CHAP. LXII.
Intitled, The Assembly; revealed at Medina.
In the name of the most merciful God.
[a] See the Prelim. Disc. §. II. p. 42.
[b] As the likeness of an ass laden with books;] Because they understand not the prophecies contained in the law, which bear witness to Mohammed, no more than the ass does the books he carries.
[c] With for death;] i.e. Make it your request to God that he would translate you from this troublesome world to a state of never-fading bliss.
[d] See chap. 2. p. 12.
[a] The day of the assembly;] That is, Friday, which being more peculiarly set apart by Mohammed for the public worship of God, is therefore called Yawm al jomá, i.e. the day of the assembly or congregation; whereas before it was called al Arûba. The first time this day was particularly observed, as some say, was on the prophet’s arrival at Medina, into which city he made his first entry on a Friday: but others tell us that Caab Ebn Lowa, one of Mohammed’s ancestors, gave the day its present name, because on that day the people used to be assembled before him [1] . One reason given for the observation of Friday, preferably to any other day of the week, is because on that day God finished the creation [2] .
[1] Al Beidawi.
[2] V. Gol. in Alfrag. p. 15.
[b] And seek gain of the liberality of God;] By returning to your commerce and worldly occupations, if ye think fit: for the Mohammedans do not hold themselves obliged to observe the day of their public assembly with the same strictness as the Christians and Jews do their respective Sabbath; or particularly to abstain from work, after they have performed their devotions. Some, however, from a tradition of their prophet, are of opinion that works of charity, and religious exercises, which may draw down the blessing of God, are recommended in this passage.
[c] When they see any merchandising, or sport, &c.] It is related that one Friday, while Mohammed was preaching, a caravan of merchants happened to arrive with their drums beating, according to custom; which the congregation hearing, they all ran out of the Mosque to see them, except twelve only [3] .
[3] Al Beidawi, Jallal.