Surah Al-Balad – English Translation

Basic Surah Info

Surah Number – 90
Number of Ayah – 20
Revealed City – Mecca
Juz Details – Juz 30 Ayah 1-20
Starting Page Number – 594th Page
Translated By Mustafa Khattab

Summary of Surah Al-Balad

Surah Al-Balad, the 90th surah of the Quran, addresses various aspects of human behavior and emphasizes the importance of righteous conduct and social responsibility. It calls upon individuals to recognize their purpose in life, engage in good deeds, and fulfill their societal obligations. It consists of 20 verses.

The surah begins by highlighting the significance of the city (or the land) as a place where individuals are tested and held accountable for their actions. It underscores the importance of recognizing one’s purpose in life and fulfilling it with righteousness.

Surah Al-Balad then contrasts the paths of the righteous and the wicked. It emphasizes the struggles and hardships faced by those who strive for righteousness and integrity, highlighting their ultimate reward in Paradise. On the other hand, it highlights the wastefulness and arrogance of those who engage in wrongdoing, warning them of the consequences that await them.

The surah emphasizes the importance of fulfilling societal obligations and promoting social justice. It calls upon individuals to provide for the needy, support the orphans, and assist those in distress. It discourages greed and encourages the distribution of wealth and resources among those in need.

Surah Al-Balad also emphasizes the importance of seeking knowledge and wisdom. It encourages individuals to reflect upon the signs of Allah in creation and to recognize the blessings bestowed upon them.

The surah concludes by highlighting the consequences of one’s actions. It emphasizes that individuals will be held accountable for their deeds on the Day of Judgment, and their righteous actions will determine their ultimate success or failure.

In summary, Surah Al-Balad addresses various aspects of human behavior and emphasizes the importance of righteous conduct and social responsibility. It calls upon individuals to recognize their purpose in life, engage in good deeds, and fulfill their societal obligations. The surah contrasts the paths of the righteous and the wicked, encourages the distribution of wealth and resources, and underscores the importance of seeking knowledge and reflecting upon the signs of Allah. It reminds individuals of the accountability for their actions on the Day of Judgment.

Read English Translated Version of Surah Al-Balad

Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim

1. I do swear by this city ˹of Mecca˺—

2. even though you ˹O Prophet˺ are subject to abuse in this city—

3. and by every parent and ˹their˺ child!

4. Indeed, We have created humankind in ˹constant˺ struggle.

5. Do they think that no one has power over them,

6. boasting, “I have wasted enormous wealth!”?

7. Do they think that no one sees them?

8. Have We not given them two eyes,

9. a tongue, and two lips;

10. and shown them the two ways ˹of right and wrong˺?

11. If only they had attempted the challenging path ˹of goodness instead˺!

12. And what will make you realize what ˹attempting˺ the challenging path is?

13. It is to free a slave;

14. or to give food in times of famine

15. to an orphaned relative

16. or to a poor person in distress;

17. and—above all—to be one of those who have faith and urge each other to perseverance and urge each other to compassion.

18. These are the people of the right.

19. As for those who deny Our signs, they are the people of the left.

20. The Fire will be sealed over them.

Scroll to Top