Surah Ash-Shu‘ara – The Poets

Classification: Makki | Verses: 227

Surah Ash-Shu‘ara, revealed in Makkah, is the twenty-sixth chapter of the Quran. It emphasizes the truth of divine revelation and the repeated rejection of messengers throughout history. The surah recounts the stories of past prophets — including Musa (Moses), Ibrahim (Abraham), Nuh (Noah), Hud, Salih, Lut (Lot), and Shu‘ayb (peace be upon them) — each of whom called their people to worship Allah alone and live righteously, yet most were rejected. The surah reminds the Quraysh of these lessons, warning them against arrogance and disbelief. It also addresses poets and orators, distinguishing between those who mislead with falsehood and those who use their words to uphold truth and faith. The overarching theme is that guidance and success come only from Allah, while rejection of His message leads to destruction.

• Confirms that the Quran is a clear revelation sent for guidance and not the speech of a poet or soothsayer.
• Recounts the story of Prophet Musa (Moses) and his confrontation with Pharaoh and the magicians.
• Shares the call of Ibrahim (Abraham) to pure monotheism and his rejection of idol worship.
• Details the warnings given by Nuh, Hud, Salih, Lut, and Shu‘ayb to their nations, most of whom disbelieved and were destroyed.
• Warns the Quraysh that rejecting the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) would bring them a similar fate.
• Highlights Allah’s signs in creation as proof of His power and lordship.
• Addresses poets, warning against misuse of eloquence for falsehood and praising those who use poetry to defend faith and justice.
• Ends by affirming that ultimate power and guidance belong to Allah alone, and the righteous will be victorious.