Summary of Chapter 13 (Ra’ad – Thunder)

The theme is based on people who reject the book even though they encounter many signs. Instead of evaluating the message which the messenger has brought, they seem to be more interested in his ability to perform miracles. Thus, these people mock the messengers and belie them!

No accounts of previous messengers are given in this chapter. Instead, it demonstrates a variety of natural phenomenon to illustrate the might of God. Also, it uniquely describes the characteristics of Ulul Albab (People who develop their insight) in Passage 2.

Passage 1 (V1-18) Breakdown:

Messengers are only warners, but their people demand miracles from them. The response to this is that there are sufficient signs in natural phenomenon for a people who seek to have conviction in their Sustainer, are willing to reflect, and use reason. In addition, they have been given numerous examples of historic people who suffered due to violating God’s laws. However, they, in their pompous arrogance, challenge the believers to come forth with the punishment of their crimes instead of reforming themselves. God’s law works both ways: It is the source of mercy, yet it is also strict in retribution!

Guidance works like lightning. Initially, it causes fear because of societal pressures. Gradually, it becomes a source of hope and God showers the believers with heavy clouds (Renewal by revelation). However, God does not guide those who ignore their souls. So, the change must come from within!

Those who call authorities beside God are all in vain. They do not hear, neither do they respond. Have they created anything from naught so that they could be associated with God? Nay! God is the only Creator of all things. IT is One, and It dominates! Therefore, people should devote their energies on seeking God alone.

The real existence on earth is of the person who benefits humanity. Hence, those who respond to their Sustainer will be in a state of bliss. However, those who ignore it would be ready to barter all the riches on earth in order to be exempted from the Fire of their own making. Of course, that would be in vain.

Passage 2 (V19-29) Breakdown:

Ulool Albab are defined: They fulfill their covenant taken from God and do not break it.

They enjoin what God has ordered to be joined.

They are in awe of God and fearful of the fact that they are to be held accountable for their actions. They patiently endure whatever hardships come their way.

They build a connection with God and distribute their resources with others.

They repel evil with kindness.

This formula ensures them the Eternal Abode of bliss!

Those who believe find peace in their hearts due to the remembrance of God. However, those who break their covenants taken from God, do not practice what God has ordered, and thereby spread corruption in the earth: upon them is a curse! And their lives in both worlds are miserable! Life of this world is only a fleeting pleasure compared to the Hereafter. Therefore, one should invest in what is more lasting!

Passage 3 (V30-43) Breakdown:

Passage 3 is directed towards the Messenger/Reader to console him despite his people’s utter opposition. Messengers have always been mocked by their people, so this mustn’t hinder believers to propagate the message. Their duty is only to convey the message without issuing judgement on anyone. Reckoning is done only by God.

The message is very powerful for those who take it to heart. Had God willed, It could have guided all of us (driven by instinct like animals). But It gave us freedom of choice, and therefore we must find our own respective paths to God. As for those who reject the moral values prescribed by God, they dig their own graves because disasters would fall them for their disobedience. Furthermore, opponents will always devise schemes against believers. However, God helps those who help themselves.