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The Luzumiyat · Chapter

CIII explained

The speaker addresses a Rabbi, pleading not to be cursed for being raised in the shadow of sin, which is built by divine hand, and notes that even angels overlook their comings and goings.

What happens

The speaker addresses a Rabbi, pleading not to be cursed for being raised in the shadow of sin, which is built by divine hand, and notes that even angels overlook their comings and goings.

Themes in this chapter

  • Doubt and Skepticism

    The speaker questions the fairness of divine judgment, suggesting that sin is inherent in creation.

  • Critique of Power and Hypocrisy

    Implies that even angels are complicit or indifferent, critiquing the hypocrisy of moral authority.

Characters to notice

  • Rabbi

    Addressed directly in the verse as the one who might curse the speaker for their upbringing in sin.

  • Allah

    Implied as the builder of the Gate of Sin, referenced as 'thy hand'.

Key passages

  • “O Rabbi, curse us not if we have been Nursed in the shadow of the Gate of Sin Built by thy hand⁠—yea, ev’n thine angels blink When we are coming out and going in.”

    O Lord, do not condemn us for being raised in the shadow of sin, which you yourself created; even your angels look away when we come and go.

    A plea for mercy, acknowledging human sinfulness as part of divine creation.

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