Introduction

This Meccan sûrah takes its name from the place mentioned in 80- 84, where the people of Ṣâliḥ once lived. Other destroyed peoples are mentioned as a warning to the Arab deniers, who are also warned at the beginning of the next sûrah. Satan's arrogance towards Allāh and enmity towards humanity are emphasized. The Prophet ﷺ is urged to exercise patience and seek comfort in worship.

Details from Tafheem-ul-Qurʾān

Name

This Surah takes its name from v. 80.

Period of Revelation

It is clear from its topics and style that the period of its revelation is about the same as that of Surah Ibrahim, for two things are quite prominent in its background. First, it appears from the repeated warnings in this Surah that in spite of the fact that the Holy Prophet had been propagating the Message for many years, his people in general had not shown any inclination towards its acceptance; nay, they had become more and more obdurate and stubborn in their antagonism, enmity and ridicule with the passage of time. Secondly, by that time the Holy Prophet had begun to feel a little tired of making strenuous efforts to eradicate disbelief and opposition of his people. That is why Allāh has consoled and comforted him over and over again by way of encouragement.

Topics and the Central Theme

Though the main topics of the surah are: it does not mean that this Surah does not contain admonition and instructions. As a matter of fact, the Qurʾān never confines itself to mere warning; rebuke and censure, but resorts to precept in every suitable place. Accordingly, this Surah contains brief arguments for Tauhid on the one hand, and admonition in the story of Adam and Satan on the other.