Tafsir from Tafsir Ibn Kathir
Surah Al-Asr is a Makkan surah. Although it is very short, it contains a complete description of the condition of mankind and the path to salvation. Allah swears by time and declares that people are in loss except those who possess certain qualities that lead to success.
The Oath by Time (Verse 1)
Allah says
“By Al-Asr.”
(Qur’an 103:1)
Explanation
Ibn Kathir explains that Al-Asr refers to time itself, the period during which the actions of the children of Adam occur, whether those actions are good or evil. Some scholars said it refers specifically to the evening time, but the more well known view is that it refers to time in general.
The Loss of Mankind (Verse 2)
Allah says
“Verily, man is in loss.”
(Qur’an 103:2)
Explanation
Allah swears by time and declares that mankind is in loss and destruction. Human beings lose their lives and opportunities unless they follow the path that Allah has described.
The Path to Success (Verse 3)
Allah says
“Except those who believe and do righteous deeds, and recommend one another to the truth, and recommend one another to patience.”
(Qur’an 103:3)
Explanation
Ibn Kathir explains that Allah makes an exception from the general loss of mankind for those who possess four qualities.
First, they believe in their hearts.
Second, they perform righteous deeds with their limbs.
Third, they encourage one another to follow the truth. This includes obeying Allah and avoiding what He has forbidden.
Fourth, they recommend one another to patience, meaning patience with the plots, evils, and harms of those who harm people because of their commanding good and forbidding evil.
The Importance of This Surah
It was reported that when two Companions of the Messenger of Allah met, they would not part until one of them recited Surah Al-Asr to the other and then they would give salam.
Imam Ash-Shafi‘i said:
“If the people were to ponder on this Surah, it would be sufficient for them.”
This statement shows how comprehensive the message of this short surah is. It summarizes the path of success in this life and the next.
Continue Reading
References
Tafsir Ibn Kathir (Abridged), English translation, Surah Al-‘Asr (103).
Verified on 2026-10-21 against: Tafsir Ibn Kathir (Abridged), Surah Al-‘Asr.