Surah Al-Ma'idah (The Table Spread)

Surah Al-Ma'idah is the fifth chapter of the Quran, a Medinan surah of 120 ayahs. Regarded as among the later revelations, it is largely legislative and covenantal in character. Its principal subject matter includes the fulfillment of oaths and covenants, dietary guidance on lawful and unlawful foods, purification, and rules governing contracts and justice. The surah places strong emphasis on standing firmly for justice and bearing witness fairly, even against one's own interests. It also engages extensively with the earlier scriptural communities, recalling covenants made with them and inviting reflection on faithfulness to divine guidance. Passages recount episodes connected with Jesus and his disciples, including the account that gives the surah its name. Throughout, it stresses loyalty to God's commands, the completion of religious guidance, and the responsibilities that come with entering a covenant with God.