Surah 46: Winding Sand-tracts - Overview

Introduction

This is the seventh and last Surah of the Ha Mim series. For the general theme and chronological place of these Surahs see the Introduction to S.40.

The Ahqaf (mentioned in verse 21) are the long and winding and crooked tracts of sandhills, characteristic of the country of the 'Ad people, adjoining Hadramawt and Yemen. These people had, at that time, probably a fertile irrigated country, but their sins brought on the calamity mentioned in 46:24-25. The lesson of this Surah is that if the Truth is challenged, the challenge will be duly answered, and Truth vindicated.

Summary

1- All Creation has a Purpose behind it: Truth and Revelation will be vindicated, and those who question it will be undone by the very means  by which they set such store: the righteous should wait in patience and constancy. (46:1-35)

Fine Gradations in the Kingdom [46:1-35] Creation is for just ends, and Falsehood is but straying from the Path; say what people may, Truth carries its own vindication: follow it firmly. Let age think of youth, and youth not turn rebellious. There are fine gradations in the kingdom of God; then strive for the best. Let not pride and arrogance undo you: the humble are often the best recipients of Truth. All will come right in good time; so persevere with patient firmness of purpose. Justice that seems to tarry comes really on swiftest foot but sure.