Surah Al-Adiyat (العاديات), meaning “The Coursers” or “The Chargers,” is the 100th chapter of the Holy Quran[1][2]. Composed of 11 verses, this Makkan surah uses powerful imagery of galloping warhorses to draw a contrast with human nature, specifically highlighting ingratitude and the love of material wealth[1][3].
Below is the complete text of Surah Al-Adiyat in original Arabic, Roman English transliteration for easier pronunciation, and English translation.
Surah Al-Adiyat Text & Transliteration
Bismillahir Rahmanir Raheem
In the name of Allah, the Entirely Merciful, the Especially Merciful[1].
| Verse | Arabic Text | Roman English Transliteration | English Translation (Sahih International) |
| 1 | وَالْعَادِيَاتِ ضَبْحًا | Wal’aadi yaati dabha | By the racers, panting,[1] |
| 2 | فَالْمُورِيَاتِ قَدْحًا | Fal moori yaati qadha | And the producers of sparks [when] striking,[1] |
| 3 | فَالْمُغِيرَاتِ صُبْحًا | Fal mugheeraati subha | And the chargers at dawn,[1] |
| 4 | فَأَثَرْنَ بِهِ نَقْعًا | Fa atharna bihee naq’a | Stirring up thereby [clouds of] dust,[1] |
| 5 | فَوَسَطْنَ بِهِ جَمْعًا | Fawa satna bihee jam’a | Arriving thereby in the center collectively,[1] |
| 6 | إِنَّ الْإِنسَانَ لِرَبِّهِ لَكَنُودٌ | Innal-insana lirabbihee lakanood | Indeed mankind, to his Lord, is ungrateful.[1] |
| 7 | وَإِنَّهُ عَلَىٰ ذَٰلِكَ لَشَهِيدٌ | Wa innahu ‘alaa zaalika la shaheed | And indeed, he is to that a witness.[1] |
| 8 | وَإِنَّهُ لِحُبِّ الْخَيْرِ لَشَدِيدٌ | Wa innahu lihubbil khairi la shadeed | And indeed he is, in love of wealth, intense.[1] |
| 9 | أَفَلَا يَعْلَمُ إِذَا بُعْثِرَ مَا فِي الْقُبُورِ | Afala ya’lamu iza b’uthira ma filquboor | But does he not know that when the contents of the graves are scattered[1] |
| 10 | وَحُصِّلَ مَا فِي الصُّدُورِ | Wa hussila maa fis sudoor | And that within the breasts is obtained,[1] |
| 11 | إِنَّ رَبَّهُم بِهِمْ يَوْمَئِذٍ لَّخَبِيرٌ | Inna rabbahum bihim yauma ‘izin lakhabeer | Indeed, their Lord with them, that Day, is [fully] Acquainted.[1] |
Context and Meaning of Surah Al-Adiyat
- The Imagery of the Horses (Verses 1–5): The Surah begins with a vivid oath describing warhorses charging into battle, striking sparks from their hooves, and diving into the enemy lines under the dusty morning air[1]. This metaphor is used to capture the reader’s attention and illustrate dedication, loyalty, and obedience to a master.
- The Human Contrast (Verses 6–8): Unlike the loyal warhorses who risk their lives for their riders, human beings are often ungrateful (kanood) to their Creator[1]. The Surah points out that humans are deeply consumed by their intense love for worldly wealth and material possessions[1].
- The Day of Judgment (Verses 9–11): The final verses remind humanity of the inevitability of resurrection[1][3]. It warns that everything hidden deep inside a person’s heart will be brought to light and evaluated by Allah on the Day of Judgment[1][3].
Spiritual Lessons from Surah Adiyat
- Reflecting on Ingratitude: It prompts self-reflection, urging us to consider whether we are showing proper gratitude for Allah’s countless blessings or focusing entirely on what we lack.
- Checking Our Attachment to Wealth: The Surah warns against greed and hoarding, reminding us that wealth is a temporary test.
- Mindfulness of the Heart: Because verse 10 speaks of exposing “what is inside the chest,”[1] it reminds believers to cleanse their intentions, thoughts, and inner state of jealousy, pride, and malice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the meaning of “Al-Adiyat”?
“Al-Adiyat” translates to “The Coursers,” “The Chargers,” or “The Racers”—referring to fast-running warhorses[1][2].
Where was Surah Al-Adiyat revealed?
It is classified as a Makkan Surah, meaning it was revealed during the Prophet Muhammad’s (peace be upon him) time in Makkah[1].
What is the central theme of Surah Adiyat?
The core theme is human ingratitude to God, excessive love of worldly wealth, and the reality of the Resurrection when all hidden intentions will be made manifest[1][3].