Surah 36: Ya Sin - Overview

Introduction

See Introduction to Surah 34. This particular Surah is devoted to the Holy Prophet and the Revelation which he brought. The Abbreviated Letters Ya Sin are usually construed as a title of the Holy Prophet. But it is not permissible to be dogmatic about the meaning of Abbreviated Letters. This Surah is considered to be "the heart of the Qur'an", as it concerns the central figure in the teaching of Islam and the central doctrine of Revelation and the Hereafter. As referring to the Hereafter, it is appropriately read in solemn ceremonies after death.

In chronology it belongs to the middle or early Makkan period.

Summary

1- The Qur'an is full of wisdom, and those are unfortunate who cannot profit by it; Parable of the City that defied -- all but one -- the Messengers of Grace and Mercy (36:1-32)

Righteous Men [36:1-32] The wisdom of Revelation--the Qur'an received through the Holy Prophet--is a guide to the Straight Path, and a warning against the terrible state in which the yokes of Sin enslave us. The righteous receive it with joy, for they believe in the Hereafter. Behold, there was once a City, to which came two righteous men with the Gospel of Truth, but they were rejected and persecuted: they were joined by a third. But the City refused to believe or to turn from iniquity. Only one man was found in its outskirts, to bear witness to Truth, Faith, and Righteousness, and he did suffer martyrdom. He attained Peace, but mourned for his people, in that they shut the gates of Salvation and God's Mercy on themselves. Alas for man's short-sighted folly in defying the Grace that would shield and deliver him!

2- Various Signs of God in nature and Revelation (36:33-50)

Signs Bearing Witness [36:33-50] Are there not Signs enough around you to bear witness to God, and His saving Grace? The earth dies and revives; there are mysteries of Life and Sex, of Light and the Stars and Planets to heaven, that follow their orbits by Law and in harmony! There are the ships and the modes of transport by which man can conquer the forces around him with God-given Gifts! Learn the Law of Goodness from them and believe in the Hereafter; it will come when least expected. Be prepared for God!

3- The Resurrection and the Hereafter (36:51-83)

Judgment Seat [36:51-83] When the Day comes, men will be taken aback. The Judgment Seat will be established. Blessed will be those who attain Salvation: their Joy, Satisfaction, and Peace will be crowned with nearness to their Lord! Alas for the Sinful, who deliberately followed Evil: their own nature and actions will speak against them: they will face the realities of Punishment! Both Revelation and Nature are eloquent in instructing man for his own good in the Hereafter, which will come as a certainty. Praise and glory to God!