Al-An'am (الأنعام)

6. Al-An'am (الأنعام)

Meaning: The Cattle

Total Ayahs: 165

Place of Revelation: Mecca

Summary

Surah Al-An'am is a deeply theological chapter revealed in Makkah that reinforces the principles of Tawhid (Oneness of Allah), denounces shirk (polytheism), and emphasizes the authority of divine revelation. It confronts the superstitions and irrational beliefs of the Quraysh regarding animals, food, and idol worship. Through reminders of Allah’s signs in creation and the fate of earlier nations, it calls people to sincere belief and submission. It also addresses Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) with words of comfort and guidance.

Core Message

Absolute monotheism is the foundation of faith. Only Allah has the right to legislate, guide, and be worshipped. The Prophet (PBUH) is a Warner, not a controller of people’s hearts, and guidance is ultimately from Allah alone.

Benefits

Reciting this Surah helps strengthen one’s belief in Tawhid and detachment from shirk. It’s reported that 70,000 angels descended at its revelation, and that reading it wards off evil spirits and increases one's certainty in Allah’s signs.

Famous Verses

6:59 "وَعِندَهُ مَفَاتِحُ الْغَيْبِ..." (And with Him are the keys of the unseen...) – affirms Allah’s exclusive knowledge.
6:141 "وَلَا تُسْرِفُوا ۚ إِنَّهُ لَا يُحِبُّ الْمُسْرِفِينَ" (Do not be extravagant. Indeed, He does not like the extravagant.) – warning against waste.
6:162 "قُلْ إِنَّ صَلَاتِي وَنُسُكِي..." (Say, 'Indeed, my prayer, my rites of sacrifice, my living and my dying are for Allah, Lord of the worlds.') – a declaration of complete devotion.

Moral Lesson

True belief in Allah must be free from superstition and association with others. Every aspect of a Muslim’s life should be for Allah alone. The Prophet is to deliver the message, not enforce belief. Reflection on creation leads to increased Iman.

Divine Attributes

Al-Aleem (The All-Knowing), Al-Hadi (The Guide), Al-Khaliq (The Creator), Al-Fattah (The Judge), Al-Malik (The King).

Keywords

Tawhid Prophethood Divine Signs Guidance Superstition Accountability Shirk