10 Lessons From Surah Al-Maun That Allah Mentioned

Rukhsar Rehman

September 15, 2024

Surah Al-Maun, also known as “The Small Kindnesses,” focuses on the importance of faith being reflected in one’s actions and attitudes toward others.

This surah teaches key lessons about social responsibility, sincerity in worship, and compassion.

Table of Contents

Here are 10 lessons from this powerful surah.

1. Hypocrisy is Despised (Verse 1)

“Have you seen the one who denies the Recompense?” (Al-Maun 107:1) This verse highlights the hypocrisy of those who claim to believe in the Day of Judgment but fail to live according to Islamic principles.

Allah despises hypocrites who outwardly claim faith but inwardly reject or deny its core values, such as justice and charity.

2. Caring for Orphans is Essential (Verse 2)

“For that is the one who drives away the orphan.” (Al-Maun 107:2) This verse stresses the importance of compassion for orphans, one of the most vulnerable groups in society.

It is a direct condemnation of those who mistreat or neglect orphans, teaching that caring for those in need is central to true faith.

3. Lack of Kindness is a Sign of Weak Faith (Verse 3)

“And does not encourage the feeding of the poor.” (Al-Maun 107:3) A believer’s faith is reflected in their attitude toward the less fortunate.

This verse emphasizes that those who do not help or encourage the feeding of the poor are lacking in their faith. Compassion and charity are fundamental to living as a true Muslim.

4. Worship Must Be Sincere (Verse 4)

“So woe to those who pray.” (Al-Maun 107:4) This verse reminds Muslims that mere outward acts of worship are not enough.

Allah condemns those who pray without sincerity. True worship must be heartfelt and not performed for show or social recognition.

5. Avoiding Laziness in Worship (Verse 5)

“Those who are heedless of their prayer.” (Al-Maun 107:5) This verse teaches that prayer must not only be sincere but also consistent and mindful.

Being heedless in prayer, whether by neglecting it or rushing through it, shows a lack of devotion. Prayer should be performed with full awareness and humility before Allah.

6. Riya (Showing Off) is Condemned (Verse 6)

“Those who make a show of their deeds.” (Al-Maun 107:6) This verse focuses on the danger of performing good deeds for the sake of being seen by others.

Allah condemns those who give charity or pray merely to gain praise or recognition. Good deeds should be done for the sake of Allah alone, without seeking worldly rewards.

7. Small Acts of Kindness Matter (Verse 7)

“And withhold [simple] assistance.” (Al-Maun 107:7) This verse stresses the importance of small acts of kindness, known as “Maun.”

These are simple, everyday gestures such as helping neighbors, sharing resources, or offering assistance. Islam encourages even the smallest of good deeds, and withholding such assistance is a sign of selfishness.

8. Faith is Incomplete Without Action (Entire Surah)

Surah Al-Maun teaches that faith is not just about belief; it must be demonstrated through actions.

Those who fail to care for orphans, feed the poor, or perform sincere acts of worship are showing that their faith is incomplete. Actions and beliefs are intertwined in Islam.

9. Social Responsibility is a Core Aspect of Islam (Entire Surah)

One of the key lessons from this surah is that Islam emphasizes social responsibility. A true believer is one who is aware of the needs of others and works to fulfill them.

Neglecting the poor and orphans is a sign of weak faith, and believers are encouraged to always contribute to the well-being of society.

10. Worship Without Compassion is Meaningless (Entire Surah)

Surah Al-Maun ties together the concepts of worship and social kindness. It teaches that worship without compassion for others is hollow.

Muslims are reminded that true faith manifests in how we treat others, especially the vulnerable, and that compassion is an essential part of worship.

Surah Al-Maun highlights the connection between faith and action. It calls on believers to avoid hypocrisy, show kindness to orphans and the poor, and ensure that their acts of worship are sincere.

This surah serves as a reminder that faith is not just about personal devotion but also about how we treat others and contribute to society. By following these lessons, Muslims can ensure that their faith is both genuine and impactful.