Introduction to Surah Al-Masad (The Flame)

Surah Lahab, also known as Surah Al-Masad, is a Meccan Surah with five verses. Allah revealed this chapter during the early days of Islam's open invitation. It names Abu Lahab, a staunch enemy of the Holy Prophet (SAW). Consequently, the verses deliver a strong divine warning against him.

The Surah highlights the intense enmity Abu Lahab held toward Allah's Apostle. Furthermore, it details how he and his wife committed every possible vice to harm Islam's message.

The Qur'an prophesied their entry into Hell, a fate they cannot escape. This prophecy came true. Ultimately, they died without accepting Islam, which serves as explicit proof of the Holy Qur'an's truth.

A tradition cites the Holy Prophet (SAW) saying: "He who recites it (Surah Lahab), I hope that Allah will not gather him and Abu Lahab in the same abode" (i.e., the reciter will be in Paradise while Abu Lahab will be in Hell).

Obviously, this virtue belongs to the person who recites it and chooses a path different from Abu Lahab's. It does not apply to one who recites with the tongue but acts like Abu Lahab in character.

The Historical Context: The Call at Mount Safa

Ibn Abbas narrates a specific event regarding the verse "And admonish the nearest kinsmen." When this verse arrived, Allah commanded the Holy Prophet (SAW) to gather his close relatives. He had to announce Islam's invitation openly for the first time.

He climbed to the top of Mount Safa and called out: "Ya Sabaha!" (A phrase people used to alert others to prepare for an enemy attack).

The people heard the call of Muhammad (SAW) and gathered. He identified the various Arab clans by name. Then, he asked them:

"If I tell you that a huge enemy army camps at the foot of this mountain, on the other side, will you believe me?"

The assembly replied unanimously. They said, "Certainly we will believe, for you have never told a lie."

Then the Holy Prophet (SAW) said: "I have come from Allah as a warner to preach the Unity of the Lord."

Hearing this, Abu Lahab exclaimed: "Perdition to thee! Was it for this that thou assembled us?"

At that precise moment, Allah revealed this Surah:

تَبَّتْ يَدَا أَبِي لَهَبٍ وَتَبَّ

"May the hands of Abu Lahab perish, may he (himself) perish."

Relevance for Muslims in American Cities & The West

Allah revealed Surah Lahab in Mecca centuries ago. However, it holds profound relevance for the Muslim diaspora in major American cities like New York, Chicago, Houston, and Los Angeles. Competition is fierce in these high-pressure environments. Consequently, Muslims often face modern forms of hostility. This includes workplace envy (*Hasad*), social prejudice, or spiritual negativity.

Reciting Surah Lahab acts as a spiritual shield against those who harbor intense animosity or plot against your faith and success. Abu Lahab's plots failed. Similarly, the spiritual barriers from this Surah can nullify negative energy. This protection applies to your daily commute or professional life.

The Healing Nature of the Quran

Surah Lahab is the 111th chapter of the Quran. Beyond its history, Muslims believe it brings numerous physical and spiritual benefits. However, you must recite it with sincerity. The Quran itself is Shifa (healing).

You must move beyond rote recitation to unlock this healing potential. Instead, engage in deep reflection (*Tadabbur*). If you are struggling to find focus in your worship, learning how to do meditation in Islam can help you connect more deeply with verses like these. This turns them into a source of peace.

Muslims commonly believe that reciting Surah Lahab invokes God's protection powerfully. The verses convey a message that Allah watches over the believers. Furthermore, He grants them security.

5 Powerful Benefits of Surah Lahab

Scholars and spiritual practitioners note specific benefits associated with this Surah. These include protection from enemies and physical ailments:

• Cure for Backache: Recite this Surah for relief from persistent back pain and spinal discomfort.
• Protection from Enemies: Send la-nat (dissociation) on Abu Lahab's character when reciting this Surah. He opposed the Truth. Consequently, this act serves as a spiritual barrier against oppression.
• Safety in the Hereafter: Recite this Surah with faith. Allah will not keep you and Abu Lahab in the same place. Abu Lahab’s abode is Hell; therefore, the reciter is destined for Paradise.
• Protection During Sleep: Recite this Surah before going to bed. Allah will keep you in His divine protection throughout the night.
• Healing for the Sick: A sick person may recite this Surah in bed. Alternatively, someone else may recite it over them. This act becomes a means of Shifa for their ailment. We also recommend giving Sadaqah (Charity) alongside recitation, as charity extinguishes sickness as water extinguishes fire.