Texts of Islam

The Meaning of the Glorious Qur'ân,: 60. al-Mumtahanah: She Who is Tested

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This is Surah 60 (al-Mumtahanah, "She Who is Tested") from M.M. Pickthall's 1930 English translation of the Quran, one of the most widely used classical translations known for its formal, archaic diction. The chapter addresses the early Muslim community's relationships with non-Muslims, principally forbidding believers from taking as close allies those who actively oppose or persecute them for their faith. A notable nuance distinguishes between hostile adversaries — with whom alliance is prohibited — and non-hostile non-Muslims, with whom kindness and just dealing are explicitly permitted. The surah invokes Abraham as a model of principled separation from polytheism while also acknowledging his promise to seek forgiveness for his father, illustrating how firmness in faith coexists with compassion. Practical guidance is also given on the status of women who migrate across religious-political boundaries — believing women refugees should not be returned to disbelieving husbands, with provisions for financial compensation between parties. The chapter closes with conditions for women's oath of allegiance to the Prophet, covering prohibitions on idolatry, theft, adultery, infanticide, and slander.

The Meaning of the Glorious Qur'ân,: 60. al-Mumtahanah: She Who is Tested

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