Introduction

Surah Muhammad, also known as Surah Al-Qital, is a Madani Surah with 38 verses. It carries profound themes of faith, struggle, divine justice, and the ultimate triumph of truth. The Surah is named after the mention of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ in its opening verse:

"And they believe in what has been sent down upon Muhammad..." (47:2)

The second title, "Surah Al-Qital" (The Battle), is derived from the verse:

"So when a Surah is revealed, firmly setting forth the command of fighting…" (47:20)

This chapter builds upon the themes of the preceding Surah, which concluded with a description of the disbelievers' fate. Ibn Kathir notes the strong continuity between the two, stating that if the Basmalah (Bismillah) were omitted, the two would read as a seamless text.

Themes and Key Objectives

1️⃣ The Fate of Believers and Disbelievers

• The Surah invalidates the actions of disbelievers due to their rejection of truth.
• Believers, on the other hand, have their sins forgiven and are rewarded for supporting the divine message.

2️⃣ Command for Defending the Truth

• The Surah provides detailed guidance on engaging in battle against disbelievers.

• Rewards for martyrs are vividly described:

  "So when you meet those who disbelieve, strike their necks..." (47:4)

3️⃣ Divine Promise of Victory

• Allah guarantees victory for those who uphold His cause:

  "O you who believe! If you support Allah, He will support you..." (47:7)

• The disbelievers, however, are doomed to failure and destruction due to their rejection of divine guidance.

4️⃣ Lessons from Past Nations

• The Surah warns the people of Makkah about their inevitable downfall if they persist in disbelief.

• Examples from past tyrannical nations are provided:

  "Have they not traveled through the land and seen the fate of those before them?" (47:10)