Para 28: Understanding “Qad Samiʿa ’llāhu” in the Quran
The phrase Para 28 Qad Samiʿa ’llāhu (قَدْ سَمِعَ اللَّهُ), which translates to “Allah has certainly heard,” is found in the 28th section (para) of the Quran, particularly in Surah Al-Mujadila (58:1). This opening verse is significant because it highlights Allah’s awareness and responsiveness to human concerns and prayers. It begins with a situation where a woman, Khaulah bint Tha‘labah, complains to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) about a family issue. The verse reassures believers that Allah is always listening and that He responds to the needs of those who seek His help.
In this article, we will explore the context and significance of “Qad Samiʿa ’llāhu,” its meaning, and the lessons it imparts about divine justice, patience, and the importance of resolving disputes with compassion.
Context of “Qad Samiʿa ’llāhu”
The verse Para 28 Qad Samiʿa ’llāhu opens Surah Al-Mujadila, setting the tone for the rest of the chapter. The background of this verse involves a woman named Khaulah bint Tha‘labah, who approached the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) to complain about her husband, Aws ibn As-Samit. Her husband had pronounced the words of “zihar”—a pre-Islamic practice where a man would declare his wife to be as forbidden to him as his mother. This statement was meant to sever the marital relationship without a formal divorce, leaving the woman in a state of limbo.
Khaulah was distressed by this unfair treatment and came to the Prophet seeking a solution. As she shared her grievance, Allah revealed the opening verse of Surah Al-Mujadila, beginning with “Qad Samiʿa ’llāhu”, assuring her that Allah had heard her plea and that He would provide a resolution through divine law. This verse not only comforted Khaulah but also served as a reminder that Allah is always aware of the struggles of His servants and provides justice.
Significance of “Qad Samiʿa ’llāhu”
- Allah’s Awareness and Justice
The phrase “Qad Samiʿa ’llāhu” emphasizes Allah’s perfect awareness of every human concern, no matter how personal or private it may seem. It reassures believers that Allah is always listening and is aware of their difficulties. In the case of Khaulah, it was a family matter—a domestic issue that could have been overlooked. However, Allah’s immediate response shows His care for every individual, especially those who face injustice.
This story underscores the broader Quranic principle that Allah is always close to His creation and that He listens and responds to their prayers. Whether in matters of family, health, livelihood, or faith, Allah’s hearing and responsiveness extend to every aspect of human life.
- Zihar and Social Justice
One of the main outcomes of Khaulah’s complaint and Allah’s revelation of “Qad Samiʿa ’llāhu” was the abolition of the practice of zihar. Before Islam, zihar was a means for men to exert unfair control over their wives, leaving them in a state where they were neither fully married nor divorced. It was an unjust practice that severely impacted women’s rights and well-being.
With the revelation of this verse, Allah established new laws that protected women from such injustices. The Quran provided clear guidance on how to resolve such disputes, including specific compensatory measures for men who engaged in zihar. This marked a significant step toward establishing social justice in early Islamic society, ensuring that women were treated fairly and that their rights were upheld.
- The Role of Patience and Faith
Khaulah’s story is also a lesson in patience and faith. Despite facing a painful and unjust situation, she turned to Allah and the Prophet for help rather than giving up or reacting out of anger. Her faith and perseverance were rewarded when Allah not only heard her complaint but also provided a solution that had far-reaching implications for the entire Muslim community.
The phrase “Qad Samiʿa ’llāhu” thus serves as a reminder for all believers to be patient in the face of hardship, trusting that Allah hears their concerns and will provide relief in His own time and wisdom. It reinforces the idea that believers should remain steadfast in their faith, even when faced with difficulties, and seek solutions through proper channels, such as prayer, consultation, and reliance on Allah’s justice.
- A Model for Dispute Resolution
The revelation of this verse and the subsequent legal rulings highlight the importance of resolving disputes fairly and compassionately. Khaulah’s approach—seeking the Prophet’s guidance and trusting in Allah’s justice—serves as a model for how believers should handle conflicts, especially within families.
The Quranic response to her situation, beginning with “Qad Samiʿa ’llāhu,” emphasizes the need for laws that protect the vulnerable and promote justice. It also illustrates the importance of communication and seeking solutions in accordance with Islamic principles. For believers today, this serves as a reminder to resolve conflicts with fairness, patience, and reliance on Allah’s guidance.
Lessons Derived from “Qad Samiʿa ’llāhu”
- Divine Justice Is Always Present
The phrase “Qad Samiʿa ’llāhu” reassures believers that Allah’s justice is ever-present. Even when human systems fail or individuals feel powerless, Allah is always aware and will provide relief. This verse demonstrates that no issue is too small or insignificant for Allah’s attention, and His justice is comprehensive, encompassing every aspect of human life.
- The Importance of Fairness in Marital Relationships
The story behind this verse serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of fairness and respect in marriage. Zihar was an unjust practice that harmed women, and Allah’s revelation provided a clear solution that protected women’s rights. This reflects Islam’s broader commitment to justice and the importance of treating spouses with kindness and fairness.
For modern believers, the lessons from this verse underscore the importance of maintaining justice and respect in family life, seeking proper guidance when conflicts arise, and ensuring that all parties are treated fairly.
- Trust in Allah’s Hearing and Help
The phrase “Qad Samiʿa ’llāhu” teaches believers to trust in Allah’s constant hearing and help. Whether dealing with family issues, personal struggles, or larger societal injustices, Muslims are reminded that Allah is always listening and will respond to their prayers. This trust should encourage believers to turn to Allah in times of need and to have confidence in His wisdom and justice.
- The Power of Legal Reforms in Islam
The abolition of zihar and the establishment of new legal rulings following the revelation of this verse highlight the power of legal reforms in Islam. These reforms were not only designed to protect the vulnerable but also to promote fairness and justice in society. The Quran’s response to Khaulah’s complaint shows that Islamic law is not rigid but rather responsive to the needs and concerns of the community, adapting to ensure justice for all.
Conclusion
The phrase “Qad Samiʿa ’llāhu” in Para 28 of the Quran is a powerful reminder of Allah’s constant presence and awareness of human concerns. The story of Khaulah bint Tha‘labah illustrates how Allah listens to the pleas of the oppressed and provides solutions that promote justice and fairness. This verse underscores the importance of patience, faith, and seeking proper guidance when facing difficulties, especially in matters of family and personal relationships.
Through this revelation, Allah abolished the unjust practice of zihar and established legal rulings that protected women’s rights, demonstrating the Quran’s role in promoting social justice. For believers today, the lessons from “Qad Samiʿa ’llāhu” serve as a reminder to trust in Allah’s justice, to seek fairness in all relationships, and to resolve disputes with compassion and wisdom.
