Surah 080
ʿAbasa
عبس
42 verses · Meccan
Key structural observations
- The frown and withdrawal are followed by direct address (1–3). Two portraits set self-sufficiency beside an earnest, reverent approach; two boundaries concern unknown fruit and another person’s response (3–10).
- The first kallā opens the reminder to whoever wills to receive it (11–12). Honoured, raised and purified sheets, then noble and virtuous bearers establish the dignity of transmission (13–16).
- The rebuke of ingratitude returns to origin, measure, path, death, burial and resurrection (17–22). The second kallā recalls the command still unfulfilled (23).
- The invitation to look at food is followed by poured water, opened earth and varied growth (24–31). Provision includes human beings and livestock (32).
- The Blast’s arrival opens flight from relatives and each person’s consuming concern (33–37). Two portraits of faces reveal joy and darkness; the final words name the wicked disbelievers (38–42).