The Qur’anic Concept of Protection and Peace: A Special Study of Surah Al-Hijr in the Light of Tafsir Mazhar-ul-Qur’an

Abstract

For human beings, the existence of social peace is a fundamental necessity for living a worldly life. Allah Almighty has provided us with guidance through the Holy Qur’an regarding the establishment of a peaceful society. Some of these teachings are found in Surah Al-Hijr. The present research undertakes a thematic study of Surah Al-Hijr from the perspective of peace and protection. The themes of this Surah reveal that the Qur’an does not regard peace and protection merely as the result of outward measures and material resources; rather, it connects them with faith, the belief in the Oneness of Allah, obedience to Allah Almighty, piety, trust in Allah, and the concept of His supervision and protection. Surah Al-Hijr discusses several interconnected themes, including the preservation of the Qur’an, the supervision of the celestial system, the balanced order of the earth, the provision of sustenance for all creatures, the determination of the lifespan of human beings, Allah Almighty’s protection of His sincere servants from the trials and temptations of Satan, the support and assistance granted to the Prophets (peace be upon them), and the ultimate fate of those who reject the truth. Collectively, these discussions present a comprehensive Qur’anic concept of peace and protection. In light of the exegetical discussions found in Tafsir Mazhar-ul-Quran, this research aims to clarify that although the importance of outward and material means in human life is undeniable, the ultimate source of true protection is Allah Almighty Himself. In the present age, when various manifestations of fear, mental anxiety, intellectual confusion, moral weakness, and spiritual dissatisfaction have become widespread, the message of Surah Al-Hijr invites human beings to place their trust in Allah Almighty, obey Him, and develop firm faith in His protection.