Juz 24 Takeaway: When Injustice Ends and Justice Triumphs

This Day every soul will be recompensed for what it earned. No injustice today! Indeed, Allah is swift in account.

— Quran (40:17)

However, so long as we exist in this world, we will encounter the cruel people of this world that we are to stand against — just as Moses stood against Pharaoh whose arrogance has led to foolishness, something we can see clearly in his illegitimate surge to power. 

And Pharaoh said, ‘Oh Haman, construct for me a tower that I might reach the ways — The ways into the heavens — so that I may look at the deity of Moses; but indeed, I think he is a liar.’

— Quran (40:36-37)

Blind and malicious intent can cloud hearts. Even those blessed by Allah (SWT) with riches and power can grow mad in their obsession for more. In the process, many hearts nearby may fall victim to the obsession of a few power-hungry and rich men. We must remember the promises made by our Lord. 

The temporary nature of this cruel world

Just three ayats later, Allah (SWT) reminds us of the temporary nature of this world and that the hereafter is the permanent settlement for us all. We are constantly reassured that this is not the final destination for us all. 

I realize that the only difference between the hearts of the believers and those who are deluded by the enormities of this world is merely the softness of the hearts of the believers. It was easy for Pharaoh to fall into the trap of temptation because he had hardened his heart and succumbed to what he could see. He did not think critically enough to wonder who had blessed him with the blessings he was given. 

The believer, instead, looks at the state of the world and reflects on the blessings they are given. They take from their wealth and distribute it far and wide. They reflect on the words of their Creator and treat the creation with kindness and empathy. 

In one of the more beautiful ayats within this surah, Allah SWT leaves us with a supplication that we can recite during difficult moments. The believer from the House of Pharaoh recited this supplication as he was trying to invite the people to accept Allah’s revelations. 

You will remember what I say to you, and I entrust my affairs to Allah. Surely Allah is All-Seeing of all ˹His˺ servants.

— Quran (40:44)

We do not realize how blessed we are to be given the opportunity to know and love our Lord. Surah Fussilat, the final surah in Juz 24 discusses a fact that, when mentioned, made me realize how grateful I am to know the truth.

And We had already given Moses the Scripture, but it came under disagreement. And if not for a word [i.e. decree] that preceded from your Lord, it would have been concluded between them. And indeed they are, concerning it [I.e. the Quran], in disquieting doubt.

— Quran (41:45)

And truly, Prophets like Moses (as) were granted divine protection and guidance from Allah (SWT). Allah could have chosen to keep the truth to Himself and His chosen people. His mercy is his distribution of knowledge to us. While we are plagued by the difficulties of this life, we must remain eternally grateful that we are aware of the truth about what is to happen to the people who hurt and oppress us and reject the Oneness of Allah (SWT). Yet still, we have those — believers and not — who question the magnanimity of our Lord. 

Whoever does righteousness, it is for his [own] soul; and whoever does evil [does so] against it. And your Lord is not ever unjust to [His] servants.

— Quran (41:46)

What about you? What are your favorite takeaways from Juz 24? Let us know across all social media platforms!