What chapter(s) and verses are included in Juz’ 5?:

The fifth juz’ of the Qur’an contains most of Surah An-Nisaa, the fourth chapter of the Quran, starting from verse 24 and continuing to verse 147 of the same chapter.

When were the verses of this juz’ revealed?:

The verses of this section were largely revealed in the early years after the migration to Madinah, most likely during years 3-5 H. Much of this section relates directly to the Muslim community's defeat at the Battle of Uhud, including sections about orphans and the distribution of inheritance which specifically date to that time.

Select Quotations:

• "Serve Allah, and join not any partners with Him, and do good - to parents, kinsfolk, orphans, those in need, neighbours who are near, neighbours who are strangers, the companion by your side, the wayfarer (you meet), and those under your command. For Allah loves not the arrogant, the vainglorious." 4:36
• "When a (courteous) greeting is offered you, meet it with a greeting still more courteous, or (at least) of equal courtesy. Allah takes careful account of all things." 4:86
• "If any do deeds of righteousness, male or female, and have faith they will enter Heaven and not the least injustice will be done to them." 4:124

What is the main theme of this juz’?:

The title of the fourth chapter of the Qur’an (An Nisaa) means "Women." It deals with many issues regarding women, family life, marriage, and divorce. Chronologically, the chapter also falls shortly after the Muslims' defeat at the Battle of Uhud.

One theme is continued from the previous section: the relationship between Muslims and the "People of the Book" (i.e. Christians and Jews). The Quran warns Muslims not to follow in the footsteps of those who divided their faith, added things to it, and went astray from the teachings of their prophets.

Protocols for divorce are also explained, including a series of steps which ensure the rights of both husband and wife.

A major theme of this section is the unity of the Muslim community. Allah encourages the believers to engage in commerce with each other "by mutual good-will" (4:29) and warns Muslims not to covet things that belong to another person (4:32). Muslims are also warned against hypocrites, who pretend to be among those who have faith, but secretly plot against them. At the time of this revelation, there was a group of hypocrites who plotted to destroy the Muslim community from within. The Quran instructs believers to attempt to reconcile with them, and to honor treaties made with them, but to fight them vigorously if they betray and fight against the Muslims (4:89-90).

Above all, Muslims are called upon to be fair and to stand up for justice. "Oh you who believe! Stand out firmly for justice, as witnesses to Allah, even against yourselves, or your parents, or your kin, and whether it be (against) rich or poor, for Allah can best protect both. Follow not the lusts (of your hearts), lest you swerve, and if you distort (justice) or decline to do justice, verily Allah is well-acquainted with all that you do" (4:135).