Reflections on the Surah of Small Kindnesses

As the last few nights of Ramadan come to an end, I find myself reflecting on the short yet poignant verses of Surah Al-Ma’un, the Surah of Small Kindnesses. 

Admittedly, it is one of those few short surahs that I rotate during prayers. Yet, I have never even looked at its translation. But as I ponder upon the purpose of prayer in my life as well as how I can better connect my passion for social justice to my religion, I found the message beneficial. 

The surah starts with three questions that serve as warnings to those who refuse to help the poor, calling them hypocrites who reject the Final Day. 

1. Have you seen the one who denies the ˹final˺ Judgment?

2. That is the one who repulses the orphan,

3. And does not encourage the feeding of the poor.

It goes on to further critique those who pray without sincerity.   

4. So woe to those who pray

5. Yet are unmindful of their prayers;

The ending, which I found especially moving, is another warning coupled with a call to action. It speaks about those who turn to prayer and simultaneously turn away from supporting those who seek support.

6. Those who ˹only˺ show off,

7. And refuse to give ˹even the simplest˺ aid

As Dr. Bilal Ware reminds us in an Instagram reflection, turning inwards during Ramadan to focus on our personal worship is important. However, if that comes at the expense of speaking out on the oppression around us, our actions can become self-indulgent. 

Contemplating on Surah Al-Ma’un during Ramadan and in the context of the continued oppression in this country, these verses remind me to engage in my individual worship with purpose while also offering al-ma’un (assistance) against injustice in my community. 

May Allah SWT guide us to the path of those who extend al-ma’un consistently in the fight for justice.

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Ulaa is an incoming college freshman interested in journalism and climate justice organizing. You can follow her on Instagram.