Abasa (Golden Words of Allah Episode 60)
“He frowned and turned away, because there came to him the blind man. But what would make you perceive, [O Muhammad], that perhaps he might be purified…” (Surah ‘Abasa, 80:1–3)
By Abdullahi Yusuf
In the name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful. All perfect praise is due to Allah, may He be glorified and exalted, the Lord of the Worlds. We bear witness that there is none worthy of worship but Allah, and Muhammad (pbuh), is His slave and final Messenger.
Introduction
Among the chapters revealed in the early Makkan period, Surah ‘Abasa stands as a reminder of the unseen value of sincere seekers of truth. It opens with an incident involving our beloved Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) and a blind companion, ʿAbdullah ibn Umm Maktum (may Allah be pleased with him).
The Prophet (pbuh), deeply engaged in conveying the message to a noble Qurayshi leader, frowned and turned away when the blind man approached seeking guidance. In response, Allah revealed these powerful verses, not as a rebuke in anger, but as a divine lesson in valuing the hearts that turn toward Him, regardless of social status or physical ability.
Quran reference: “He frowned and turned away, because there came to him the blind man. But what would make you perceive, [O Muhammad], that perhaps he might be purified.” (Surah ‘Abasa, 80:1–3)
Guidance is a matter of the heart, not prestige. The sincerity of Abdullah ibn Umm Maktum outweighed the status of the wealthy leaders. And though blind in sight, he was full of spiritual light.
From that day onward, the Prophet (pbuh) honoured Ibn Umm Maktum greatly. He would greet him with words like: “Welcome to the one for whom my Lord reproved me.” (Tafsir Ibn Kathir)
This incident elevated a man society overlooked, reminding us all that Allah judges not by our appearance or influence, but by our hearts and our pursuit of truth.
The surah continues: “As for he who thinks himself self-sufficient – to him you give attention. But what concern is there of yours if he will not be purified?” (Surah ‘Abasa, 80:5–7)
It is not fame or position that earns the attention of Allah, it is humility, longing, and sincerity. Surah ‘Abasa teaches us to never underestimate the quiet seeker, nor prioritise the powerful over the sincere. It reminds callers to Islam and all believers that Allah sees what hearts hold, and elevates those who seek Him with truth.
Abdullah ibn Umm Maktum, once dismissed by the elite, would go on to serve as the Prophet’s appointed muezzin and governor of Madinah in his absence, an honour not given lightly.
And Allah knows best.
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