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Surah Fatir

Surah 35 · Originator · 45 verses · meccan

The Originator — Fatir, the One who brings into being from nothing. Also called al-Mala'ikah, "the Angels", from the first verse.

The story

This surah says that we need Allah for everything, but Allah does not need anything from us at all. It also points out that mountains come in different colours, and people come in different kinds — and that is on purpose.

How it unfolds

  1. AYAH 1-8

    The Originator

    Angels with wings, mercy no one can withhold, and the open enmity of Shaytan declared.

  2. AYAH 15-26

    Who needs whom

    Humanity in need, Allah free of need — and no bearer of burdens carrying another's load.

  3. AYAH 27-35

    Knowledge and awe

    Mountains streaked in different colours, people and animals of different kinds — and the scholars who fear Him.

  4. AYAH 32-38

    Inheriting the Book

    Three kinds of inheritors: the one who wrongs himself, the moderate, and the one who races ahead in good.

Verses to carry

  • 35:15"O mankind, you are in need of Allah, while Allah is the Free of need, the Praiseworthy."
  • 35:28"Only those of His servants who have knowledge fear Allah."
  • 35:5"So let not the worldly life delude you, and let not the Deceiver deceive you about Allah."

Remember this

The more you learn about Allah, the more amazed you become. That is what real awe feels like.

Talk about it

Allah made mountains with white, red, and black streaks in them. What is the most colourful thing you have ever seen outside?

Introductions to the surah in Tafsir Ibn Kathir and Mawdudi's Tafhim al-Qur'an; ayah numbering per the Madani mushaf.

Awaiting scholar review — please read alongside a trusted tafsir.

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