The Relationship Between "Time" and "Human Loss" (Discussion on Surat Al-Ashr)

Surat Al - Ashr (Time) is one of the Surat in Al-Qur'an that have the shortest verse amount (three verses) and considered as one the most recited Surat amongst the Muslims. Some of the Islamic scholars mentioned that if we look closely and try to understand the meaning of the verses in this Surat on a deeper level, we can gain a lot of lessons on how to direct our life towards a fulfilling life where one can strengthen their Iman and do good deeds towards other. 

Let's look at the translation of each verse through a deeper level :

1. "By the ˹passage of˺ time " (103:1) 

In this verse, Allah SWT swears an oath by the 'Time.' When Allah SWT swears an oath, it means that there's something important that Allah SWT wants to inform to us, as humans. 

2. "Surely humanity is in ˹grave˺ loss," (103:2)

"Humans are in a big loss," This is what Allah SWT is trying to tell us. The "time" that Allah SWT has given to humans as one big capital for our existence is basically something that humans will lose it someday. As hours, days, months, and years passes by, a portion of that capital is taken away from human. Just like a business venture, Allah has granted humans an invaluable capital of their life, so that they may invest it in profitable business venture. However, if they invest it unwisely with evil works (maksiat), then surely, human are in great loss.

3. "Except those who have faith, do good, and urge each other to the truth, and urge each other to perseverance." (103:3)

There are exceptions here and there are people who are saved from that loss. Who are they? First, they are the people who have knowledge and faith (Iman). Second, they do good deeds (Sholat, reading Al-Qur'an, praying, fasting, giving shadaqah, zakat, and infaq). Third, they are the ones who supports one another by giving advise (nasihat) for truth. Fourth, they also give also give advice for patience towards one another.

But, patience for what?

Specifically, there are three conditions where ones patience is being tested.

1. Patience to be in the state of obedience. (i.e. to focus on Sholat without any disruption)

2. Patience to avoid maksiat. (Distraction of the worldly life can be deluding that one needs a patience to avoid that temptation)

3. Patience to face calamity (musibah/qadr).

The first two important aspects (knowledge, Iman, and doing good deeds) are more of a personal deeds. However, the last two important aspects (advising each other in truth and patience) are something that you do towards another person. So, there should be balance between personal deed and the contribution you give towards each other. Hopefully, we can gain more insight about this beautiful Surat :)