Living Quran

Surah Al-Furqan (The Criterion)

Al-Furqan means "The Criterion," a title for the Quran itself as that which distinguishes truth from falsehood.

Al-Furqan is the 25th surah of the Quran, a Meccan surah of 77 ayahs. Its name refers to the Quran as the criterion that separates right from wrong. The surah opens by affirming the majesty of God and responds to objections raised by those who denied the Prophet Muhammad's message, including their demands and their criticisms of his humanity and manner of living. It contrasts the arrogance of the deniers with the humility of the faithful, and reflects on God's power through signs in the natural world, such as the alternation of night and day, the winds, and the two bodies of water. The closing section presents a memorable portrait of the "servants of the Most Merciful," describing their humility, restraint, sincerity in worship, and balanced conduct. The surah blends argument, reflection, and moral instruction throughout.
Surah number
25
Revelation
Meccan
Ayahs
77
Arabic
الفرقان

Read Surah Al-Furqan online — full Arabic text with the Pickthall English translation.

Main themes

  • The Quran as the criterion of truth
  • Responses to the deniers' objections
  • God's power in the natural world
  • The contrast between arrogance and humility
  • The qualities of the servants of the Most Merciful
  • Accountability on the Day of Judgment

Why this surah matters

Al-Furqan is well known for its concluding passage describing the "servants of the Most Merciful," which many Muslims regard as an inspiring model of humble, upright character and is often cited in teaching on ethics and spirituality. The surah's title, one of the names of the Quran itself, underscores the scripture's role as a guide distinguishing truth from falsehood. It is valued for its measured responses to criticism and its reflections on the natural world as signs of God. Its portrait of the righteous makes it a frequent source for personal reflection.

Frequently asked questions

What does "Al-Furqan" mean?

It means "The Criterion," a name for the Quran as that which distinguishes truth from falsehood, right from wrong.

What is the closing section of Al-Furqan about?

It describes the "servants of the Most Merciful," portraying qualities such as humility, self-restraint, sincere worship, and balanced, upright conduct.

Is Surah Al-Furqan Meccan or Medinan?

It is a Meccan surah, reflecting the period's focus on the message's truth, responses to deniers, and reminders of the hereafter.

Read Surah Al-Furqan

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