Surah Al-Mujadila (Chapter 58) of the Quran is also known as “She Who Disputes” or “The Pleading Woman”. It primarily addresses the practice of zihar, a pre-Islamic method of divorce, and the related issues of hypocrisy and secret consultations. The surah also emphasizes the importance of charity before consulting the Prophet Muhammad and warns against befriending those who are opposed to Allah.
Key aspects of Surah Al-Mujadila:
- Zihar:The surah begins with the story of a woman named Khawlah bint Tha’labah who was subjected to zihar by her husband. Zihar, where a husband declares his wife as “like his mother’s back,” was a pre-Islamic practice that effectively rendered the wife as not his wife, according to Wikipedia. This surah outlawed this practice and provided a legal framework for resolving such situations.
- Hypocrisy and Secret Consultations:Verses 7-10 address the hypocrites who engage in secret consultations to plot against the Prophet Muhammad. The surah warns against such behavior and emphasizes the importance of open communication and true faith.
- Charity before Consultation:The surah instructs Muslims to offer charity before consulting the Prophet Muhammad in private, highlighting the importance of sincere intentions and devotion.
- Divine Hearing and Seeing:The surah emphasizes Allah’s omniscience and the fact that He hears and sees all things, including secret consultations and deeds.
- Warning against Befriending the Opposed:The surah cautions against befriending those who are opposed to Allah and His Messenger, emphasizing the importance of choosing true friends and allies.
In essence, Surah Al-Mujadila tackles complex issues of marital rights, hypocrisy, and true faith, while also providing guidance on social behavior and legal matters, according to Islamicstudies.info.
The Holy Quran – TheQuran.org