Ash-Sharh — The Relief
Surah Ash-Sharh is chapter 94 of the Noble Quran, revealed in Makki containing 8 verses.
أَلَمۡ نَشۡرَحۡ لَكَ صَدۡرَكَ
Alam nashrah laka sadraka
Did We not expand for you, [O Muhammad], your breast
وَوَضَعۡنَا عَنكَ وِزۡرَكَ
WawadaAAna AAanka wizraka
And We removed from you your burden
ٱلَّذِيٓ أَنقَضَ ظَهۡرَكَ
Allathee anqada thahraka
Which had weighed upon your back
وَرَفَعۡنَا لَكَ ذِكۡرَكَ
WarafaAAna laka thikraka
And raised high for you your repute
فَإِنَّ مَعَ ٱلۡعُسۡرِ يُسۡرًا
Fainna maAAa alAAusri yusran
For indeed, with hardship [will be] ease
إِنَّ مَعَ ٱلۡعُسۡرِ يُسۡرٗا
Inna maAAa alAAusri yusran
Indeed, with hardship [will be] ease
فَإِذَا فَرَغۡتَ فَٱنصَبۡ
Faitha faraghta fainsab
So when you have finished [your duties], then stand up [for worship]
وَإِلَىٰ رَبِّكَ فَٱرۡغَب
Waila rabbika fairghab
And to your Lord direct [your] longing
Overview
Surah Ash-Sharh (The Relief) consists of 8 verses. It covers foundational aspects of Islamic belief, moral rectitude, spiritual reflection, and obedience to Allah. Scholars emphasize its continuous recitation for spiritual growth, guidance, and divine protection.
Historical Background
Revealed in Makki during a crucial phase of Prophethood, Surah Ash-Sharh addressed specific circumstances facing the early Muslim community, offering solace, timeless wisdom, and divine instruction.
Main Themes
- Affirmation of Tawheed and divine wisdom
- Reflections on creation, life, and the Hereafter
- Lessons from past righteous servants and prophets
- Ethical conduct and devotion in daily life
Benefits of Recitation
- Brings tranquility, blessings, and divine protection
- Increases comprehension of Quranic wisdom
- Source of light and guidance on the Straight Path
Virtues
- Reciting Surah Ash-Sharh earns 10 rewards for every single letter read according to authentic Hadith.
- Regular recitation strengthens faith and protects against spiritual heedlessness.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the core message of Surah Ash-Sharh?
Surah Ash-Sharh emphasizes monotheism, righteous living, accountability before Allah, and seeking divine guidance.
Where was Surah Ash-Sharh revealed?
It was revealed in Makki and contains 8 verses.
Authentic References
Sahih al-Bukhari · Sahih Muslim · Tafsir Ibn Kathir