Surah 41: Expounded, Ha Mim - Overview

Introduction

This is the second of the series of seven Surahs bearing the Abbreviated Letters Ha Mim, as explained in the Introduction to S.40. To prevent confusion with other Surahs of the Ha Mim series, the word Sajdah is sometimes added to the title, making it Ha Mim al Sajdah, the double title being necessary as there is another Surah called Al Sajdah (S.32). To avoid the double title, it is sometimes called Fussilat, from the occurrence of the word in verse 3.

The meaning of Ha Mim has been explained in the Introduction to S.40, where will also be found a note on the chronology and general theme of the seven Ha Mim Surahs. 

For this particular Surah the theme is that the basis of Faith and Revelation is God's Power and Goodness, and the fruit of both is man's righteousness and healing.

Summary

1- What is Revelation and Faith, and what is man's attitude to both, and what are its consequences? (41:1-32)

Lord of the Worlds [41:1-32] Revelation explains, and makes things clear; it gives the message of hope and mercy, and it warns men against the snares of Evil. Deny not God, the Lord of the Worlds, Whose glory and power are shown in Creation, and His Mercy in Revelation. Learn from the fate of the Peoples of old! Learn from the warnings of your own nature: your very limbs and faculties, if misused, bear witness against you. Repent ere it be too late. 

2- The fruits of Faith and Unfaith, Truth and Falsehood. (41:33-54)

A Guide and a Healing [41:33-54] The best of men is the man of Faith, who calls all men to share his Faith, whose life is pure, and whose law of life is the Will of God. Eschew all evil, and adore God, and Him alone. His Signs are everywhere, and His Message is the same through all the ages, a guide and a healing to those who believe. Dispute not, but live righteousness. Knowledge belongs to God, but Falsehood deprives man of hope, humility, and clear sight, and drives him to hypocrisy. So turn to Truth, and live.