Day 315 · Surah Al-Mujadilah Verses 1-11

Al-Mujadalah 1–11

The complaint of a wife about zihar is answered directly with the ruling on its ransom, then discussed is the prohibition of whispering to commit sin and the etiquette of making room in gatherings.

• Khaulah complains about the zihar pronounced by her husband, and zihar is declared to be an abominable word and falsehood because a wife cannot be compared to her biological mother.
• One who retracts the statement of zihar must free a slave, if unable then fast for two consecutive months, and if still unable then feed sixty poor people.
• Whispering in gatherings is forbidden because it comes from Satan and causes sorrow for those not included in the conversation.
• Whispering becomes the habit of hypocrites to commit sin and oppose the Messenger, but is permitted for Muslims if its content is good and piety.
• The etiquette of gatherings includes making room for others to sit and being willing to stand if asked, while the believing and knowledgeable are raised several degrees.

Verses 1-6 explain the issue of zihar. Khaulah complains to the Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him) about the zihar pronounced by her husband Aus bin Shamit. Allah answers directly that zihar is an abominable word and a lie. For how is it possible that a wife is compared to the mother who gave birth?

One who pronounces zihar and then retracts it, before having marital relations, must free a slave. If there is none, fast for two consecutive months. If unable, feed 60 poor people. That is Allah's ruling for the believers.

Indeed those who oppose the ruling of Allah and the Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him) will be humiliated like the nations before them who opposed Allah and their Messengers. Allah will inform them on the Day of Judgment what they did and reckon it. Allah is All-Knowing of all things.

Verses 7-11 explain four things:

1. Allah forbids whispering in gatherings because it is the work of Satan and causes sorrow for those being whispered about. Allah knows what is in the heavens and on earth, and what is whispered. Allah will inform mankind what they did on the Day of Judgment.
2. Whispering is the habit of hypocrites. They do it to commit sin and disobey the Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him). They challenge to be punished by Allah. Allah threatens them with Hell. That is the worst place of return.
3. Allah permits Muslims to whisper if it is about goodness and piety. Do not be provoked by the hypocrites. Piety and trust in Allah are the strongest protection.
4. Among the etiquette of gatherings of knowledge and dhikr is to make room for brothers and be ready to stand if asked. Allah raises the rank of believing and knowledgeable people several degrees. Therefore seeking knowledge is obligatory. Allah is Aware of all that we do.

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