Surah Al-Insan
Surah 76 · The Man · 31 verses · medinan
Man — al-Insan, from the opening question about a time when a human being was not a thing worth mentioning. Also called ad-Dahr, "Time".
The story
This surah describes people who give away food they really wanted to eat themselves — to a hungry person, an orphan, and even a prisoner. And they do it quietly, without wanting a thank you.
How it unfolds
AYAH 1-3
Not worth mentioning
Human origin, hearing and sight given, and the path shown — grateful or ungrateful.
AYAH 5-12
They give despite loving it
Food given to the needy, the orphan, and the captive, with no reward wanted.
AYAH 13-22
Reclining in shade
The reward described in detail — silk, springs, and servers like scattered pearls.
AYAH 23-31
Be patient
Remembrance morning and evening, prostration at night, and patience with what people say.
Verses to carry
- 76:8"They give food, despite loving it, to the needy, the orphan and the captive."
- 76:9"We feed you only for the countenance of Allah. We wish not from you reward or gratitude."
- 76:3"We showed him the way — either grateful or ungrateful."
Remember this
The best giving is giving something you actually wanted, without telling anyone.
Talk about it
Could you give away something you like, without telling anyone you did it?