Surah At-Teen (التِّينِ) is the 95th chapter of the Quran, which is named after "the fig," a term that is referenced in its opening verse:' By the fig and the olive.' This surah belongs to the 30th part (Juz) of the Quran and includes 8 verses (ayah) that are grouped into one Ruku (section). It comes after Surah Al-Inshirah and is succeeded by Surah Al-Alaq. It is a Makki Surah, therefore, was revealed in the first stages of the Prophet's (ﷺ) life in Mecca. In comparison to other Surahs, little information is known about the historical context of Surah At-Teen. It mainly discusses human dignity, repercussions of deeds, rewards for those on the right path, and accountability for one's actions. Due to the content of the ayah, which is oaths and divine creation, it could have been sent down at any time when the Prophet (ﷺ) was facing opposition from the mushrikeen of Mecca and his efforts to deliver Allah's (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى) message, authority, and wisdom were being met with antagonism.
٩٥ - ٱلتِّين
95 - At-Teen
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Surah At-Teen offers a deeper understanding of human nature, morality, and divine judgment, encapsulating essential principles and values in Islam. Here are the key themes:
The subject of the surah is invoked through the swearing on the fig tree, the olive tree, mount Sinai, and what is termed as the best creation of Allah, which is humankind. These oaths bring the proclamation of the making of mankind in the best of form (95:4) and the importance of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى) and creation and the role of mankind in the creation of the cosmos.
The surah warns of the consequences of moral failure, indicating that those who deviate from the path of righteousness can be reduced to the lowest of the low (95:5) and also compares the path of those who seek to repent and turn to righteousness with the path of sinners who are destined to perish.
The surah also highlights the idea of predestination, informing people have the freedom to choose between what is right and wrong. This has a sheer implication that people are cost-bearers of the choices and decisions they make.
The surah concludes with a sombre note by invoking Allah's (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى) retribution upon mankind (95:7). It is a reminder that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى) is the best of the judges, and all things are in His custody. This can simply be a reminder that when one feels like doing something, he/she should really take a second thought because, in the end, accountability will be done before Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى).
Surah At-Teen has a certain impact that brings about a change in one's conception and approach to life. The surah also deals with the creation of Adam and divine guidance so that the believers can ponder over what has been bestowed upon them. The creation and wisdom of a message entails the right attitude of honor and admiration for Allah's creation and urges its followers to respect the worth that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى) has put in man. In this way, people are not consumed in immoral behaviors and should turn to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى) for assistance in every aspect of their lives.
Surah At-Teen encourages the believers to be accountable and responsible as this surah moves on to give more examples of sin to the people. It assists the believers in thinking over their actions and may probably alter their conduct in accordance with the will of Allah. Most of the verses in the surah are related to the supreme sovereignty of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى) and the concept of the ultimate justice of Allah. This brings comfort to the believers in understanding that they will be compensated for their hard work and efforts that they take to practice right conduct and ensure that everyone is given their deserved punishment as the final judgment will be in the hand of the best judge.
It can also create a feeling of responsibility, as noted in Surah At-Teen, and instructs those who believe to follow Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى) in all aspects of their lives. It also encourages active steps towards creating a proper way of life according to Islamic principles and being an active contributor to society.