Introduction

This is an early Makkan Surah - at least the ifrst half of it. The subject matter is the meaning of true worship, which requires Faith, the practical and helful love of those in need, and sincerity rather than show in devotion and charity.

Commentary

What remains if you deny all Faith
And personal responsibility? Why then
Help the helpless or teach others
Deeds of charity? Vain were worship
Without heart and soul. What think ye of men
Who make great show, but fail to meet
The simple deeds of daily life?
........Abdullah Yusuf Ali [C.287]

In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

"Seest thou one
Who denies the Judgement (to come)?
Then such is the (man)
Who repulses the orphan (with harshness)
And encourages not
The feeding of the indigent
So woe to the worshippers
Who are neglectful of their prayers,
Those who (want but) to be seen (of men),
But refuse (to supply)
(Even) neighbourly needs."
....Qur'an - Verse 1-7