Surah Al-Anfal | Maher Al Meaqli

Islam | Quran | 08 Surah Al-Anfal - "The Spoils of War"

Surah Al-Anfal is the eighth chapter of the Quran, consisting of 75 verses. It is titled "The Spoils of War" and is a Medinan surah, completed after the Battle of Badr. The Muslims won the battle of Badr despite being vastly outnumbered and began to question the distribution of the gains. Surah Anfal was sent to remind them that it was Allah who brought about the victory. Ayat 41 highlights how the gains are to be distributed. The surah also gives a description of some trials faced during the battles, what to do with captives of war (v.67-70), and gives guidance to the companions. The surah is named Al-Anfal (The Bounties) from the first ayat, which alludes to what is given as an extra sum past what is required. The reward of undertaking jihad for God is permanently saved with God. Surah Al-Anfal was revealed in 2 A. H. after the Battle of Badr, the first battle between Islam and Kufr.