Surah An-Nisa
النساء
The Women
176
Medinan
Surah 4 of 114
Overview
Surah An-Nisa is the fourth chapter of the Quran with 176 verses. Revealed in Madinah, it addresses social justice, women's rights, family law, and the organization of the Muslim community.
Themes
The surah establishes comprehensive laws regarding inheritance, marriage, the rights of women and orphans, and social welfare. It addresses issues of justice within the family and community, warns against hypocrisy, and lays down rules for conflict resolution. The surah affirms the prophetic mission of Muhammad (peace be upon him) and clarifies the true nature of Prophet Isa (Jesus).
Significance
This surah was revolutionary in establishing women's rights to inheritance, property, and fair treatment — over 1400 years ago. It set the foundation for Islamic family law and social justice.
Key Themes
Key Verses
يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا كُونُوا قَوَّامِينَ بِالْقِسْطِ شُهَدَاءَ لِلَّهِ
“O you who believe, be persistently standing firm in justice, witnesses for Allah.”
— An-Nisa 4:135
وَاعْبُدُوا اللَّهَ وَلَا تُشْرِكُوا بِهِ شَيْئًا ۖ وَبِالْوَالِدَيْنِ إِحْسَانًا
“Worship Allah and associate nothing with Him, and to parents do good.”
— An-Nisa 4:36
إِنَّ اللَّهَ يَأْمُرُكُمْ أَن تُؤَدُّوا الْأَمَانَاتِ إِلَىٰ أَهْلِهَا
“Indeed, Allah commands you to render trusts to whom they are due.”
— An-Nisa 4:58
Lessons
- Justice must be upheld even against one's own interests.
- Women have clearly defined rights in Islam.
- Orphans must be protected and their wealth preserved.
- Unity of the Muslim community is a divine command.
- Good treatment of parents is next only to worship of Allah.