What chapter(s) and verses are included in Juz’ 14?:
The fourteenth juz’ of the Qur’an contains two complete chapters of the Quran: Surah Al-Hijr and Surah An-Nahl (15:1-16:128).
When were the verses of this juz’ revealed?:
Both Surah Al-Hijr and Surah An-Nahl were revealed towards the end of the Prophet's time in Makkah, prior to the Hijrah. Although the Prophet Muhammad had been preaching the message of Islam for several years, the people of Makkah were not accepting. Indeed, they had become more and more antagonistic and oppressive.
Select Quotations:
- "We have, without doubt, sent down the Message, and We will assuredly guard it from corruption. We did send apostles before you amongst the religious people of old, but never came an apostle to them but they mocked." (15:9-11)
- "Who despairs of the mercy of his Lord, except those who go astray?" (15:56)
- "We did not create the heavens, the earth, and all between them, except for just ends. The Hour is surely coming. So overlook any human faults with gracious forgiveness." (15:85)
- "For we assuredly sent to every people an apostle, with the command: 'Serve Allah, and stay away from evil.' Of the people were some whom Allah guided, and some of whom error became inevitable. So travel through the earth, and see what was the end of those who denied the truth." (16:36)
- "We sent down the Book to you for an express purpose: that you should make clear to them the things in which they differ, and that it shall be a guide and a mercy to those who believe." (16:64)
What is the main theme of this juz’?:
The main purpose of this section is to warn the unbelievers, and to comfort the believers. The unbelievers in Makkah had rejected the message of Islam, and had ridiculed and tormented the early Muslim believers. Unbelievers are warned to give up shirk, and advised to embrace faith in the Unity of Allah (tawhid).
Proof of Allah can be found in the balance of life throughout the natural world and in the endless bounties Allah created for us. Stories of previous prophets are told, such as Abraham and Lot, as examples of previous generations who were punished for rejecting their prophets.
In this section, the believers themselves are also encouraged to be steadfast in the face of oppression. In the face of ridicule and persecution, Muslims are advised to forgive and be gracious, and turn away from the ignorant. The truth stands out clear from error, and each soul is only responsible for itself.
Muslims are instructed to "invite all to the Way of the Lord with wisdom and beautiful preaching," and when disagreements arise, to "argue with them in ways that are best and most gracious" (16:125). The section ends with a call for the Muslims to be patient when faced with ridicule and oppression:
"And do be patient, for your patience is from Allah. Do not grieve over them, and do not distress yourself over their plots. For Allah is with those who restrain themselves, and those who do good" (16:127-128).
URDU LINK (JUZ - 14 )ENGLISH LINK (JUZ - 14 )O Allaah! I ask You for guidance, piety, safety and well-being, and contentment and sufficiency.” (Allaahummaa innee as’alukal-hudaa wat-tuqaa wal-`afaafa wal-ghinaa). [Related by Muslim, no 2721]