Al-Ma'idah (المائدة)

5. Al-Ma'idah (المائدة)

Meaning: The Table Spread

Total Ayahs: 120

Place of Revelation: Medina

Summary

Surah Al-Ma’idah was revealed toward the end of the Prophet’s mission and addresses legal rulings, ethical conduct, and interfaith relations. It emphasizes the sanctity of contracts, dietary laws, penal laws, and the importance of adhering to divine guidance. The Surah discusses the obligations of Muslims regarding oaths, hunting rules, and the legality of certain foods. It also recounts the stories of previous prophets and interactions with the People of the Book, particularly Jews and Christians.

Core Message

Fulfillment of divine covenants, upholding justice, and remaining steadfast in obeying Allah’s laws are central. It also underscores that final guidance has been completed through Islam and that Muslims must adhere to its principles with integrity and discipline.

Benefits

Surah Al-Ma’idah strengthens a believer’s awareness of lawful and unlawful behavior and reminds them of the seriousness of breaking divine contracts. The verse ‘This day I have perfected for you your religion…’ (5:3) is widely regarded as one of the most important revelations in the Qur’an.

Famous Verses

5:3 "...اليوم أكملت لكم دينكم..." (This day I have perfected for you your religion and completed My favor upon you...) – milestone in Islamic history.
5:8 "وَلَا يَجْرِمَنَّكُمْ شَنَآنُ قَوْمٍ..." (Let not the hatred of a people prevent you from being just...) – command of fairness even with enemies.
5:105 "عَلَيْكُمْ أَنفُسَكُمْ..." (Upon you is [responsibility for] yourselves...) – encourages individual responsibility.

Moral Lesson

Integrity in faith and social dealings is essential. Justice must be applied universally. Divine commands are to be followed whether convenient or not. Respectful relations with other faiths should be maintained without compromising Islamic beliefs.

Divine Attributes

Al-Hakim (The Wise), Al-‘Alim (The All-Knowing), Al-Adl (The Just), Al-Tawwab (The Accepter of Repentance), Al-Qawi (The Strong).

Keywords

Covenants Halal & Haram Justice People of the Book Oaths Accountability