Surah Al Furqan (The Criterion): Summary & Theme
| Classification | Meccan |
| Position | 25th chapter |
| No. of verses | 77 |
| No. of Rukus | 6 |
| No. of words | 1,102 |
| No. of letters | 4,495 |
Surah Al Furqan Introduction:
Surah Al Furqan (Arabic: الفرقان) is the 25th chapter of the Qur’an. Its name means “The Criterion”. the standard by which truth is distinguished from falsehood. Throughout its verses, it addresses objections leveled by disbelievers, defines the character of true believers, and reaffirms the authenticity of divine revelation.
Period of Revelation:
Surah Al Furqan was revealed during the Makkan period, at a time when the Quraysh were opposing the message of Islam with mockery and denial. The disbelievers accused the Prophet ﷺ of fabricating the Qur’an or receiving help from others. This Surah came as a strong response to such allegations, affirming that the Qur’an is a divine revelation and a criterion (Furqan) to distinguish truth from falsehood.
Purpose of Revelation:
The main purpose of Surah Al Furqan is to establish the Qur’an as the ultimate standard of guidance, clarify the status of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ as Allah’s true messenger, and highlight the qualities of genuine believers. It warns disbelievers of the consequences of rejection while offering hope to those who repent. By describing the characteristics of the “Servants of the Most Merciful” (Ibad-ur-Rahman), it provides a model for righteous living. Thus, the Surah serves as both a defense of the Prophet and a guide for believers.
Themes:
1. It is a measure by which truth and falsehood are distinguished.
2. It responds to claims that the Prophet fabricated the Quran or had help.
3. Emphasizing that the Day of Judgment is real and consequences await.
4. Emphasis on upright behavior, rejecting gossip, injustice, arrogance, and falsehood.
5. Asserting Allah’s oneness and rejecting false gods.
6. The last part (verses 63–77) describes the qualities of true servants of Allah (Ibad-ur-Rahman ) humility, prayer, avoidance of excess, avoiding shirk and unlawful acts.
Sorah Al Furqan Images:
FAQs
What does Al-Furqan mean?
Al Furqan means “The Criterion,” referring to the Qur’an as the standard that separates truth from falsehood.
What are the traits of “Servants of the Most Merciful” in Surah Al Furqan?
They are humble, patient, avoid arrogance and sin, pray regularly, and live righteously.
How does Surah Al Furqan address polytheism?
The Surah rejects idol worship and emphasizes Allah’s oneness and authority.
Why is Surah Al Furqan important for Muslims today?
It reminds Muslims to uphold faith, follow divine guidance, live with humility, and prepare for accountability on the Day of Judgment.
Author’s Quotation:
“Surah Al Furqan stands as a timeless response to disbelief and confusion, declaring the Qur’an as the clear standard of truth. It beautifully exposes falsehood, affirms the Prophet’s mission, and highlights the noble qualities of Allah’s true servants. This chapter does more than answer objections; it guides hearts toward humility, patience, and devotion. Its verses remind us that faith is not just belief but a way of life, separating light from darkness and leading to eternal success.”