Introduction to the Surah Al-Baqarah

Surah Al-Baqarah is the second and largest Surah of the Quran, with a total number of 286 verses. First surah is Surah Fatiha. It was revealed in Medina, so it is included in the Madani Surah. Various fundamental provisions of Islam and various important aspects of human life are discussed in detail in it.

The name of the Surah is taken from the word “Baqarah”, which means “cow”. It is related to a special incident of the Children of Israel, where they were ordered to slaughter a cow, but they hesitated to obey it. This Surah is very important for Muslims, as it contains numerous teaching topics related to Tawheed (Monotheism), Risalat (Prophethood), Akhirat (Hereafter), Jurisprudence (Fiqh), and morality. By reading it, a Muslim can get clear guidance for leading his life

Main content of the Surah Al-Baqarah

Surah Al-Baqarah presents a comprehensive outline of the Islamic way of life. It provides various instructions for personal, family, social, economic, and political life. At the beginning, the call for monotheism is made and the identity and characteristics of the hypocrites are described. Then, the past stories of the Children of Israel are mentioned and they are asked to learn from their mistakes. The surah contains various provisions for Muslims, including prayer, fasting, Hajj, and Zakat. It prohibits interest and encourages fair trade. The last part of the surah teaches complete trust in Allah and surrender.

The story of Adam (AS) and Iblis

Surah Al-Baqarah presents the story of the Prophet Adam (AS) and Iblis, which explains an important aspect of the creation of mankind and the deception of Satan. Allah created the first man, Adam (AS) and informed the angels that He was sending a representative to the earth.

The angels were surprised and asked, “Are you creating someone who will cause chaos there?” Then Allah taught Adam various knowledge and proved to the angels how advanced humans can be in terms of knowledge. But Iblis (AS) was arrogant and refused to prostrate to Adam (AS), and as a result, he received the curse of Allah. This teaches us that arrogance is the cause of destruction and that obeying Allah’s commands is essential.

The description and teachings of the Children of Israel
Surah Al-Baqarah teaches the Children of Israel through various incidents how to be grateful for Allah’s blessings. This nation disobeyed many prophets and delayed accepting the truth despite seeing various miracles. Many benefits were bestowed upon them through Moses (AS), such as the parting of the Red Sea, feeding them manna and salwa in the desert, and giving them the Torah. But they repeatedly violated Allah’s commands. In particular, when they were asked to sacrifice a cow, they delayed carrying out the command by making various excuses. This teaches us that obeying Allah’s commands is the characteristic of a true believer.

Discussion of Tawheed, Risalat and Akhirat
Surah Al-Baqarah discusses the three main beliefs of human life—Tawheed (Monotheism), Risalat (Prophethood), and Akhirat (Hereafter). It clearly states that none has the right to be worshipped except Allah. Those who associate partners with Him will face extreme loss. The Surah repeatedly states the truth of the prophethood of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and also mentions the past prophets. In addition, the issue of punishment and reward in the Hereafter or the Hereafter is explained in detail. Those who do good deeds will go to Paradise, and those who disbelieve and sin will be punished in Hell.

Islamic Law and Regulations
Surah Al-Baqarah describes some of the most important regulations of the Islamic way of life. These include—prayer, fasting, Hajj, Zakat, trade and commerce, inheritance, marriage and divorce, prohibition of interest, and punishment for crimes. Prayer and fasting are obligatory for Muslims, and Hajj is considered one of the pillars of Islamic life. Interest is forbidden in business, as it creates economic exploitation. In addition, Islam has a fair inheritance law, which protects the rights of women.

The context of changing the Qiblah
Surah Al-Baqarah mentions the change of the Qiblah, which is an important event in the history of Islam. Initially, Muslims used to pray towards Baitul Muqaddas (Jerusalem). Later, at the command of Allah, the Qiblah was changed to the direction of the Kaaba. This was an important test for Muslims, as some people expressed doubts about it. But true believers accept Allah’s command without question.

Jihad and self-defense
Surah Al-Baqarah provides guidance on self-defense and righteous struggle (jihad). It states that Muslims should defend themselves if attacked, but they should not transgress. In Islam, war is never taken offensively, but is permitted as a means of self-defense. Those who fight in the way of Allah are promised that they will be rewarded in Paradise.

Ayatul Kursi (verse 255)
Ayatul Kursi is the most important and prestigious verse of Surah Al-Baqarah. It talks about the power, knowledge and sovereignty of Allah. This verse describes some of the attributes of Allah that are not mentioned in such detail in any other verse. By reciting it, one can be safe from the evil schemes of Satan.

Dua and Conclusion
The last two verses of the Surah (Baqarah 285-286) contain a special dua for Muslims, which, when read, can obtain Allah’s mercy. It says, “Our Allah! If we have made mistakes, then forgive us. “O Allah, do not burden us with anything extra.” These verses bring great assurance to people and teach them to depend on Allah.