What chapter(s) and verses are included in Juz’ 12?:

The twelfth juz’ of the Qur’an contains parts of two chapters of the Quran: most of Surah Hud (from verse 6), and the first part of Surah Yusuf (to verse 52).

When were the verses of this juz’ revealed?:

These two chapters, Surah Hud and Surah Yusuf, both named after prophets of Islam, were revealed in Makkah prior to the Hijrah.

Select Quotations:

• "(Hud said) I put my trust in Allah, My Lord and your Lord! There is not a moving creature, but He has grasp of its forelock. Truly, it is my Lord that is on a straight Path. If you turn away, I at least have conveyed the Message with which I was sent to you. My Lord will make another people to succeed you, and you will not harm Him in the least. For my Lord cares and watches over all things." 11:56-57
• "And be steadfast in patience, for truly Allah will not suffer the reward of the righteous to perish." 11:115
• "To Allah belongs the unseen secrets of the heavens and the earth, and to Him goes back every affair for decision. Then worship Him, and put your trust in Him. And your Lord is not unmindful of all that you do." 11:123

What is the main theme of this juz’?:

Surah Hud is named for the Prophet Hud, and Surah Yusuf is named for the Prophet Yusuf (Joseph). The two chapters closely follow each other, and share a similar theme. As Makkan surahs, these chapters emphasize the Oneness of Allah. The stories of previous prophets are told as reminders of history, which is bound to repeat itself if the people don't turn to Allah in repentance for their disbelief. Just as previous prophets were rejected and mistreated, the tribes of Arabia were doing the same to the Prophet Muhammad. The Prophet Muhammad brought the same message, which is a revelation from Allah and is not "copied" from previous revelations as some hypocrites and disbelievers asserted.

As a reminder of the lessons of history, the stories of previous prophets is told, including Noah, Hud, Salih, Abraham, Lot, Shu'aib, Moses, and finally Yusuf. The unbelievers who rejected their message were severely punished, and not even the family members of the prophets were spared. Blood ties will not save you from the punishment of disbelief; the only relationship of importance is based on faith. Allah's promise will come to pass, despite the protests of those without faith.