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى)‎ warns such people in the 1st two verses, reminding them that their final place is the grave where they've to eventually go. No wealth or status will be able to protect from the turmoil and test of the grave. The Quranic verses in this chapter sharply contrast the temporary nature of worldly life with the eternal consequences of one's actions. It serves as a wake-up call to prioritize spiritual growth and preparation for the afterlife.

Human's Short-sightedness

Surah At-Takathur emphasizes the fact that humans are often blinded by their desire to gain more. They keep on collecting riches while neglecting their spiritual obligation. In this regard, the Prophet (ﷺ) has advised mankind. Mutarrif bin Abdullah bin Ash-Shikh-khir reported from his father that he went to the Prophet (ﷺ), and he was reciting: 'The mutual rivalry (for piling up worldly things) diverts you.' He said: "The son of Adam says: 'My wealth, my wealth.' And do you own anything except what you give in charity, such that you've spent it, or what you eat, such that you've finished it, or you wear, such that you've worn it out?"  (Jami` at-Tirmidhi 3354)

Imminent Accountability

The main focus of Surah At-Takathur is to make people realize the accountability of their actions. For every good deed, there is a paradise waiting for the doer. Similarly, for every sinner, hell is the final place of rest. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى)‎ communicates and warns the readers that the time of end is near. Every soul will take the burden of what it used to do. In verses 6 and 7, A Divine call is made to disbelievers, alarming them. "You will surely end up seeing Hell; again, you shall most certainly end up seeing it with absolute certainty." These verses serve as a stark reminder of accountability. 

In the last verse, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى)‎ gives a final call, saying, "Then, on that Day, you will be called to account for all the bounties you enjoyed." For this, Abu Hurairah said: "When this Ayah was revealed: 'Then on that Day, you shall be asked about the delights!' the people said: 'O Messenger of Allah (ﷺ)! About which delights shall we be asked? For they are only the two black things, while the enemy is present and our swords are (at the ready) upon our shoulders?" He said: 'But it is what shall come.'" (Jami` at-Tirmidhi 3357)

Virtues and Benefits of Surah At-Takathur (ٱلتَّكَاثُر)

Surah At-Takathur is a powerful surah with many benefits and virtues for readers. The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) used to recite this surah in salah (daily prayers), which shows its importance. Following sunnah, reciting it in salat is appreciated. As per tafsir narrated by many scholars, it is found that reciting this surah is equal to a thousand deeds. Reciting surah At-Takathur will open the gates of bounties and blessings from the Lord of this world and hereafter.