Juz' 13 of the Quran

The main division of the Qur’an is into chapter (surah) and verse (ayat). The Qur’an is additionally divided into 30 equal sections, called juz’ (plural: ajiza). The divisions of juz’ do not fall evenly along chapter lines. These divisions make it easier to pace the reading over a month’s period, reading a fairly equal amount each day. This is particularly important during the month of Ramadan when it is recommended to complete at least one full reading of the Qur’an from cover to cover.

Chapters and Verses Included in Juz’ 13

The thirteenth juz’ of the Qur’an contains parts of three chapters of the Quran: the second part of Surah Yusuf (verse 53 to the end), all of Surah Ra'd, and all of Surah Ibrahim.

When Were the Verses of This Juz’ Revealed?

Surah Yusuf, named after a prophet, was revealed in Makkah prior to the Hijrah. Both Surah Ra'd and Surah Ibrahim was revealed towards the end of the Prophet's time in Makkah when the persecution of Muslims by the pagan leaders of Makkah was at its peak.

Select Quotations

"Allah has indeed been gracious to us (all). Behold, he that is righteous and patient! Allah will never allow the reward of those who do right to be lost." 12:90

Prayer of Prophet Yusuf (Joseph): "O Thou Creator of the heavens and the earth! Thou art my Protector in this world and in the Hereafter. Take Thou my soul at death as one submitting to Thy will (as a Muslim), and unite me with the righteous." 12:101

"Verily, Allah will never change the condition of a people until they change it themselves." 13:11

"Those who patiently persevere, seeking the countenance of their Lord; Establish regular prayers; spend, out of the gifts We have bestowed for their sustenance, secretly and openly; and turn off Evil with the good: for such, there is the final attainment of the eternal home." 13:22

What Is the Main Theme of This Juz’?

The last part of Surah Yusuf continues the story of Prophet Yusuf (Joseph) that was begun earlier in the chapter. There are many lessons that can be learned from his story of betrayal at the hands of his brothers. The work of the righteous will never be lost, and they will see their rewards in the Hereafter. In faith, one finds courage and comfort knowing that Allah sees all. Nobody can change or plan against whatever it is that Allah wills to happen. Someone who has faith, and strength of character, can overcome all struggles with Allah's help.

Surah Ra'd ("Thunder") continues with these themes, emphasizing that the unbelievers are the ones on the wrong path, and the believers should not lose heart. This revelation came at a time when the Muslim community was tired and anxious, having been persecuted mercilessly at the hands of the pagan leaders of Makkah. Readers are reminded of three truths: the Oneness of God, the finality of this life but our future in the Hereafter, and the role of Prophets to guide their people to the Truth. There are signs all throughout history and the natural world, showing the Truth of Allah's majesty and bounties. Those who reject the message, after all of the warnings and signs, are leading themselves to ruin.

The final chapter of this section, Surah Ibrahim, is a reminder to the unbelievers. Despite all of the revelation thus far, their persecution of the Muslims in Makkah had increased. They are warned that they will not be successful in defeating the mission of the Prophet, or in extinguishing his message. Like those before them, those who reject the truth of the Prophets will be punished in the Hereafter.