Surah Al-Mu'minun
Surah 23 · The Believers · 118 verses · meccan
The Believers — from the opening verse: "Successful indeed are the believers."
The story
This surah begins by telling us exactly what a successful person looks like: someone who prays properly, keeps their promises, does not waste time on silly talk, and gives to people in need.
How it unfolds
AYAH 1-11
Who has succeeded
Eleven verses defining a believer: prayer, purposeful speech, zakah, chastity, trusts, promises.
AYAH 12-22
How you were made
The stages of creation, then rain sent down in measure, and gardens of palms and grapes.
AYAH 23-92
The same objection, every time
Nuh, Musa, 'Isa — and leaders in every era saying "he is only a man like you."
AYAH 99-118
Not created aimlessly
The regret at death, the request to be sent back, and the surah's closing question.
Verses to carry
- 23:1"Successful indeed are the believers" — and then eleven verses telling you exactly what that means.
- 23:115"Did you think that We created you aimlessly?" The question the whole surah has been building toward.
- 23:14"So blessed is Allah, the best of creators" — praise breaking into the middle of an embryology.
Remember this
Allah did not make you for no reason. You are here on purpose.
Talk about it
The surah says successful people "turn away from empty talk". What is something you spend time on that you could swap for something better?