Introduction
The Qur'an is a book that deserves deep, comprehensive, and consistent study. This reality even extends to texts that are usually not present on our radars. The particular Soorah briefly examined is a text which most Muslims learn as children, because of its relatively small size, rhythm and message, a few lines that are often used in worship.
This composition is added to the study notes series, in which we are simply sharing an edited, revised version of my own notes, prepared for teaching purposes.
Saheeh International
(1) Woe to every scorner and mocker. (2) Who collects wealth and (continuously) counts it. (3) He thinks that his wealth will make him immortal. (4) No! He will surely be thrown into the Crusher. (5) And what can make you know what is the Crusher? (6) It is the fire of Allah, (eternally) fueled. (7) Which mounts directed at the hearts. (8) Indeed, Hellfire will be closed down upon them, (9) In extended columns.
Yusuf Ali
(1) Woe to every (kind of) scandal monger and backbiter. (2) Who pileth up wealth and layeth it by. (3) Thinking that his wealth will make him last forever! (4) By no means! He will be sure to be thrown into that which breaks to pieces. (5) And what will explain to thee that which breaks to pieces? (6) (It is) the fire of the wrath of Allah kindled (to a blaze) (7) That which doth mount (right) to the hearts. (8) It shall be made into a vault over them. (9) In columns outstretched.
Some vocabulary
"Humazah" which appears at the end of the first verse is the key expression and title of this Soorah, it is typically translated as "the backbiter", stems from the root hamaza, which carries the meaning of suggestions, whispers, goading, and is even used for insanity!
"Lumazah" is from the root lumz, which refers to negative speech, can be translated as "defamer". Saheeh international has rendered it "mocker" as noted above. It is the last term of the first verse.
"Hutamah". Although translated above (in verse 4), a literal translation is actually unneeded here, as it becomes defined in verse 6 as "God's kindled fire".
Overview
Even though it is said to refer to the Makkan opponents of the Prophet Muhammad (Sall Allahu 'alayhi wa sallam), who would approach visitors coming for pilgrimage and trade with false reports, with the intention of dissuading those visitors from listening to him (i.e. the Prophet), the content of this text has implications and lessons far beyond that.
Verses 2 and 3 inform us in a subtle way that those who engage in this behavior against the Prophet were powerful folks. They had "money to burn" and, as shown repeatedly in the Quranic and historical references, incredibly selfish, greedy and blind-hearted.
Slander, backbiting and the like seem to be the pastime of the wealthy, of those who have the power to disseminate their false news. They do so not simply for the sake of "gossip", but for an agenda.
In a context of a war for the minds, it becomes important here, as the observer, to find out the truth by whatever means are available, especially in those areas with religious implications. Misconceptions as well as outright false attributions are easily spread in today's world. Thus, look at both sides of an argument before deciding who is correct. Become educated in the complexities of the important subjects, personalities and ideas.
Those who engage in what can be described as phycological warfare and disinformation are described as those who are punished with "God's kindled fire" (Naarullaahil Muuqadah) in verses 4-6.
These are folks with narcissistic tendencies, corrupted emotional output/feelings, corrupted beyond repair. We find this not only in verse 7-9, but in the Quranic description of the rejectors as found in places such as Soorah Al-Baqarah. (EN1)
This can also be said to not only refer to opponents of religious truth, but to those who like to keep drama going. Thus, it is important to avoid these things as much as possible.(EN2) and (EN3)
Endnotes
(1) For more on this, see Foundations for proper thinking
(2) Muslims have historically struggled with issues of this kind, and in particular with similar subject matter as given in Soorah Al Hujuraat. There is agreement among scholars that "backbiting" is legitimate when done against the voices of religious misguidance, however the term itself, I think, is not appropriate for that context, as "backbiting" often involves slander and false information. I see no problem with critiquing views, so long as the views under attack are actually being presented correctly. Often misconceptions lead to misrepresentations, themselves leading to miscarriages of justice. In addition, "personal" attacks are beyond the pale, unless there has been legitimate harm involved, in which case it becomes an issue of public safety and benefit. Qur'an 4:148 provides some clarity on this. Today's discourse involves practices such as "doxing" and even stalking ideological foes, scrutiny of their family members, attempts to interfere with their income, etc.! Such behavior is toxic.
(3) Our Mosque has Quran study sessions Sundays at 1:00 PM (PST). Most of our sessions are broadcast live, all are welcome to participate. Simply "follow" our Facebook page for notifications of livestream. The Masjid Ibrahim | Facebook
