A Significant Message to Mankind: Reflection on Surah Al-Qalam

Mohd Siddiqur Rahman

Mohd Siddiqur Rahman 

The Holy Qur'an is not merely a religious scripture; it is a complete code of life that provides moral, spiritual, and practical guidance for humanity. Every chapter carries timeless lessons that remain relevant in every age. Among these is Surah Al-Qalam (The Pen), also known as Surah Noon, the 68th chapter of the Holy Qur'an, consisting of 52 verses. 

This remarkable surah offers profound guidance on truth, character, justice, humility, gratitude, and social responsibility. The surah opens with a majestic divine oath: «"Nun. By the Pen and what they write." (68:1)» The mention of the Pen symbolizes the importance of knowledge, learning, wisdom, and the preservation of truth. It reminds mankind that civilization advances through knowledge and that every deed, word, and action is ultimately recorded before Almighty Allah. In verse 2, Allah declares: «"By the grace of your Lord, you are not mad." (Naujubillah). 68:2 

During the early years of Islam in Makkah, the pagan Quraysh launched a campaign of slander against Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). They falsely accused him of being a poet, a sorcerer, or even a madman (God forbid). Through this revelation, Allah Himself rejected these malicious allegations and defended the honour of His beloved Messenger. The Qur'an further proclaims: «"Indeed, you are truly of an exalted standard of character." (68:4)» This verse stands as one of the greatest tributes ever paid to the noble character of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). His honesty, patience, compassion, mercy, humility, forgiveness, and unwavering commitment to justice became the foundation upon which the Islamic civilization was built. 

It also reminds every believer that true greatness lies not in wealth or power but in noble character. One of the most powerful lessons of Surah Al-Qalam is the Parable of the Owners of the Garden (verses 17–33). Allah says: "Indeed, We have tried them as We tried the owners of the garden, when they swore they would surely harvest its fruit in the morning, without saying, 'If Allah wills.'" (68:17–18)» The story relates how several brothers inherited a flourishing garden from their righteous father, who had always shared part of its harvest with the poor and the needy. After his death, the sons became greedy and decided to gather all the fruits secretly, denying the poor their rightful share. Confident in their own plans and forgetting to say "If Allah wills," they relied entirely upon themselves. 

Before dawn, however, Allah's decree came upon the garden, and by morning it had become completely devastated. When the brothers arrived, they were shocked to find their once-beautiful orchard destroyed. Only then did they realize their arrogance, ingratitude, and injustice. They repented sincerely, acknowledging that all blessings belong to Allah alone. This parable conveys an eternal message. Whatever a person earns—whether through farming, business, industry, professional service, or any lawful occupation—is ultimately a blessing granted by Almighty Allah. 

Human effort is necessary, but success is impossible without His mercy and permission. When people acknowledge their blessings as gifts from Allah, remain humble, express gratitude, and generously assist the poor and the less fortunate, Allah places barakah (divine blessings) in their wealth. Conversely, when individuals become arrogant, attribute success solely to their own abilities, ignore the rights of others, and become consumed by greed, their wealth may lose its true value and blessing. 

Sometimes the consequences become evident in this worldly life; ultimately, every person will face complete accountability in the Hereafter. Surah Al-Qalam also teaches patience in the face of hostility, steadfastness upon truth, and complete trust in Allah. These lessons were vital for the early Muslim community enduring persecution in Makkah, and they remain equally relevant today in a world often troubled by dishonesty, injustice, materialism, and moral decline. As Muslims, we should strive not only to recite the Qur'an but also to understand its message, reflect upon its wisdom, and implement its teachings in our daily lives. Every surah contains guidance capable of transforming individuals, families, and societies. 

If we sincerely follow the commandments of Almighty Allah, we can attain peace, justice, and prosperity in this world, while preparing ourselves for eternal success in the Hereafter. Surah Al-Qalam is therefore not merely a historical account; it is a timeless message to all mankind. It calls upon us to cultivate knowledge, uphold truth, develop noble character, remain grateful for Allah's countless blessings, fulfil the rights of others, and place our complete trust in the Creator. These enduring values are the foundation of both a successful earthly life and everlasting salvation in the life to come.

(Writer Mohd Siddiqur Rahman is an Ex-Country Manager of Biman Bangladesh Airlines in Germany.)