'The Most High': A Tafsīr of Sūrat al-Aʿlā Part 5 of 5
Delivered by Shaykh Riyadh ul Haq on Friday 29th October 2021 at Al Kawthar Academy, Leicester
Video: https://youtu.be/9H9huDnFpKQ
The talk provides a detailed tafsir of the final verses of Surat al-A'la, focusing on the true meaning of success as defined by Allāh. The talk explains that success in Islam is not measured by wealth, status, or worldly achievements but by self-purification, remembrance of Allāh, and devotion to prayer. The verse “Indeed, he has succeeded who purifies himself” is analysed deeply, highlighting that purification extends beyond physical cleanliness to include spiritual, moral, and emotional purification. The discussion references Surat Ash-Shams, where Allāh swears by creation to emphasize the importance of nurturing the soul. The talk also warns about the deception of wealth and material possessions, reinforcing that true ownership is only what a person consumes, wears out, or gives in charity, as mentioned in a ḥadīth of the Prophet ﷺ.
The lecture further explores how wealth, children, and worldly pursuits are mere tests (fitna), and preferring this life over the Hereafter is a common but grave mistake. The Quran reminds believers that while people chase temporary success, "The Hereafter is better and everlasting." The talk shares the reflection of Abdullah ibn Mas'ud, who admitted that even the Sahaba struggled with prioritizing the Hereafter.
The talk concludes by emphasizing that true success lies in faith, charity, remembrance of Allāh, and devotion in prayer, as echoed in various Quranic verses. The Adhan (call to prayer) itself reminds believers that success is found in Salah, reinforcing that spiritual success leads to eternal rewards, while worldly gains are fleeting and ultimately left behind for others.
The talk concludes with a powerful reminder on self-accountability—that rather than blaming others, one must question their own sincerity and effort in seeking knowledge. Even Iblis will declare on Judgment Day that he only invited people to sin, and they accepted willingly. Thus, true benefit from the Quran and prophetic teachings requires faith, humility, and an eagerness to seek and apply knowledge.
Below are some of the topics in this talk:
- Recap of verses 1-13
- Verse 14: "Indeed has succeeded he who has purified"
- Various markers of success
- Purification from the love of wealth
- The burden of wealth and giving in charity
- Protection from greed of the soul
- Things that nourish the soul
- Verses on the afterlife being better
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