Surah Maun
Surah Maun is the 107th Surah of the Holy Qur'an. It is a short Surah with a total of seven verses, but it contains huge meanings. Although it is a short Surah, there is much to say about this Surah's theme of true faith, social justice, and sincere worship. The word Maun means "little kindness" or "acts of charity". Allah (SWT) is Ar-Rehman and Ar-Raheem, the Most Beneficial and Most Merciful. This means that Islam is not only about praying to Allah (SWT) but also being kind and helpful to others.
Surah Maun's Major Thematic Concepts
Warning Against Hypocrisy
The Surah Maun starts with an account of one who rejects the Day of Resurrection. Such a person has no fear of being called to account for his deeds; for this very reason, he ill-treats orphans and does not care for the feeding of the poor; his life is one of hypocrisy, putting on an appearance of faith on the outside, but with no compassion on the inside.
Neglecting Salah
Such are those whom Surah Maun censures: they perform prayer for the sake of people and have nothing to do with faith anymore. Those prayers lack any pure intention; instead, they do it for show and applause.
Ignoring Small Kind Acts
In the last verse, Allah (SWT) disapproves of those who don't forgive people for their small acts. Allah (SWT) is Al-Ghafoor, The Most appreciative one. In Islam, every little help or assistance is a big thing and must be appreciated.
Lessons from Surah Maun in our Daily Lives
This Surah Maun reminds believing Muslims to:
- Care for orphans and the needy.
- Perform Salah (prayer) in a ready heart and full sincerity.
- Avoid pretending to do good deeds.
- Help other people, even if it may seem small.
Islam relays the idea that we can display to Allah the Almighty our faith system through our doing rather than just our words. Our concern for the people around us is important to please Allah the Almighty.